Private Tour Of Karla And Bhaja Caves From Mumbai

Mumbai , India

Private Tour Of Karla And Bhaja Caves From Mumbai

Active

8h - 9h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Visit the ancient Buddhist caves at Karla and Bhaja near Mumbai. The caves date back to the 2nd century B.C. and offer a great insight into the lives of the Buddhist monks who lived there. The drive to the caves takes you past the countryside and hills and valleys.

Highlights
• Private tour of ancient rock-cut caves
• Commentary from your own private guide
• Learn about the history of Indian rock architecture, one of the oldest styles of religious architecture

Available options

1-8 Travelers

Price per person for 1-8 travelers<br/>Pickup included

What's included

02 bottles of mineral water per person

Local English speaking guide

Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

You will be picked up from your hotel in the morning for the two-hour drive to Bhaja Caves. Along the way, enjoy the scenic views of the Indian countryside as you drive past quaint little villages.

The Bhaja Caves are a group of 22 rock-cut caves dating back to the 2nd century B.C. Explore the ancient viharas (Buddhist monasteries) and chaitya-grihas (Buddhist assemblies or prayer halls), considered to depict the earliest architecture of their kind. Admire the highly decorated facade and the series of unique reliefs depicting Indian mythology, including stories of the Sun God Surya.

Stop 2

At the Karla Caves, walk up the 500 steps of gradual incline to reach the entrance, where you will stand in awe of the grand Chaitya. Marvel at the vastness of its shrines and prayer halls, with their notable arched entrances and vaulted interiors featuring carved animals and images of Buddhist monks.

After the tour of the caves start your drive back to Mumbai. Stop on the way for lunch (own expense) at a local restaurant.

On reaching Mumbai you will be dropped back at your hotel.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Bhaja caves are open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Karla caves are open from 5:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

Meeting point

We will pick up traveler from their hotels / fixed point within city center.

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

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.