Journey to Elephanta Caves
Marvel at elaborate architecture and design in one of India's oldest cave sites. Compliment this legendary Mumbai tour with authentic Indian cuisine at a traditional restaurant.
The Elephanta Caves are an intricate network of beautifully sculpted caves, six miles east of Mumbai. On this guided Mumbai tour, you'll witness unbelievable sculptures and understand why The Elephanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterward, you'll drive by noteworthy sights and enjoy an authentic Indian lunch. This unique Mumbai tour is ideal for newcomers to India, photographers, and anyone looking for a rich cultural experience at a low price. Begin your Mumbai tour with a pleasant drive from your port toward the Gateway of India, a prominent arch monument. Transfer onto a ferry and enjoy a relaxing cruise to the Elephanta Caves. A professional guide will provide fun facts about the scenic landmarks you see on the way, such as Butcher's Island, a historic jetty for oil tankers. As you reach the north point of the coast, Elephanta Island will emerge as a lush green paradise. From there, you'll walk about a mile to the Elephanta Caves. A cluster of masterfully sculpted caves awaits your exploration. Marvel at perhaps the greatest example of Indian rock-cut art and architecture dating to the fifth century. The sculptures are noteworthy for their forms, dimensions, alignment, execution, and spiritual themes. Cave 1 is the most prominent sight, with a 23-foot high Sadashiva monument dominating the entrance. The stunning sculpture represents the three aspects of Shiva: Creator, Preserver, and Destroyer. All works in the Elephanta Caves are preserved in their natural setting, allowing you to appreciate Western India's most historic achievement in the field of rock architecture. After exploring the Elephanta Caves, your guide will lead you on a short walk to the top of the island. Cannon Hill is a verdant setting, ideal for memorable photographs. Afterward, you'll navigate back to the Gateway of India and enjoy an authentic Indian lunch and beverages at a nearby restaurant (included). Enjoy a drive to a few more landmarks before being returned to your port. These include Fort (a vibrant business district) and Colaba (Mumbai's art center, renowned for high-end boutiques). Book this Mumbai tour for an unforgettable, picture-perfect getaway. Please Note: A tourist visa is required to debark in India. Cruise lines do not usually provide this visa, therefore, you will need to obtain one before your cruise. A ship card and photo identification are also required to participate.
- Duration
- 5 hours
- Operated by
- Shore Excursions Group
- Cruise Ship Pier
- Comfortable seasonal clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, walking shoes and a hat. Please ensure you are appropriately dressed for visits to any to local places of worship, as you could be refused entry. Long sleeves, loose pants, long skirts and pants are all acceptable in places of worship. Shoes should be taken off when entering a mosque or similarly, someone's house.
- This tour is not wheelchair, or scooter accessible. Participants must be able to step in and out of the vehicle and the boat/ferry, and walk uphill and downhill with little to no assistance. A tourist visa is required to debark in India. Cruise lines do not usually provide this visa, therefore, you will need to obtain one prior to your cruise. A ship card and photo identification are also required to participate.
- Food & beverages: Beverages Included
Excursion purchases are fully refundable outside of 14 days prior to the tour date. Beginning on the 14th day prior to the tour date, excursion purchases are non-refundable.