Elephanta Caves, Rock-cut temples on Elephanta Island, India
The Elephanta Caves are rock-hewn temples on an island in the harbor of Mumbai in Maharashtra state, accessible by water from the Indian mainland. The site spans multiple levels along a forested hillside and consists of seven separate chambers, with the largest one displaying a wide hall supported by massive stone pillars, side chambers, and large-scale reliefs depicting deities and mythological scenes.
The caves were carved between the 5th and 8th centuries by local rulers who supported Hinduism and used stone craftsmanship to create religious sites within the natural rock. Portuguese sailors arrived on the island in the 16th century and gave it its current name after a large stone sculpture of an elephant, replacing the older local designation.
Local and international pilgrims visit the temples throughout the year, and many light small oil lamps or bring flowers in front of the sculptures. On certain days during the monsoon season, the religious activities pause, while outside the main season the atmosphere becomes quieter and visitors can observe the carvings in greater silence.
The island is about an hour by ferry from the Gateway of India in Mumbai, and the walk up to the caves involves climbing around 120 steps through a shaded forest path. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and bring enough water, as humidity can be high and facilities on the island are limited.
The site features a system of channels that drain rainwater from the caves during the monsoon season, preventing the sculptures from standing in water. Some walls still show traces of red pigment, indicating that the reliefs were once painted in color rather than existing as bare stone.
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