Pandavleni - Nashik
Pandavleni caves belong to the city of Nashik, are situated at a distance of 8kms towards its south. It is one of the numerous Buddhist caves built during the flourishing days of religion in the country. The caves date back to the 1st century B.C. and 2nd century A.D. These caves are also called "Pandu Lena". Based on the name of the Trirashmi Leni hills on which these caves are situated, it is also named "Trirashmi Leni". Towards the north side of the tabletop of the Trirashmi Leni hills, these caves are located. The caves are hewn at the height of nearly 60-70m from the surrounding plains. Probably the hill is known as Trirashmi due to the location of three independent hill groups that marks the end of the Trimbak-Anjenri range of Sahyadris. The word "Trirashmi" means "triple royal". It consists of twenty-four rock-cut caves. All these are monasteries except for cave 18.
The city Nashik in which Pandavleni caves are located is well mentioned in ancient Indian literature of the pre-Christian era. It was the major city during an ancient period as it is located on an ancient trade route that connects the ports of the west, north, and south cities of India. The excavation carried out in Nashik indicates the presence of continuous habitation from around the 5th century B.C. The existence of Northern Black Polished Ware that approximately started around 6th century B.C. and increased during the Mauryan period indicates its contracts with its northern cities.
