Sail across Mumbai harbour to one of India’s great treasures of rock-cut art. On the Elephanta Caves & Colaba Half-Day Tour you board a ferry beside the iconic Gateway of India for a one-hour crossing to Elephanta Island, enjoying views of the Mumbai skyline, the Taj Mahal Palace hotel and the busy port along the way.
On the island, climb about 120 steps (or take the small toy train and a palki for part of the way) to the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Carved out of solid rock in the 5th–6th centuries and dedicated to Lord Shiva, the main cave holds the magnificent 6-metre Trimurti (Sadashiva) – Shiva as creator, preserver and destroyer – along with powerful panels of Ardhanarishvara, Nataraja and the marriage of Shiva and Parvati. Your guide explains the stories behind each carving.
Back on the mainland, stroll along Colaba Causeway, with its street stalls and cafés, and the art galleries and colonial buildings of Kala Ghoda. A private car, return ferry tickets and an English-speaking guide are included. It is the perfect half day for art and history lovers or anyone with limited time in Mumbai.
Highlights
- Ferry ride from the Gateway of India across Mumbai harbour
- UNESCO-listed Elephanta Caves and the giant Trimurti sculpture
- Expert guide to the Shiva cave temples
- Colaba Causeway and the Kala Ghoda art district
- Private car, ferry tickets and guide included
Good to know
- Elephanta Caves are closed on Mondays, and ferries do not run in rough monsoon weather.
- There are about 120 steps to the caves; wear comfortable shoes and carry water.
- Watch your food and bags around the monkeys on the island.
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