SSC MTS 2026 PYQ — Question 64

SSC MTS - 4 Feb 2026 - Shift 3 • General Awareness • Q64

A typical example of early cave architecture is the Lomas Rishi cave in the Barabar Hills of ____.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D

Explanation

Correct Answer: Option 4: Bihar
Explanation:
An outstanding example of early cave architecture, the Lomas Rishi Cave is located in the Barabar Hills in the Jehanabad district of Bihar. This cave dates back to the 3rd century BCE (Mauryan period). Its most notable feature is its carved entrance, which mimics the wooden architecture of that time.

Additional Facts:
Period: Built during the Mauryan period, during the reign of Emperor Ashoka.
Sect: The Barabar Caves were primarily built for monks of the Ajivika sect.
Feature: The interior walls of these caves are so highly polished that they shine like glass, a phenomenon known as the 'Mauryan polish.'
Nearby Cave: Other important caves, such as the 'Sudama Cave' and the 'World Hut,' are also located in the Barabar Hills.

Possible questions for the upcoming exam:
The Barabar Caves were primarily dedicated to which ancient Indian sect?
(Answer: Ajivika sect).
The 'Sudama Caves', built during the Mauryan period, are located in which district of Bihar?
(Answer: Jehanabad).
Which hills are considered the oldest surviving examples of Indian rock-cut architecture?
(Answer: Barabar Hills).