Explore
Elephanta Caves are a collection of cave temples predominantly dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, which have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are on Elephanta Island, or Gharapuri (literally meaning “the city of caves”), in Mumbai Harbour, 10 kilometres (6.2 mi) east of Mumbai in the Indian state of Mahārāshtra. The caves contain rock-cut stone sculptures, mostly in high relief, that show syncretism of Hindu and Buddhist ideas and iconography. The most famous sculpture is the Trimurti Sadashiva (three-faced Shiva), which is 5.45 metres (17.9 ft) high. The caves date to between the 5th and 9th centuries, and scholars attribute them to various Hindu dynasties. They were named Elefante by the colonial Portuguese who found elephant statues on the caves. The caves are currently maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Elephanta caves (Gharapuri Leni) - Sunday, 10th March 24
- Gather at 'Gate Way of India' by 8 am.
- Take first ferry boat to Elephanta caves.
- Have your own (buy out there / home brought) Breakfast
2-3 hours session, touching on various aspects of:
- Origin and types of cave architectures in India.
- History and some interesting info on Elephanta island.
- Iconography and basics of murtis.
- Various aspects of Shiva.
- How to see the iconographies in Elephanta caves (Shiva iconography).
After session have bought out / home brought lunch.
Entering the Elephanta caves Understanding details of each murti within the cave.
Catch ferry back to Gateway (tentatively 4 - 5 pm).
What is included in the tour
- To and Fro Ferry Tickets.
- Elephanta Entry Tickets.
- Guided tour expertise charges.
- GST
What is NOT included in the tour
- Meals during tour
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions.
