Located on the western outskirts of Mumbai is the group of Kanheri Caves. These rock-cut monuments are found inside the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Chiseled from massive basaltic salt, the caves represent the Buddhist influence on the art and culture of India. They date somewhere between the 1st century BCE and the 10th century CE. Each shelter has a stone plinth for a bed, and a Buddhist shrine is placed in the congregation hall.
Most of these caves are Buddhist Viharas for meditating, studying, and living. When these caves were converted into permanent monasteries, the rocks were carved with reliefs of Buddha and Bodhisattva. About 51 legible inscriptions and 26 epigraphs are found here; these include the Devanagari, Brahmi, and Pahlavi. The unfinished paintings of Buddha on the ceiling of Cave Number 34 reflect a mysterious vibe.
Kanheri Caves History
The word “Kanheri” is derived from the Sanskrit word “Krishnagiri,” which means “Black Mountain” in English. Buddhism has used this ancient monastery, which was carved out of black basalt rock, as a center of learning and a place of pilgrimage.
Although many of the inscriptions are still unintelligible, it is thought that the earliest excavations took place somewhere in the first or second century BCE. The enormous halls decorated with stupas imply that the caves were important as Buddhist sanctuaries and that the area was crucial in spreading Buddhism throughout India.
Kanheri Caves Entry Fees and Timings
The Sanjay Gandhi National Park’s limits include the cave complex. Every day but Mondays are open to tourists. The Kanheri Caves are open from 7.30 AM to 5 PM.
The Kanheri Caves ticket price is Rs. 15 for Indian citizens and Rs. 200 for foreign visitors.
Best time to visit Kanheri Caves
Although Kanheri Caves are accessible year-round, chilly weather is required to conduct a thorough exploration. Therefore, the best time to visit this tourist destination is during the winter, from November to February. You can comfortably travel around the caves because of the chilly temperature and the hiking trail’s sufficient dryness.
You can also visit Mumbai in July through September, when monsoon rains keep the city’s temperature low. The adjoining mini-waterfalls are teeming with water, and the surrounding vegetation is at its lushest. But the rocks also become slick. Therefore, it might not be a good idea to visit Kanheri Caves during the rainy season.
Time to explore Kanheri Caves
You can explore these several Buddhist caves in two to three hours. However, you’ll need an additional two to three hours if you wish to hike from the national park entrance to the Caves. You’ll need to walk for around an hour to get to Kanheri Caves and another hour to get back.
Trekking lovers may also use the path leading up from the caverns. It transports you to Jambulmal, Mumbai’s highest point.
Places to visit near Kanheri Caves Mumbai
How to reach Kanheri Caves Mumbai
Within Sanjay Gandhi National Park, on the outskirts of Mumbai, lie the Kanheri Caves. Both locals and tourists like visiting this well-liked destination for brief getaways. As a result, a network of BEST buses and local trains connects to Kanheri’s caves.
The closest local station to Kanheri Caves is Borivali. However, you may drive to Kanheri Caves or hail a cab from anywhere in Mumbai. Alternatively, you can choose a private taxi from one of the best car rental businesses in Mumbai for your Mumbai tour.
If you are planning to visit Kanheri Caves, then you should check out our Mumbai tour packages.
