After a short drive to the Gateway of India, Mumbai’s most famous landmark, you’ll board a motor launch for the hour-long trip to Elephanta Island.
Elephanta Island was named after the statue of an elephant was found near the landing area of the island. The caves date from the 8th century and house remarkable statues in bas-reliefs that unfold a story carved in stone. The guides will bring to life the panels as they elucidate stories from Indian mythology. The carvings centre on the life of Lord Shiva, The Destroyer, but the most impressive panel is that of the Trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva: The Creator, The Preserver and The Destroyer.
After your fascinating insight into the Hindu religion, the boat will return you to Mumbai, where your coach transfer will be waiting.
Essential information
This excursion will operate by coach, boat and on foot. This tour involves a considerable amount of walking on rough, rocky slopes and uneven ground with over 120 steps to climb. The steps are not steep and they are interspersed with landings, however the tour is quite strenuous. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended and a sunhat and sunscreen should be worn. Video cameras are not permitted inside the caves and there is a charge for the use of video photography outside the caves. Please note that when boarding the boat, there may be a large gap between the boat and the pier to step across.