Located in the Lamgao village of Bicholim taluka, North Goa, the Lamgao caves serve as one of the best tourist destinations accompanied with its rich history and architecture. The caves stand as a significant historical site attracting curious visitors to explore the place and experience it.

Dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries AD, the caves are believed to have been built during the rule of the Bhoja dynasty in Goa. The caves are carved out of basalt rock depicting rich architecture of the period. The site houses multiple chambers which were likely used by the Buddhist monks for meditation and religious practices. One of the caves houses the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva known as the Rudreshwar temple. While the caves have 6th-century Buddhist roots, their transition into Hindu shrines happened under the patronage of regional dynasties like the Chalukyas and the Kadambas of Goa, who popularized Shaivism (the worship of Lord Shiva) in the Konkan region.

The main cave is known for its pillared hall showcasing mythological figures and other designs serving as perfect evidence of the period. The interior walls also contain carvings of inscriptions in Brahmi script providing information about the past. A stone shrine situated in the open clearing features a Shiva Lingam, a carved Nandi (the sacred bull) and a stone Tulsi Vrindavan. In the courtyard facing the shrine, you will see small clay and terracotta horses left behind by locals. This is a traditional Goan folk ritual where devotees offer clay figurines to protective deities when their prayers are answered.

The coconut groves surrounding the caves add to the beauty of the site making it a suitable spot for photography with clear sky above especially during the evening time. The pathway leading towards the temple enables the visitors to enjoy the nature amidst the groves while heading towards the caves. Nature lovers can enjoy the quiet evenings on the site with a placid environment creating a calm ambience.

The best time to visit the place is during the winter months from November to February. During this period, the weather is cool and dry, making the trek to the caves and exploring their interiors highly comfortable. While exploring the site, it is important to consider important precautions such as during the heavy rainy season (June to September), do not rush. The soil turns to slick mud, the laterite rocks absorb heavy moisture, and water cascades directly over the edge of the caves, making the entire area slippery. It is also important to note that there are no trash disposal facilities in the grove. Hence it is important to bring a trash bag to dispose of the waste if any.

Lamgao caves stand as a perfect destination to explore Goa’s hidden history. Nestled within tranquil groves, the place serves as the ultimate escape to experience the nature.

Astha Mashelkar