The Elephanta Caves in Mumbai, Maharashtra

The Elephanta Caves are located on island hills on north east of Apollo Bunder in Mumbai, Maharashtra state, India. The Elephanta islands were earlier known as ‘Gharapuri’. The rock cut sculptured caves are considered to be an ideal tribute to the Maurya dynasty. Elephanta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are seven cave excavations in the Elephanta group and among these Cave 1 is the most impressive which represents the evolved Brahmanical rock-cut architecture. The cave is also famous for its exquisite and vibrant sculptures. The most famous is the ‘Trimurti’ where the God Shiva takes the form of Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the preserver) and Maheshwara (the destroyer).