Chandravalli Cave Complex
An archaeological gem hidden in a horseshoe-shaped valley, Chandravalli’s caves hold prehistoric paintings, meditation chambers, and relics from multiple dynasties. A guided visit feels like stepping onto an Indiana Jones set — but it is surprisingly under-visited.
Unearth the Secrets of Chandravalli
Visitors can traverse a hidden maze carved deep into the hills of Chitradurga. The Chandravalli Cave Complex offers more than history; it reveals layers of ancient civilization, secret chambers, and evidence of trade extending from Rome to China. Visitors are advised to carry a torch, accompany a guide, and explore a historical site that remains little known to tourists
Location & Landscape
Nestled just three kilometres from Chitradurga Fort, Chandravalli lies in a serene valley framed by three hills—Chitradurga, Kirabanakallu, and Jolagudda—that form a tranquil semi-arid landscape with a gentle stream flowing through it
Historical Significance
Dating back to the Iron Age, Chandravalli is one of Karnataka’s oldest settlements. Archaeological discoveries include pottery, painted vessels, and coins from dynasties such as the Satavahanas, Hoysalas, and Vijayanagara, as well as Roman and Han Chinese currencies—revealing trade links spanning continents. This site was also the first capital of the Kadamba dynasty, with inscriptions attributed to King Mayurasharma found at the Bhairaveshvara Temple.
The Cave Experience
Known locally as the Ankali Mutt, the cave temple is situated between two monolithic boulders. Inside, the site contains a series of subterranean chambers—ritual rooms, meditation cells, residential niches, and a Shiva Linga shrine—connected by labyrinthine passages carved into the rock. The site features multiple entrances such as the Nandi Gate, Gaja Gate, and Simha Gate, along with a listening chamber for strategic discussions and remnants of ancient dams, which attest to the region’s advanced socio-cultural development.
Visitor Experience
Guided tours are advisable due to the lack of artificial lighting and signage. The interior is completely dark, and in the absence of proper signage or lighting, visitors may easily lose their way. Guides, equipped with torches, often lead visitors through the cave’s 30–40-foot descent, which imparts an atmosphere of suspense and intrigue. The surrounding lake and rock formations create a striking backdrop, further enhanced by minimal commercial presence, rendering the site a relatively peaceful and less frequented heritage location.
Visitor Snapshot
The average duration of a visit is approximately one to two hours, depending on the guide and visitor comfort. The most suitable period for exploration is between October and March, when the weather is moderate and the cave interior remains relatively cool. Visitors are advised to carry a torch, engage a guide (with fees typically ranging from INR 100 to 150), exercise caution on narrow steps, and prepare for complete darkness within the cave.