Introduction to Elephanata Caves
The Elephanta Caves in Mumbai are temples cut from rock in the caves, about 10 kms from the Gateway of India (link to the page). This place, echoing with the Spiritual energy of India dates back to 600 A.D and attracts thousands of visitors every year who come to get a glimpse of the amazing sculptures in the temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Elephanta Caves were given the status of a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO. Though many of the sculptures have been destroyed by the Portugese rulers, but the sublime beauty of the caves still remains integral.
History of Elephanata Caves
The name Elephanta Island was given by the Portuguese traveler after the statue of the elephant at the entrance of the cave. The Elephanta caves, built in around 600 A.D, are thought to date back to the Silhara Kings, or even to the Rashtrakutas of Manyakheta.
Description of Elephanata Caves
The Elephanta cave complex has a collection of shrines, inner cells, courtyards, porticos and halls that are assembled together in a marvelous equilibrium in the Indian Rock cut architecture. The entire Elephanta cave Complex, covering an area of about 6000 sq ft. is a huge sculpture itself where one an walk through its lanes and corridors.
The entrance of the Elephanta cave has the famous Trinity , Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. There are three entrances to the temple. On the westermn side of the many pillared hall marking the axis of the temple lies a Shivalingam.
How to reach Elephanata Caves
Mumbai is well connected by a host of domestic and international flights , by long distance and local trains, and by other modes of transport like buses, auto rickshaws and taxis. Elephanta caves, located on the Gharapuri Island on Mumbai’s Harbour can be reached easily by an hour boat ride from the Gateway of India. There are regular ferries that leave from the Gateway throughout the year to the Elephanta caves, except on Monsoons. Elephanta Caves remain open fro tourists from 9 to 17 hours except Monday.
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