• Kanheri Caves - After being picked up from the hotel or cruise terminal, the journey begins to Sanjay Gandhi National Park. The Kanheri Caves are situated within this expansive 87 square kilometer national park.

During the following hours, visitors will explore stunning sculptures, relief carvings, paintings, and inscriptions that provide insights into the life and times of this ancient university, a leading center for Buddhist learning. The tour includes a visit to the Grand Chaitya, where monks gathered for meditation. The impressive Stupa served as a focal point for monks to enhance their concentration during meditation, often housing a relic of a revered teacher from the past.

As the tour progresses through the caves, the evolution from Theravada to Mahayana Buddhism over the years becomes evident. This remarkable site remains an excellent place to engage with the guide about the principles of various Buddhist styles and their distinctions from other major religions of the region, such as Hinduism and Jainism.

The 109 caves feature a variety of sculptures of Buddha and Bodhisattvas like Padmapani. The guide will elaborate on the significant role of Bodhisattvas in Buddhist society and their importance in the preservation of this profound religion.

• Lunch
• Pick and drop
• Private car
• Entrance charges
• Guide

Kanheri Caves offers a fascinating day trip from Mumbai to a 2000-year-old Buddhist university. Discover some of the caves that were a significant hub for Buddhist education from the 1st century BC to the 10th century AD. Experience the life of students who traveled from across Asia to reside in this ancient campus and learn from esteemed Masters. Admire the distinctive architectural style, stunning sculptures, and innovative engineering techniques that made Kanheri a remarkable place for living and learning 2000 years ago.

The tour also includes a visit to the Golden Vipassana Pagoda, where visitors can experience tranquility and view ancient Buddhist relics.

This tour is organized by Five Senses Tours, a private limited company accredited by the Ministry of Tourism and a member of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO). The tour is designed to support local livelihoods by employing local guides and supporting local businesses, aligning with the company’s mission to ensure travel expenditures benefit the local community.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.