Elephanta Caves

The Elephanta Caves are a rock-cut temple complex on Elephanta Island in Mumbai Harbour, Maharashtra, dating to approximately the 2nd century BCE [1]. Predominantly dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, the complex features five Hindu caves with elaborate high-relief sculptures carved from solid basalt rock [1][2]. The artwork shows syncretism between Hindu and Buddhist iconographic traditions [2]. The island also contains Buddhist remains, including stupa mounds and two caves with water tanks, indicating multi-religious use [1]. UNESCO designated the Elephanta Caves as a World Heritage Site in 1987 [2].