Exploring the Majestic Belum Caves: A Subterranean Marvel of India

The Belum Caves is one of the largest and most spectacular cave systems in India. These caves are renowned for their intricate limestone formations, vast chambers, and historical significance. Extending over 3,229 meters in length, Belum Caves stand as the second longest caves in India after Meghalaya’s Krem Liat Prah. A visit to these caves is a journey through time, revealing millions of years of natural history and human civilization

The Belum Caves have long passages, galleries, spacious caverns with fresh water and siphons. This cave system was formed over the course of tens of thousands of years by the constant flow of underground water from the now-disappeared river Chitravathi. The cave system reaches its deepest point 46 m (151 ft) from entrance level at the point known as Pataalaganga.

The Belum Caves are located near Belum Village in Kolimigundla Mandal of Kurnool District in the state of Andhra Pradesh. Kolimigundla is situated 3 km (1.9 mi) from Belum Caves. The caves are an 8 km (5.0 mi) drive from Petnikota village. Belum is part of a larger complex of caves carved out of the limestone deposits in the Erramalai region. Other caves include the Billasurgam caves, Sanyasula caves, Yaganti caves, Yerrajari caves, and the Muchchatla Chintamanu caves (caves are called gavi in the local language).

Belum Caves derives its name from "Bilum" Sanskrit word for caves. In Telugu language, it is called Belum Guhalu. The caves reach its deepest point (120 ft from entrance level) at the point known as Patalganaga. It is one of the centrally protected Monuments of National Importance.

History & Discovery:

The Belum Caves derive their name from the Sanskrit word 'Bilum', meaning caves. Although local villagers were aware of their existence for centuries, the caves gained archaeological prominence when British geologist Robert Bruce Foote conducted a study in the 1880s. However, it was in 1982 that the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department, in collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), undertook a major restoration project to make them accessible to the public.

Excavations within the caves have uncovered remnants of Buddhist and Jain monks, along with prehistoric artifacts that date back thousands of years, establishing the caves as an important historical site.

Geological Significance:

Belum Caves are a result of natural underground water flow that has eroded the soft limestone rock over millions of years. The caves boast remarkable stalactite and stalagmite formations, massive chambers, narrow passages, and underground streams. One of the most intriguing sections of the cave is the Saptasvarala Guha, or the 'Musical Chamber,' where rock formations produce musical sounds when struck.

Attractions In Belum Caves:

Simhadwaram – Simhadwaram means lion's gate. It is a natural arch of stalactites formed in the shape of a lion's head.

Kotilingalu Chamber – This section contains stalactite formations which are akin to Shiva lingams. This section has thousands of such stalactite giving it a surrealistic look. It has one huge pillar formed due to stalactite and stalagmite joining together.

Patalaganga – It is a small perennial stream which disappears into the depths of the earth. This stream flows from the southeast to northwest. It disappears and is believed to be heading towards a well at the Belum village, located 2 km away from the caves.

Saptasvarala Guha or Musical Chamber – Saptasvarala Guha means chamber of seven notes. The stalactite formations in this chamber reproduce musical sounds when these are struck with a wooden stick or knuckles. This section was opened to the public in 2006.

Dhyan Mandir or Meditation Hall – This section is near to the entrance. An interesting formation at Meditation hall looks like a bed with pillow to recline. The local legend has it that in ancient times many sages used to live here. This section was used by Buddhist Monks. Many relics of Buddhist period were found here which are now housed in museum at Ananthapur.

Thousand Hoods – This section has amazing stalactite formations shaped like hood of Cobra. The stalactite formations on the ceiling looks as if thousands of cobras have opened their hoods.

Banyan Tree Hall – This section has a huge pillar with stalactites hanging from the ceiling. This gives a look of Banyan Tree with its aerial roots when seen from below. The locals call it "Voodalamari" since it looks like a Banyan Tree with its aerial roots hanging from the branches.

Mandapam – This is a huge area inside the cave with magnificent stalactite structures on the sides giving it a look of a hall with pillars.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to explore Belum Caves is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for underground exploration. The caves remain cool inside, but visiting during summer months can be exhausting due to the external heat.

How to Reach:

Belum Caves are located in Kurnool district, around 110 km from Anantapur and 275 km from Bangalore. The nearest railway station is in Tadipatri (30 km away), and the closest airport is in Bangalore or Hyderabad. Buses and taxis are available for convenient access to the site.

• Entry Fee: Nominal charges for adults and children.

• Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Facilities: Guided tours, parking, food stalls, and rest areas.

  

Belum Caves are geologically and historically important caves. There are indications that Jains and Buddhists monks occupied these caves centuries ago. Many Buddhists relics were found inside the caves. These relics are now housed in Museum at Ananthapur.

Archaeological survey of India (ASI) also found remnants of vessels of the pre-Buddhist era and dated the remnants of these objects to 4500 years BCE.4,500 BC remnants of vessels of that age were found in the caves. Occupied by Jain and Buddhist monks, over two thousands years ago. A new and second Indian cavernicolous (inhabiting caves) species of the genus Andhracoides was discovered in the Pataalaganga chamber. The organism is named Andhracoides gebaueri in honor of Herbert Daniel Gebauer who documented and mapped the complete cave.

The caves were being used to dump wastes from nearby places until 1988. Local people of nearby settlements, notably Policemen and residents of Belum Village co-operated with the Government of Andhra Pradesh and developed the cave site as a tourist attraction. Finally, their almost two-decade long efforts resulted in the Government of Andhra Pradesh declaring the entire area to be a protected zone. Finally, in 1999, the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation took over the task of beautifying and maintaining the caves. The APTDC who has since been in charge of management, sanctioned Rs. 7,5 million to develop the caves.The APTDC has also developed the pathways of around 2 km (1.2 mi) length in and outside of the caves, provided illumination and has created fresh-air-shafts at the site. Inside the cave, APTDC has installed bridges and staircases, and a canteen, bathrooms and toilet facilities at the entry point. APTDC also has built a Haritha Hotel for accommodation in the vicinity.

 

Why To Go:

Belum Caves is a hidden gem that showcases the wonders of nature and history in an awe-inspiring manner. Whether you are an adventure seeker, history enthusiast, or nature lover, a visit to these caves is sure to leave you mesmerized. If you haven’t yet explored this underground marvel, make sure to add it to your travel bucket list!

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