Elephanta Caves in Mumbai, Maharashtra

History of Elephanta Caves

The ancient history of Elephanta Caves Island isn’t present in either Hindu or Buddhist records but according to Archaeological Survey of India and UNESCO, the cave temples came into being in the 5th and 6th century. The caves have rock cut stone sculptures but most of the artwork that is left today is damaged to quite an extent. The artwork is inspired by the mythology and ideas of ancient times, predominantly of the 6th century. Take the Elephanta Caves tour and look at this interesting artwork for yourself on your trip to Mumbai.

Earlier known as Gharapuri, the island came to be known as the Elephanta Island later by the Portuguese. They named it so to differentiate it from the other islands near Mumbai as they docked their boats here at the Elephanta Caves island.

Information About Elephanta Caves

Elephanta Caves comprise of five rock-cut caves located in the Western hill. There is a brick stupa in the Elephanta Caves which is found on the Eastern hill. While Stupa Hill ( two Buddhist mounds) is present in the Eastern hill, there are two more caves which are Cave 6 and Cave 7 which is located close to the already existing five caves of the Western Hill.  

What is the Significance of Trimurti in Elephanta Caves?

Trimurti in Elephanta Caves is seen as the most valuable sculptural asset of the place. It has been described as the masterpiece ever created in the history of Gupta and Chalukya empire. Trimurti is kept at the rear of the cave while it faces the entrance towards the north-south axis. Trimurti is otherwise known as Trimurti Sadashiva or Maheshmurti.

Things to Do at Elephanta Caves

There are a couple of things that one can enjoy on their tour of Elephanta Caves in Mumbai beginning with the ferry ride and continuing to visit the sculpture and Buddhist Stupa.

One can take the ferry from Gateway of India and begin the exciting Elephanta Cave tour. 

Once on the island, visit the two hills with their set of caves, separated by a walkway. 

Cave 1 is also the main cave here and there are a total of 7 caves. 

Witness the rock cut stone sculptures and artwork at the caves. Explore them all on your Mumbai trip. 

Enjoy the views of the Mumbai skyline from the Elephanta Island and take a complete tour of this interesting and historic tourist attraction of Mumbai.

Nearby Attractions to Elephanta Caves

One of the nearby attractions of Elephanta Caves in Mumbai is the Elephanta Island. It has an artificial lake which is used for storing rainwater. The Lake is also known by the name of  “Adiyogi Shiva Elephanta Lake”.

Close to the Elephant Island Lake, there is a garden. Although the garden in Elephanta Caves in Mumbai does not feature extravagant set-ups, the view of the Arabian Sea and Elephanta Cave Complex is absolutely stunning from here. Tourists come here to relax or enjoy a picnic.