Located on Gharapuri Island in Mumbai, the Elephanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage site composed of Hindu and Buddhist cave temples carved from solid basalt rock. Dedicated primarily to the Hindu god Shiva, the 7th century Caves feature magnificent large-scale stone sculptures and reliefs that blend Hindu and Buddhist artistic elements and religious iconography.
The Elephanta Caves is recognised as an archaeological masterpiece portraying a collection of intricate works of art, offering a glimpse into the history of India.
Elephanta Caves: Key facts
| Made up of | Solid basalt rock |
| Height | 490 ft |
| Timing | 9 AM to 5 PM |
| Inscription | 1987 (11th Session) |
| Entry fees |
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| Ferry price from Gateway of India | Rs 260 (two way) |
Elephanta caves: How to reach?
Location: Gharapuri, Maharashtra 400094
- By air: The closest airport to the Elephanta cave is the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport which is at a distance of 25.2 km.
- By train: The nearest railway station is Churchgate near the Gateway of India. From the Gateway of India, you can take a ferry and cross the sea to reach the Elephanta caves, which are at a distance of 2.4 km.
- By road: All major road networks connect to Mumbai, especially the NH-48. Once in Mumbai, you have to reach the Gateway of India in Colaba, to take a ferry to the Elephanta Caves.
Elephanta caves: Things to explore
Cave 1 (Main Cave)
With its centre pillared hall decorated with elaborate sculptures and reliefs portraying many facets of Shiva’s life and legend, this cave is the biggest and most remarkable. Inside are enormous statues that represent Lord Shiva in the guise of a Buddhist vihara. This cave has many entrances. The magnificence within remains mostly hidden by the tiny yet misleading main entryway.
Cave 2
Parvati, the spouse of Shiva, is the object of devotion at this cave. It has sculptures that show different moments from their marriage and shared lives.
Stupas Hill Cave 6 and 7
These caves are not in good shape either. Here are various Buddhist stupas, water tanks, lion statues and friezes. Unfortunately, museums and private collections all over the world now own sculptures from the Elephanta Caves, including Mahishasuramardini and other Vishnu statues.
Large intricate reliefs
Although the caves’ architecture is spectacular due to their rock-cut construction, the inner sanctuary of the cave temple features enormous, meticulously crafted reliefs that clearly demonstrate the creativity and expertise used in carving and designing them.
Train ride around Elephanta caves
If you are visiting Elephanta Caves with little children, consider using the toy train. Though not very large, it is a fantastic attraction for small kids.
FAQs
It usually takes around an hour for the ferry to reach Elephanta Island from the Gateway of India.
The Elephanta Caves are renowned for their Hindu and Buddhist art and architecture, as well as their rock-cut cave temples devoted to Lord Shiva.
With its three faces representing Lord Shiva, the spectacular Trimurti sculpture is the major draw of the Elephanta Caves.
Yes, you may visit the Elephanta Caves all year round, with the exception of Mondays when the facility is closed for repair.
There are eateries selling snacks, cold drinks, etc., on Elephanta Island.
Yes, Elephanta Island is a tiny island and tourists may explore it on foot to see the caverns and the scenery.
There are toilets on Elephanta Island for public use. How long does it take a ferry to go to Elephanta Island?
Why are the Elephanta Caves significant?
What draws most people to the Elephanta Caves?
Are tourists able to explore the Elephanta Caves year-round?
Is it possible to get food and drink on Elephanta Island?
Can visitors walk around Elephanta Island?
Are there any washroom facilities on Elephanta Island?
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