Isolated from civilization, this cave city is no less than a wonder of Balochistan province of Pakistan.
Located in Bela city, this mysterious and ancient settlement is called Gondrani Cave City. This is 20km away from Bela city and 175km away from Karachi.
This place is also known by other names including Shehr-e-Roghan, Cave City of Lasbella, Cave Dwellings of Gondrani, House of the Spirits and Mai Goudrani.
The exact history of the town is not known, nor who built the caves. Historians believe that the town was once a large Buddhist monastery dating back to the eighth century, when the region was part of a Buddhist kingdom.
During British rule, around 1500 caves were reported, but now only 500 remain. To reach these mysterious caves, a gravel road from Bela city headed towards a small stream, whose sides are surrounded with hundreds of cave houses.
These caves are built in several levels. Pathway connect together the caves. The caves are consisted of one small room with hearths and wall niches for lamps. There are also some with front porch. The ceilings are all darkened from wood smoke.
There are many local mystical legends. Some says it is a city of jinns, while others claim that this was a was a huge Buddhist monastery because 1000 yrs before Buddhism had flourished in this area.
There is another legend about this was the city There was a king who had beautiful daughter during the reign of King Solomon. Her name was Badiul Jamal. She was agonized by six hideous demons who attempted to carry her off.
Seven heroes came to her rescue, but all died trying to save her. Then prince Saif-ul-Muluk ride into the scene, conquered the demons and free the princess.
Interesting fact is that historians have found is the stories that are related to the area, the legends are heavily influenced by Persian lore.