Kanheri Caves, Mumbai
| Location | mumbai, Mumbai (Map) |
| Entry Fee & Timings | Timings:- Gorakhgad Trek is open in Morning from 7:30 AM to 07:00 PM, Monday Closed. Entry Fee: INR 15 for Indians; INR 200 for foreigners |
| Place Type | Palace & Landmarks, Monuments |
| Place visit with | Family, Kids, Friends, Married Couples, Solo, Unmarried Couples, Parants, Siblings, Youngsters |
| Best time to visit | December, January, February |
About Kanheri Caves
The Kanheri Caves were originally excavated by Buddhist monks between the 1st and 9th centuries. They served as a prominent center for Buddhist learning and meditation during that time. These caves received patronage from various ruling dynasties, including the Mauryas, Satavahanas, and the Kshatrapas. The decline of Buddhism in India led to the abandonment of the caves, and they were eventually forgotten until their rediscovery by British explorers in the 19th century.
Architecture of Kanheri Caves
The Kanheri Caves consist of more than 100 caves carved into the basalt rock. The caves are divided into viharas (monasteries), chaityas (prayer halls), and various other structures. These caves feature elaborate rock-cut architecture with beautifully crafted pillars, stupas, and intricate sculptures of Buddha and Bodhisattvas. The most renowned cave in Kanheri is Cave 3, which boasts a massive chaitya hall with a grand stupa and exquisite carvings. The viharas include small cells where monks lived and studied.
Interesting facts about Kanheri Caves
- Kanheri Caves are one of the oldest rock-cut cave complexes in India, representing the evolution of Buddhist art and architecture.
- The caves also have inscriptions in Brahmi script, which provide valuable historical insights.
- Visitors can witness ancient water cisterns and channels that once provided water to the monks.
- The Kanheri Caves offer a serene and tranquil environment, perfect for meditation and reflection.
How to reach Kanheri Caves
By Train: The nearest railway station is Borivali, from where you can hire a taxi or take a bus to the caves.
By Air: The Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is approximately 18 kilometers away from the caves. Taxis and buses are available for the onward journey.
By Bus: Public buses and private taxis are accessible from various parts of Mumbai to reach the Sanjay Gandhi National Park.
By Metro: While there isn't a metro line directly to the caves, you can use the metro to reach nearby stations like Borivali and then proceed by taxi or bus.
Nearby famous places
- Sanjay Gandhi National Park Entrance - 0 km
- Borivali Station - 5 km
- Global Vipassana Pagoda - 11 km
- Essel World - 17 km
- Water Kingdom - 17 km
- Kanheri Caves Trek - 2 km (A trekking route that leads to the caves)
Kanheri Caves FAQs: 𝒜. It is located at mumbai, Mumbai.
𝒜. Entry fee and timings information of the Kanheri Caves: Timings:- Gorakhgad Trek is open in Morning from 7:30 AM to 07:00 PM, Monday Closed. Entry Fee: INR 15 for Indians; INR 200 for foreigners.
𝒜. You should visit Kanheri Caves during December, January, February months for best experience.
𝒜. It is located at mumbai, Mumbai.
𝒜. Entry fee and timings information of the Kanheri Caves: Timings:- Gorakhgad Trek is open in Morning from 7:30 AM to 07:00 PM, Monday Closed. Entry Fee: INR 15 for Indians; INR 200 for foreigners.
𝒜. You should visit Kanheri Caves during December, January, February months for best experience.