Mumbai Elephanta Island Heritage Walk with Local Guide
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Begin with a pickup from your hotel and travel to the ferry terminal. Board the ferry and enjoy the scenic ride to Elephanta Island.
Meet your local guide, a member of the tribal community that has lived on Elephanta Island for generations. Learn about the island's history and culture from someone who was born and raised there.
Explore the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the intricate sculptures and carvings that date back to the 5th century. Hear stories about the caves and their significance from your guide.
After visiting the caves, take a walk through the village and learn about the daily life of the island's residents. See traditional homes and meet some of the locals.
Return to the ferry terminal and board the ferry back to Mumbai.
Available options
Group Tour For Cruise Tourist
Group Size: : Group Size: Small group of 10 guests only – ensuring a more personal experience.<br/>Duration: 6 hours<br/>Water Bottle<br/>Car: A local taxi transfer is included from the International Cruise Terminal (Green Gate) to the Gateway of India, which is only <br/>pickup: Please arrive 10 minutes before the meeting time to ensure a timely departure.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Green Gate, Indira Docks, WRMR+CW3, Indira Docks, Mumbai Port Trust, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001, India
Group Elephanta Island Tour
Duration: 4 hours<br/>Water Bottle<br/>No Transport: Group Tour: Guests must make their own way to the meeting point at Regal Cinema, Colaba by 8:30 AM or 12:00 PM.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Regal Cinema, Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001, India
Mumbai: Elephanta Island Heritage Walk with Local Guide
Mumbai: Elephanta & City Tour
Mumbai Sightseeing : In this option, guests can enjoy all the major highlights of Mumbai along with a guided visit to Elephanta Island.<br/>Duration: 9 hours<br/>Water Bottle<br/>Ac Car <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Entrance fee
A private air-conditioned car is included for private tour bookings
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Travelers will begin their experience at the majestic Gateway of India, one of Mumbai’s most iconic landmarks overlooking the Arabian Sea. Our accredited guide will meet you at the site and walk you through the historical significance of this grand arch, built in 1924 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. You’ll hear fascinating stories of the British era, its Indo-Saracenic architectural design, and how this spot became a symbol of India’s freedom movement. Enjoy photo opportunities with the backdrop of the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel and witness the lively atmosphere filled with local vendors, photographers, and street performers. This stop is not only rich in history but also offers a vibrant cultural experience.
2
Stop 2
After visiting the Gateway of India, travelers will board a shared ferry (included in the tour) for a scenic 1-hour ride across Mumbai Harbour to reach the historic Elephanta Island. Upon arrival, our local guide—born and raised on the island—will accompany you as you explore the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Elephanta Caves. These rock-cut cave temples, dating back to the 5th–7th century, are dedicated primarily to Lord Shiva and feature intricate sculptures, including the iconic Trimurti—a colossal three-headed depiction of the deity.
Our guide will explain the symbolism behind each carving and share insights into the island’s tribal heritage, spiritual significance, and history of Portuguese influence. You’ll also walk through the peaceful village on the island, offering a glimpse into local life. This experience is not only a journey through ancient Indian art and mythology but also a way to support the local tribal community who serve as custodians of this heritage.
What's not included
Tip
Alcoholic Beverages
Available languages
Guide guide
HI
EN
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
Meeting point
Please select this option only if you are arriving by cruise ship.
Guide will be waiting outside the Green Gate with a placard displaying The Mumbai 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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
