Visit Mahakali Caves in Mumbai

The Mahakali Caves in Mumbai are very ancient Buddhist monasteries. They are carved on the Rock face of the Udayagiri Hills, famous for its Mahakali temple. These monasteries at Udayagiri are located in the Borivali National Park, the abundant green heartland of Mumbai. These ancient monk habitats and prayer halls were carved about 3 to 5 thousand years ago, as estimated. The exact origins are unknown yet. Although less-known, yet the Buddhist sanctums are counted among top ten tourist attractions in Mumbai by travelers seeking solitude in a busy city. The Kanheri and Mahakali caves are adjacent but one should devote separate days for both.

The Place 

Take the turn to Andheri Kurla Highway near Jogeshwari Vikhroli Link Road and SEEPZ crossing on how to Mahakali caves. The Caves Road connects the Jogeshwari highway with Andheri Kurla Highway is known as the Mahakali caves Road. On the way, these caves are located at an extension of the Udaygiri Hills. Like the Kanheri Caves, these ancient dwellings have been carved out of a solid basalt Rock in traditional details. Exactly, the caves are in the area middle of the National park and Aarey Milk colony. You can also take a direct BEST bus from Andheri station. In total, one can explore 19 caves. Most of the caves are traditional Buddhist Viharas (Dormitory) but the Cave 9 is a Chaitya (Prayer hall).

Circular Complex

These and the adjacent Kanheri caves present a surprisingly serene experience. Exploring these ancient silent spaces, one cannot help but marvel at the archaeological heritage of India. Taking in perspective, these timeless artistic relics do prove the ancientness of Mumbai as a tourism destination. It actually seems surreal because everyone is typically taken by the business and razzmatazz of commercial Mumbai. One of the most intriguing aspects of these monolithic caves is its circular architecture. Archaeologists hold the view that these are the oldest Buddhist relics in Western India discovered till date.

Trip to Mumbai

The city of Mumbai indeed presents an extraordinary array of unique travel experiences. All three cave complexes are very ancient, predating the earliest records of humanity. You also visit the Gateway of India when you board the ferry to Elephanta Caves. The Haji Ali Dargah is located on an offshore island connected by a causeway. This road over the ocean actually submerges under water during high tides everything. The Dargah of Ma Hajiani (Haji Ali sister) is also located close. Also visit the museums and the temples. In fact, you may find it interesting to note that Mumba Devi, the name deity of the city is also an incarnation of Dark Goddess Mahakali.