I happened to visit Elephanta Caves for the second time last Sunday and completely forgot to write down about this lovely place. The Internet will generate a lot of information about this place. These caves are 5th to 9th century old. The Elephanta Caves are a collection of cave temples predominantly dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, which have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Elephanta were built by the Rashtrakuta rulers who are known to built it by cutting the walls of high basalt steep rock. It was named Gharapuri (Village of Caves) by the Marathi people and that continues to be its local name. In colonial times the Portuguese invaded the island. The island was renamed 'Elephanta' by them as they were inspired by the massive elephant sculpture that once stood like a guardian over the sea.
The Elephanta Caves' past is shrouded in mystery, with no conclusive explanations. Some attribute their construction to the Pandavas, while others attribute it to Banasura, a Shiva-devotee demon. According to local legend, they were not erected by human hands at all. Easiest way to reach Elephanta Caves is from Gateway of India, it is around 11 Km away from Mumbai. One can easily reach there on a ferry.
Elephant Caves remains closed on Monday. Its a group of 5 caves and cave number one is the largest cave. It depicts the various forms of lord Shiva. Sadly, most of the sculptures were damaged by fundamentalists in the 16th century. It almost took us one day to visit the elephant caves. Good place to visit.
Keep Traveling....Keep Rediscovering...
Faith
Amol
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