The Kanheri Caves, Mumbai

The Kanheri Caves, Mumbai, have stood strong through the turns of two millennia. The caves were created on an outcrop of basalt on the island of Salsette, also known as Shatshashthi in Mumbai. Located six miles from Thane, these caves were constructed during the 1st century CE and 10th century CE.

The caves are believed to have been crafted by Buddhist monks. There are widespread markers of Buddhism and the teachings of the religion in the architecture and carvings of the caves. Having been constructed on a hill with basalt rocks, the Kanheri Caves, Mumbai, derive the origin of their name from the Sanskrit word Krishnagiri which means black mountain.

During the 3rd century BCE, the Kanheri Caves became a major epicentre of the Buddhist settlement in the region. Serving as Buddhist viharas, the caves were a place of worship, studies, and meditation. Furthermore, during the reign of the Kushana and Maurya dynasties, the Kanheri Caves, and Mumbai, were also a functional universities.

One of the things that make the Kanheri Caves a striking architectural marvel and distinguish them from other similar relics across the nation is the fact that they have been carved out of a single piece of rock. Carved out of basalt rocks, the Kanheri Gufa is adorned with inscriptions celebrating Buddhism.

Since the 109 caves have been constructed across a period spanning a thousand years, the caves are vastly different in shape, size, and level of sophistication. The architecture of the earliest caves has been influenced by the Hinayana sect of Buddhism, whilst the subsequent caves display markers of the Mahayana sect of Buddhism.

Featuring sculptures, rock carvings, and paintings dedicated to Buddhist lore and religious teachings, the Kanheri Gufa is also home to an intricate and impressive network of water cisterns. Cave 3 is amongst the centrepieces of the Kanheri Caves, with a beautiful chaitya-griha, a stupa, and a courtyard coupled with a statue of the Buddha to mark the entrance to the cave. Most of the inscriptions in the Kanheri Gufas are in Brahmi and Devanagari scripts.

By Bus You can also reach the Kanheri Caves through the extensive Mumbai road network. You can take a state-run BEST bus or drive your personal vehicle to the Sanjay Gandhi National Park and then reach the Kanheri Caves through the park's entrance. By Train The railway station nearest to the Sanjay Gandhi National Park is the Borivali Railway Station, from where you can access the national park through public buses, autos or cabs.

Explore the caves Wander through the 109 caves: Each cave offers unique features, including intricate carvings, sculptures, and inscriptions. Visit Cave 3: This large cave served as a Buddhist prayer hall (chaitya) and features a magnificent stupa. See the water cisterns: These ingenious structures collected rainwater for the residents of the caves. Discover the smaller caves: Many contain individual cells or living quarters for the monks.