Elephanta Caves
The famous Mahesamurti statue on Elephanta Island, depicting Shiva
in his three aspects. Photo
Dey.
The Mahesmurti statue in context of its cave. Photo
guy incognito.
Photo
Dey.
The Elephanta Caves are a complex of Shiva temple caves on Elephanta Island, an hour-long ferry ride from Mumbai (Bombay), India.
A visit to Elephanta Island, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, is a worthy destination in itself, and it also provides a view of the city's skyline from the water and a welcome escape from the chaos of Mumbai's streets.
The hour-long ferry ride provides a good introduction to Hinduism, as the guides on board describe the religious significance of what you're about to see. If you can, plan your trip so that you can see the sunset over the Mumbai skyline on your return journey.
History
The origins and artists of the temple caves, thought to date from about the 7th century, remain obscure. We do know, however, that the island was originally called Gharapuri; the Portuguese renamed it Elephanta after they found a large stone elephant near their landing place. (The figure collapsed in 1814 and was subsequently moved to the far-off Victoria Gardens and reassembled.)
Shortly before the Elephanta temples were created, Bombay had experienced the golden age of the late Guptas, under whom the talents of artists had free range. Sanskrit had been finely polished, and under the court's liberal patronage, Kalidasa and other writers had helped incite a Hindu religious revival. Shaivism, the worship of Shiva, inspired the building of these temples.
Many of Elephanta's priceless statues were damaged or destroyed by the Portuguese, who apparently used the Hindu gods for target practice. There have also been reports of vandalism and carelessness by modern visitors, so take extra care to avoid damage during your visit.
What to See
Elephanta Island is quiet and picturesque, with light-green foliage and monkeys scampering about. Try not to bring food to avoid harassment by the monkeys.
Entry to the caves is via the main northern entrance to a massive hall, supported by large pillars, where the enormous Mahesamurti statue is housed. At 6.3m (18 ft.), the remarkable sculpture depicts Shiva in his three-headed aspect: as Creator (facing right), Protector (the crowned face at the center), and Destroyer (facing left, with serpents for hair).
Other sculptures near the doorways and on side panels celebrate Shiva's accomplishments. One shows Shiva bringing the Ganges River down to Earth, letting it trickle through his matted hair. He is also depicted as Yogisvara, lord of Yogis, seated on a lotus, and as Shiva Nataraja, the many-armed cosmic dancer. The beauty of this stonework lies in the grace, balance, and sense of peace conveyed in spite of the subject's multiple actions.
Left of the Mahesamurti is Shiva as both male and female, Ardhanarishvara, an aspect suggesting the unity of all opposites.
Festivals & Events
A spectacular dance festival is held at Elephanta Island every February, hosted by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC).
Quick Facts
| Location: | 9km (5 1/2 miles) from Downtown Mumbai |
| Phone: | 22/2282-0139 (Mahesh Travels at the Gateway of India) |
| Hours: | Boats depart from the Gateway of India every half-hour Wed-Mon 10am-4:30pm or 9am-2:30pm depending on season |
| Cost: | Rs 250 ($5) or less round-trip, depending on the seat you choose. Tickets available at the Gateway of India. |
Location Map
Below is a location map and aerial view of Elephanta Island. Using the buttons on the left, zoom in for a closer look or zoom out to get your bearings. Click and drag the map to move around. For a larger view, see our Mumbai Map or get our free Google Earth download.
Travel Planning Links
- Mumbai Hotel Reviews - TripAdvisor
- Mumbai Flight Search - TripAdvisor
- Mumbai Travel Forum - TripAdvisor
Sources
- Frommer's India, 1st ed.
- Fodor's India, 5th ed.
More Information
- Elephanta Caves - UNESCO World Heritage
- Elephanta Caves - TempleNet
