Mumbai's Hidden Gem: 8th Century Rock-Cut Shrine, Mandapeshwar Caves Is A Must-Visit This Monsoon

Mumbai's Hidden Gem: 8th Century Rock-Cut Shrine, Mandapeshwar Caves Is A Must-Visit This Monsoon

Monsoon has arrived, and it is the best time to witness the lush greenery in the City of Dreams. Mandapeshwar Caves are a must-visit for those interested in history, architecture, and spirituality.

Sunanda SinghUpdated: Monday, July 21, 2025, 09:42 AM IST
article-image
Mandapeshwar Caves | Photo Credit: Incredible India

Mumbai: Monsoon has arrived, and it is the best time to witness the lush greenery in the City of Dreams. Mandapeshwar Caves are a must-visit for those interested in history, architecture, and spirituality.

Mandapeshwar Caves, situated in the bustling suburb of Borivali in Mumbai, are one of the city's lesser-known historical treasures. The Mandapeshwar Caves date back to the 8th century, and these ancient rock-cut caves stand as a silent testament to India's rich cultural and architectural heritage. This monsoon season, as lush greenery envelopes the city, visiting the Mandapeshwar Caves offers a perfect blend of history, spirituality, and nature.

Mandapeshwar meaning

The Mandapeshwar Caves, whose name means "Hall of the Lord," are dedicated to Lord Shiva. Carved out of soild basalt rock, the caves showcase intricate stone sculptures, pillars, and sanctuaries that reflect the brilliance of ancient Indian craftsmanship. Within the caves, visitors can see depictions of Shiva in various forms, including the revered Shivling, along with beautiful carvings of divine figures like Nataraja and Parvati.

The architecture of Mandapeshwar Caves

What makes these caves unique is their history of transformation, from a Hindu shrine to a site used by Portuguese colonists as a chapel, and back to a Hindu temple after centuries. This layered past adds to the charm and mystique of the place.

Hidden gem in Mumbai

During the monsoon, the surroundings of the caves come alive with fresh greenery, making it an ideal spot for peaceful walks, photography, and exploration away from the city's usual crowds. Unlike the more popular Elephanta Caves, Mandapeshwar remains relatively uncrowded, giving visitors a chance to explore its serenity and historical depth at their own pace.

Easily accessible by road and local trains, the Mandpeshwar Caves offer a perfect short getaway for history buffs, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers alike. This monsoon, take a break from city life and discover Mumbai's hidden gem, the ancient and captivating Mandapeshwar Caves.

RECENT STORIES

Bharat Gaurav Train To Depart From Amritsar On October 25 To Cover 4 Jyotirlingas & Statue Of Unity...

Bharat Gaurav Train To Depart From Amritsar On October 25 To Cover 4 Jyotirlingas & Statue Of Unity...

Thane-Navi Mumbai Elevated Road Toll Prices Set To Be Costlier Than Atal Setu; One-Way Ticket To...

Thane-Navi Mumbai Elevated Road Toll Prices Set To Be Costlier Than Atal Setu; One-Way Ticket To...

Konkan Railway To Run Unreserved Special MEMU Trains Between Chiplun-Panvel Amid High Demand; Check...

Konkan Railway To Run Unreserved Special MEMU Trains Between Chiplun-Panvel Amid High Demand; Check...

Travel Vlogger Shehnaz Treasury Denied Flight With E-Visa At Dubai Airport: Know Why

Travel Vlogger Shehnaz Treasury Denied Flight With E-Visa At Dubai Airport: Know Why

Onam 2025: 8 Places To Eat Sadhya In Mumbai Under ₹1000

Onam 2025: 8 Places To Eat Sadhya In Mumbai Under ₹1000