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Elephanta Island or Gharapuri Island is situated in the eastern side of Mumbai. It is one of the islands of Mumbai Harbour. It aquires an important part of Maharashtra tourism for housing the world renowned rock-cut cave temples which are otherwise known as Elephanta caves. Artistic basalt sculpture of an elephant which was found at the entrance of the island in 17th century bound the Portuguese explorers to name the island as Elephanta Island.
Enveloped by tamarind, mango and palm trees Elephanta Island sprawls over 16 km square. Venturing out to this island, one cannot expect much population here. Fishing, growing rice and boat reparing are the activities which engage the local people residing on this island. Other than a historical travel to the caves, tourists can also view canons which are present here since the British period.
Shentbandar, Morabandar, and Rajbandar are the villages on this island. While Rajbandar is the capital of the three, Shentbandar is the place which houses the rock-cut caves. Venture out on a historical travel to Elephanta Island and know more about the cave culture, Hindu mythology and some of those civilizations which no more exists on earth.
How to Reach: Ferries from Gateway of India can be opted which take the tourists to the Elephanta Island. The scenic journey of 1 hour which involves cruising through the Arabian Sea is an exclusive part of Maharashtra tourism. Tickets are arranged by Maharastra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC). Monday the caves remain closed, in which case your journey might be a futile one.
Price of the ticket varies with the age of the traveller and the type of the boat. The tickets are inclusive of return journey from the Island. Journey on Economy and Deluxe boats bear their own fun and charm. Boat service starts at 9 a.m. After which the service continues at a gap of every 10 minutes. To enjoy a hassle free journey its better to explore the island on weekdays.
Did you know about the availability of train which transports the tourists from the dockside to the entrance of the cave? The interesting journey will save you from climbing up 120 steps to the caves. The charges for tickets vary for adults and children. From 12 p.m. boats start their journey from Elephanta Island to The Gateway of India. 5.30 p.m. being the last boat requires punctual returning from the caves.
What to See: A unique expedition of Maharashtra tourism, the historical travel through the Elephanta Island is bound to carry you to the bygone days of history and mysticism. Local people approach to guide you through the unknown aspects of the Island but beware of the charges as they are not reasonable enough. Bargaining is thus very necessary, be it with the guides or with the vendors of book stalls who sell books regarding the same stories narrated by the guides. Blackplum hawkers are found all over the island who might irritate you with their persuasive cries.
The Elephanta Caves need no mention. The UNESCO World Heritage site attracts tourists from round the globe. Palanquins are available which can aid you to traverse the steep steps. It is also regarded as a holy and pious place by the Shaivaites for which many aged pilgrims visit this place. You can visit all the seven caves of the island, though last five is not much maintained for the tourists.
The island which looks like a mound from far has a structure of a hillock. The top of the island known as Canon Hill can be attempted by enthusiasts. One of the old canons belonging to the British age can be found here.
What Else: Tourists can capture the scenic and architectural beauty through lens. Monkeys can pose threat to the tourists. One can take paintings available on Elephanta Island as souvenir. Some exclusive and skillful handicrafts by the local inhabitants are also available. One should go for those as other things are bought from Mumbai and sold here at higher price.
Tourists can go for food offered at MTDC resort which is available at affordable price. Wild berries which are sold by local hawkers are also delicious to have. As drinking water is not readily available, it is good to take enough of drinking water before you leave Mumbai.
One cannot halt at Elephanta Islands at night. Only halting during day time is possible at Maharastra Tourism Department Hotel. They also offer necessary food and drinks which do not allow much inconvenience for the tourists.
