Mumbai, known as the Dream City, was built on the site of an ancient settlement. The city that never stops is nestled among heritage sites and the sea. However, there is more about this city that is hidden,
and one of the hidden gems is the Mahakali Caves. In the heart of Mumbai, there is a silence and beauty, located in the bustling area of Mumbai, Andheri. Far from the city's usual chaos, this cave gives you the feeling of a slow pace of time and serenity. Keep on reading to know more about this place and its essence.
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About Mahakali Caves
Can you believe there is a place in the heart of a bustling city that is hidden and steeped in it, which feels like time has been stopped, or the time that was moving so fast, slowed its pace? The place exists for real! And it is the Mahakali Caves, which are situated in the eastern suburb of Andheri. It is also known as the Kondivite Caves, which are a group of 19 ancient rock-cut Buddhist monuments. The cave is carved from solid black basalt rock between the 2nd century BCE and the 6th century CE. These caves served as a Buddhist monastic complex (viharas) and a place for meditation (chaityas).
Mahakali Caves: Every rock-cut cell narrates a story
The site of Mahakali Caves includes 19 caves (15 on the northwest face, 4 on the southeast) featuring rock-cut cisterns for water. These caves once served as monasteries. As you enter the caves region, including the meditation centre and prayer halls. Years before Mumbai became the financial capital of India, these caves were centres of meditation and learning.
If you don't look at it deeply, you will find this cave similar to Kanheri Caves and Elephanta Caves, but the Mahakali Caves look more raw. Every rock-cut cell has its own unique story, and as you explore more about it, it narrates to you the story of a time when life moved slowly, and spirituality was a way of living life.
