Positioned on the east coast of India, the Borra Caves are located in the Ananthagiri hills of the Araku Valley in the Visakhapatnam district. Breathtaking mountainous region, stunning scenery, semi-evergreen moist deciduous forests, and wild fauna of the Borra Caves are an obvious celebration.
A spectacular piece of nature, the Borra caves were created when the river flows into a limestone area, and the calcium carbonate transforms into calcium bicarbonate, which is simply washed out by the running water. The most prominent characteristic of the caves is their unique variety of speleothems ranging in size.
Borra Caves are considered to be among the most comprehensive in the country and are rested at a huge elevation of about 705 metres. They are karstic limestone constructions extending to a depth of 80 m and are estimated to be the deepest cave in India. The mixture of sunlight and dark charms amazing dancing formed in the profundities of the Borra Caves, which is a spectacle in itself.
Natural skylights in the caves make way for interesting metaphors that impart a unique riddle of their own. The walk up to the final destination with its scenic location and a breathtaking hike is a treat in itself. Visit this destination and explore the unique beauty of Araku Valley in all its glory.
Legend of Borra Caves – Why Borra caves are famous for
The legend of Borra Caves is rich with stories from tribal communities such as Jatapu, Porja, Kondadora, Nookadora and Valmiki, who inhabit the villages in the region. One such legend dictates that a cow dropped through a hole in the caves as it was grazing the nearby fields.
Soon enough, people came looking for it and discovered a stone in the caves which resembled a Shiva Lingam. The cow returned safe and sound and the well-being of the animal was attributed to the Lingam. A small temple was soon formed around the caves and people crowded the area to seek the blessings of the Lord.
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History of Borra Caves – Why Borra caves are famous for
The history of Borra Caves is conceivably as old as the history of the Araku Valley itself. Believed to have been formed as a result of continuing water flows over millions of years, the caves were discovered by British geologist William King in the year 1807. The process of the formation of the Borra Caves is quite intriguing as well. Humic acid in the water reacts with the calcium carbonate in the limestone and dissolves the minerals breaking the rock gradually.
As a result of this, different rocks and shapes are formed in the caves. The total length of the Borra Caves is about 200 meters and the Dandakaranya – Bolangir – Kibur train track passes over the caves. Anthropologists have also found stone tools of the middle Paleolithic Age dating back to 30000 to 50000 years indicating human habitation in the Borra Caves.
Borra Caves Trekking
The scenic territory and exciting terrain of Borra Caves is the ideal address to pursue a little trekking experience over the weekend. With the waters of Katika Waterfalls cascading nearby, the scenic excellence of this place is only second to the adrenaline rush that a hike here provides.
The trekking difficulty is easy to medium, so even novices will not have a problem travelling to this destination. The journey up to the caves can take 3-4 hours, but the final view of Borra Caves is worth all the hard work!
Things to do near Borra Caves
A couple of interesting activities await you near the Borra Caves. The Tribal Museum of Araku Valley is a wonderful look into the culture and lifestyle of the tribal communities that live nearby. Padampuram Gardens and Katika Waterfalls are other destinations in the close environment of the Borra Caves. You can also experience a steaming hot cup of coffee in the plantations nearby.
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