Lonavala
Just 12 km from Lonavala, the Karla and Bhaja cave complexes are two of Maharashtra's most impressive examples of ancient Buddhist rock-cut architecture, dating back to the 2nd century BCE. Karla's Great Chaitya is the largest surviving rock-cut prayer hall in India, supported by elaborately carved columns topped with elephant capitals. Bhaja's waterfalls tumbling beside ancient rock-cut cells create an otherworldly atmosphere that feels as much natural wonder as archaeological site.
Visit Karla first (larger and more impressive), then Bhaja — they are 4 km apart by road. A single auto or cab can cover both sites comfortably in a morning.