The Bhaja Caves near Lonavala in Maharashtra

are a group of 22 rock-cut caves from the 2nd century BCE. They are among the oldest caves in Western India and predate the famous Kanheri Caves in Mumbai.

The most distinguishing feature of the Bhaja Caves is its Chaityagriha (prayer hall). It has 27 pillars with wooden beams fixed on the ceiling. The beams on the ceiling are the original ones that the monks had installed 2,200 years ago. This woodwork has seen only minor conservation work in recent years. 

Apart from the Chaityagriha, the entire Bhaja complex has simple rock-cut Viharas (living quarters) and water cisterns.