Credit: Shuvendu Mazumdar
Introduction of Auditorium Cave
Nestled in the captivating Bhimbetka rock shelter complex, the Auditorium Cave is a great place to discover the rich history and culture of ancient India. Cave 3, or the auditorium cave, is a must-visit destination for visitors if you are visiting Bhimbetka.
Unveiling the Magnificence of Auditorium Cave
Open to the public, the auditorium cave opens the secrets of the ancient civilization when humans lived a nomadic life. Situated at a distance of 3 km from the Bhimbetka bus stop, the cave showcases the cultural heritage of our ancestors.
The auditorium cave spans over 25 mattresses and leads visitors through tunnels into a cavernous chamber adorned with soaring spaces and Gothic arches, reminiscent of a majestic cathedral.
As you approach the entrance, a distinctive boulder known as Chief’s Rock or Kings Rock captivates the gaze of the visitors. It stands almost vertically, drawing attention from afar and in all directions.
An astounding discovery was made during the 1990s when chief rock, nine cupules, and traces of red pigment that hint at the practice during that time shed light on the remarkable antiquity and have remained exact for ages.
Archaeological Significance
The discovery of a tenth cupule, accompanied by a meandering groove, solidifies the link between these enigmatic symbols and the Acheulian period. Petroglyphs created on the enduring quartzite surfaces provide insights into early human activities, while radiometric dating suggests an astonishing age of over 290,000 years, and possibly even as old as 700,000 years.
Visiting Information and Timings
The Auditorium Cave welcomes visitors between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m., allowing ample time to immerse oneself in its historical marvels. To experience this extraordinary site, Indian nationals can gain entry by paying Rs. 25, while foreigners are charged Rs. 500. For those arriving on two-wheelers, the entry fee is Rs. 100, and car owners can explore the cave by paying Rs. 300.
How to reach Auditorium Cave
By Car:
Auditorium Cave in Bhimbetka is easily accessible by car. The approximate distance from Bhopal to Bhimbetka is around 45 kilometers, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour. Similarly, from Hoshangabad, the distance is approximately 25 kilometers, and the travel time is around 40 minutes.
By Train:
The nearest railway station to Bhimbetka is the Bhopal Junction, which is well-connected to major cities across the country.
By Air:
If you prefer air travel, the nearest airport to Bhimbetka is the Raja Bhoj International Airport in Bhopal. It is well connected to major cities in India.