Elephanta Caves, Mumbai

Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, is a network of rock-cut cave temples on Elephanta Island, about 10 km across Mumbai harbour. The main cave, roughly 39 metres front to back, houses striking sculptures including the famous Ardhanarishvara panel. The only way there is by ferry from the Gateway of India.

How to reach Elephanta Caves

Ferries leave the Gateway of India jetty roughly every 30 minutes from 9:00 AM (last outbound around 2:00 PM); the crossing takes about an hour.

Location

More to see in Mumbai

Gateway of India Marine Drive Haji Ali Dargah Siddhivinayak Temple Juhu Beach Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST)

Visitor information

🕑 Timings9:00 AM - 5:30 PM; closed Mondays

🎟 Entry feeIndians/SAARC: ~Rs 40; foreigners: ~Rs 600 (plus separate ferry fare ~Rs 190-260)

📅 Best timeNovember to February; avoid the June-August monsoon when ferries are disrupted

📍 From centre~10 km by ferry from the Gateway of India

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