Elephanta Caves : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

The Elephanta Caves in India are an awe-inspiring collection of extraordinary and ancient caves. Situated on the Elephanta Island, just 10 km east of Mumbai, these spectacularly beautiful caves are an incredible part of India’s history and architecture. Also known as the ‘City of Caves’, the Elephanta Caves are a must-see destination for anyone who appreciates art, architecture, and history. In this blog, we look at the fascinating history of these caves, provide useful travel information, and share with you some interesting facts about Elephanta Caves. Whether you are planning a fascinating tour of the caves or simply want to know more about this remarkable place, this blog has Got you covered!

Interesting Facts About Elephanta Caves

1. Elephanta Caves were discovered accidentally in the 16th century by a group of Portuguese sailors. They mistook the cave’s entrance for a gigantic elephant and gave the cave its name.

2. The caves actually consist of two groups of temples – The Stupa Hill Group and The Western Hill Group. These two groups have the monument depicting creation and destruction of Lord Shiva.

3. The Eastern Group of caves have stone sculptures that are more than 1000 years old and are considered to be some of the oldest monuments in India.

4. The Elephanta Caves is said to be the place where Lord Shiva married goddess Parvati.

5. Some of the caves in the hill have been sealed for many years because of the erosion during monsoon season.

6. The ceilings and walls of the caves have intricate carvings of demigods, Hindu deities and apsaras.

7. The cave is open to tourists for explorations from 9AM to 5PM and is closed on Mondays for maintenance works.

8. The island of Elephanta can be reached by boarding a ferry from the Gateway of India.

• Dwarkadhish Temple : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

History & Information About Elephanta Caves

The Elephanta Caves, located at Elephanta Island in the Mumbai Harbour, is a popular tourist destination and archeological site. These ancient caves were built over 1,500 years ago by the ancient Buddhist civilization of India. The caves are said to have been constructed in 6th or 7th century AD, although there are conflicting theories on their exact age.

The Elephanta Caves are a network of rock cut sculptures and temples, believed to have been built under the reign of the Kalachuri dynasty. The caves were named Elephanta by the Portuguese because they found a large stone elephant at the entrance of the caves.

The biggest and most important of the caves is the “Mastaba Cave”, a large-scale court centered around a stylized Shiva lingam. This is also known as the “Trimurti Cave”, named after the three-headed form of Shiva depicted on a relief sculpture at the main entrance. The main feature of this cave is the “Gajasimha” (elephant-headed man) which is a symbiosis of Shiva and Ganesa, the lord of beginnings. This sculpture is considered one of the finest in the Indian subcontinent and has been glorified in various scholarly works.

The other main cave at Elephanta is the “Ravana Cave”, named after the demon king Ravana. This is a smaller cave with numerous Hindu and Buddhist sculptures including a reclining Vishnu and a Shiva lingam.

The caves also feature many smaller court yards, shrines and galleries. Inside the main cave, visitors can also find various inscriptions in Sanskrit and Prakrit. The inscriptions are believed to provide useful information about the history of the caves as well as the culture and civilization of ancient India.

The Elephanta Caves are also known for their cultural importance and are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Travel Guide For Visiting Elephanta Caves

The Elephanta Caves are situated on the Elephanta Island which lies in the north east coast of Mumbai (in Maharashtra, India). The caves are some of the most popular tourist attractions in the city and are considered as one of the finest examples of Indian rock cut architecture.

How To Reach Elephanta Caves

1. By Ferry: The easiest way to reach the Elephanta Caves is by taking a ferry from the Gateway of India in Mumbai. The ferries leave at around 9 am and the ride takes about 1 hour. Ferry ticket prices are around 9USD per person.

2. By Private Boat: You can also take a private boat from the Gateway of India in Mumbai to the Elephanta Island. The cost of private boat taxi is around 300USD and the ride takes about 15 minutes.

Things to Do At Elephanta Caves

1. Step into Indian History: Visit the amazing Elephanta caves for a unique insight into India’s ancient history and culture. Constructed between the 5th and 8th century, these caves provide a unique insight into India’s past and amazing artwork.

2. Explore: Explore the caves and uncover its history. There are several different galleries to explore including a Dance Hall, Royal Pleasure Hall, Court Area and Temple of Shiva.

3. Check out Other Attractions: Aside from the Elephanta Caves, there are plenty of other attractions on the island worth exploring. These include the Ganesh Temple, Ardhanarishvara Caves, Jogeshwari Caves and the Shiva Temple, all of which can be visited on the same day.

4. Enjoy the View: Climb to the top of the hill on the island and enjoy the stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding islands.

5. Shopping: Explore the nearby markets for some unique souvenirs to take home.

So plan a memorable trip to Elephanta Caves and discover the centuries-old history of India. From its unique architecture to its amazing views, your visit to Elephanta Caves will be an unforgettable experience.

• Charminar : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Frequently Asked Questions About Elephanta Caves

Q: Where are the Elephanta Caves located?
A: The Elephanta Caves are located on Gharapuri Island off the coast of Mumbai.

Q: When were the Elephanta Caves Built?
A: The Elephanta Caves were likely built by the 7th century by Hindu rulers.

Q: What is the significance of the Elephanta Caves?
A: The Elephanta Caves are an important archaeological site and pilgrimage spot for Hindus. The site contains several temple sculptures and carvings depicting Hindu gods.

Q: Who is the main deity in the Elephanta Caves?
A: The main deity of the Elephanta Caves is Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction and transformation.

Q: What type of sculptures can be found in the Elephanta Caves?
A: Sculptures of Hindu gods and goddesses, as well as depictions of cosmic and spiritual themes, can be found in the Elephanta Caves.

• Amar Mahal Palace : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• Bibi Ka Maqbara : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide