Sights

Explore Elephanta Caves

The Chardham Yatra is one of the most important pilgrimage journeys in India, dedicated to the worship of Hindu deities. It involves visiting four sacred shrines located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, in the Himalayan region. The Chardham Yatra is considered a spiritual journey, and it is believed that visiting these four temples can bring salvation and remove the cycle of birth and death (moksha).

Places You'll See

Tour Highlights

Tour Itinerary

Elephanta Caves

5 Days 6 Nights
Maharashtra: Elephanta Caves

Days Plan

Day 1: Mumbai Arrival & Evening Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive in Mumbai. Check into your hotel and refresh after your journey.
  • Afternoon: Visit the iconic Gateway of India, a perfect starting point for exploring the city. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Arabian Sea.
  • Evening: Stroll along Marine Drive or explore Colaba Causeway for shopping and dining. Rest early to prepare for the next day.

Day 2: Elephanta Caves Exploration

  • Morning:

    • Start your day early and head to the Gateway of India to catch the ferry to Elephanta Island (ferry services begin at 9:00 AM).
    • Enjoy the 1-hour ferry ride with views of Mumbai’s coastline and the sea.
    • Upon reaching the island, take the toy train or walk to the base of the caves.
  • Mid-Morning:

    • Begin your exploration with Cave 1, the largest and most significant cave, housing the iconic Trimurti Shiva sculpture.
    • Explore other sculptures, such as Nataraja (Shiva as the cosmic dancer) and Ardhanarishvara (the half male-half female form of Shiva).
    • Visit the smaller caves, which offer glimpses of ancient rock-cut architecture and history.
  • Afternoon:

    • Have lunch at a local café on the island.
    • Visit the ASI Museum, which provides insights into the history, art, and cultural importance of the caves.
  • Evening:

    • Take the return ferry back to Mumbai.
    • Relax at your hotel or explore nearby attractions like Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST), a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 3: Mumbai Sightseeing

  • Morning:

    • If staying in Mumbai, explore more of the city. Visit Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (Prince of Wales Museum) or take a stroll at Hanging Gardens for a lush retreat.
  • Afternoon:

    • Head to Crawford Market for shopping or enjoy street food in Girgaon Chowpatty.
  • Evening:

    • Conclude your trip by visiting Bandra Bandstand for a view of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link and a serene coastal experience.
Notes:

    • 2 passport size photos
    • Adult – Original + photocopy of any of the ID proof i.e. Aadhar Card / Driving Licence /  Voters       ID / Passport
    • Child – Original + photocopy of any of the ID proof i.e. Aadhar Card / School ID / Passport
    • Infant – Aadhar Card / Birth certificate
    • NRI / Foreign nationals – Mandatory Passport + Valid Indian visa / OCI card / PIO card
    • Above mentioned ID proof is mandatory at the time of booking and carry the same ID proof on         tour as well

Elephanta Caves

Tour Details


Hear from Our
Happy Travelers

The Elephanta Caves are an awe-inspiring experience. The ferry ride from Mumbai was refreshing, and the Trimurti sculpture left me speechless. Walking through the caves felt like stepping back in time. A must-visit for history and art lovers!"

— Meera Sharma, Delhi

The Elephanta Caves are a blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a traveler seeking tranquility, the caves offer an enriching experience thatExploring the Elephanta Caves was one of the highlights of my trip to Mumbai. The intricate carvings and spiritual ambiance were fascinating. I’d recommend visiting during the cooler months for the best experience

— Rajesh Verma, Mumbai

Best Time to Visit:

  • Winter (November to February): The most pleasant time to visit, with cool and comfortable weather.
  • Monsoon (June to September): The ferry services might be affected due to heavy rains, but the island’s greenery is at its peak.
  • Summer (March to May): The weather can be hot and humid, so plan early morning visits.

How to Reach:

  • By Ferry:

    • The only way to reach Elephanta Island is by ferry from the Gateway of India in Mumbai. Ferries run every 30 minutes from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The return ferries are available until 5:30 PM.
  • By Road (to Gateway of India):

    • Use local transport such as taxis, buses, or trains to reach the Gateway of India, the departure point for ferries.

Importance of Elephanta Caves:

The caves showcase intricate rock-cut sculptures and pillars, a remarkable example of ancient Indian craftsmanship.Believed to have been created between the 5th and 8th centuries, the caves reflect the cultural and religious history of the period.The blend of artistry, mythology, and devotion makes the Elephanta Caves a symbol of India’s cultural and religious diversity.