How do I plan a trip to Elephanta Caves?

How do I plan a trip to Elephanta Caves?

How to Reach Elephanta Caves. To get to the Elephanta Island, you need to take a ferry from the Gateway of India jetty. The ferry charges around INR 150 for a two-way trip. Career across the bay towards Mumbai Harbour for an hour and then you will arrive at Gharapuri or the Elephanta Island.

What is the best time to visit Elephanta caves?

Winter months from November to February are the best time to visit the caves. Avoid peak monsoon season (June to August ) as the sea becomes unpredictable and ferry schedules get disrupted. Morning hours are better to visit this destination.

Is food allowed in Elephanta caves?

Elephanta Cave is closed on Monday Tourists feeding these birds fried snacks causes serious damage on the birds’ health and is illegal but the practice continues.

What is the most beautiful sculpture of the Elephanta caves?

The Trimurti is considered a masterpiece and the most important sculpture in the caves. It is carved in relief on the south wall of the cave facing the north entrance, along the north–south axis. It is also known as Sadashiva and Maheshmurti.

Is camera allowed in Elephanta caves?

Video Shooting is not allowed in the caves only Photography is allowed. One can view a great view from the island.

Can you stay at Elephanta Caves?

Overnight stay at Elephanta Caves is not permitted. If you want to rest during daytime, The Maharastra Tourism Department Hotel is a good choice. They also serve food and drinks. If you want to stay overnight, then you have to stay with the locals and that is not advisable.

Is Elephanta Caves safe for couples?

Elephanta Caves Elephanta caves are located in the Elephanta Island on the east coast of Mumbai. These caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With beautifully carved sculptural pieces these caves are a must visit site for family, friends and couples.

Why do so many tourist visit Elephanta caves?

The Elephanta caves have an aura that is unmatched by any other place in Mumbai. The carvings and sculptures in these caves are believed to have been done around the seventh century. The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, was recently declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How much time does it take to visit Elephanta caves?

It takes an hour to get to the island and about 2 hours to see the caves. Guides can be very aggressive in offering their services but you do not need a guide and do not pay more than 1200 rupees (they will try to get 3000). The climb up to the caves can be tiring but is not too difficult.

How much time does it take to visit Elephanta Caves?

What is the best way to visit Elephanta Caves?

It’s sufficient to buy an inexpensive copy of A Guide to the Elephanta Caves by Pramod Chandra. You can also stop by the small museum (free to enter) located after the ticket counter to get an overview of the history of the caves. Taking a tour of Elephanta Island is an option.

What are the best things to do on Elephanta Island?

Taking a tour of Elephanta Island is an option. Swadesee offers this interesting Elephanta Island Experience, which covers the rest of the island as well. Mumbai Magic, Breakaway, and Reality Tours and Travel (includes Sassoon Dock and lunch with a local family) are recommended too. There are seven caves in two groups on two different hills.

Who made the Elephanta Caves?

A lack of archeological evidence means it’s uncertain who exactly made the Elephanta Caves or when. Based on other similar caves in the region, the Elephanta Caves are widely thought to have been constructed sometime around the 6th century AD, either by king Krishnaraja of the Kalachuri Dynasty or by Chalukya Dynasty rulers.

How do you get to the caves on the island?

Once you arrive at the jetty on the island, you’ll need to walk up about 120 steps to reach the entrance of the caves. Alternatively, it’s possible to take the toy train (10 rupees per person) or be carried on a chair tied to two wooden poles (2,000 rupees per person).