Robert Bruce Foote (1834-1912) was a British geologist and a member of the Geological Survey of India who carried out extended surveys all over India, particularly in the South. While his primary focus was geology, Foote also had a keen interest in archaeology. Even after his retirement, he continued to explore, survey and discover palaeolithic settlements in the Indian subcontinent. He discovered the Belum Caves in 1884. Mr. Foote found bone artefacts – knives, chisels, animal remains, and relics pointing to Buddhists and Jains living in the caves.

The Belum Caves are in the limestone rich Erramala Hills of Andhra Pradesh. These hills are home to several more caves, including the Billasurgam Caves and the Yaganti Caves which are open to visitors. The Belum Caves stretch for over 3 kilometres, carved by the Chitravathi River that once flowed underground for thousands of years. Though the river now meanders 30 kilometers south of the caves, fresh water still gushes through in some parts of the cave, adding a mystical quality to the experience.

For years after Foote’s survey, the caves remained largely forgotten, with the surrounding area turning into a garbage dump. However, about three decades ago, efforts were made to preserve and protect this remarkable site, and today, Belum Caves is a must-visit location for history and nature lovers alike.

A Weekend at Gandikota: Exploring the Lepakshi Temple and Belum Caves:
Late last year, we spent a long weekend in Gandikota, splitting our time between the stunning Lepakshi Temple (read here) and the awe-inspiring Belum Caves. The drive to the caves was a scenic journey through narrow roads flanked by lush fields, hills dotted with grazing sheep and goats, and the Penna River winding its way southeast. There are townships and truck holds belonging to the RAMCO & Dalmia cement factories (Penna cement is not too far away either!). You can see the RAMCO factory’s vertical shaft kiln structures from Gandikota (no kidding!).

The Belum Caves Experience:
The cavemouth is flat and parallel to the sky. A flight of stairs leads you down to a landing called the Gebauer Hall, named after H. D. Gebauer, a German Karst & Cave Explorer who played a key role in exploring and surveying the cave that made it possible to open to the public.

Once inside, you’re greeted by stunning stalactites and stalagmites. The path narrows as you venture deeper, and the temperature rises dramatically – the air grows warmer, almost unbearably hot in places. Large fans are strategically placed to circulate the air, offering some relief. However, despite the natural wonder of the caves, the experience could be enhanced with better lighting. Instead of the ‘sound-and-light’ show with garish flashing colors and the hum of fans, I wish the caves were illuminated with warm, soft lighting to highlight their natural beauty. There are several interesting formations within the cave, each given evocative names such as Dhyan Mandir, Thousand Hoods, Mandapam, Koti Lingalu, etc.

Practical Tips for Visiting Belum Caves:
Belum Caves is the only underground cave system in South India that is open to the public. The formations within the cave are awe-inspiring. Kudos to the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) for their efforts in preserving and promoting this hidden gem.
Facilities: Restrooms are available, though they tend to be locked (as is often the case in tourist spots!).
Distance: The caves are located 45 kilometres from Gandikota and is about an hour’s drive.
Timings: The ticket booth opens sharp at 10:00 AM.
Entry Fees: Rs. 70 for Indian nationals (credit cards accepted).
What to Bring: It’s wise to carry drinking water for the journey.