Kanheri Caves in Mumbai

By George On

Kanheri Caves are a group of 109 caves chiseled out of a massive basaltic rock outcropping. Kanheri Caves are located inside the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, north of Borivali, on the western outskirts of Mumbai city in Maharashtra state, India. It is at a distance of six kilometers from the main gate of Sanjay Gandhi National Park.

Kanheri Caves dates back to the 1st century BCE and 10th century CE. Kanheri was a well-known Buddhist settlement on the Konkan coast in those days. There are 51 legible inscriptions and 26 epigraphs inside the caves. There is an unfinished painting of Buddha inside the ceiling of Cave number 34.

Prayer hall with Stupa in cave 03 of Kanheri Caves Prayer hall with Stupa in cave 03 of Kanheri Caves

Each of the Kanheri Caves has a stone plinth for a bed. Most of these caves are Buddhist Viharas with shrines and stupas. These caves were used for meditation, studying, and living. When these caves were converted into permanent Buddhist monasteries, the rocks were carved with intricate reliefs of Buddha and Bodhisattvas. Buddhist sculptures and paintings can be seen inside the caves.

Some canals and cisterns channel the rainwater into huge tanks inside the caves.

You need to hike the rock-cut steps to reach the hillside caves.

How Do I Go to Kanheri Caves?

Kanheri Caves are located at a distance of seven kilometers from Borivali Station. The caves are inside Sanjay Gandhi National Park alias Borivali National Park (former park name).

It is easily accessible from Mumbai city and lies at the northern tip of Western Mumbai. Borivali is around 18 kilometers from Mumbai International Airport. BEST Buses, Trains, autos, taxis, etc, are available from anywhere in Mumbai to Borivali.

Entry Fee and Timings of the Caves

Entry fee for Indians is Rs. 15. Non-Indian Citizens are charged Rs. 200 per person.

The caves are closed on Mondays. Entry to the caves starts at 7.20 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m. on other days. You can contact the cave authorities on the Toll-Free number 1800 22 9930.

Though the caves are open throughout the year, the winter months of November to February are the ideal time to visit the caves. The hiking trail will be dry, and the climate will be pleasant during winter.