Rivona Caves Goa
Ancient rock-cut caves in South Goa, once used by Buddhist monks and linked to Pandava legends. A serene historical escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Rivona Caves Goa
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ancient rock-cut caves in South Goa, once used by Buddhist monks and linked to Pandava legends. A serene historical escape.
"A small cave with historical significance, offering a peaceful location and beautiful roads."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Be ready for a walk! Comfortable footwear is essential for reaching the caves and any nearby natural spots. :athletic_shoe:
Respect the History
These ancient caves hold historical and spiritual significance. Please maintain a peaceful atmosphere and avoid littering. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Buddhist Meditation Chamber
Main chamber
Step into a 6th-century rock-cut space where Buddhist monks once meditated. Feel the ancient serenity.
Pandava Cave Legends
Cave structures
Explore the caves rumored to have been used by the Pandavas from the Mahabharat epic. A touch of mythology awaits.
Cave Waterfall Serenity
Near Rivona Caves
Discover a tranquil waterfall tucked away near the caves, offering a refreshing natural escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Rivona Caves
Navigating to Rivona Caves
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Be ready for a walk! Comfortable footwear is essential for reaching the caves and any nearby natural spots. :athletic_shoe:
Respect the History
These ancient caves hold historical and spiritual significance. Please maintain a peaceful atmosphere and avoid littering. :pray:
Check for Map Updates
Finding the caves can be tricky. Look for updated maps to ensure an easier journey to this historical site. :world_map:
Combine with Nearby Gems
Consider visiting Usgalimal rock engravings or Netravali waterfall for a fuller South Goa experience. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Be ready for a walk! Comfortable footwear is essential for reaching the caves and any nearby natural spots. :athletic_shoe:
Respect the History
These ancient caves hold historical and spiritual significance. Please maintain a peaceful atmosphere and avoid littering. :pray:
Check for Map Updates
Finding the caves can be tricky. Look for updated maps to ensure an easier journey to this historical site. :world_map:
Combine with Nearby Gems
Consider visiting Usgalimal rock engravings or Netravali waterfall for a fuller South Goa experience. :sparkles:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rivona Caves are appreciated for their historical significance and peaceful atmosphere, offering a glimpse into ancient Buddhist and mythological pasts. While some visitors find the caves small and note the absence of original sculptures, others value the serene environment, the pleasant walk, and the nearby natural beauty like the cave waterfall.
"It is a small cave, but with historical significance. Can be skipped if you are a tourist and add it into your visit itinerary if you're someone into history and anthropology."
Hitha Nanjappa
"Small town, lovely roads, the stream by the caves is beautiful, the cafe itself is a small space but very beautiful and peaceful location to be at. Car goes upto the end and you'll have to walk down a few 10 metres to reach the cave itself."
Saloni Sikdar
"There is absolutely nothing here please don't waste your time coming here. There are 2 small cave like structures where Buddhist Monks used to meditate but all the sculptures which used to be present here have been taken away to the museum in Panaji. You can't see any inscriptions also on the wall so if nobody had marked this you wouldn't even know about it. The river nearby has dried up and they don't allow swimming there now as well so it was a complete waste of our time to come here."
Pranav Madhyastha
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rivona Caves are located in the village of Rivona in South Goa. While vehicles can reach close to the site, expect a walk of about 500 meters to 1 kilometer from the main road to reach the caves themselves. The roads leading to Rivona are generally pleasant.
Finding the caves can sometimes be a challenge. It's recommended to check for updated map information or ask locals for directions to ensure a smooth journey to this historical spot.
Information on direct public transport to Rivona Caves is limited. It's advisable to hire a taxi or rent a scooter/car for more flexibility in reaching the remote location.
An e-bike tour is a popular way to explore Rivona, allowing you to discover ancient caves, rock engravings, and natural beauty at your own pace.
Yes, the Rivona area is known for its natural beauty, including a cave waterfall and the Usgalimal rock engravings, which can be visited alongside the caves.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is typically no entry fee required to visit the Rivona Caves, making it an accessible historical site for all travelers.
The caves are generally accessible throughout the day, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to appreciate the surroundings.
No, visitors can explore the Rivona Caves without any admission fee.
While there are no strict opening hours, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and safety.
Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the historical and spiritual nature of the site. Littering is discouraged.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can explore ancient rock-cut caves believed to have been used by Buddhist monks and possibly the Pandavas. There's also a serene cave waterfall nearby. 
Unfortunately, many of the original sculptures that were once present at Rivona Caves have been moved to museums, such as the one in Panaji.
The river near the caves has reportedly dried up, and swimming is generally not permitted there anymore.
The caves date back to the 6th or 7th century and are believed to have been used by Buddhist monks for meditation, and some legends associate them with the Pandavas.
Rivona Caves are generally considered a less crowded, off-the-beaten-path destination, offering a peaceful experience. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the ancient rock-cut meditation chamber and the serene natural surroundings, including the nearby cave waterfall. The historical architecture offers unique photographic opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always good practice to be mindful of the environment and any specific signage within the cave complex.
Focus on the textures of the rock-cut architecture, the play of light and shadow within the caves, and the lush greenery surrounding the area for compelling photos.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting conditions for photography, enhancing the mystical atmosphere of the caves.
A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the cave interiors and surrounding landscapes. A tripod might be helpful for low-light conditions inside the caves. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a good idea to pack snacks and water, as amenities might be limited. Ensure children are supervised during the walk and exploration of the caves. 🚶♀️ History Buffs & Anthropology Enthusiasts
🧘♀️ Peace Seekers & Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ancient History of Rivona Caves
+1 The name 'Rivona' itself is believed to derive from 'Rishivan,' meaning 'forest of sages,' hinting at its ancient spiritual significance. +1 Some local legends also associate these caves with the Pandavas, the five brothers from the epic Mahabharat, who are said to have sought refuge here. While the caves themselves are a testament to ancient craftsmanship, many of the original sculptures and inscriptions that once adorned them have been relocated to museums, notably the museum in Panaji.
+1Exploring the Natural Surroundings
This natural wonder provides a refreshing contrast to the historical stone structures, making the visit a multi-faceted experience. The journey to the caves often involves traversing through lush farmlands and verdant landscapes, offering a peaceful drive and walk. For those interested in further exploration, the Usgalimal rock engravings are also located in the vicinity, showcasing ancient petroglyphs that add another layer to the region's historical narrative.
+1 The Netravali waterfall is another nearby attraction that can be combined with a trip to Rivona, offering more opportunities to connect with Goa's natural landscapes. These natural elements, combined with the historical caves, make Rivona a destination for those seeking a more immersive and less commercialized experience in Goa. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit