The 8th island

Itinerary
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Stop At: Elephanta Caves, Mumbai India

You don't need to be Livingstone's descendant to know that Mumbai was originally made up of seven islands. But undiscovered of city's residents and visitors alike, there was another island that still houses some of the most awe-inspiring Shiva sculptures ever discovered. Renowned today as Elephanta, this 8th island of the original Island City is awaiting your discovery with our friend-cum-philosopher-cum-guide.

The origins of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the Elephanta Caves are shrouded in mystery, but what is undoubted is that it is one of the finest tributes to Lord Shiva that you can find. Originally called Gharapuri, the Portuguese rechristened it Elephanta in the 16th century after the huge elephant statue they found at its entrance.

Whoever envisaged this monumental cave complex were both ardent devotees and visionaries, because their devotion to Lord Shiva was manifested on a scale that withstood the ravages of time and indifference. Your guide will walk through a secret path to the cave complex on top of the hill. The complex has 2 main caves, which between them, are home to huge statues that are made with delicate detail. Listen carefully as he enlightens you on the various forms and aspects of Lord Shiva, both benevolent and terrifying. Perhaps the most breathtaking of all the statues is the Trimurti or the Maheshmurti - a 21 foot high depiction of Shiva as the Creator, Protector, and Destroyer. You will be taken through the hidden nuances of the other statues as well as how viewing them from different positions brings different perspectives. And when he asks you to sit down in the inner sanctums and close your eyes as he invokes Lord Shiva with Aum Namo Shivai, be sure to surrender to the moment. You'll finally know what goosebumps feel like.

So come, Breakaway to Elephanta. You'll discover the island that was heaven before Mumbai's other seven.


Duration: 5 minutes