I visited most of the places in Mumbai but missed Elephanta Caves - a UNESCO heritage site. I discussed my plan with my friends on a busy Saturday and some of them also wanted to visit the place. The day following, we assembled near the Gateway of India and took a ferry ticket for Rs.130 to Elephanta and back.
The Elephanta Caves are located on Elephanta Islands in Mumbai Harbour, 10 kilometers from Mumbai, in the Indian state of Maharashtra. An hour boat journey itself was refreshing and we tried our maximum to capture the magnificent view of Mumbai.
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Gateway of India
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The Elephanta Caves are located on Elephanta Islands in Mumbai Harbour, 10 kilometers from Mumbai, in the Indian state of Maharashtra. An hour boat journey itself was refreshing and we tried our maximum to capture the magnificent view of Mumbai.
Soon we reached Elephanta Island and this board greeted us.
Mini train is available from the ferry to the entrance of Elephanta Caves and from there we have to walk a few steps to reach the first cave. There are shops on both sides and are covered with shades.
The island consists of two groups of caves - the first five caves are related to the Hindu religion and another two caves are Buddhist caves.
Remember not to carry food items as the monkeys seem to be trained to steal food.
It was a hot walk and climb to the caves. It's really a surprise to see the sculpture , the architecture, the sheer monumentality of these caves. Most of the priceless statues were damaged or destroyed.
The Hindu caves contain rock cut stone sculptures, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The main idol is Siva also known as Trimurti Sadashiva and Maheshmurti, the three heads are said to represent three essential aspects of Shiva — creation, protection, and destruction.
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| Siva idol at Elephanta Caves |
The roof of the cave and the shapes of the pillars reflects the perfection of stone architecture. This is one of the striking collections of rock-art in India.
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| Carvings at Elephanta Caves |
Out next destination was Cannon Hill, one has to walk about 30 minute without proper steps to reach the top. Two big Cannon were placed on two sides of the Hill. The view from top was amazing.
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| Cannon |
After exploring both cannons, we headed downhill for lunch. On the way back, we decided to wait for the mini train to go back to the ferry.
If you are a fan of history and love to travel, then Elephanta Caves must be in your list.
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