Adavisomanapally Caves, also known as the Rock Cut Cave Temples of Adavi Somanapalli, are a hidden gem of ancient rock‑cut architecture located deep inside a forest on a hillock near Adavi Somanapalli village, Malhar Rao Mandal, Bhupalapally district, Telangana. Dating back to the 5th–6th century CE, these four rock‑cut cave temples face west on the banks of the Manair River. They were originally Jain caves later converted into Shiva shrines. The caves feature traces of ancient murals in black, red, blue, and yellow – reminiscent of the Ajanta style – depicting dancers, courtesans, archers, horse‑drawn chariots, and royal figures. Accessible only by a 4 km jungle trek from Thadicherla (off the Kataram–Manthani highway), this remote site comes alive only during Maha Shivaratri and remains otherwise disconnected from mainstream life.
A forgotten treasure in the Telangana forest. The Rock Cut Cave Temples of Adavi Somanapalli (Nainag Gullu) are among the most remote and least‑known heritage sites in Telangana. Hewn out of inferior rock, they have partially crumbled due to natural calamities, yet they retain extraordinary traces of painted murals from the 5th–6th century. The caves resemble the famous rock‑cut temples of Moghalrajpuram near Vijayawada, which were constructed by the Vishnukundin dynasty. Initially Jain shrines, they were later converted into Shivalayas (Lord Shiva temples) – a common pattern of religious adaptation in the Deccan. The site is locally called Nainag Gullu (possibly a corruption of "Nagna" or "Naina"), and only during Maha Shivaratri do hundreds of tribals and villagers gather here for worship.
The peril of whitewash: a heritage tragedy. In February 2018, during Shivaratri celebrations, the ancient rock art was whitewashed – a devastating loss. Fortunately, the State Archaeological Department stepped in and prepared a proposal to protect the indigenous art forms. The murals, though now mostly lost, once depicted scantily dressed men and women adorned with crowns, necklaces, leaf‑shaped earrings, heavy bracelets, and sacred threads. Dancers, courtesans, battle scenes, horse‑drawn chariots, archers, and palaces were also visible. The paintings' style strongly reminisces of Ajanta in Maharashtra, making these caves a unique link between the eastern Deccan and the western cave tradition.
Vishnukundin Legacy and Ajanta‑Style Murals
The Vishnukundin dynasty (c. 5th–6th century CE) ruled parts of the Deccan and is known for rock‑cut cave temples, particularly at Moghalrajpuram (Vijayawada) and Undavalli. The Rock Cut Cave Temples of Adavi Somanapalli share striking similarities – the ardhamandapa layout, pillar styles, and the conversion of Jain caves into Hindu shrines. The presence of murals is extraordinary, as rock‑cut cave paintings are rare in Telangana. The use of natural pigments – black, red, blue, and yellow – and the depiction of courtly life (archers, chariots, dancers) align with the Ajanta style, suggesting either a shared artistic tradition or even itinerant painters moving between the Western Ghats and the Eastern Deccan.
The Four Rock‑Cut Temples (Nainag Gullu)
Maha Shivaratri – The Only Time the Caves Come Alive
For most of the year, these caves are silent and deserted, visited only by the occasional heritage trekker or local goatherd. But on Maha Shivaratri, hundreds of tribals and villagers from surrounding areas gather here. They clean the caves, offer bilva leaves and water to the Shiva lingam (installed later), and perform night‑long prayers. Unfortunately, in 2018, well‑meaning devotees whitewashed the ancient murals – a tragic act of ignorance. Since then, the Archaeological Department has put up awareness boards and initiated conservation measures. If you visit during Shivaratri, you will witness raw tribal devotion mixed with the fading glory of 1,500‑year‑old art.
Visitor Information – Timings & Access
Timings & Best Season
Access: The caves are always accessible (no gate), but the trek is best done in daylight – 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM is recommended.
Entry fee: Free.
Best season: October to February (cooler weather). Avoid monsoon (June–September) as the trek path becomes slippery and leech‑infested.
Festival visit: Maha Shivaratri (Feb/March) – a unique tribal fair, but be prepared for crowds and the sad reality of freshly whitewashed walls.
Location & Access
Base village: Thadicherla, Malhar Rao Mandal, Bhupalapally district, Telangana.
Coordinates: Approx 18.6°N, 79.9°E (search for "Adavi Somanapalli" or "Nainag Gullu").
Road: From Kataram–Manthani highway, take the diversion at Thadicherla (4 km unpaved road before the trek starts).
Nearest town: Manthani (22 km) – has bus connectivity and basic hotels.
Parking: At Thadicherla village (safe).
How to Reach Adavisomanapally Caves
From Hyderabad (≈240 km, 5-6 hrs): Take NH163 to Warangal → proceed to Bhupalpally → then to Malhar Rao Mandal → Thadicherla. From Thadicherla, the trek begins. A private vehicle or SUV is recommended for the last stretch.
From Manthani (≈22 km): Manthani → Kataram–Manthani highway → Thadicherla → trek to the caves.
By Train: Nearest railway stations are Manthani (≈22 km) or Warangal (≈100 km). From there, hire a taxi.
By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (≈240 km).
Heritage & Trekking Itinerary (2 Days)
Day 1 – Drive & Trek to the Caves
- 6:00 AM: Start from Hyderabad or Warangal. Drive to Kataram–Manthani highway (approx. 200 km from Hyderabad, 4 hours).
- 10:00 AM: Reach Thadicherla village. Park your vehicle (arrange a local guide if possible).
- 10:30 AM: Begin the 4 km jungle trek to Adavi Somanapalli. Carry sufficient water and snacks (2–2.5 hours walk).
- 1:00 PM: Arrive at the caves. Explore all four cave temples, study the murals, inscriptions, and sculptures. Have a packed lunch.
- 3:00 PM: Spend time on the Manair river bank – enjoy the tranquil forest setting.
- 4:00 PM: Trek back to Thadicherla (2 hours). Drive to Manthani or Kaleshwaram for overnight stay.
Day 2 – Manthani Temples & Return
- 8:00 AM: Visit ancient Shiva temples in Manthani (Sahasra Linga, Kotilingala).
- 10:00 AM: Drive to Kaleshwaram Jyotirlinga (optional).
- 12:00 PM: Return towards Hyderabad, stopping for lunch en route.
- 6:00 PM: Arrive Hyderabad.
Nearby Attractions – Heritage & Nature
Where to Stay & Eat
Accommodation Options
- No accommodation at the site.
- Manthani (≈22 km): Budget lodges and guest houses.
- Bhupalpally town (≈50 km): Budget lodges and guest houses.
- Warangal (≈100 km): Haritha Hotel (TSTDC), Hotel Ashoka, and many budget hotels.
Food & Essentials
- No shops near the caves – carry all food and water.
- Restaurants available in Manthani, Bhupalpally, and Warangal.
- Pack a high‑energy picnic lunch for the day.
Essential Travel Tips & Safety
Insider tip: The best preserved paintings are on the ceiling of Cave 1. Use a torch to angle light across the rock – the pigments become visible under raking light. Look for the dancer with raised arms and a horse‑drawn chariot near the western edge. Also, the incomplete Telugu inscription in Cave 4 is rarely noticed; it is on the outer face of the left pillar of the ardhamandapa. If you visit during Maha Shivaratri, respectfully request the local pujari not to apply fresh whitewash – spread awareness instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the caves safe to visit?
A: Yes, physically safe, but remote. The rock is fragile – do not climb on loose sections. Carry a first‑aid kit.
Q: Is there any entry fee?
A: No, entry is free.
Q: Can I see the murals clearly?
A: They are very faint. A strong flashlight and careful observation are needed. Most paintings were destroyed by whitewash in 2018.
Q: Do I need a guide?
A: Strongly recommended – the trek path is not signposted. Ask at Thadicherla village.
Q: Is the site under ASI protection?
A: It is under the Telangana State Archaeology Department. A conservation proposal was made in 2018, but active protection is limited.
Q: When is the best time to visit?
A: November to February. Avoid summer (April–June) and monsoon.