
The exterior of the prayer hall, the most elaborate of the Pandavleni caves

The stupa within the ribbed vaulted hall of the Prayer Hall cave at Pandavleni Several of the caves are elaborately decorated with figures of Buddha and other celestial beings, as well as ornamented pillars. In front of some of the caves are reservoirs, which had been commissioned by kings as well as wealthy families and merchants. Its religious significance and ancient traditions have not held Nashik back. A city of over a million people, it is a hub for high-tech industries, notably aerospace and IT. It is also gaining a reputation among the younger generation as a spiritual capital of a different kind. I could scarcely believe that I was in India, looking down at acres and acres of vineyards from the balcony, with soft music in the background. The vibe was more Californian than Indian.