Elephanta Caves Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience the Elephanta Caves. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Elephanta Caves & Island Guided Private Tour

• All-Inclusive Elephanta Caves Guided Tour

• Private Elephanta Caves & Mumbai Sightseeing Tour with AC Car

• Elephanta Caves Exploration: Guided Tour with Ferry Experience

• Elephanta Caves & Island Tour with Multiple Options

Admission to the Elephanta Caves costs 40 Indian rupees for Indian nationals and citizens of various South and Southeast Asian countries (or 35 rupees when purchased online). Tickets for visitors from other countries cost 600 Indian rupees, or 550 when purchased online. Entry is free for kids under 15, regardless of nationality.

Yes, the Elephanta Caves are definitely worth visiting. The natural caves are full of ancient Hindu carvings, the most famous being a spectacular three-headed Shiva. The site is on Elephanta Island, which sits within Mumbai Harbour, a short ferry ride from South Mumbai, making it a good half-day trip from the city. The ferry ride alone is a nice way to enjoy the city views and a cooling breeze.

Per one customer who booked the Elephanta Caves & Island Guided Private Tour, "This trip was phenomenal! Rajat was the best guide—I met him at the Gate of India and we headed over to the island. His knowledge is fantastic as a local to the island and he spent a ton of time explaining the history, background and culture. Plus he is a 5 star photo taker—I can't wait to share the experience with friends. As a solo work traveler looking for something to do for a day, this was the absolute right tour and best tour guide. 5 stars to Rajat!"

For a visit that takes in all of the Elephanta Caves on the island, estimate around two hours to check out all the different Buddha and Hindu sites. Trips that include transport from Mumbai are roughly double this in duration, as a one-way ferry crossing lasts around an hour.

Yes, solo travelers can go to the Elephanta Caves just as travelers in groups or couples can. All visitors access the caves after taking a ferry ride with many other travelers. As it’s a popular tourist attraction, the chances of being in the Elephanta Caves alone are slim.

Many travelers agree that the best time to visit the Elephanta Caves is in the morning. By catching an early ferry (from 9am), you’ll have most of the day free to tour and explore at leisure without missing the last ferry (around 5pm).

Yes, the main ferry service to the Elephanta Caves is from the Gateway of India. The pier is well-connected and offers frequent daytime ferry services. Another less busy boat service is the CBD Belapur-Elephanta in Navi Mumbai, which offers catamarans and speed boats—albeit at a higher price.

There are a few eateries dotted around outside the Elephanta Caves. If you don’t plan to eat local food, you’d be wise to take your own snacks with you. Remember to remove your waste to avoid worsening the garbage problems, and stay away from greedy resident monkeys.

There are tons of things to do when you're done visiting the Elephanta Caves. According to travelers, these are some of the top attractions in Mumbai:

• Gateway of India

• Hanging Gardens (Ferozeshah Mehta) 

• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT)

• Dhobi Ghat

• Mani Bhavan Gandhi Sangrahalaya

View Viator's guide to all the best attractions in Mumbai.