Pandava Falls and Caves

About Pandava Falls and Caves

Pandava Falls sits within the territory of Panna National Park, where a stream slips over the edge of a rock shelf and lands in a pool deep enough to stay dark green through the dry months. A line of shallow caves runs along the rock face beside the water. Local tradition holds that the Pandavas sheltered here during their years of exile, and the caves are named for them.

The setting is closed in rather than open: rock on three sides, water at the bottom, and forest above the rim. Because the falls depend on rainfall, what you see changes a great deal between July and May, from a full curtain of water to a thin trickle over a stained wall.

At the falls

The waterfall and pool

The stream drops in a single fall into a pool at the base of the rock amphitheatre. Steps lead down from the rim to a viewing area near the water. The pool holds water even when the fall itself has thinned to a trickle.

The Pandava caves

Shallow caves are cut into the rock wall beside the falls, reached along the same path. They are open rather than deep, so you can see into most of them from outside. Tradition connects them with the Pandavas' exile.

The rim viewpoint

The path from the car park reaches the top of the rock face first, giving a view down into the hollow before you descend. It is the easiest spot for anyone who would rather not take the steps.

Planning your visit

The falls are usually taken as a stop on the way to or from Panna National Park rather than a visit on their own, and an hour is enough unless you want to sit by the water.

• Combine it with a park safari or with Raneh Falls on the same day.
• The descent is by steps and uneven rock, so wear shoes with grip.
• Carry drinking water; there is little shade on the approach.
• Check whether the stream is running before you set out in the dry season.

Best time to visit

The falls are at their strongest just after the monsoon, from late August to October, when the stream is full and the surrounding forest is green. November to February is comfortable for walking and the pool still holds water. By April and May the flow is much reduced and the middle of the day is hot, so an early start helps.