Ancient Wonders: Karla and Bhaja Caves Excursion from Mumbai

Mumbai , India

Ancient Wonders: Karla and Bhaja Caves Excursion from Mumbai

Active

9h - 10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on a captivating journey into the past with our "Ancient Wonders: Karla and Bhaja Caves Excursion from Mumbai" itinerary. Your day starts with a seamless pickup from your Mumbai hotel, setting the stage for a historical adventure. Depart for Karla Caves, where the 2nd-century BCE rock-cut Buddhist marvels await, showcasing unique architecture, intricate carvings, and rich relics. A knowledgeable guide will lead you through the chambers, halls, and stupas, unveiling the tales of this ancient site. After a delightful exploration, head to Bhaja Caves, renowned for their architectural brilliance. Take a break to relish local cuisine before your guide unveils the secrets of Bhaja Caves' rock-cut structures and Buddhist relics. As the day concludes, your return journey to Mumbai completes this enriching excursion, leaving you with memories etched in time.

Available options

Car, Guide & Entrance

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.<br/>Pickup included

Car, Guide, Entrance & Lunch

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary & Lunch.<br/>Pickup included

Car Only

Includes: Private Car with Driver.<br/>Pickup included

Car & Guide

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

English speaking local guide, if option selected.

Entrance fees to monuments, if option selected.

Private AC car/van for pick up and drop off from/to your hotel.

Lunch, if option selected.

Government Taxes.

Bottled water in the car.

Detailed itinerary

7:00 AM - Pickup from your hotel/residence in Mumbai Your tour will begin with a convenient pickup from your hotel or residence in Mumbai by a private vehicle.

Stop 2 Pass by

7:30 AM - Departure from Mumbai to Karla Caves After the pickup, you will depart from Mumbai and start your journey towards Karla Caves, which is located approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) northwest of Mumbai.

Stop 3

10:00 AM - Arrival at Karla Caves You will arrive at Karla Caves, a complex of ancient rock-cut Buddhist caves that date back to the 2nd century BCE. These caves are famous for their unique architecture, intricate carvings, and Buddhist relics.

10:15 AM - Explore Karla Caves (guided tour) You will be accompanied by an experienced guide who will take you on a guided tour of Karla Caves. You will learn about the history, significance, and stories associated with these caves as you explore the various chambers, halls, and stupas carved out of the rock.

Stop 4 Pass by

12:00 PM - Departure from Karla Caves to Bhaja Caves After exploring Karla Caves, you will depart for Bhaja Caves, which is located approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) from Karla Caves. Bhaja Caves are another set of ancient rock-cut Buddhist caves known for their unique architecture and intricate carvings.

Stop 5

1:30 PM - Arrival at Bhaja Caves You will arrive at Bhaja Caves and take a short break to rest and rejuvenate.

1:45 PM - Lunch break (lunch at a local restaurant) After the break, you will enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor some local cuisine and experience the flavors of the region.

2:45 PM - Explore Bhaja Caves (guided tour) Post lunch, your guide will take you on a guided tour of Bhaja Caves. You will get to see the impressive rock-cut structures, the intricately carved doorways, and the ancient Buddhist relics that adorn these caves.

4:30 PM - Departure from Bhaja Caves to Mumbai After exploring Bhaja Caves, you will start your return journey back to Mumbai.

7:00 PM - Arrival back in Mumbai You will arrive back in Mumbai in the evening, marking the end of your day tour to Karla and Bhaja Caves.

7:30 PM - Drop-off at your hotel in Mumbai.

What's not included

Camera charges at monuments.

Gratuities and optional activities.

Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

Please provide up pick up information at least one day before the tour

About Mumbai

Mumbai, India's bustling financial capital, is a vibrant metropolis where tradition meets modernity. Known for its Bollywood industry, historic landmarks, and bustling street life, Mumbai offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and economic opportunities.

Top Attractions

Gateway of India

A historic arch monument built during the British Raj, located in the Apollo Bunder area.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Elephanta Caves

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient rock-cut temples and caves.

Historical Half-day trip 600 INR (including ferry and entry)

Marine Drive

A scenic promenade along the Arabian Sea, popular for evening strolls and views.

Scenic 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Vada Pav

A popular street food item consisting of a spiced potato fritter sandwiched between two slices of bread.

Snack Vegetarian

Pav Bhaji

A thick vegetable curry served with buttered bread rolls.

Dinner Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Sanjay Gandhi National Park Water sports at Juhu Beach Yoga and meditation at various centers Spa treatments at luxury hotels Visiting art galleries and museums Attending Bollywood dance classes Boating at Powai Lake Fishing at Girgaon Chowpatty

Best Time to Visit

November to February

The best time to visit Mumbai is during the winter months when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

18°C to 32°C 64°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Marathi, English
Widely spoken: Hindi, Gujarati
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

IST (UTC+5:30)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Mumbai is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid scams and pickpocketing.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable taxi services or apps like Uber and Ola.
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
• Keep your belongings secure in crowded areas.

Getting there

By air

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus

By bus

Mumbai Central, Bandra Terminus

Getting around

Public transport

The Mumbai Metro is a fast and efficient way to travel, but it currently covers only specific routes.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Colaba Bandra

Day trips

Alibaug

50 km from Mumbai • Half-day to full-day trip

A coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and historic forts.

Lonavala

80 km from Mumbai • Full-day trip

A picturesque hill station known for its lush greenery and scenic viewpoints.

Festivals

Gudi Padwa • March or April Ganesh Chaturthi • August or September

Pro tips

Visit the Elephanta Caves early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat.
Try local street food like vada pav, pav bhaji, and pani puri for an authentic culinary experience.
Explore the city's Art Deco architecture in the Colaba and Oval areas.
Take a Bollywood dance class for a fun and unique cultural experience.
Visit the Dharavi slum on a guided tour to learn about the local community and their innovative recycling practices.