History:
Dungaeshwari Hills also referred to as Mahakala Caves, is the place where Lord Buddha spent a few years just before descending to Bodhgaya. Yet, the stay of his in simply because he later traveled to various locations in search of true understanding, the cave didn’t come in useful. These caves are situated along River Phalgu. These caves have a few Hindu along with Buddhist temples & stupas.
Surprisingly, one of the caves includes a golden Buddha sculpture too. These caves remind us of the strict penance Lord Buddha underwent. An idol of Hindu goddess’ Dungeshwari’ is positioned in the cave temple. Everyone is drawn to the large power that these caves produce, due to the association of theirs with Lord Buddha.
Why it is Important:
Before going to the sacred city of Bodhgaya, Lord Buddha stayed a few years of the exile of his at the lesser-known Dungeshwari caves. These caves nowadays house a few temples which are broadly visited by pilgrims that comply with the trail of Lord Buddha’s journey. Shrines and even some everyone is attracted to this particular location due to the large power they believe the location generates, due to its connection with Lord Buddha. The caves have Hindu and some people and Buddhist shrines are attracted to this particular location due to the large power they believe the location generates, due to its connection with Lord Buddha.
Some interesting facts:
Before moving his excursion to Bodhgaya, Buddha used to meditate himself in the cave. The caves here add holiness to these Buddhist sites, which are known as Sujata Sthan. Many accounts are linked to those caves, and it is stated that Buddha got anorexic at the time of his self-meditation. A cow herder by the name of Sujata was moved by his feeble appearance and offered him food and water. Afterward, Gautama understood that enlightenment couldn’t be accomplished without anyone else dishonor and continued with his excursion to Bodh Gaya. There have six caves, and one of the caves is dedicated to the Hindu god, Dungeshwari.
How to Reach:
The most obvious route to reach to the Dungeshwari cave is to arrange a driver or taxi from your accommodation; you will get many transport modes. This will be a good part of your significant vacation around the zone, and which will take around 2-3 hours. Also, tuk-tuk available from Gaya and Bodhgaya will be the best option to take you there.
Best Time to Visit:
Between Octobers to March, it is best to visit this place. During this season weather is cold and best for travel.