These were inhabited by early mans more than 100,000 years ago. Rock paintings found on rock shelters are approximately 30,000 years old and tells about hobbies of human being and imprints of animals and reptiles. They were declared a World Heritage Site in 2003.The name Bhimbetka is depicted with Bhima, a hero divine being of the epic Mahabharata. The word is derived from Bhimbaithka, meaning "sitting place of Bhima".