Exploring the Mystical Elephanta Caves

Last month, during my visit to Mumbai, I had the opportunity to visit the Elephanta Caves. The journey to this place itself is quite exciting. One must take a boat from the Gateway of India to reach the caves, as it is located on an island. This island is known as Gharapuri Island.

From almost any part of Mumbai, one can take a local train to Churchgate or CST station. From there, the Gateway of India is nearby. The boat service to the island operates only from 9 AM to 2 PM and is closed on Mondays. In any year, due to the annual monsoon season, boat services are not available from June to August. Tourists are not allowed to stay on the island overnight.

The boat ride is an interesting experience. It takes nearly an hour to reach the island. Shortly after departure, one can see the majestic Taj Hotel, an iconic landmark of Mumbai, offering a breathtaking view.

View of the Taj

What makes the journey even more fascinating is the flock of seagulls that follow the boat once it moves further into the sea. These birds have grown accustomed to being fed by tourists. If one holds out small snacks like chips or fried treats, the seagulls swoop in and grab them mid-air, which is a thrilling sight to witness.

Seagulss flying

While traveling on the boat, one can also see large ships anchored on both sides.

View of ships en route to the caves

Just as we see buses, bikes, autos, and cars in everyday traffic, seeing a small boat maneuver between giant ships is a unique experience. Upon reaching the island, visitors must walk about one kilometer from the boat dock to the caves. The Maharashtra government operates a small toy train for those who prefer not to walk.

To reach the rock-cut temple, one has to climb 120 steps. The steps are somewhat steep and can be quite slippery, so wearing proper footwear is essential. On either side of the steps, numerous shops sell various items, primarily crystal gemstones. Some popular stones include purple amethyst, turquoise, cat's eye (chrysoberyl), and tiger’s eye. In addition, many Buddha statues of different designs are also sold.

At the top, the magnificent rock-cut temple comes into view. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and was carved out of the mountain. The different avatars of Lord Shiva are intricately sculpted, showcasing stunning craftsmanship. Some of the sculptures include Nataraja (the cosmic dancer), Sadashiva, Ardhanarishvara (half Shiva, half Parvati), Shiva in deep meditation on a lotus, Shiva and Parvati’s wedding scene, a depiction of them playing dice, and Ravana attempting to lift Mount Kailash. Many of these sculptures are partially damaged. These sculptures are believed to belong to the Rashtrakuta and Chalukya dynasties.

The most famous sculpture here is the Trimurti, a three-faced depiction of Shiva, symbolizing the Hindu trinity—Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the preserver), and Shiva (the destroyer). This sculpture is also considered the royal emblem of the Rashtrakutas.

The Portuguese, during their rule, used these sculptures as target practice for their firearms, resulting in visible bullet marks on some of them. One of the sculptures even has a noticeable dent caused by a cannonball.

Despite the damage, the pillars and mandapas (halls) remain intact, showcasing the grandeur of ancient rock-cut architecture. This site not only offers an awe-inspiring visual treat but also serves as an opportunity to explore and understand India’s rich cultural heritage.

In tact pillars and mantapas

Historians suggest that the temples and caves here were built between the 5th and 9th centuries.

The Portuguese named the caves Elephanta because of a large monolithic stone elephant statue found on the island.

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, this place does not function as an active place of worship. However, on the occasion of Maha Shivaratri, devotees visit the temple to offer prayers before leaving.