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Browse Tourist Attractions
- Agra Fort
- Ajanta Ellora Caves
- Akshardham Temple
- Charminar
- Elephanta Caves
- Elephanta Caves Art That Depicts God Different Facets
- Fatehpur Sikri in Agra
- Gateway Of India
- Golden Temple
- Hampi
- Hawa Mahal
- Humayun Tomb
- India Gate
- Jaisalmer Fort
- Khajuraho Temples
- Konark Sun Temple
- Lake Palace
- Qutub Minar
- Red Fort
- Sanchi Stupa
- Taj Mahal
- Taj Mahal Where Love Speaks in the Wall of White Artifact
- Udayagiri and Khandagiri Cave
- Umaid Bhavan Palace
Elephanta Caves Art That Depicts God Different Facets
No trip to the metropolitan city of Mumbai is complete without a visit to the world famous Elephanta Caves. Known worldwide for their carvings and beautiful structures, these caves are part of the UNESCO World Heritage sites. These structures depict the creation of mankind. Apart from this, there are awe inspiring sculptures of Hindu Gods. People from all over the world visit the Island each year to witness these architectural marvels of ancient India.
Located around 10 km from north of the Gateway of India, the Cave Temple on Elephanta Island was excavated in 8th century during the reign of Rashtrakutas kings. The island has a collection of rock cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The famous Mahesa Murti is a colossal structure with three heads, each of which representing a different form. This masterpiece shows Lord Shiva as The Creator, The Destroyer and The Preserver.
The name Elephanta was given to the island by the Portuguese and this name comes from the gigantic statue of an elephant which the Portuguese found on the island. The Elephanta Island is also known as Gharapuri. These caves in Maharashtra are testimony to the skilled craftsmanship of that period. The walls of the caves are heavily carved and depict several mythological creatures including Gods and Goddesses. Seven such caves have been excavated till now. However, the identity of the creators of these masterpieces still remains a mystery.
Cut out of a single Basalt rock, the caves represent the abode of Lord Shiva, Mount Kailash. Five of these caves are located on the western part. These caves have sculptures of Shiva and Parvati on Kailash, Ravana holding Kailash, Trimurti, Shiva’s wedding, Nataraja and Kartikeya. There is a small group of islands on the eastern part. There are images of Gautam Buddha and Jataka Tales. The cannon hill is another attraction of the island. This hill, located at the top, was used to safeguard Bombay harbor during colonial times.
Although some of these Caves have been damaged, yet Elephanta Island is a rich heritage site that brings people closer to history and helps them see the different faces of God. Hence, these Caves are also highly revered and have a lot of religious value apart from historical value. The best time to visit the Elephanta Island is between November and March.