The glorious Elephanta Caves are one of the most frequented tourist destinations of India. It attracts many hundreds and thousands of tourists every year. These caves are located close to the Gateway of India. A short boat ride from the harbour can land you to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, whose historicity dates back to the fifth century AD. Only 10 km of blue waters separates the busy metropolis of Mumbai, frantically heading towards tomorrows, from the secluded caves where tranquillity, history and culture reigns, chiselled in one of the finest specimens of temple architecture.

The island was named as Elephanta Island by the Portuguese, as there is a statue of an elephant near the landing area of the island. The Elephanta Caves comprise of seven caves, each boasting of temples cut out of rock with great architectural precision. These rock cut temples are devoted to Lord Shiva. You will find beautiful and exquisite sculptures adorning these temples.

The Elephanta Caves, spread across an area of about 6000 sq ft, consists of a main chamber, two lateral chambers, courtyards and subsidiary shrines. There are doorways both on the eastern and western sides. The architecture of the caves is very fascinating. A 20-pillared hall lines the axis of the temple, and on its western end is a cella in which there is enshrined a Shivalingam, or the sculpture of the phallus of the Lord Shiva. Shivalingam has deep philosophical connotations, and is worshipped by the Hindus since ages.

Out of the seven caves in totality, the Mahesh Murti cave has special importance. Here you will find sculptures of doorkeepers greeting you. Inside you will find numerous pillars. Here you will be greeted by the image of the Trimurthi Sadasiva, which is very spellbinding. It stands majestically at a height of about 20 ft. This represents the Panchamukha Shiva, whose three faces are carved in the wall. You can’t help but marvel at the artistic and creative energy of the unknown sculptors, while standing transfixed at this expression of sheer majesty. You will also find sculptures of Gangadhara, Kalyansundara and Uma Maheswara here. The sculpture of Lord Natraja- another name of Shiva, in the form of divine cosmic dancer- is a delight to the eye. The sculptures of Yogiswara and Ardhanariswara are also very beautiful. All these are forms of Shiva in his varied manifestations.

The Elephanta Caves depict Lord Shiva, both in the lingam or phallus form, and in the life size forms. The caves are filled with intricate and detailed carvings, with some of them depicting the fabled legends and mythical stories. It is a revelation to observe all these, and makes you wonder about the wonder that was India. Besides its immense historical and philosophical relevance, the caves are a great visual treat for the art lovers. The Elephanta Festival celebrated here is also an added attraction for the tourists. This fest takes place in the month of February, and numerous people attend the fest to be a part of this musical extravaganza.

The Elephanta Caves are easily accessible with the help of boats. In fact, it is the only way by which you can arrive at this island. You can opt for the boats starting from the Gateway of India, and this short watery journey in itself is very exciting, and acts as some sort of a visual appetizer to the main buffet ahead.