Taking a day away from the crowds in the busy city of Mumbai, we took an hours ferry ride to the east to Elephanta Island. An island of approximately 6 square miles, being home to a number of caves dedicated to Lord Shiva of the Hindu religion brings many more visitors per year than the number of inhabitants living on the island.

The caves on the island were designated a UNESCO world heritage site in 1987. UNESCO notes that the caves can be dated back to 5th – 6th century AD.

Many monkeys gather around outside the caves ready to relieve visitors of any unwanted bananas or snacks.