Exquisitely maintained Buddhist caves dating back 2000 years, featuring beautiful intricate carvings, surprisingly nestled in the centre of bustling, populous Mumbai.
Don’t miss the chance to also explore the Kanheri caves. Over 2000 years in age, they present a unique chance to delve into the monastic Buddhist lifestyle in ancient India.
- Mahakali Caves - You will be picked up from your Hotel in Mumbai & taken to Mahakali Buddhist Caves, Caves are a medley of rock-cut 19 monuments built & constructed out of basalt solid rock.around 1st-6th century B.C. 15 caves are located in the southeast and 4 caves to the northwest. Most of the caves are viharas but cave 9 is a chaitya and displays Buddhist mythology figures.
These caves are also known as Kondivita caves & were named so by James Campbell for being near the Kondivite village.
The northwest group of 4 caves belong to the 4th-5th century and the southeast group of caves are older. In the ancient times Kanherti was considered to be a popular Buddhist centre. The proximity of Kanheri to Mahakali suggests that there could have been another Buddhist congregation associated with the larger one at Kanheri. This area is considered to be suitable for chaityas and Buddhist monasteries.
Apart from the Buddhist figures and stupas housed in the Mahakali caves, there are many places of interest around and in the caves like the Albert museum that exhibits photographs, maps and archaeological items.
- Kanheri Caves - Kanheri is over 2000 years old, and provides a rare opportunity to understand monastic life in ancient India. Located on a prosperous trade route, Kanheri saw continuous occupation from the 1st century BC, until the decline of Buddhism in India in the 9th century AD. The carvings and architecture of Kanheri reflect the older, more austere Hinayana Buddhism as well as the later, more popular Mahayana.
To conclude you will be dropped back to your hotel in Mumbai
- Bottled water included
- All applicable taxes (GST) covered
- Private vehicle transportation
- Food and drinks
- Local guide, it can be arranged at an extra price on prior intimation
- Dress code is smart casual
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.