Bhimbetka

Located 46 kilometres from Bhopal, the Bhimbetka Hill contains a cluster of 14 rock shelters which house some of the best prehistoric rock art in the world. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, they are situated inside the Ratapani sanctuary. This densely-forested area also has several stunning naturally-sculpted rock formations. The cave paintings date back to the Mesolithic period, and explore themes such as hunting, dancing, music and animals. They also depict animals such as bisons, tigers, lions, wild boars, antelopes, and elephants, as well as religious and ritualistic symbols. They have been made primarily with red and white colours, with the occasional use of green and yellow. These colours were prepared using natural dyes, minerals, coal, and animal fat.