Showing posts with label Hinduism. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Hinduism. Show all posts

27 January 2017

Elephanta Island and Caves India


On our second day in India, we walked to  the India Gate in Mumbai where we boarded a ferry to Elephanta Island (World Heritage site).


The trip took about an hour to travel approximately 10 km to the islands located in Mumbai harbour of the Arabian Sea.


The ferry boats are well worn but the plastic seats are comfortable. We paid 400 Rs for two - you can save a few Rs if you but direct at the dock. On board we paid 10 Rs each to sit on the upper deck.

















You'll have good views of the India Gate and Taj Mahal Hotel from the back of the boat.







After arriving at the Island, it is a steep walk past numerous vendors to the park where the caves are located.














You pay to enter the small island village and again to enter the park near the top of the hill.





You will see a main temple with a long hall. Various stone sculptures are taken from stories of Shiva. These date from about the 6th century.












































Along the way, locals offer to be your guide.

At the end of the trail is a toilet- plan to bring your own paper and hand cleaner if you must use it.


Monkeys are everywhere- and will steal your snacks if you put them beside you whilst resting (happened to my wife).

On the return, some locals fed the gulls, which show no fear of coming close.