4 h

Instant confirmation

About this activity

We take you on a half-day tour of the ancient and majestic Elephanta caves. Meet your private tour guide in your hotel lobby and head to the Gateway of India from where your tour begins. Get onboard a ferry, and enjoy the hour-long cruise to the jetty of the magnificent caves. A toy-train joy ride awaits you on the other side of the ferry ride. The train ride concludes at the point from where we must climb 120 steps to reach the 7th century rock-cut cave temples. An important cultural and historical site, the Elephanta Caves, was formerly known as the Garphuri islands. It was the Portuguese who renamed them ‘Elephanta Islands’ after finding a large stone elephant, near the landing site. Legend has it that Prince Pukkesin II of the Chalukya dynasty build the Shiva Shrine, on this 60,000 square feet complex cut out of solid rock. Several intriguing sculptures of Lord Shiva, in various forms and poses, are carved around the entire vicinity, with those of Lord Shiva as a Yogi, seated on a lotus, Shiva as Nataraja, the lord of dance, and Shiva bringing the water of the Holy Ganges to the earth being the most prominent ones. After marvelling at the numerous avatars of Shiva at this UNESCO World Heritage site, we head back to the jetty and ride the ferry back to Gateway. Your tour concludes when you are driven back to your hotel.

P.S.: To reach to the top of the caves you must climb 120 steps, which takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Not suitable for elderly travellers.

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Included

Private vehicle for sightseeing as mentioned in the program
Private Local English speaking guide
Return ferry ride to visit Elephanta Caves
All current applicable taxes
Entry/Admission - Elephanta Caves

Not included

Boarding and lodging Pre & Post the sightseeing
Return airfare to and from India to originating destination
Visas for India
Internal air travel
Meals
Items of personal nature such as tips / gratuity to chauffeur, alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages, phone calls, additional sightseeing tours & excursions not included in the Itinerary, Still or Video Camera Fees Etc.
Any increase in fuel cost, government taxes, entrance fees, intra and interstate taxes etc,
Any items / services not specifically mentioned in the price includes section

Additional

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
Not recommended for travelers with back problems
No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
Dress code is smart casual
A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
A minimum of 1 people per booking is required
A maximum of 6 people per booking
Passport name & country is required at time of booking for all participants
A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
All visa requirements are the sole responsibility of the traveler
This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate