Elephanta

Cave 1 is the largest and the grandest of the Elephanta Caves. The cave consists of a central large hall flanked by the Eastern and Western courtyard. The main hall is approachable from the north and is supported by colossal columns. The entrance is flanked by two sculptures on either side. On the left-hand side of the entrance is the statue of Yogishvara (Lord of Yogis) and on the right is Nataraja (Dancing Shiva). The entrance leads to a huge hall with a tall ceiling supported by a series of colossal columns and a shiva shrine on the left. The southern wall of the main hall houses three magnificent sculptures. On the centre is Trimurthi, on the left is Ardhanarishvara and on right is Gangadhara Shiva. The four corners of the main hall also have beautiful sculptures.

Caves 2-5 of the caves are nothing spectacular but are only located next door, so it is advisable not to give it a miss. Caves 1 and 5 are unfinished caves with almost no ornamentations. Cave 3 has a grand entrance through a six-pillared entrance. It has a large porch and a shiva shrine guarded by damaged dvarapalas (gate guardians). Cave 4 lacks the grand entrance of cave 3 but otherwise, plans are similar with a shiva shrine.

Caves 6 and 7 are located on the adjacent hill, which is known as Stupa Hill. One has to turn right after exiting from the gate of the main complex. It takes about 15 mins to reach the caves. The trail is not well marked and there are hardly any visitors. Cave 6, known as Sitabai’s temple cave, consists of three chambers with a portico. Interestingly, this cave was converted into a church by the Portuguese when the island was a part of their colony. A little further ahead is cave 7, it is quite well hidden and easily missed as the path actually goes over the roof of the cave. It is an unfinished cave.

Apart from the Hindu caves, Elphanta Island also houses two Buddhist stupas. In order to visit them, one has to continue beyond caves 6 & 7. One of the stupas is located on a hill top and the other on the coast. Both are extremely difficult to locate and are hardly visited by tourists.

Bombay Natural History Society organizes nature tours in the Elephanta Island. The tour focuses on exploring the mangroves region of the island and includes bird watching and visiting caves, which serve as a bat dwelling. Cost ₹ 600 for members and ₹ 700 for non members, and includes ferry ride charges.