Elephanta Caves
UNESCO-listed rock-cut Hindu cave temples on an island an hour from Mumbai.
- Timings
- 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Tue–Sun)
- Entry fee
- ₹40 (Indian), ₹600 (foreign), ferry ₹260
- Time needed
- 4 – 5 hours including ferry
- Best time
- October – March
About Elephanta Caves
Carved into a basalt hill between the 5th and 8th centuries, Elephanta's seven caves are dedicated to Shiva. The 20-foot Trimurti sculpture in Cave 1 is one of the masterpieces of Indian sculpture. Skip the noisy ferries — the small wooden ones are calmer.
Insider tips
- Last ferry back: 5:30 PM
- Take the toy train at Elephanta (₹10) to save the uphill walk
- Closed on Mondays
Elephanta Caves — common questions
What are the Elephanta Caves timings?
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Elephanta Caves is open 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Tue–Sun).
What is the entry fee for Elephanta Caves?
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Entry: ₹40 (Indian), ₹600 (foreign), ferry ₹260.
How much time do you need at Elephanta Caves?
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Plan for roughly 4 – 5 hours including ferry.
What is the best time to visit Elephanta Caves?
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October – March.
How crowded does Elephanta Caves get?
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Medium crowd levels overall.
Nearby
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Gateway of India
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Colaba Causeway
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Bandra-Worli Sea Link
5.6 km cable-stayed bridge over the Arabian Sea, best seen from Bandstand.