Mahakali Caves Mumbai

Maharashtra

Mahakali Caves

The Mahakali Caves (also Kondivite Caves) in Mumbai, Maharashtra
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Mahakali Caves Mumbai
The Mahakali Caves (also Kondivite Caves) in Mumbai, Maharashtra
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map

January

12.6 - 35.2 °C

February

13.9 - 36.8 °C

March

17.1 - 38.6 °C

April

21 - 37.2 °C

May

24.5 - 35.7 °C

June

23.2 - 35.4 °C

July

23.4 - 32.6 °C

August

23.4 - 31.8 °C

September

23 - 33.5 °C

October

20.3 - 36.4 °C

November

17.8 - 36 °C

December

14.3 - 35.2 °C


Major Airports :

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM), Mumbai

Nearest Railway Station :

Mumbai Central Railway Station (MMCT)

Major Airports :

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM), Mumbai

Delving into Mumbai's hidden treasures

Nestled within the dynamic landscape of Mumbai, characterized by towering skyscrapers and a modern urban environment, rests a treasure trove of history and spirituality known as the Mahakali Caves. These remarkable rock-cut sanctuaries have endured since the ancient era of the Ashoka Empire, serving as abodes and places of contemplation for Buddhist monks over two millennia ago. As silent witnesses to Mumbai's storied past, the Mahakali Caves symbolize the city's deep-rooted heritage, inviting visitors to uncover the secrets of its lesser-known history.

Amidst the urban jungle

Located in the bustling suburb of Andheri East, these Buddhist caves probably got their name from the Mahakali Hills on which they are situated. The place is also known as the Kondivite Caves, after the nearby Kondivite village. The Caves provide a stark contrast to the surrounding concrete jungle. These ancient caves offer a serene retreat from the chaos of city life, transporting visitors to a bygone era of tranquillity and contemplation.

Echoes of ancient times

Carved into the black basalt rock during the 1st century BCE to the 6th century CE, the Mahakali Caves bear witness to Mumbai's ancient history as a hub of Buddhist pilgrimage. Believed to have served as monastic retreats for Buddhist monks, these caves were once active centres of spiritual activity and meditation.

The Mahakali Caves comprise a complex of 19 rock-cut caves. The caves are divided into two main groups - the larger eastern group 1, with 15 caves, and the smaller western group 2, with 4 caves - each offering its own unique charm and historical significance.

Group-I comprises of living quarters along with several verandas, courtyards, a chapel, and several shrines. In contrast, Group-II includes a dining area. The area between these two clusters of caves features damaged tombstones, as well as a monument and a modest auditorium utilized as a school.

The caves are adorned with Buddhist symbols including stupas and chaityas. Most of the caves are simple and small, with minimal carvings or ornamentation—stark chambers were used as dwellings for the monks and a place to meditate. The exception is the chaitya, the main Buddhist shrine and prayer hall, which is adorned with stupas and large carved statues of Buddha idols. Some of the cave walls have scriptures carved in Pali, a language considered older even than Sanskrit.


Kondivite or Mahakati 2nd to 6th century A.D. dug caves in Mumbai, India.
Timings

Opening time - 09:00 AM

Closing time - 04:00 PM

Residences of monks: Sanctuaries of solitude

The Mahakali Caves served as residential quarters for Buddhist monks who sought refuge from the distractions of the outside world. The caves' secluded location and serene surroundings provided an ideal environment for meditation and contemplation, allowing monks to deepen their spiritual practice away from the chaos of urban life.

Water cisterns: Sustaining life in stone

One of the most remarkable features of the Mahakali Caves is the presence of ancient water cisterns, which served as vital sources of water for the monks who resided within the caves. These ingeniously constructed reservoirs, carved directly into the rock, provided a lifeline for the inhabitants of the caves, ensuring their survival in this arid landscape.

Exploring the enigmatic depths

As visitors wander through the labyrinthine passages of the Mahakali Caves, they are enveloped in an aura of mystery and tranquillity. Each cave tells a story of devotion and resilience, inviting contemplation and introspection amidst the timeless beauty of its stone walls.

Preserving Mumbai's heritage

In a city synonymous with progress and innovation, the Mahakali Caves stand as guardians of Mumbai's ancient past, reminding us of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage for future generations. As visitors marvel at the architectural wonders and spiritual sanctuaries hidden within these rocky alcoves, they are reminded of the enduring legacy of Mumbai's rich and diverse history.