Akkanna Madanna Caves, Vijayawada

About Akkanna Madanna Caves

The twin Akkana and Madanna caves are located in Vijayawada, at the foot of the Indrakeeladri hill. The caves date back to the 6th and 7th centuries CE. These caves are named after two ministers of Abul Hasan Tana Shah's court when they ruled here in the 17th century. The caves are dedicated to the famous Hindu trinity – Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwar.

The upper and lower caves have a unique architectural form and are connected by means of a five-step staircase. The triple celled caves have sanctums with idols of deities. The Akkanna Madanna Caves are a protected monument of national importance, and one of the main tourist attractions.

Architecture of Akkanna Madanna Caves

The east-facing caves located here are rectangular in shape and stand on octagonal pillars. There is a lower nave and it is tri-celled with a pillar. These structures display Buddhist patterns.

Interesting facts about Akkanna Madanna Caves

1. The upper cave is better preserved, and contains an important 7th century inscription. Just north of the lower caves is a small park with carved pillars and the remains of lost Hindu temples.
2. The Akkanna Madanna Caves are protected monuments of national importance, which are managed by the Archaeological Survey of India.
3. Akkanna Madonna Caves are one of the oldest cave temples near Durga Maa Temple in Vijayawada, originally Buddhist caves which were later modified into Hindu temple
4. These caves are present at the foot of the hill on top of which the famous Kanaka Durga temple of Vijayawada is situated.

How to reach Akkanna Madanna Caves