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35km north of Gaya, set in wild
and inhospitable bandit locale, are located the mysterious caves of
Nagarjuna. Three caves were excavated in the Nagarjuna Hills. An important
archaeological site, it has been grossly ignored.
On Nagarjuna Hills the most important cave is Gopi cave which is
approachable by a flight of steps. A number of inscriptions have been
found here. It is believed that in the middle of 19th century, some
Islamic saints used to live in these caves.
On north of Nagarjuna Hill is Mirza Mandi (house of Mirza) cave. This cave
was excavated during the time of Dasharatha. There is a dry well near this
cave and it seems it derived its ancient name ‘Vapuiyaka Kubha’
(cave of well) from this only. Several remains of buildings - probably
viharas- can be seen around this site.
The last cave on this hill, Vedathika Kubha can be approached through a
natural cleft. Infact, some structural stupas must have existed in at
least a few of these caves, as this place was dedicated to Buddhist
religious practices.