Gonasika Cave
The Ancient Buddhist Monastery, Gonasika Cave:
A must-visit place on your tourist track is Gonasika Cave. This rock-cut cave complex chiselled in a single granite hillock is a major attraction because of its picturesque surroundings, with a fusion of pristine environs cupped in cool, crisp, thin air. The cave complex deeply connects with Buddhism and its morals, as the cave had been a Buddhist monastery and a study centre during the 2nd century BCE. Some symbols and motifs of Buddhism, like Dharma Chakra, stupas, and footprints of Buddhist monks carved on the walls and ceilings, attract visitors from all over the place.
Geological Wonders and Archaeological Arts and Crafts of Gonasika Cave:
Gonasika Hill, at a height of about 650.6 m above sea level, is packed with a rich historical legacy that adds some spark to the river runs in the underground. The cave web is rectangular, 15 meters long, and 6 meters wide. It also contains some unearthed artefacts like coins, pottery, terracotta objects, and several stone sculptures found during excavations. Those articles help to understand the profound perceptions of the daily routines of the Buddhist monks. Another great thing is that a large stone stupa, now moved to the state museum in Bhubaneswar, is a distinct discovery from the cave.
The Legendary Cow Nostril Rock Formation of Gonasika Cave:
Legends take note of the history behind the place: there was a stone that looked most like a cow’s mouth with two nostrils; the stone was exactly as seen. The crystal-clear water of the river Baitarani comes from those nostrils, and historians have found that their openings continuously form a little stream. The water that pours down is considered sacred and holy to the devotees who visit the cave, and the nostril-like rock formation has led to some religious beliefs and rituals in the region over the centuries. It can be considered a proven example of a naturally formed creation that leads to the cultural and spiritual significance of the place.
Visiting Hours:
Open from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Dress Code:
Decent attire is preferable as the cave is respected as a spiritually significant place.
Best time to visit:
The ideal time for exploring Gonasika Cave is October–February. The season is winter at that time.
How to reach the Gonasika Cave
By Air : Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport from there you can take a cab/taxi to reach your destination to Gonasika Cave.
By Train :Keonjhar Railway Station is the nearest to reach the Gonasika Buddhist Cave. From the railway station, you can hire a cab/taxi to reach the Gonasika Cave.
By Road :From Bhubaneswar or the Keonjhar district, the Buddhist cave can be reached easily with both public and private transportation while roads are well connected.