| Title | प्राकृतिक गुहा (Natural Cave)Rare Prākṛtik Guhā Natural Cave |
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| Description | प्राकृतिक गुफा - Prakritik Guphā (Natural Cave) denotes naturally formed subterranean spaces, integral to Indic heritage architecture. These *guha* (गुहा) or *kandarā* (कंदरा) [1] are primarily found in limestone, sandstone, or basalt formations across Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh. Their geological origins vary, influencing chemical composition (e.g., calcium carbonate in limestone caves). Physical properties include variable thermal inertia, high humidity, and relatively stable temperature, providing natural ventilation. Historically, these caves served as monastic residences, temples, and shelters, exemplified by rock-cut architecture from the Maurya and Satavahana periods [2]. Traditional construction involved minimal alteration, preserving the natural environment. Durability depends on the parent rock's resistance to weathering. Conservation necessitates addressing water ingress, biological growth, and structural instability. Restoration employs compatible materials and techniques, respecting the *vāstu* (वास्तु) principles of the original design [3]. Traditional quarries and forests provided resources for associated structures. |
| Also Known As | Natural Cave Prākṛtik Guhā Natural Cave Cave Grotto प्राकृतिक कंदरा नैसर्गिक गुफा गुहा कंदरा |
| Tags | प्राकृतिक गुफा Prakritik Guphā Cave Rock-cut Limestone Sandstone Natural Rock Formation |
| Material ID | INHFMAT-771782389-20-11-25-PP |
| URI | https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/natural-cave |
| API Endpoint | https://inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/natural-cave |
| Total Sites | 1 |
| Primary Sites | 1 |
| Created | November 20, 2025 |
| Last Updated | November 28, 2025 |
| Types | Natural Rock Formation Limestone Cave Sandstone Cave Basalt Cave |
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| Regions | Maharashtra Madhya Pradesh Andhra Pradesh |
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| Time Periods | Early Historic Period Maurya Period Satavahana Period |
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| Dynasties | Maurya Dynasty Satavahana Dynasty |
| Sources | Ajanta Caves Ellora Caves Karla Caves |
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| Properties | Variable thermal inertia High humidity Relatively stable temperature Geologically diverse composition Natural ventilation |
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| Uses | Rock-cut architecture Monastic residences Temple construction Shelter construction Religious spaces |
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| Materials | Shilā (Stone) चूना - Chunā (Lime Mortar) Kāshtha (Wood) Brick |
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| Styles | Rock-cut architecture |
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| Categories | Cave Temples Monasteries |
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| Notes |
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| Title | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rock-Cut Temples of India | Book | Geological and architectural analysis |
| Site Name | Status | Usage | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kyauk Gu Ohnmin Temple Bagan | Primary | 100% |