Elephanta Caves
EasternHinducaveSouth Asia450 CE - 750 CE
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Location
Modern Name
Elephanta Island (Gharapuri)
Country
India
Region
South Asia
Coordinates
18.9633, 72.9315
Era
450 CE - 750 CE
Site Type
Cave
About
A UNESCO World Heritage island off Mumbai harbor containing cave temples with monumental Shiva sculptures, dominated by the 20-foot Trimurti panel depicting Shiva's three aspects — creator, preserver, destroyer.
Significance
The Trimurti (Maheshmurti) at Elephanta is considered one of the greatest sculptures in world art and a definitive expression of Shaiva theology in visual form.
History & Historical Arc
Carved by the Kalachuri dynasty (5th–7th century CE); the Portuguese colonial era brought significant damage to sculptur…
Archaeological Notes
Five Hindu and two Buddhist caves; the main Shiva cave (Cave 1) covers 5,600 sq meters. UNESCO inscription in 1987. The …
Key Features & Structures
- Trimurti / Maheshmurti panel (6m high)
- Nataraja sculpture
Visitor Information
Accessible by ferry from Gateway of India, Mumbai (1-hour journey). Closed Mondays. The island has minimal facilities; b…
Related Figures
Shiva (Trimurti)ParvatiBrahmaVishnu