Elephanta Caves Tourism
Type of destination: Heritage, Archaeological Site
Ideal visit duration: 3-4 hours
Closed in: Mondays; during the monsoon
Elephanta Caves are a spectacular set of cave temples located on Elephanta Island, also known as Gharapuri, in Mumbai Harbour, Maharashtra, India. These rock-cut caves are rich in sculptural content and have been dated to between the 5th and 7th centuries. The island stretches over an area of about 16 square kilometres and is dotted with numerous ancient archaeological remains that are significant both historically and culturally. The magnificent cave complex consists of a main cave with elaborate reliefs depicting Hindu deities, notably Shiva, and two smaller groups of caves. It has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, which attests to its significance and value. The temples are a marvellous example of rock-cut architecture and devotional art in India. The main cave (Cave 1) features remarkable carvings and sculptures of Shiva in various forms and episodes such as the Nataraja and the marriage of Shiva and Parvati. Travelers and historians alike marvel at the intricacy of the artwork and the mythological narratives captured in stone.
Opening and Closing time of Elephanta Caves
| Monday |
Closed: closed
|
| Tuesday |
Open: 09:00 AM
Close: 05:00 PM
|
| Wednesday |
Open: 09:00 AM
Close: 05:00 PM
|
| Thursday |
Open: 09:00 AM
Close: 05:00 PM
|
| Friday |
Open: 09:00 AM
Close: 05:00 PM
|
| Saturday |
Open: 09:00 AM
Close: 05:00 PM
|
| Sunday |
Open: 09:00 AM
Close: 05:00 PM
|
Disclaimer: It's important to check the most current information before planning your visit, as opening hours can vary and might be subject to change due to special events, maintenance, or unforeseen circumstances. A reliable way to confirm the opening hours is to contact the local tourism board, check the official website (if available)
Entry Ticket Pricing for Elephanta Caves
| Adult |
Indian Nationals:40
Foreign Nationals:600
|
| Child |
Age Below 15 years:Free
|
Disclaimer: Please note that prices are subject to change, cross check required .
Tips when you are visiting to Elephanta Caves
Arrive Early
To avoid crowds and the midday heat
Carry Water
Keep hydrated especially during the hot months
Wear Comfortable Shoes
There is a lot of walking and climbing involved
Hire A Guide
For a more informative experience as there are no detailed signs
Top 5 Reviews on Elephanta Caves
nat3662016
Wrote on 16th Dec, 2023
Elephanta Caves - great!
Nitin was phenomenal - beautiful historic tour, very erudite, he helped us all the way up all those stairs and gave us an amazing tour full of historical details.
krishna292
Wrote on 7th Dec, 2023
An Archeological Rock Cut Wonder - A Peep into our Glorious Hertage
After Sidhi Vinayaka Temple our next destination was Elephanta Caves and it took us about 45 minutes to reach Gateway of India from where the ferry service was to be taken to reach the Gharapuri islan..
kushalexpert0
Wrote on 6th Dec, 2023
SOLO travelers are not allowed in ferry..
**Must read for solo travelers **
The boat/ferry company will not give solo traveler tickets. Reason - These morons will only give reason that people suicide so we don't take ticket to solo traveler. ..
bekoubetts
Wrote on 2nd Dec, 2023
The journey is better than the destination.
Two hundred and sixty rupees gets you a return boat trip from Mumbai. It’s about a 70 min trip each-way. What a lovely way to see Mumbai harbour and the dozens of commercial vessels on route.
When..
taufiques2017
Wrote on 13th Nov, 2023
Locals are agressive and unkind
Most of the locals and monkeys are too much agressive and loots. They don't like even if you try helping/speaking to foreigners( specifically people with helping chairs, never get on those ). Caves ap..
