Introduction

Mumbai is often perceived as a city that lives for the present. But the one city attraction that unequivocally takes you back in time is the Elephanta Caves. To a get a flavor of Mumbai's early history, hop on to a ferry at Gateway of India heading towards Elephanta Island. The 1 hour long ride will drop you at the doorsteps of the UNESCO World Heritage Site (1987).

As one enters through the main northern entrance, a massive hall housing the stunning Trimurti statue stops you in your track. At 21 feet (6.3meters), the sculpture portrays the serene Maheshamurti (the protector) in the centre, Bhairdeva (the destroyer) to the left and Vamadeva (the creator) to the right. The fourth face is meant to be assumed, merged as it is into the rock. Western writers and sculptors such as Andre Malraux and Auguste Rodin had been struck dumb by the sheer spectacle of Sadashiva (‘Eternal Shiva'), a full-relief bust showing three faces of Lord Shiva. Left of this statue is Shiva as Ardhanarishvara (half male and half female) symbolizing the unity of opposites. There were many more statues that were damaged or destroyed by the Portuguese. They used the statues for target practice.

The earlier name of Elephanta was ‘Gharapuri’. The island was rediscovered in the 16th century by the Portuguese, who renamed it. While approaching the island, they saw an elephant waiting for them. It turned out to be a remarkable piece of sculpture in basalt stone. They decided to take it home but ended merely ended up dropping it into the sea. The British later fished it out from the sea carried it back to the mainland, where it now sits at the Byculla Zoo, or Veermata Jijabai Bhonsle Udyan (named after Shivaji's mother).

The entire rock cut temple sprawls across about 60,000 square feet. And come February, a music and dance festival is held here. It is a much sought after event by culture buffs.

The additional advantage of taking a ride to Elephanta is that on your way back you’ll get an excellent perspective of South Mumbai's skyline from the sea. Needless to say, it is an impressive sight.

Special Attributes

A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Nuisance

The site is peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Conservative

Connectivity

Boat

Enjoyed by

Art and heritage buffs

Exposure

Minimal

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Basic, prepare accordingly.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

Enjoy the artistic quality of the bas relief work.

Type of site

Caves