Bombay Overview
By Rachel Newcombe
If you’re visiting Bombay (Mumbai) in India, then it’s worth adding a trip to the Kanheri Caves to your itinerary. Located in the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, in northern Bombay, its 109 caves were built between the 2nd and 9th centuries. Situated on a wooded hill 450m (1500 feet) above sea level, they’re believed to be originally built by nomadic Buddhist monks.
Set in scenic countryside, the uphill trail to the caves dynamically zig zags throughout the park. Maps are available, but sometimes don’t help much since the path isn’t marked at some points. The caves vary in size, characteristics and grandeur, ranging from small and simple to grand and elaborate. Cave 3 – the Great Chaitya Cave – is the most elaborate, with huge stone pillars and a Buddhist shrine. Other caves contain ancient inscriptions. As you walk around the area you’ll notice the remains of an impressive drainage system, which once channelled water into huge urns.
Travel to Kanheri by train on the Western Line, from Churchgate to Borivali Station. Then take an auto rickshaw for the final leg of the journey. On Sunday’s, a bus service runs from Borivali to the caves. Go!
