Tuesday, February 4, 2014

Cave Paintings - Rock Shelters of Bhimbhetka, Bhopal, MP

Cave Paintings / Rock Shelters of Bhimbhetka
A UNESCO World Heritage Site - an archaeological site of the Paleolithic Age, hence the beginning of the South Asian Stone Age.
These shelters are supposed to be the earliest  known traces of human settlements in India. 
They were definitely worth the effort of the journey.
Driving from Kamptee (Nagpur) to Bhopal, via Khaparkheda, Nagpur. 
Distance: about 350 kms
Lies some 45 kms short of Bhopal. 
No decent toilets or eating joints on the way before Betul. Be prepared for that.

 
The paintings can be seen in various layers with each having been added over time, in different ages. A difference in style can be noticed distinctly.
Two layers of drawings/paintings .... older ones in white, newer ones in shades of ochre. 
Same cave enlarged.....
 
Herds ....
A hunting scene...
 The only scene showing a wild animal chasing a human........
Just chilling.......
Some more......
 
Older paintings..
Horses, elephants and what looked like round alien ships to me..........
What did these circular figures represent - alien ships maybe ....hmmmm.
Getting fanciful here  :)
Cupules.....
Their purpose it still unknown .....
 
Have fun!!!