Visiting Elephanta Island: Everything You NEED to Know!

Elephanta Island, located in India, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is well worth a visit if you are in Mumbai. It has a lot of history to learn about and see with your own eyes and is a rather interesting place to visit if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It reminded me of playing Tomb Raider games, so that’s always another good reason to visit! Here’s everything to know about visiting Elephanta Island.

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Contents:

What Is Elephanta Island?

What is Elephanta Island? Elephanta Island, also known as Gharapuri, is a small island located in Mumbai Harbour, approximately 10 kilometres to the east of Mumbai, India. It is renowned for its ancient rock-cut caves, which were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

These Elephanta Caves, dating back to the 5th to 7th centuries AD, are a significant cultural and historical treasure, reflecting the artistry and craftsmanship of ancient Indian civilization. The island features two groups of caves, primarily dedicated to Hindu deities, with the main cave housing an impressive 20-foot-high statue of Trimurti, the three-headed representation of Shiva.

Rich in intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various mythological tales, the island’s heritage is accessible by a ferry ride from the Gateway of India, offering a captivating glimpse into India’s rich spiritual and artistic heritage.

Is Elephanta Island Safe To Visit?

Is Elephanta Island safe to visit? As with anywhere in India (and around the world), you should remain cautious and vigilant at all times. I chose to book a tour to Elephanta Island due to being a solo woman, and I did not feel very safe in India solo. However, with my tour guide, I felt safe – and on the island when I was alone, I also felt very safe too.

The island is accessible by a ferry service from the Gateway of India, ensuring a convenient journey. The ferry had lifejackets, which is always reassuring to see; however, at one point, the ferry was tipping significantly, which is one thing to bear in mind in case you are nervous about water. Upon arrival, tourists are greeted by a serene environment, with local vendors and guides available to assist with any needs.

The pathways to the Elephanta Caves are relatively well-marked and maintained, though a bit of climbing is required, so comfortable footwear is recommended. Adequate safety measures are in place, including guardrails and clear signage in the cave areas.

How Do You Get To Elephanta Island?

How do you get to Elephanta Island? Visiting Elephanta Island is a straightforward and enjoyable journey that begins at the Gateway of India, a historic landmark located in South Mumbai.

Regular ferry services operate daily, departing approximately every half hour from the Gateway of India pier. The ferry ride takes about 60 minutes, offering passengers scenic views of Mumbai’s skyline and the Arabian Sea. Tickets for the ferry can be purchased at counters near the Gateway of India, or if you have booked a tour as I did – your guide will sort this out for you.

Upon arrival at the Elephanta Island jetty, visitors will traverse a short pier to reach the island base. From there, a well-paved path and about a 120-step climb, interspersed with small shops and food stalls, lead up to the entrance of the Elephanta Caves. A palanquin service is available for those who may find the climb challenging. It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes and carry water, particularly during the warmer months, to fully enjoy the journey and exploration of this fascinating historical site.

Where Does The Name of Elephanta Island Come From?

Where does the name of Elephanta Island come from? The name “Elephanta Island” is a vestige of colonial history and derives from the Portuguese colonial period in India. When Portuguese explorers arrived on the island in the 16th century, they discovered a large stone sculpture of an elephant near the island’s entrance, prominently drawing their attention.

This mammoth statue, crafted from a single rock, stood as a sentinel, leading them to name the island “Elephanta.” The original name of the island, however, is Gharapuri, which translates to “The City of Caves” in Marathi, reflecting its ancient Indian heritage and its significant rock-cut cave temples that date back to before the Portuguese arrival.

Today, the elephant statue that inspired the contemporary name resides in the Jijamata Udyaan (formerly known as Victoria Gardens) in Mumbai, while the island retains its enchanting blend of history and culture through its ancient caves and natural beauty.

Are Tours To Elephanta Island Worth It?

Are tours to Elephanta Island worth it? Personally, I believe so, especially if you’re travelling solo. I visited Mumbai in August, which is their Monsoon season, meaning I got the whole tour to myself as nobody else was there. I used Amaze Tours, which also offers other tours available in Mumbai.

I believe that even though it would be cheaper to visit Elephanta Island on your own, having a tour guide does help relieve the stress of knowing the timings and where to go – and I would rather my money go towards helping them out.

My tour guide was very knowledgeable and explained so much about the island’s history that I wouldn’t have received otherwise – as the signs in the caves just didn’t explain that much. He also was great at taking photos, which is usually another big reason I book tours sometimes, haha!

3 Tips For Visiting Elephanta Island:

If you’re visiting Elephanta Island, read these tips for everything to know about visiting Elephanta Island in order to get the most of your visit:

1. Bring Waterproofs

Bringing waterproofs when visiting Elephanta Island is a must, especially if your trip coincides with the monsoon season, which typically spans from June to September. During this period, Mumbai and its surrounding areas, including Elephanta Island, experience heavy and unpredictable rainfall.

Waterproof gear, such as rain jackets, ponchos, and waterproof footwear, ensure you remain dry and comfortable while navigating the open ferry ride from the Gateway of India and exploring the island’s pathways and staircases leading to the caves.

Moreover, given the natural and primarily outdoor setting of Elephanta Island, with limited shelter spots, being prepared with waterproofs can significantly enhance your experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the ancient rock-cut Elephanta Caves and the scenic beauty of the island without the discomfort of getting drenched. This preparation ensures that your visit remains enjoyable and that your belongings, such as cameras or phones, stay protected from moisture.

2. Watch Out For Monkeys

Awareness of Elephanta Island’s monkeys is essential for a safe and enjoyable visit. The island is home to a significant population of monkeys, mainly macaques, that are accustomed to human presence and can be quite bold in their interactions with visitors.

These monkeys often roam the pathways leading to the Elephanta Caves and might be drawn to food, shiny objects, or even bags and loose items carried by tourists. While generally not aggressive, they can become assertive if they sense an opportunity to snatch food or belongings.

Refraining from feeding the monkeys is advisable, as this encourages their bold behaviour and disrupts their natural foraging habits. Keeping your personal items securely packed and avoiding flashy accessories will minimize unwanted attention from them.

Also, maintaining a safe distance and staying calm if a monkey approaches you will help prevent potential conflicts. Being vigilant and respectful of their space allows you to coexist harmoniously with the island’s monkey population and ensure a peaceful experience.

3. Having A Tour Guide Is Worth It

As previously mentioned, hiring a tour guide on Elephanta Island is well worth the investment, offering a richer and more enlightening experience of this historical site. A knowledgeable guide can provide in-depth insights into the intricate carvings and sculptures of the Elephanta Caves, many of which are laden with complex mythological tales and historical significance that may not be immediately apparent to the untrained eye.

They can narrate the fascinating stories behind the depictions of Hindu deities like Shiva, explain the architectural nuances, and highlight the cultural context of the rock-cut temples. Additionally, a guide can answer any questions, tailoring the tour to your interests, whether in art, history, or spirituality.

Beyond the educational aspect, a local guide can also offer practical tips, navigate the best routes, and suggest the optimal times to visit different spots to avoid crowds, thereby enhancing your overall experience. This personalised touch ensures that your visit is not just a superficial viewing but an engaging journey through time, deepening your appreciation of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Elephanta Island FAQ

What is Elephanta Island famous for?

Elephanta Island is most famous for being a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its unique sculpture carvings linked to Shiva.

Which month is best to visit Elephanta Caves?

Winter is the best season to visit Elephanta Caves, as from July- September is Monsoon season, meaning that there is a lot of humidity and rainfall – making the caves very slippery.

How long to spend on Elephanta Island?

Expect to spend around 4 hours in total on Elephanta Island, if you want to have a nice time exploring the caves, visiting the shops and trying local foods.