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Elephanta Caves

heritage site · Maharashtra

State
Maharashtra
Type
Heritage Site

The Elephanta Caves sit on an island in Mumbai Harbour, about an hour's ferry ride from the Gateway of India, and hold a network of rock-cut cave temples dedicated to Shiva dating from roughly the 5th to 8th centuries CE. The main cave's centrepiece is the towering Sadashiva (Trimurti) sculpture, a three-faced representation of Shiva regarded as one of the masterpieces of Indian rock-cut art. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, the caves are among Mumbai's most-visited heritage attractions.

Elephanta Caves is known for

UNESCO World Heritage SiteRock-cut Shiva templesTrimurti (Sadashiva) sculptureFerry island in Mumbai Harbour

A short history

Carved between roughly the 5th and 8th centuries CE, likely under Kalachuri or early Chalukya patronage, the caves were later named "Elephanta" by Portuguese sailors after a large stone elephant statue they found near the shore, which has since been relocated to a Mumbai museum.

Why Elephanta Caves matters

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Mumbai's most-visited heritage attractions.

When to go

November to February for pleasant weather and calmer seas for the ferry crossing.

Why visit

A UNESCO World Heritage island of ancient rock-cut Shiva temples, just a scenic ferry ride from Mumbai, with the celebrated Trimurti sculpture as its centrepiece.

Cultural notes

The caves are considered one of the finest examples of rock-cut architecture in India and reflect a sophisticated Shaivite artistic and philosophical tradition from the Gupta and post-Gupta periods.

How to reach

Ferries to Elephanta Island depart regularly from the Gateway of India; the crossing takes about 60-90 minutes, followed by a short toy-train ride or walk and a climb up to the caves.

Elephanta Caves guide & itineraries

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