Entry Fee:
| For | INR |
| Adults (Indian) | 10 |
| Children (Indian) | Free |
| Foreign Nationals | 250 |
| Still Camera | Free |
| Video Camera | 25 |
Timings:
Elephanta Caves are open for visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM every day, except Mondays when the caves remain closed.
Opening Days:
Elephanta Caves are open from Tuesday to Sunday. The caves are closed on Mondays for maintenance purposes.
Location:
Elephanta Caves are located on Elephanta Island, also known as Gharapuri Island, in Mumbai Harbor, Maharashtra, India. To reach the caves, visitors need to take a ferry from Gateway of India, which is a prominent landmark in Mumbai.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Elephanta Caves is during the winter months, from November to February when the weather in Mumbai is pleasant and comfortable for exploring the caves. It’s advisable to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the site’s tranquility.
Things to do at Elephanta Caves:
- Explore the Cave Complex: Discover the intricate rock-cut cave temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, which showcase stunning sculptures, bas-reliefs, and architectural marvels.
- Marvel at the Trimurti Sculpture: Admire the magnificent Trimurti sculpture, a three-faced representation of Lord Shiva as Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the preserver), and Shiva (the destroyer).
- Visit the Main Shrine: Step inside the main shrine of the cave complex, also known as the Maheshamurti Cave, and witness the awe-inspiring lingam (phallic symbol) of Lord Shiva.
- Enjoy the View: Take a moment to appreciate the picturesque surroundings of Elephanta Island and the stunning views of the Arabian Sea from the caves.
- Learn about the History: Engage with local guides or audio guides available at the site to gain insights into the historical significance and artistic excellence of the Elephanta Caves.
Nearby Attractions:
- Gateway of India: A historic landmark and popular tourist spot in Mumbai, located near the ferry point for Elephanta Caves.
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya: Formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum, it houses an extensive collection of art, artifacts, and natural history exhibits.
- Colaba Causeway: A bustling street market famous for its vibrant atmosphere, street food, and a variety of shops selling clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.
- Marine Drive: A scenic promenade along the coast of Mumbai offering beautiful views of the Arabian Sea and a relaxing place to walk and unwind.
- Haji Ali Dargah: A prominent Islamic shrine and a masterpiece of Indo-Islamic architecture, situated on an islet off the coast of Worli in Mumbai.
