India's 5 coolest underground gems you can actually explore

India is known for its soaring peaks, sprawling deserts, and chaotic bazaars—but what if we told you some of its coolest secrets lie under the surface? No, we’re not talking about conspiracy theories or lost cities (though those are fun too). We're talking about real, awe-inspiring underground destinations that’ll make you feel like a character in an Indiana Jones movie. So grab your torch (or flashlight if you’re less dramatic), and let’s dig into five underground spots in India that are as mysterious as they are magical.

So next time someone says “been there, done that,” take them underground. Bet they haven’t done this.

1. Ajanta Caves , Maharashtra

Hewn out of a horseshoe-shaped cliff face above the Waghora River, the Ajanta Caves are a World Heritage Site and gateway to ancient Buddhist art. Dating back to the 2nd century BCE, these 30 cave sites contain exquisite murals and Buddha's life and teachings. Forgotten by the passage of time, the caves today are a spiritual journey into India's history. Their serene ambiance, rich in history, gives a close-up glimpse into ancient piety and artwork, far removed from the strife of the world outside.

2. Borra Caves, Andhra Pradesh

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The Borra Caves of picturesque Araku Valley are quite possibly the most fascinating network of Indian limestone caves. The million-year-old caves are replete with remarkable stalactites and stalagmites, each of them having been shaped by running water through rock. These are beautifully formed like some of the creatures, complete with an eerie atmosphere. Well below the earth, some 80 meters beneath, they are an otherworldly but visually appealing spectacle. A visit to Borra is a dive into the wonderful strength of nature to fashion great masterpieces within the earth, a trip that's just from another world.

3. Meghalaya's Caving Systems (e.g., Siju & Liat Prah)

Meghalaya has become famous as the "Caving Capital of India" with some of South Asia's deepest and longest caving systems. The most prominent among these are the Siju Caves and the Liat Prah Cave. These caves are a maze of narrow tunnels, underground streams, and breathtaking stalactite and stalagmite formations. Spelunkers and adventurers trek from all over the globe to visit these natural marvels. The experience of venturing into the depths of these caves is one of primal discovery, with the rush of adventure in each dark recess.

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4. Underground Stepwell of Adalaj, Gujarat

The Adalaj Stepwell, which was built in 1499, is part of the architecture found in the town of Adalaj in Gujarat. Although the traditional wells are situated above the ground, this stepwell extends five stories underground and consists of intricate carvings, geometric patterns, and symbolic motifs. The structure was built as a water source, but it also served as a place to socialize and a religious retreat. Stepwell is useful and attractive, sunlight glinting through stone columns, long shadows that cast an unearthly, nearly magical atmosphere here. 5. Elephanta Caves , Maharashtra

5. Elephanta Caves, Mumbai

Fifth-century rock-cut caves are rededicated to the Hindu deity Shiva. The island, which is accessed by ferry boat, is scattered with a group of temples, and in the central cave is a huge figurine of Shiva as the "Trimurti," showcasing his three qualities—creation, protection, and destruction. The caves themselves are a sight to behold with their highly carved-out sculptures, ancient temples, and ageless air of spirituality, all buried deep within the green covering of the island.