If you’re drawn to places where history meets nature and every stone tells a story, then the Elephanta Caves in India must be on your bucket list. The Elephanta Caves are located on an Island, just a short ferry ride away from Mumbai. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and provides a glimpse of an era from the 5th and 6th centuries, when the harmony of devotion and art were relentless.

About Elephanta Caves 

The Elephanta Caves in India are situated on an Island near Mumbai, also locally known as Gharapuri, which means “the city of caves.” These rock-cut temples are primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the sculptures inside showcase scenes from Hindu mythology, including the iconic three-headed figure of Maheshmurti, a depiction of Shiva as creator, protector, and destroyer.

It is believed that the caves have been built between the 5th and 8th centuries, showcasing not only the religious devotion of that era but also the fine excellence of ancient Indian stone-cutting and sculpting techniques. Today, they attract travelers, history lovers, and photographers from across the globe who want to witness this timeless piece of heritage.

How to Reach Elephanta Caves?

Travelers coming from distant locations usually arrive at the nearest airport to the Elephanta Caves, which is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport located in Mumbai. The Mumbai Airport is connected to various locations across the globe, with few direct flights coming in from the USA. From the airport, it is easy to reach the Gateway of India, which is the starting point of the ferry to Elephanta Island.

Also Read: Does This Mumbai Itinerary for 3 Days Tick All the Boxes? Find Out What Makes It Perfect

Things to Keep in Mind Before Visiting

A trip to Elephanta Caves Mumbai is fairly easy, but here are some tips to make it smoother:

• The caves are closed on Mondays, so you must plan accordingly.
• Food stalls and souvenir shops are available on the go, but carrying your own water is a smart way to stay hydrated. 
• Keeping light snacks or energy bars is also helpful for the trek up the stairs.
• The ferry ride is open-air so one must carry sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses if you love your skin and hair. 
• Be prepared as there’s a bit of walking and climbing involved, so wearing comfortable shoes or preferably a pair of trekking shoes would help a lot. 
• It’s suggested to keep a small backpack to keep your belongings safe as you’ll meet a lot of curious monkey friends who are ready to snatch your food. 
• If you love capturing moments and preserving memories then keeping a camera to capture the best quality stunning sculptures and sea views is ideal.

The Elephanta Caves in Mumbai are not simply stone sculptures. They are a combination of faith, culture, and history, set in the form of a timeless story. If you’re enthusiastic about history, spiritual journeys, or just day-excursions from Mumbai, these caves are bound to impress you.

If you are flying from abroad, buying tickets becomes just as crucial as planning the trip itself which is why Indian Eagle is a perfect choice. Indian Eagle offers inexpensive flights from the USA to Mumbai which would help you save a few bucks on your international travel. So, what are you waiting for? Plan the visit and book tickets wisely today as you are bound to be amazed by the wonders of Elephanta Caves in India.

Frequently Asked Question

1.Where is Elephanta Caves located in Mumbai?
The Elephanta Caves in Mumbai rest peacefully on an island which is about 11 kilometers from the Gateway of India.

2.How to reach the Elephanta Cave from the city of Mumbai?
The ferry is the most popular means of transport to reach the Elephanta Caves in the simplest and quickest way. There are regular boats which leave from the Gateway of India and take about an hour to get to the island.

3.How far is Elephanta Caves from Mumbai?
These caves are about 10 to 11 kilometers distant by water, which makes it possible for people to go there for a quick trip for the day, which is convenient for both local audiences as well as foreigners.

4.Is Elephanta Caves open 24/7?
No, the Elephanta Caves aren’t open 24/7 but are open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM.

5.Is Elephanta Caves free?
No, the entry fee cost is Rs 40 for Indian citizens and Rs 600 for foreigners whereas children below 15 years can enter for free. Also, the ferry fees are additional and generally fall in the range of ₹150-₹200 for a round trip.

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