Kanheri Caves

The Kanheri Caves are old rock-cut structures in the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. One of the most popular places to visit in Mumbai, these caves have Buddhist statues, carvings, and writings from the first century BCE. Monks used to meditate and live here, and the spot gives us a glimpse into their rich past.

History of Kanheri Caves

The Kanheri Caves in Mumbai have endured two millennia. A basalt outcrop near Salsette, popularly known as Shatshashthi in Mumbai, naturally formed the caves. Builders constructed these caverns six miles from Thane between the 1st and 10th centuries CE.

Buddhist monks likely built the caverns, which, in their architecture and sculptures, reflect Buddhism and its teachings. The Sanskrit word Krishna Giri means Black Mountain, and builders constructed the Kanheri Caves in Mumbai on a basalt hill.

The Kanheri Caves was an important Buddhist centre in the 3rd century BCE. The caverns were Buddhist viharas for prayer, study, and meditation. The Kushana and Maurya kingdoms also used Kanheri Caves and Mumbai as universities.

Rock-Cut Architecture and Sculptures

The Kanheri Caves' single-piece rock construction makes them a remarkable architectural marvel. It sets them apart from other such antiquities in the nation. The basalt Kanheri Gufa has Buddhist inscriptions.

Due to their 1,000-year construction, the 109 caverns vary in shape, size, and sophistication. The early builders designed the first caverns with Hinayana influences, while later ones incorporated Mahayana influences.

The Kanheri Gufa has paintings, statues, and rock carvings about Buddhist stories and religious lessons. It also has a very complex network of water cisterns. One of the most essential parts of the Kanheri Caves is Cave 3. It has a beautiful chaitya-griha, a stupa, a garden, and a statue of Buddha at the door. The writing on the Kanheri Gufas is mainly in the Brahmi and Devanagari styles.

Trekking and Exploration at Kanheri Caves

You may spend two hours trekking in these old caverns once you reach the entrance. Routes between caverns are well-paved with rock-cut steps and bridges. The trail is easy for beginners and experts year-round. Monsoons may make the stones slick and slippery, so take extra precautions on this easy walk.

After seeing all the caves, you can push on with your hike even further into the wild. The ground gets rougher as you walk there. So, if you want to walk longer, it's best to wear comfy shoes and bring the right gear.

If you trek farther, you may reach Jambhulmal, 'Mumbai's Highest Point.' Jambhulmal towers are 1535 feet above sea level. This trail allows birding, butterfly observation, and overnight camping. From here, you may also see the Tulsi and Vihar lakes and panoramic vistas from Powai to Dahisar. It is often included in Mumbai tour packages for nature and adventure enthusiasts.