The Kanheri Caves, located within the Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai, India, are an extensive network of rock-cut caves that date back to the 1st century BCE to the 10th century CE. These caves were an important center for Buddhist learning and monastic life, serving as a place of meditation, education, and communal living for monks. The name “Kanheri” is derived from the Sanskrit word “Krishnagiri,” meaning “black mountain,” referring to the dark basalt rock in which the caves are carved. These caves are among the oldest rock-cut structures in India and provide valuable insights into the evolution of Buddhist architecture and culture over centuries.

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Kanheri Caves Mumbai Timing & Entry Fees

Sanjay Gandhi National Park is open to visitors every day from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM, while the Kanheri Caves within the park can be accessed between 7:30 AM and 5:00 PM. However, both the park and the caves remain closed on Mondays, so visitors should plan their trip accordingly.

Kanheri Caves Mumbai Entry fees:

Sanjay Gandhi National Park Entry:

Indian Citizens: ₹85 per adult; ₹45 for children aged 5 to 12 years; free for children below 5 years.
Foreign Tourists: ₹85 per person.

Kanheri Caves Mumbai Kanheri Caves Entry:

Indian Citizens: ₹15 per person.
Foreign Tourists: ₹200 per person.

Additional Charges

Camera Charges: ₹235 for photography.

Shuttle Bus to Kanheri Caves:

₹10 for a regular bus.
₹25 for an air-conditioned bus.

Buses operate every 10-15 minutes starting from 8:30 AM, with the last bus returning from the caves at 5:15 PM.

Visitor Tips

Timing: Arriving early is advisable to explore the caves comfortably and avoid crowds.
Amenities: Limited food and beverage options are available inside the park; consider carrying your own refreshments.
Attire: Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking and climbing, as the terrain can be uneven.

Image Gallery of Kanheri Caves Mumbai

Important Caves in Kanheri Caves

The Kanheri Caves, located within Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai, form one of the largest collections of rock-cut Buddhist caves in India. These over 100 caves, dating from the 1st century BCE to the 10th century CE, served as an important Buddhist monastic settlement and played a crucial role in the spread of Buddhism.

1. CAVE 1:

Cave 1 is one of the earliest and simplest rock-cut caves in the Kanheri Cave complex. Unlike the more elaborate caves that were developed later, Cave 1 primarily served as a monastic dwelling (vihara) for Buddhist monks. It has a plain design, with minimal carvings and decorations, reflecting its functional purpose rather than religious grandeur. The cave features rock-cut benches and small storage areas, which were likely used by monks for meditation, study, and daily living. The simplicity of Cave 1 highlights the early phase of Kanheri’s development as a Buddhist monastic center, where the focus was on ascetic living and spiritual discipline rather than artistic embellishments.

2. CAVE 2:

Cave 2 is slightly more developed but still retains a modest architectural style. It was also used as a residential vihara for monks, providing them with a place to live and meditate. The cave has a few additional chambers compared to Cave 1, suggesting it may have housed more monks or served as a communal space. Although Cave 2 does not feature elaborate carvings like the later chaitya halls, it represents an important step in the evolution of rock-cut architecture at Kanheri. The presence of water cisterns in this cave, like in many others, showcases the intelligent water conservation methods used by the monks to sustain their settlement in the rocky terrain.

3. CAVE 3:

Cave 3, also known as the Great Chaitya Hall. It is the largest and most impressive cave, featuring a massive stupa at the center, surrounded by 34 intricately carved pillars. This cave served as a prayer hall (chaitya) where monks gathered for religious ceremonies and meditation. The sculptures of Buddha and Bodhisattvas adorning the walls reflect the strong influence of Mahayana Buddhism.

4. CAVE 11:

Cave 11, commonly referred to as the Darbar Hall or Assembly Hall. This cave was likely used for teaching and discussions among Buddhist monks and scholars. It features a stone platform, which may have served as a lectern or a seat for teachers addressing an audience. The cave also has a series of rock-cut benches, emphasizing its purpose as a meeting place for intellectual and spiritual exchanges.

5. CAVE 34:

Cave 34 is renowned for its ancient Buddhist paintings, which, although faded, provide valuable insight into early Buddhist art. The paintings depict Buddha and celestial beings, illustrating artistic expressions from the time. This cave stands out as one of the few in Kanheri that preserves traces of painted artwork, making it a unique attraction for history and art enthusiasts.

6. CAVE 41 & CAVE 67:

Cave 41 and Cave 67 are notable for their elaborate carvings of Bodhisattvas, particularly Avalokiteshvara and Maitreya. These sculptures display remarkable craftsmanship, depicting the Bodhisattvas in graceful and dynamic poses. The presence of such intricate carvings suggests that these caves had religious and ceremonial importance, possibly used for devotional practices and meditation.

7. CAVE 90:

Cave 90, which showcases the advanced water management system developed by the ancient monks. This cave features rock-cut water cisterns, which were used to collect and store rainwater, demonstrating the ingenuity of the Buddhist monks in adapting to their natural surroundings. The efficient water harvesting techniques highlight the self-sustaining lifestyle practiced in Kanheri.

Importance of Kanheri Caves Mumbai

The Kanheri Caves, located within Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai, hold immense historical, religious, and architectural significance. Dating back to the 1st century BCE to the 10th century CE, these rock-cut caves provide deep insights into Buddhist monastic life, trade, and ancient Indian engineering.

1. Buddhist Religious & Monastic Center:

Kanheri was a major Buddhist monastery and a center for learning, meditation, and preaching. Monks from different parts of India and abroad resided here, making it an important hub for spreading Buddhism. The caves contain viharas (monasteries) where monks lived and chaityas (prayer halls) used for worship.

2. Architectural & Artistic Significance

Carved out of basalt rock, Kanheri showcases intricate Buddhist sculptures, stupas, and inscriptions. The Chaitya Hall (Cave 3) is one of the grandest structures, featuring a large stupa and rock-cut pillars. The walls of several caves depict Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and Jataka tales, demonstrating the evolution of Buddhist art over centuries.

3. Ancient Trade & Economic Role

Kanheri was located along key trade routes in ancient India, serving as a resting place for merchants and travelers. The inscriptions in Brahmi and Devanagari scripts suggest that the caves received patronage from wealthy traders and kings, helping Buddhism flourish in Western India.

4. Advanced Water Management System

One of the most remarkable aspects of Kanheri is its sophisticated rainwater harvesting system. The caves feature rock-cut water cisterns, channels, and reservoirs, showcasing the advanced engineering skills of ancient Indian builders. This ensured a continuous water supply for monks residing in the caves.

5. Natural & Scenic Location

Nestled within lush forests, Kanheri offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city of Mumbai. The trek to the caves is a popular activity for adventure seekers and nature lovers, providing breathtaking views of the city and the national park.

6. Link to Other Buddhist Sites

Kanheri is historically linked to other major Buddhist sites such as Ajanta, Ellora, and Karla Caves. The site provides valuable insights into the development of Buddhist rock-cut architecture across India.

Scriptures & Inscriptions found in Kanheri Caves

The Kanheri Caves contain a rich collection of inscriptions and scriptures that provide insights into the Buddhist religion, monastic life, and ancient trade networks. These inscriptions, carved into the cave walls and pillars, are written in various ancient scripts and languages, reflecting the historical significance of Kanheri as a Buddhist learning center.

1. Brahmi Inscriptions (1st Century BCE – 4th Century CE):

The oldest inscriptions in Kanheri are written in Brahmi script, an early form of writing in India.
These inscriptions mainly document donations made by kings, traders, and lay devotees to the Buddhist monastery.
Some inscriptions mention Buddhist monks (bhikshus) and teachers who played a role in spreading Buddhism.

2. Devanagari Inscriptions (7th – 10th Century CE):

Over time, Devanagari script replaced Brahmi in later inscriptions.
These records provide details about monastic activities, teachings, and visitors to Kanheri.

3. Sanskrit and Prakrit Writings :

Many of the inscriptions are in Prakrit, the language commonly used in Buddhist texts, while some later ones appear in Sanskrit.
The texts mainly consist of Buddhist prayers, religious dedications, and monastic records.

4. Buddhist Scriptures and Symbols:

The sculptures of Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and Jataka tales in the caves are visual representations of Buddhist teachings.
Several caves have rock-cut stupas, a central element of Buddhist worship and scripture preservation.
Some caves contain Dharani (protective Buddhist verses) carved onto walls, which were used for meditation and chanting.

5. Donor Inscriptions:

Several inscriptions record donations made by merchants, kings, and wealthy patrons to support the monks and monasteries.
These inscriptions highlight the economic and cultural importance of Kanheri as a center of trade and religion.

History of Kanheri Caves Mumbai

The Kanheri Caves, located within Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai, are one of the oldest and most significant Buddhist rock-cut cave complexes in India. The word “Kanheri” comes from the Sanskrit word “Krishnagiri,” meaning “black mountain,” referring to the dark basalt rock from which the caves were carved. These caves date back to the 1st century BCE and were continuously occupied by Buddhist monks until the 10th century CE.

1. Early Development (1st Century BCE – 3rd Century CE)

The earliest caves at Kanheri were simple rock-cut cells (viharas) used as monastic dwellings by Buddhist monks. These early caves lacked elaborate carvings and were primarily used for meditation and teaching.

Trade played a crucial role in the growth of Kanheri, as it was located near ancient trade routes connecting the Konkan coast to the Deccan plateau. Wealthy traders and local rulers donated funds for the expansion of the monastery.

2. Flourishing Period (4th – 7th Century CE)

During this period, Kanheri evolved into a major Buddhist learning center, attracting scholars and monks from India and abroad.Large prayer halls (chaityas), stupas, and intricate carvings were added, indicating royal patronage.

Cave 3, the largest and most elaborate chaitya (prayer hall), was constructed, featuring a massive stupa and grand pillars. Many inscriptions in Brahmi and Devanagari scripts were carved, recording donations from kings, traders, and devotees. Kanheri also became a center for the Mahayana school of Buddhism, with artistic influences seen in sculptures of Bodhisattvas like Avalokiteshvara and Maitreya.

3. Decline and Transformation (8th – 10th Century CE)

By the 8th century, Buddhism in India started declining due to the rise of Hinduism and invasions from other rulers. Many monks left Kanheri, and the caves gradually fell into neglect. Despite this decline, some caves were still used for meditation and occasional Buddhist ceremonies.

4. Rediscovery and Modern Importance

In the 19th century, British archaeologists and historians rediscovered Kanheri, recognizing its importance in Buddhist history. Today, the caves are a protected archaeological site, attracting historians, tourists, and Buddhist pilgrims from around the world. The site remains a valuable record of ancient Buddhist monastic life, art, and architecture.

Things to explore near Kanheri Caves Mumbai

Kanheri Caves are located within Sanjay Gandhi National Park, offering plenty of attractions nearby for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and history enthusiasts. Here are some must-visit places near Kanheri Caves:

1. Sanjay Gandhi National Park:

The lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and serene walking trails make Sanjay Gandhi National Park a fantastic place to explore for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as trekking, cycling, boating, and safari rides, offering an exciting way to experience the park’s natural beauty. Additionally, the Van Rani Mini Train provides a fun and scenic ride through the park, making it a popular attraction, especially for children.

2. Shilonda Trail:

The Shilonda Trail inside Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a beautiful nature trail, perfect for trekking and birdwatching. It offers a peaceful escape from Mumbai’s hustle, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying scenic forest views and the soothing sounds of wildlife.

3. Tulsi Lake:

Tulsi Lake is one of Mumbai’s major freshwater lakes, serving as an important source of water for the city. Located close to Kanheri Caves, it offers a tranquil setting that is perfect for relaxation and photography, making it a great spot for nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat.

4. Vihar Lake:

Vihar Lake is another scenic lake located within Sanjay Gandhi National Park, renowned for its breathtaking views and serene surroundings. While entry to the lake is restricted, visitors can still enjoy its picturesque sights from a distance, making it a great spot for nature lovers and photographers.

5. Lion & Tiger Safari:

A guided safari ride inside Sanjay Gandhi National Park offers visitors the thrilling opportunity to spot lions and tigers in their natural habitat. This experience is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers, providing a chance to observe these majestic animals up close while enjoying the beauty of the park’s rich biodiversity.

6. Trimurti Digambar Jain Temple:

The Trimurti Digambar Jain Temple, located near Kanheri Caves, is a beautiful place of worship known for its intricate carvings and peaceful atmosphere. It is an ideal destination for those seeking spiritual calmness while admiring the elegance of traditional Jain architecture.

Tips before visiting Kanheri Caves Mumbai

Visit Early in the Day: The caves open at 7:30 AM, and it’s best to visit in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat and crowds.
Wear Comfortable Clothing & Shoes: The caves require walking and climbing, so wear comfortable footwear and light, breathable clothing.
Carry Water & Snacks: There are limited food and drink options inside Sanjay Gandhi National Park, so bring your own water and light snacks.
Check the Weather: If visiting during the monsoon season (June to September), be prepared for slippery paths and muddy trails.
Use Sun Protection: Carry sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen as parts of the caves are exposed to direct sunlight.
Bring a Camera or Phone: The ancient carvings and panoramic views from the caves make for great photography spots. Keep in mind there is a small fee for photography.
Plan for Transportation inside the Park: The caves are about 7 km from the park entrance. You can either walk, rent a cycle, or take a park shuttle bus to reach them.
Respect the Heritage Site: Avoid touching carvings or defacing walls, as Kanheri Caves are an important historical and cultural site.

How to Reach Kanheri Caves Mumbai

Kanheri Caves are located inside Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Borivali East, Mumbai. To visit the caves, one must first enter the park and then travel further inside to the cave complex. Here are the best ways to reach Kanheri Caves:

1. By Train:

The nearest railway station is Borivali Station on the Western Line of Mumbai’s local train network.
From Borivali Station, take an auto-rickshaw, taxi, or walk (about 1.5 km) to the entrance of Sanjay Gandhi National Park.

2. By Road:

Kanheri Caves are well connected by roads from various parts of Mumbai.
You can drive or hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or app-based cab (Ola/Uber) to reach Sanjay Gandhi National Park’s main entrance in Borivali East.
From the park entrance, you need to either walk, cycle, or take a bus to reach the caves.

3. By Bus:

BEST buses operate to Borivali East from various parts of Mumbai.
Once you reach Borivali Station, you can take an auto-rickshaw or walk to the park’s entrance.

Inside the Park

After entering Sanjay Gandhi National Park, there are three ways to reach Kanheri Caves:
Walking or Trekking (Around 7 km) – Ideal for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts.
Cycling – Cycles can be rented at the park entrance.
Park Shuttle Bus – The Park provides a bus service that takes visitors directly to the caves.

Google Map For Kanheri Caves Mumbai