Belum Caves, located in Andhra Pradesh, India, is a fascinating tourist destination known for its unique geological formations and historical significance. Believed to be over one million years old, the caves were formed by the constant flow of underground water. Visitors to Belum Caves can explore the underground labyrinth of chambers, passages, stalactites, and ancient Buddhist and Jain relics. The intricately carved sculptures and reliefs on the walls of the caves are a testament to the artistic abilities of people from the bygone era. In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve the caves’ natural beauty and historical significance. Learn more about this mesmerising destination’s history, features, preservation, and travel information.
The History of Belum Caves
[The Belum Caves are an underground cave system located in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, India, and are believed to be over one million years old. Also referred to as Belum Guhalu, Belum Caves are the second-largest underground cave network in the Indian subcontinent. The longest underground cave system in the region is found in Meghalaya, specifically the 22-kilometer Krem Liat Prah.
The caves were formed by the constant flow of underground water, which carved out the intricate and beautiful network of chambers, passages, and stalactites that visitors can explore today. These caves were first discovered in the 1880s by Robert Bruce Foote but were mapped in the 1980s. A team of German cave specialists led by Herbert Daniel Gebauer mapped this complex system of tunnels. It was then that the remains of clay vessels dating back to 4500 BC, as well as mortars and pestles used for grinding Ayurvedic medicines, were discovered here, indicating the caves’ antiquity.
The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation provides exceptional lighting arrangements within the caves, highlighting the intricate features of the cave system. However, visitors should be aware that there are narrow passages where crawling may be necessary to pass through.
Although the total length of the Belum Caves is 3.5 kilometers, visitors are only permitted to explore up to 1.5 kilometers due to the limited availability of oxygen beyond that point. There are some streams inside the cave. The underground labyrinth of Belum Caves offers visitors the chance to explore chambers, passages, stalactites, and ancient Buddhist and Jain relics. The discovery of pre-Buddhist vessels dating back 4500 years serves as a confirmation of the caves’ historical significance.
The caves are also home to a variety of unique flora and fauna, including the Belum Caves Gobi, a new species of blind fish that was discovered in the underground streams in 2002.
Belum Caves also offer a glimpse into the prehistoric era, with fossils of extinct animals. Evidence of human settlements has also been found in the area, dating back to the Paleolithic era.
Visitors to Belum Caves can explore the caves through guided tours, which trained professionals conduct. The tours take visitors through different sections of the caves, allowing them to witness the natural beauty of the caves up close.
In addition to the caves, Belum has several other attractions, including a park, a museum, and a temple. The park is home to several species of trees and plants, while the museum houses several artefacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of the region. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.
The Features of Belum Caves
[The caves are divided into three levels, the first being the most accessible. The intricate carvings and sculptures on the walls of the caves are a testament to the artistic abilities of the people from the bygone era. Over tens of thousands of years, the constant flow of underground water from the river Chitravathi, which is now disappearing, has meticulously carved out the Belum Cave system. The walls of the caves bear deep scars of the river’s erosion, and quartz deposits can be observed within the cave’s confines. The speleothem structures, including stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations, are the highlights of these caves. Speleothems are the byproducts of the mineral deposits that form over time within a cave.
One of the most stunning features of Belum Caves is the Saptasvarala Guha, or the Musical Chamber. This chamber is known for its unique acoustics and echo, making it a must-visit spot for music enthusiasts. The musical notes reverberate through the chamber, creating a harmonious and soothing environment that transports visitors to a different world.
The cave system is like a maze, with one road leading to many more.
Belum Caves is a treasure trove of unique features and natural wonders that are simply awe-inspiring. The Kotilingala Chamber is one such marvel, with thousands of Shiva lingam-like stalactites giving it a bizarre appearance. The massive pillar formed by the junction of stalactite and stalagmite is simply astounding.
The Saint’s Bed or Greystone Recliner is believed to be the spot where Buddhist monks meditated hundreds of years ago. This location has now been transformed into a Dhyana Mandir, a Meditation Hall. The Patalaganga, a perennial brook that disappears into the earth’s depths, flows in a southeast to northwest direction.
The Saptasvarala Guha, also known as the Musical Chamber, is a seven-note chamber. Striking the stalactite formations in this chamber produces melodious sounds that are truly enchanting. The Dhyan Mandir, located at the entrance, features an interesting formation resembling a bed with a pillow. According to local mythology, many sages used to reside here in ancient times, and Buddhist monks frequently visited it. Many Buddhist relics discovered here are now housed in a museum in Anantapur.
The Thousand Hoods section boasts incredible stalactite formations that resemble the hoods of cobras. The Banyan Tree Hall features a massive pillar with stalactites dangling from the ceiling, giving the impression of a Banyan tree with its aerial roots. The locals call it “Voodalamari.” The Mandapam is a vast space inside the cave, with spectacular stalactite structures on the walls that give it the appearance of a hall with pillars.
The diverse architectural styles found across various regions are a reflection of their distinct cultural, environmental, and historical influences that have shaped their development over time.
The Preservation of Belum Caves
In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve Belum Caves’ natural beauty and historical significance. Visitors are encouraged to follow eco-friendly practices and respect the delicate ecosystem of the caves. The authorities have also installed lights and walkways in the caves to ensure the safety of the visitors while not compromising on the natural beauty of the caves. Belum Caves is a perfect destination for adventure seekers, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers.
The caves offer a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and culture, making it a must-visit place in Andhra Pradesh. A visit to Belum Caves is an enriching experience and an opportunity to appreciate the artistic and architectural brilliance of the people from the past. From scholars to travellers, hundreds of thousands of people today visit the Belum Caves of Andhra Pradesh.
References
- Ghosh, S. (2021) Bangalore to Gandikota and Belum Caves – A mad day trip!, Backpack & Explore. Available at: https://www.backpacknxplore.com/bangalore-gandikota-belum-caves (Accessed: April 27, 2023).
- Unbound Outbound et al. (2018) Guide to belum caves near Gandikota – Chennai or Bangalore day trip, Unbound Outbound. Available at: https://unboundoutbound.com/belum-caves-travel-guide/ (Accessed: April 27, 2023).
- Kapre, R. (no date) Belum Caves and Gandikota , Tripoto. Tripotohttps://www.tripoto.com/. Available at: https://www.tripoto.com/andhra-pradesh/trips/belum-caves-and-gandikota-5bd1d8b9e10a3 (Accessed: April 27, 2023).
