Colonial Storytelling Walk
The British headquarters of India, told street by street.
Elephanta Caves
A ferry across the harbour to a UNESCO island of rock-cut Shiva temples.
- 5 hours, flexible
- Morning · Afternoon
- Private, or a small group
- Moderate
About this experience
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Elephanta is a must-see if archaeology fascinates you.
The caves sit on Elephanta Island in Mumbai Harbour: ancient rock-cut temples from the 5th to 7th centuries CE, with remarkable sculptures dedicated to Lord Shiva. The island is named after the stone elephant that once stood near its shore and now stands in one of Mumbai’s museums.
We take the ferry from the Gateway of India, and your guide brings the carvings and their stories to life.
The route
- 01Gateway of India
- 02Ferry ride across Mumbai Harbour
- 03Guided tour of the caves
Included
- Private English-speaking guide
- ferry tickets (ask us)
- cave entry (ask us)
Not included
- Car transfer (add-on)
- Food and drinks
- Tips
Good for
- History and archaeology lovers
- Cruise passengers
- Families
Bring and wear
- Comfortable walking shoes, light clothes that cover shoulders and knees
- A bottle of water and sun protection
- A hat: there are about 120 steps up to the caves
- Start times
- Agreed with you when you book
- Meeting point
- Your hotel, or a point we share on WhatsApp
- Group size
- Your own group only
- Getting there
- Private car with driver as an add-on, or meet us there
- Fitness
- Moderate. About 120 steps up to the caves; palanquins are available on the island.
- Children
- Welcome
- Monsoon (June–September)
- Not in the monsoon. Ferries usually stop in the monsoon (roughly June to September).
- Cancellation
- See our booking terms · Booking terms
Pairs well with