Elephanta Caves

The Elephanta Caves are a series of rock cut sculpted caves that is located on the Elephanta Island,
locally called Gharapuri. It is located in the south of Mumbai, about 10 kms away from the city in the Arabian Sea. It consists of two groups of caves, one is the collection of five Hindu Caves which is the bigger one and other couple of Buddhist caves, which are comparatively smaller. In the Hindu caves there are rock cut stone sculptures related to the Hindu sect Shiva, the followers of God Shiva. The structures found in this cave dates back to about 5^th Century AD but the original creators of this place is still not clear yet. 

These caves cover an approximate area of 7 km in circumference and the island is named after the colossal elephant found in this island. In the olden days this place was known as Puri and finds its mention in the Aihole inscription of Pulakesin II. This island was under the rule of different dynasties over the period of history. Some of them are the Konkan Mauryas, Trikutakas, Chalukyas of Badami, Silaharas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Yadavas of Deogiri, Muslim rulers of Ahmedabad, Portuguese, Marathas and finally the British.

So far there are seven caves which have been excavated out here. These caves date between 6^th to 7^th century AD. Cave one is by far the most impressive of all the caves that is found here. It represents the Brahmanical rock cut architecture and has exquisite and vibrant structures. The cave has three openings, one main entrance in the north and two other in the east and west. There is a central hall with six rows of pillared columns. There is a shrine where a lingam is kept. In the entrance of Cave 1 there is a 7 metre high sculpture of Sadashiva which represents the three aspects of Shiva – the creator, the preserver and the destroyer. 

These caves are maintained and taken care by the Archaeological Survey of India which looks after its upkeep and preservation. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and receives about 25000 visitors every month. Keeping mind in the rush of so many visitors the ASI has taken several steps to make it tourist friendly by constructing toilets, railing, pathways, steps etc. there is also an onsite museum which has a collection of different artefacts and it also provides brochures and information on the caves and the nearby monuments. 

These caves are a unique piece of history of ancient India and give a rich picture of its cultural richness. It also represents the skilled craftsmanship and artistry of Indian artists of ancient period. Today it is one of the most popular and iconic monuments of Mumbai and the whole of India in general. It is a real treat for lovers of history, art and culture. 

Best time to Visit – November to March

Visiting timings – 9 am to 5 pm. Monday closed

Entrance fee – Rs 10 per head for Indians and SAARC nationals, Rs 250 per head for foreigners of other countries. Children upto 15 years are free.