Considered one of the top 10 sacred caves in the world by National Geographic, India's Elephanta Caves are truly a mesmerizing site. Chiseled by hundreds of people during the sixth century, this awe-inspiring Hindu temple was dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Elephanta Caves were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 and have since attracted tens of thousands of visitors, many of whom are taking a tour of India.
As the most popular attraction on Gharapuri Island, the Elephanta Caves are spread out over roughly 60,000 square feet. After years of dedicated work, sculptors managed to carve out numerous figures representing Lord Shiva in his three forms - creator, protector and destroyer.
In the main cave, 26 pillars representing varying forms of Lord Shiva support the entire compound while hundreds of other Hindu engravings line the wall. Throughout the compound, visitors on India tours will have the opportunity to take photos of countless reliefs and statues, but should be respectful of the spiritual nature of the area and refrain from using flash photography.
Perhaps the most impressive of all the sculptures is the Trimurti - a three-headed idol of the Hindu deities Brahma, Vishnu and Ganesha. Towering more than 20 feet high, this elaborate relief is of jaw-dropping beauty and has managed to withstand the test of time for more than a millennium. Although the caves were once painted brilliant hues, only traces of their former color remains. The elements and wartime have done little to no damage to these ancient ruins.
