This is what was found in Andhra's ancient mysterious cave once inhabited by early humans

Across cultures and centuries, stories of divine intervention and spiritual symbols appearing in unexpected places have made people wonder about myths and religious stories. Whether it's an image of a deity forming on a wall, a tree shaped like a sacred symbol, or a naturally carved structure resembling a divine figure, these mysterious occurrences are often seen as signs from the universe. In many parts of the world, nature’s artistry is perceived not just as beauty but as a form of divine presence.


Such natural "miracles" are revered and are sometimes prayed to as shrines. Places like these invite believers to explore the thin line between faith and natural processes of nature, where spirituality meets science. Especially India, which is a land where people are deeply rooted in myth and nature worship, such places become powerful symbols of devotion and wonder.

One such marvel lies hidden deep in the Ananthagiri Hills of Araku Valley in Andhra Pradesh, known as the Borra Caves , locally called Borra Guhalu. These limestone caves are not just geological wonders but are also believed to be home to naturally formed divine symbols that attract thousands of visitors each year.


When was this cave discovered?
Believed to be over a million years old, the caves were officially discovered in 1807 by British geologist William King George. Carved over centuries by the Gosthani River, the caves are a labyrinth of some amazing stalactites and stalagmites. Many of these formations have taken on shapes that locals believe to be sacred symbols. Among them, visitors have identified figures resembling Shiv-Parvathi, a mother and child, a human brain, a rishi’s beard, even a crocodile and a cow’s udder. Well, scientifically, these formations are created by nothing more than water and time, but for believers, these caves are no less than myths and legends.

Some excavations by the Andhra University also found some stone tools dating back 30,000 to 50,000 years, which tells that the caves were once inhabited by early humans.
The most important aspect of this is a naturally formed Shiva Lingam, situated deep within the cave. According to local tribal legend, a cow once fell through an opening in the cave’s roof. While searching for it, the cowherd stumbled upon the cave and discovered the lingam-like rock. The site soon became sacred, and a small temple was built near the formation.

1. The first picture is of a Shiva lingam on the way inside the Borra Caves

2. Second image is of the actual Shiva Lingam of Borra Caves at the end of a small tunnel deep inside the caves. There is a small place of worship made up of stalagmite Lingam where#Thread pic.twitter.com/xx56WFdyKW

— अमित दुबे (@Am_du1) July 2, 2023

When can a person visit these caves?

Astonishing borra caves!#borracaves #vizagdiaries pic.twitter.com/kje8CCcQYj

— Raj (@Raj_Duvva) August 16, 2023

The best time to visit Borra Caves is during the winter months, from November to February. The weather in Araku Valley during this time is cool and comfortable, making it perfect for exploring both the caves and the beautiful landscapes around them, without the scorching heat of summer or the heavy rains of the monsoon.
Borra Caves are about 91 km from Visakhapatnam city. The closest station to travel by train is Borra Guhalu, which is just at a short distance from the caves. The nearest airport is in Visakhapatnam, around 83 km away, making the caves easily accessible whether you're traveling by rail or air.