New Mexico is home to many incredible landscapes, but they're often hidden deep within the desert or around the bend. It's understood that from rock formations to natural art exhibits, the Land of Enchantment is a scenic dream, but we'll bet you didn't know what's hiding beneath the surface. These unique and hand-carved caves in New Mexico are absolutely breathtaking, and there's one way you can see them firsthand.
Unbeknownst to most, underground New Mexico holds the most beautiful works of art.
These incredible hand-carved caves were constructed by artist Ra Paulette.
Ra Paulette has been creating natural caves for over 25 years, and has created over a dozen fantasy-like caves in New Mexico deserts.
What makes these artistic caves so incredible is that they're all carved by hand. The sandstone is chiseled away all by Paulette himself.
He often refers to his sandstone creations as "wilderness shrines." Creating these caves is a spiritual experience for him, as there is not much money in this craft. He always works with no one around, except his dog, Bugsy.
There has even been a documentary made after Paulette's caves called, "Cave Digger."
Cameras followed Ra Paulette for three years for the 39-minute-long film, which ultimately received an Oscar nomination for best documentary short film.
These caves all vary in accessibility due to being on private land, though this one is accessible by tour.
Origin of Northern New Mexico is the only establishment that offers Art Cave Tours.
They have a Classic Cave Tour, and a Windows of the Earth Sound Experience that offers different meditation and sound experiences that are said to facilitate healing.
These private tours are truly life-changing, and an experience you can't find elsewhere!
All participants are required to sign a waiver prior to the tour. The tours can accommodate up to 14 people, and snacks and refreshments are available. To learn more about Origin's tours and to make a reservation, visit Origin website.
Who knew that beneath the New Mexico desert were such breathtaking hand-carved caves? Experience them fully for a truly transformative experience!
To learn more about the tours provided by Origin, visit the Origin Art Cave website.
Did you know these works of art were hiding underground? Have you visited these hand carved caves in New Mexico? Let us know how it was in the comments, and don't forget to share photos from the experience with us on Instagram by tagging #onlyinnewmexico for a chance to have your photos featured!
EDITOR'S NOTE: The Origin Caves are temporarily closed for trail maintenance and renovations.
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