In the early 1920s, during the British Raj, Adela Quested travels to India with Mrs. Moore, her future mother-in-law, to decide if she will marry Mrs. Moore’s son, Ronny Heaslop, a magistrate in the British Indian town of Chandrapore. Seeking to experience the real India different from their colonial surroundings, Adela and Mrs. Moore find themselves disillusioned by the racial prejudice and arrogance of the British colonizers. Their quest for a more authentic understanding of the country leads them to befriend Dr. Aziz, a charming and affable Indian physician who is eager to bridge the cultural divide. This newfound friendship is a glimmer of hope against the backdrop of tension between the ruling British and the Indian subjects.

Dr. Aziz, excited by the opportunity to show the welcoming side of India, organizes an expedition to the Marabar Caves, a trip intended to cement the cross-cultural friendship. The outing starts with promise, showcasing the lush landscapes and the complexities of India that are often overlooked by the British. However, the trip to the caves takes an unexpected turn, stirring confusion and triggering a series of events that dramatically affect the lives of all involved. This incident becomes a pivotal moment that escalates tensions and exposes the deep-seated prejudices and misunderstandings between the colonial British and the Indian people, challenging the characters' perceptions and relationships in profound ways.