Weather :
Label : Great For Family Outing
Tags : Cave
Timings : 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Time Required : 4-5hours
Entry Fee : Indian: INR 40
SAARC, Myanmar, Thailand citizens: INR 40,
Foreigners: INR 600,
Children (under 15 years): Free,
Village entry fee: INR 10,
Photography Charges: Free
Videography Charges: INR 25
Guide fees: INR 500 - INR 800
Ferry from Gateway of India: INR 260
Planning a Trip? Ask Your Question
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Elephanta Caves is a specimen of rock-cut art and architecture from the times of medieval India. The caves are located on the Elephanta or Gharapuri island which is situated at a distance of 11 km from the city of Mumbai. Natively known as Gharapurichi Leni, the Elephanta Caves that exist today are ruins of what were once elaborately painted artworks. It also provides an amazing view of the Mumbai skyline. You can reach the Elephanta Caves via a ferry ride from Gateway of India. This collection of cave temples dates back to 5th to 7th centuries and most of them are dedicated to Lord Shiva.
There are two groups of alcoves in the site of the Elephanta Caves, the first is a large group of five Hindu caves and the second one is a smaller group of two Buddhist caves. The Hindu caves contain the stone sculptures representing the Shaiva Hindu sect. The caves are an expression of art and a number of important imageries are sculpted here, which include 'Trimurti' or three-headed Shiva, 'Gangadhar' which is a manifestation of the river Ganga as she descends to the earth and 'Ardhnareshwar', which is a representation of Shiva and Parvati in the same body. In addition to being an important heritage site, the Elephanta Caves are also an unlikely trekking destination.
Ferry to Elephanta Caves : Since the Elephanta Caves are located on an island, one has to take a ferry to the islands which make up for a joy ride in its own right. The first boat leaves from the Gateway of India ferry point at 9:00 AM while the last one leaves at 2:00 PM sharp. The ferry can cost anywhere between INR 190 to 260 according to the type of ride you choose. The ferry skimming through the waters of the Arabian Sea is especially enjoyable for children, and you can also grab some snacks on the go.
Toufique Solkar
on Elephanta Caves 12 months agoRajesh Saxena
on Elephanta caves 6 years agoPranjali Kureel
on Elephanta caves 6 years agoQ. How is the toilet facility in Elephanta Caves. Are there western toilets?
Holidify
6 years ago