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Cultural heritages unique to India can be seen at Elephanta Island off the coast of Mumbai. You’ll be impressed by the history of the island when you encounter its superb statuary. It’s a small island in Mumbai Bay. It’s been called Elephanta Island since the 16th century, when Portuguese discovered a gigantic stone elephant statue on it. The island has seven Hindu cave temples, which were listed as Unesco World Heritages in 1987. The many beautiful wall sculptures are well worth seeing. The inlet is small, so the waves in Harbour Bay, where Elephanta Island is situated, are high. The upper level of the ferry commands a fine view, but it tends to be rockier. Avoid it if you’re prone to seasickness. The ferry to Elephanta Island doesn’t run on a fixed scheduled. It departs whenever there are enough passengers. Access Approx. 1 hr. by ferry from the Gate of India (Purchase tickets at the counter near the Gate of India, or book them in advance.) Fares (r/t) deluxe Rs120, economy Rs100 Hours 9AM - 2:30PM The cave temples are the biggest sightseeing attraction in Mumbai. They were made between the 6th and 8th centuries. All are dedicated to the god Shiva. The first cave near the top of the 200-m-high cliff is especially famous. The 6-m-high bust of the three-faced Shiva at the center of the wall awes visitors. Hindu gods in various poses, including the dancing Shiva, are carved into the walls. All these works are of peerless artistic quality. Shiva is a principal deity of Hinduism. Unlike Brahma (the god of creation) and Vishnu (the god who keeps the universe in balance), Shiva simultaneously controls creation and destruction. Shiva is also known by the name of Rudra, the god of winds and storms. Just as storms water the ground and grow plants while causing the devastating damage from winds and floods, Shiva is believed to bring both fortune and misfortune. This god has been one of the most worshipped Hindu gods since ancient times. Sculptures of Shiva found throughout India present various messages based on the unique Indian visions of the world.