Jayanti, often called the "Queen of Dooars," is a village located in the heart of the Buxa Tiger Reserve. One of its most famous tourist attractions is the Mahakal Cave, a stalactite cave dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and is situated near the Bhutan border.
To reach the Mahakal Cave, visitors must embark on a trek through dense, beautiful forested hills, which takes about an hour and a half from Jayanti village. The trekking experience is a significant part of the visit, offering an opportunity for bird watching and getting up close with the natural environment. The area is known for its serene atmosphere, with the sounds of unknown birds and a refreshing fragrance of nature.
The Mahakal Cave complex consists of three adjacent caves. The first cave houses idols of the Hindu trinity: Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheshwara. The second, or middle cave, is dedicated to Lord Shiva, while the third cave holds the idol of Goddess Mahakali. The best time to visit the cave is during the Shivratri festival, when a large fair is organized and the festival is celebrated with great devotion by the local people. Although the trek is not particularly difficult, it is highly recommended that tourists do not miss a visit to the cave. While the place is beautiful year-round, it should be avoided during the rainy season when the entire area becomes inaccessible, including the cave itself.
