Elephanta Caves

Explore a maze of ancient rock-cut cave temples, spot intricately carved statues of Hindu gods and enjoy striking sunsets over Mumbai’s city center.

Ferry to Elephanta Caves, a centuries-old collection of rock-carved caves with sculptural masterpieces including temples, deity statues and friezes. Labyrinthine caves spread across the pretty Elephanta Island. Elephanta Caves, originally called Gharapuri, dates back to the 5th century. Portuguese explorers provided the name Elephanta after discovering a large stone resembling an elephant.

Discover seven caves on the island. The main temple is a captivating set of courtyards and halls dominated by imposing pillars and exquisite carvings. Here you’ll find sculptures of the many manifestations celebrating the Hindu god Lord Shiva. Check out the 23-foot-tall (7-meter) Sadashiva statue, which portrays Shiva as creator, protector and destroyer. Other Shiva statues include the Yogishvara (Lord of Yoga) and Nataraja (Lord of Dance).

Follow lighted paths leading to the other smaller caves. Although less elaborate than the Shiva-dedicated cave, they display fine examples of latticework and showcase the talents of ancient artists. Follow the trail to Cannon Point, a vista at the summit of the island. From here, enjoy uninterrupted views over the island and across the bay to Mumbai’s southern peninsula.

Don’t miss the small museum next to the ticket office, which provides an overview of the caves and their history. There’s also a photography exhibit of other Indian cave temples, including Ajanta and Ellora.

The caves are on an island about 7 miles (11 kilometers) from Mumbai’s city center. Boats depart from the Gateway of India pier about every 30 minutes, with a 1-hour journey time. Pay the extra fee to sit on the boat’s upper deck for impressive views of Mumbai’s harbor. Admire landmarks such as the Gateway to India and the Taj Mahal Palace hotel. On a clear day, return on the last boat and marvel as the sun drifts down over the city’s rooftops.

Elephanta Caves is open from Tuesday to Sunday and charges an admission fee. Hire an English-speaking guide at the island’s dock. It’s a short walk from the dock to the caves’ entrance or you can pay to ride the toy train. Find more information on the caves’ official website.

Popular Activities at Elephanta Caves

Make the most of your visit to Elephanta Caves. Here is a list of the most popular things to do:

Wondering what there is to do at this much-loved attraction? We suggest purchasing a Private Full day Mumbai city and Elephanta Caves with lunch.

Have a look at our Mumbai things to do page to find more activities while you're here.

Guide to Exploring Elephanta Caves

Dhobi Ghat

Walk amid the labyrinth of alleys of this fascinating open-air laundry, where hundreds of workers painstakingly hand wash much of the city’s clothing.

See hotels near here

Juhu Beach

Participate in seaside activities and dine on delicious street food at this extensive beach in Mumbai, the capital of the Indian state of Maharashtra.

See hotels near here

Hanging Gardens

Relax amid the picturesque confines of this peaceful park, spot interesting hedge sculptures and enjoy sweeping views of one of Mumbai’s most-loved beaches.

See hotels near here

Royal Opera House

Marvel at the fading baroque grandeur of this former opera house and then visit one of Mumbai’s most popular beaches.

See hotels near here

Gateway of India

An architectural wonder that showcases the artistic talents of the British Raj and is the entranceway to the fascinating neighborhoods of south Mumbai.

See hotels near here

ISKCON Temple

Experience the selfless devotion of Hare Krishna culture, try delicious vegetarian food or simply admire the grounds of this gorgeous temple.

See hotels near here

Marine Drive

Walk along the Queen’s Necklace to spot architectural wonders, enjoy coastal views and experience the carnival-like atmosphere of one of Mumbai’s most-loved beaches.

See hotels near here

Chor Bazaar

From ancient maps to antique silverware, bronze statues and decorative lamps, Thieves Market is an antique and bargain hunter’s paradise.

See hotels near here

Kamala Nehru Park

Find sweeping coastal views, colorful flowerbeds and a children’s playground inspired by a famous nursery rhyme at this picturesque park.

See hotels near here

Girgaun Chowpatty

Visit one of Mumbai’s most-loved beaches, which is famous for its fairground attractions and fortunetellers, sunsets, street food and a celebration of Lord Ganesh.

See hotels near here

Rajabai Tower

Visit an iconic Mumbai landmark modeled on London’s Big Ben and then admire the campus buildings of a vibrant university.

See hotels near here

Mt. Mary Church

Discover centuries of history, impressive Gothic architecture, exquisite murals and magnificent views of the Arabian Sea at this hilltop church.

See hotels near here

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS)

Exhibits of Asian artifacts, decorative arts, paintings, sculptures and taxidermy are housed within the halls of a beautiful Indo-Saracenic palace.

See hotels near here

Map

Top Hotel Deals

See all 920 Properties near Elephanta Caves

Hotel Rajvikas Residency

See details

Hotel Rajvikas Residency

Sonari Post-JNPT Township, Karal Phatta, Raigad District, Uran, Karal, Maharashtra

3.0 out of 5.0 Stars

Situated in Karal, this hotel is within 12 mi (20 km) of Elephanta Caves, Wonder Park, and Belapur Mango Garden. DY Patil Stadium and Kharghar Hills are also within 12 mi (20 km).

Royal Park Hotel ￥4,488

See details

Royal Park Hotel

Opp. Dockyard Road Railway Station, P.D Mello Road, Mumbai, Maharashtra

3.0 out of 5.0 Stars

Located in Mazgaon, this hotel is within 2 mi (3 km) of Prince Aly Khan Hospital, Mohammed Ali Road, and Chor Bazaar. St. Thomas Cathedral and Flora Fountain are also within 3 mi (5 km). Mumbai Dockyard Station is only a 2-minute walk and Mumbai Reay Road Station is 14 minutes.

Park Villa Comforts

See details

Park Villa Comforts

Vishwakarma Jivandip Bungalow No. 1, Military Road, Near Mangla Hospital, Mumbai, Maharastra

3.0 out of 5.0 Stars

Located in Central Suburbs, this guesthouse is within 6 mi (10 km) of Bandra Kurla Complex, U.S. Consulate General, and KidZania Mumbai. MMRDA Grounds and University of Mumbai are also within 6 mi (10 km).

ITC Grand Central, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Mumbai ￥11,143

See details

ITC Grand Central, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Mumbai

287, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Road, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra

5.0 out of 5.0 Stars

Located in Parel, this luxury hotel is 0.5 mi (0.9 km) from Tata Memorial Hospital and within 3 mi (5 km) of Mohammed Ali Road and Haji Ali Dargah. Crawford Market and Bandra Kurla Complex are also within 6 mi (10 km). Mumbai Currey Road Station is 11 minutes by foot and Mumbai Parel Station is 17 minutes.

goStops Mumbai

See details

goStops Mumbai

A Rawal house, 46 P D'Mello Road, Oppo Pujara Petrol Pump, Masjid Bunder, Mumbai, Maharashtra

2.0 out of 5.0 Stars

Located in Masjid Bandar, this hostel is within a 15-minute walk of Mohammed Ali Road and Crawford Market. St. Thomas Cathedral and Flora Fountain are also within 2 mi (3 km). Mumbai Masjid Station is 5 minutes by foot and Mumbai Sandhurst Road Station is 18 minutes.

Hotel Mogul Palace ￥3,250

See details

Hotel Mogul Palace

20, Dontad Cross Lane, Off Yusuf Mehar Ali Road, Mumbai, Maharshtra

3.0 out of 5.0 Stars

Located in Masjid Bandar, this hotel is within a 15-minute walk of Mohammed Ali Road and Crawford Market. Chor Bazaar and St George Hospital are also within 1 mi (2 km). Mumbai Masjid Station is 6 minutes by foot and Mumbai Sandhurst Road Station is 14 minutes.

Hotel Rajdoot ￥4,488

See details

Hotel Rajdoot

Barrister Nath Pai Marg, J.B.Road, Cotton Green West, Sewri, Mumbai, Maharashtra

2.5 out of 5.0 Stars

Situated in Mumbai, this hotel is within 2 mi (3 km) of Jijamata Udyaan, KEM Hospital, and Tata Memorial Hospital. Mohammed Ali Road and Siddhi Vinayak Temple are also within 3 mi (5 km). Mumbai Cotton Green Station is only a 4-minute walk and Mumbai Chinchpokli Station is 18 minutes.

Pals Hotel ￥3,867

See details

Pals Hotel

Barrister Nath Pai Road, Kalachowki, Next to Union Bank of India, Mumbai, Maharashtra

2.5 out of 5.0 Stars

Located in Parel, this hotel is within 2 mi (3 km) of Jijamata Udyaan, Prince Aly Khan Hospital, and KEM Hospital. Tata Memorial Hospital and High Street Phoenix Mall are also within 2 mi (3 km). Mumbai Cotton Green Station is only a 4-minute walk and Mumbai Chinchpokli Station is 14 minutes.

Elephanta Caves