Dungeshwari Cave Temples

Drive about 12 km northeast of Gaya to reach the ancient Dungeshwari Cave Temples, also known as Mahakala Caves. It is believed that Lord Buddha meditated in the three caves here before continuing his journey to Bodhgaya. The caves here also feature Buddhist shrines which are called Sujata Sthan by the natives. There is an interesting story behind the existence of these cave temples, which states that during his self-mortification, Gautama became extremely weak and starved. At that time, a lady named Sujata from a nearby village offered him food and water. Later Gautama realised that one cannot attain enlightenment by self-indulgence or self-abasement. He then carried on with his journey and reached Bodhgaya where he finally attained enlightenment. In one of the cave temples, you can see a beautiful golden statue of Buddha, which is about 6 feet tall. When in Gaya, do not miss out on paying a visit to these ancient cave temples as the journey will add to your Buddhist experience.