Elephanta Caves Guide
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with magnificent rock-cut temples dating from the 5th-8th century
The Elephanta Caves are a collection of rock-cut cave temples on Elephanta Island (Gharapuri) in Mumbai Harbour, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Dating from the 5th to 8th century CE, these caves contain some of the finest examples of Indian rock-cut architecture and sculpture dedicated primarily to Lord Shiva.
The island was named "Elephanta" by Portuguese colonizers who found a large stone elephant near the landing place (now moved to the Jijamata Udyaan zoo in Mumbai). The caves were heavily damaged by the Portuguese who used the sculptures for target practice, but the surviving carvings — particularly the iconic Trimurti — remain among the most powerful works of Indian art.
7
Total Caves
1987
UNESCO Listed
1 hr
Ferry Time
5th-8th C
Century Built
Getting There
Ferries depart from the Gateway of India jetty every 30 minutes from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The journey takes approximately one hour each way. Two operators — PNP and Maldar — run the service. The last return ferry departs Elephanta at 5:30 PM. Buy tickets at the official counters only.
Ferry: ₹200 (foreigners), ₹40 (Indians) — round trip.
Cave entry: ₹40 (foreigners), ₹10 (Indians).
Toy train: ₹10 each way (optional, covers the flat stretch).
Total: approximately ₹260 for foreigners, ₹60-70 for Indians.
From the jetty, take the toy train (₹10) to the base of the hill, then climb approximately 120 steps to reach the caves. The path is lined with souvenir stalls and snack shops. Monkeys are common — keep food hidden. Palanquins (₹500-800) are available for those who cannot climb.
Best months: October to March (cooler weather, calmer seas). Avoid monsoon season (June-September) when ferries may be cancelled due to rough seas. Take the first ferry at 9 AM to beat the crowds and heat. Caves are closed every Monday.
The Caves
Cave 1 — The Great Cave (Main Cave)
The largest and most spectacular cave, spanning 39 meters. The centerpiece is the magnificent Trimurti — a 6-meter-high three-headed sculpture of Lord Shiva representing the creator, preserver, and destroyer. Other panels depict Shiva as Nataraja (cosmic dancer), Ardhanarishvara (half-male, half-female), and the marriage of Shiva and Parvati. The cave features 16-18 massive pillars arranged in a grid pattern.
Cave 2 — Canon Hill Cave
A smaller cave to the east of the Great Cave with a pillared veranda and a Shiva lingam shrine in the inner sanctum. The carvings here are less elaborate but still impressive, showing Brahmanical themes. Portuguese cannons were once placed here, giving the cave its name.
Caves 3-5 — Eastern Group
These smaller caves are partially damaged but feature interesting reliefs and rock-cut architecture. Cave 3 has a simple hall with pilastered facades. Caves 4 and 5 are more ruined but contain fragments of sculptural panels. Explore these for a quieter experience away from the main cave crowds.
Caves 6-7 — Sitabai Hill (Buddhist Caves)
Located on a separate hill east of the Hindu caves, these are simpler Buddhist-influenced rock-cut chambers. They are less visited and offer a more contemplative atmosphere. The walk between the two hills takes about 20 minutes through shaded forest paths.
Practical Information
Caves are open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Closed on Mondays. Last entry at 5:00 PM. The on-site museum has the same hours. Allow 2-3 hours on the island to explore all caves and the museum.
Comfortable walking shoes (steps can be uneven and slippery), water bottle, sunscreen, hat, and a light rain jacket during monsoon months. There are basic food stalls on the island, but bringing snacks is recommended. A torch/flashlight helps in the darker cave recesses.
Photography is allowed inside the caves without flash. Tripods may require a permit. The caves are dimly lit, so bring a camera with good low-light performance. A wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the full Trimurti sculpture. Video cameras have a separate fee.
The site involves approximately 120 steps and uneven terrain. It is not wheelchair accessible. Palanquins (dolis) carried by local porters are available for ₹500-800 for those who cannot climb. The ferry can be rough during monsoon season.
Tips for Your Visit
Take the First Ferry
The 9 AM ferry gets you to the island by 10 AM, well before the main tourist rush. You'll have the caves largely to yourself for the first hour. The morning light also filters beautifully through the cave entrances, illuminating the sculptures.
Hire a Local Guide
ASI-certified guides are available at the cave entrance for ₹200-500. They bring the sculptures to life with stories from Hindu mythology and details about the cave's construction. A guided tour of the main cave takes about 45 minutes and is well worth the cost.
Watch for Monkeys
The island has a large population of macaque monkeys. They are generally harmless but will grab food, water bottles, and shiny objects. Keep your belongings secure and avoid eating openly on the path to the caves. Do not feed or provoke the monkeys.
Check the Weather
During monsoon season (June-September), ferry services may be suspended due to rough seas. Check with the ferry operators the morning of your planned visit. Even on running days, the boat ride can be bumpy. If you get seasick easily, take medication beforehand.
Combine with Gateway Visit
Since the ferry departs from the Gateway of India, plan to explore the Gateway area before or after your Elephanta trip. Return by 3 PM and spend the afternoon visiting Colaba Causeway, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel lobby, and nearby Leopold Cafe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get Your Free Travel Guide
PDF download + weekly travel tips
Join our community and get a comprehensive travel guide with maps, budgets, and insider tips delivered to your inbox.
Unsubscribe anytime. No spam, we promise.