Unlike many archaeological sites in India, the Elephanta Caves are located on an island about 7 miles east of Mumbai harbor and can only be reached by ferry.
Most visitors travel to Elephanta Island from the Gateway of India in South Mumbai. This is the classic and most scenic route, with views of the Taj Mahal Palace, Taj Mahal Tower, the Gateway of India, and Mumbai Harbor.
There is also a second ferry route from CBD Belapur Jetty in Navi Mumbai. This route is shorter and may be convenient for visitors staying in Navi Mumbai or nearby areas.
However, this guide focuses on the more popular Gateway of India route, which the author personally used and can describe from first-hand experience. The map below shows the ferry route from the Gateway of India in Mumbai to Elephanta Island, where the Elephanta Caves are located.
A visitor information board near the Gateway of India provides a map of the Colaba Tourist District and highlights many of the neighborhood’s historic landmarks and attractions. See Colaba Tourist District Information Board near the Gateway of India for additional information.
Reaching the Gateway of India
The Gateway of India is one of Mumbai’s most iconic landmarks and is easily accessible by bus, train, taxi, and ride-sharing services. Built in 1924 on the waterfront at Apollo Bunder, it is also the main departure point for ferries to Elephanta Island.
The distance from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport to the Gateway of India is about 17 miles (28 km), with a typical travel time of 45 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic. The nearest major railway stations are:
- Churchgate Railway Station — about 1.3 miles away
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus — about 2 miles away
Visitor Tip: To enter the Gateway of India area, all visitors must pass through a security checkpoint equipped with metal detectors, and bags may be subject to inspection. To avoid missing your ferry, especially on weekends and holidays, plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
Purchasing Ferry Tickets
Once inside the Gateway of India premises, walk toward the sea-facing side of the monument. The ferry terminal, also known as Apollo Bunder Terminal, is located here.
There may not be a formal ticket counter. In many cases, ferry tickets are sold by a person standing near the terminal entrance, so look for signs or ask nearby staff for the Elephanta ferry.
Elephanta Ferry Details
| Departure point | Apollo Bunder Terminal, Mumbai |
| First ferry | Around 9:00 AM |
| Return ferry: | Starts around 12:00 noon |
| Last ferry | Around 5:30 PM, depending on season and sea conditions |
| Frequency | About every 30 minutes |
| Duration | About 1 hour each way |
| Fare | Around ₹300, approximately $3 |
Important Note: The Elephanta Caves are closed every Monday, and the tourist ferry service from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island also does not operate on Mondays. Plan your visit between Tuesday and Sunday. Ferry schedules and fares may change due to weather, sea conditions, and operator policies. Confirm the latest timings and ticket prices at the Gateway of India before your trip.
The Ferry Ride
The hour-long ferry ride across Mumbai Harbor is one of the most enjoyable parts of visiting Elephanta. As the boat leaves the Gateway of India, visitors get beautiful views of Mumbai’s waterfront, including the Taj Mahal Palace, Taj Mahal Tower, the Gateway of India, boats, ships, and the busy harbor.
Arriving at Elephanta Island
After about an hour, visitors disembark at a long jetty on Elephanta Island. A small toy train usually operates between the jetty and the base of the hill. Although the walk is not very long, many visitors enjoy taking the train, especially during hot weather.
Guides are often available near the arrival area. If you wish, you can hire one here. Guide fees may vary, but they may cost around ₹1,500, approximately $15.
Climbing to the Caves
From the end of the toy train route—or from the jetty if you choose to walk—you begin climbing approximately 120 stone steps leading to the caves.
The staircase passes through a lively market where vendors sell souvenirs, handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, snacks, and drinks. There are also small restaurants and refreshment stalls along the way.
At the top of the hill, the pathway opens into the archaeological complex containing several rock-cut caves.
Visitors begin with the magnificent Main Cave, also known as Cave 1. This cave is famous for its colossal sculptures of Shiva, including the celebrated Maheshmurti, also called the Trimurti, one of the greatest masterpieces of Indian rock-cut art.
It takes at least an hour to visit the Main Cave properly. After exiting Main Cave, visitors can continue walking to the other nearby caves. At the end of the path are Cave 5 and the toilet facilities. Cave 5 is unfinished and is closed to visitors.
Related Pages
– Gateway of India
– Colaba Tourist District Information Board near the Gateway of India
– Apollo Bunder Ferry Terminal, Mumbai
– Panoramic View of Elephanta Island Hillside showing the Jetty
– Elephanta Main Cave
– The Mystery of Elephanta Cave 2
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