Did You Know There’s a Place in Maharashtra You Can Only Reach by Boat?

There’s a small island off the coast of Mumbai that holds something truly special — a historic site you can’t reach by road, train, bike, or even plane. In fact, no vehicle can take you there at all. The only way to visit this ancient, sea-surrounded destination is by boat.

This island, known as Gharapuri, is home to a set of ancient caves that reflect some of the most remarkable rock-cut architecture in India. Located just 6 to 7 miles from Mumbai’s shoreline, the island may be close in distance but feels far removed from the city’s chaos. Its isolation has helped preserve a treasure that dates back over a thousand years.

These caves, carved between the 5th and 8th centuries, are a powerful reminder of India’s spiritual and artistic past. Spread across the island’s rocky hillside are seven caves — five inspired by Hindu themes and two by Buddhist influences. The most iconic feature is a massive sculpture of Lord Shiva with three heads, representing creation, protection, and destruction — a masterpiece that continues to draw admiration from historians, travelers, and spiritual seekers alike.

What makes this destination even more unique is its accessibility — or rather, the lack of it. There are no roads leading here, no bridges connecting it to the mainland. Visitors must take a ferry from the Gateway of India in Mumbai. The boat ride takes about an hour and offers sweeping views of the Arabian Sea before docking at the island. From there, a short uphill walk through small stalls and shaded paths leads to the historic caves.

In 1987, UNESCO recognized the global importance of this site and added it to its list of World Heritage Sites. The carvings, pillars, and temple structures inside the caves showcase not only the devotion of their creators but also their incredible craftsmanship. Each element was carved by hand directly into the rock, using only the tools and techniques available more than a thousand years ago.

Although Maharashtra is known for its forts, temples, and coastal cities, this island stands out. It’s the only major cave complex in the state located in the middle of the sea — completely surrounded by water, completely separate from the modern world. No other cave site in Maharashtra is quite like it.

Tourists from across the world make time to visit this spot, not just for the history, but for the experience. There’s something humbling about reaching a place by sea, climbing into the hills, and standing in front of centuries-old carvings that have survived time, weather, and neglect. It reminds us how much of our past is still waiting to be explored — not in museums, but out in the real world.

Conclusion

In a state filled with grand architecture and heroic history, this island offers something different — silence, isolation, and an unshaken connection to ancient India. If you’re in Mumbai or anywhere nearby, this is more than just a tourist spot — it’s a journey back in time. Just remember, the only ticket in is on water.

Disclaimer:

This article is for general informational purposes. All historical dates and facts have been carefully verified based on available records, but visitors should consult official tourism authorities or guides for the latest travel details and conditions.