What a great and easy way to see the Elephanta Caves. We were visiting Mumbai for the weekend and the caves were on our list but we didn't really want to take the public ferry (1hr 20 min) tide to the island. Our fabulous concierge at the St Regis recommended this private tour with pickup. Well, was worth every penny. Picked up in very clean bus that had snacks and water/sodas. We left the hotel at 8am, 2nd group to arrive at the caves by speedboat (20 minute ride). Our tour guide Pooja was well inforned and walked us through everything. She was so great even helping us avoid the monkeys and gave us great recommendations for other places to see. Tips: 1. Wear comfortable shoes, the hike up the 105 stairs isnt that easy. 2. You can pay INR 2500 to have 4 guys carry you up on a chair, round-trip 3. Leave early, we left at 8 from the hotel and as we were leaving the caves just as the crowd was just arriving 4. Bring cash to tip the security guards as they take great pictures for you 5. Monkeys and more monkeys. They were everywhere and grabbing things out of people hands. 6. The walk from the boat dock to the stairs is a bit of a hike and people selling their goods the whole way up Overall, a UNESCO site you dont want to miss and ask for Pooja as your tour guide. She was the best.
Elephanta Caves by Private Speedboat - Fast & Luxurious
+11 photos
At a glance
- Duration
- 4h 5min
- Price from
- $246 / person
- Location
- Mumbai, India
- Rating
- 5.0 / 5 · 10 reviews
- Languages
- EN
- Group
- Private
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Hotel pickup
- Available
- Confirmation
- Instant
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Operator
- Passport Lifestyles
Description
Be mesmerized by the sparkling Arabian Sea and capture stunning photos as you cruise from the Gateway of India. Arrive at Elephanta Island in just 20 minutes - saving over an hour and avoiding the long 1.5-hour ferry ride. Choose between a leisurely walk or a fun mini toy train ride through the island’s scenic trails. Explore the magnificent Elephanta Caves with our expert Government Licensed Guide, who brings the legends and artistry of this UNESCO World Heritage Site to life. Conclude your adventure with breathtaking views of the sea and skyline, a perfect end to your unforgettable Mumbai experience.
Schedule & prices
- Runs
- Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, and Sun
- Next available
- Thu, Oct 15
- Adult (ages 12–80)
- $246
Prices are per person when two book together; a solo traveller pays $447.
Larger groups pay less per person.
From the operator’s live schedule on Viator, checked Oct 11.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Elephanta Caves
EXPLORE ELEPHANTA CAVES BY SPEEDBOAT WITH PASSPORT LIFESTYLES Discover Elephanta Caves in style with our premium all-inclusive speedboat tour. Departing from the iconic Gateway of India, enjoy a fast, comfortable ride across the Arabian Sea with stunning views of Mumbai’s skyline and harbor. Avoid crowded ferries and long waits as you relax on our well-maintained speedboat, designed for a smooth and scenic journey. On arrival, explore the island’s UNESCO-listed rock-cut temples with our Government Licensed Guide, who will share the rich history and intricate artistry of centuries-old sculptures. Enjoy personalized service, bottled water, and a seamless return to Mumbai. Book your Elephanta adventure today for a time-saving, hassle-free, and truly memorable experience.
Gateway Of India
Standing tall on the waterfront of South Mumbai, the Gateway of India is an architectural masterpiece built in 1924 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. Crafted in Indo-Saracenic style with intricate basalt stonework, it once served as the ceremonial entrance to India for British dignitaries. Today, it remains Mumbai’s most iconic landmark -a symbol of the city’s colonial past and cosmopolitan spirit. From here, your speedboat departs for Elephanta Island, offering breathtaking views of the archway against the Arabian Sea and the majestic Taj Mahal Palace nearby.
What's included
Included
Private transportation
Bottled water
Entrance fee
Premium Speedboat Charges
All Fees and Taxes
Government Licensed Guide
Not included
Tips
Anything not mentioned in the Inclusion
Pickup Locations & Times
Any Hotels and Airports within the given radius
Traveller Ratings
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
5.0
10 reviews
How it compares in Mumbai
- Rated higher than 74% of 293 reviewed tours in Mumbai
Excurgo comparison of 957 Viator tours, recalculated daily.
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
1+ days before100% refund
0–1 days before0% refund
Frequently asked questions
How long does Elephanta Caves by Private Speedboat - Fast & Luxurious take?
Elephanta Caves by Private Speedboat - Fast & Luxurious lasts about 4h 5min. The itinerary has 2 stops.
How much does Elephanta Caves by Private Speedboat - Fast & Luxurious cost?
Prices start at $246 per person for this Mumbai experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. That is the per-person price when two book together; a solo traveller pays $447. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
What days does Elephanta Caves by Private Speedboat - Fast & Luxurious run?
According to the operator’s current schedule, it runs on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Can I cancel Elephanta Caves by Private Speedboat - Fast & Luxurious for free?
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered. Any Hotels and Airports within the given radius Pickup points include FabHotel Adore Palace, Hotel Heritage - Near Trade Center, Visa Consulate BKC.
What languages is Elephanta Caves by Private Speedboat - Fast & Luxurious offered in?
The experience is available in EN.
Is this a private or a group tour?
It is a private experience: only your party takes part. Up to 10 travellers can book together.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Will my booking be confirmed immediately?
Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.
Is Elephanta Caves by Private Speedboat - Fast & Luxurious worth it?
Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 10 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor; it is run by Passport Lifestyles.
Reviews(10)
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
H
Elephanta Caves the easy way
D
More than just Speed
A brilliant way to experience Elephanta Caves Such a great experience from start to finish. The private speedboat made the journey across feel effortless, and the caves themselves were fascinating. Well organised, definitely recommend.
V
Excellent
Pasport lifestyle is one of the best touring organisation and I would like to travel with em lot more than often Thank you for giving us the best memory and good luck for the future
5
A Great Morning tour of the Caves
We had a wonderful tour with Avinash as our guide. As a life long resident of the island, he brought great insight into the Elephanta Caves. These ancient caves are a sight to behold. Be sure to add the caves to your stay in Mumbai and seek out Avinash as your guide…he will treat you well and make your experience a memorable one.
Operator response
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're so glad you had a memorable experience exploring the Elephanta Caves with Avinash. His deep connection to the island and insightful storytelling truly bring the history to life. We appreciate your kind words and strong recommendation-adding the caves (and Avinash!) to any Mumbai itinerary is always a great choice
F
Speed boat to Elephanta caves must do Experience
Did the tour with my family and had a great experience! Everything went so smoothly thanks to Anokhi’s excellent coordination. The team was helpful and friendly thanks to Sufi!! My kid's enjoy this tour very well. Speed Boat experience is amazing 😍
Operator response
Thank you so much for your lovely feedback! We’re thrilled to hear you and your family had such a great experience. So glad your kids loved the speedboat ride - we hope to welcome you all again soon for another memorable adventure!
O
Family trip to elephanta caves
Loved our family tour! The service was excellent and everyone we met was so polite and caring. Felt more like traveling with friends than a company. Highly recommend them!😍😍
Operator response
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re delighted to know you and your family enjoyed the tour. It means a lot that it felt more like traveling with friends - that’s exactly the experience we strive to create! We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to see you again soon!
C
Best tour ever
Excellent service! Our family tour was perfectly organized and super comfortable. The team was friendly, caring, and made us feel at home. Highly recommend!
Operator response
Thank you for the lovely review! We're so happy to hear your family tour was perfectly organized and comfortable. We’d love to welcome you again soon!
M
Best Tour Ever!!
We took a tour to Elephanta Caves by speed boat with Passport Lifestyles in April, and it was such a lovely experience! Everything was smooth and well-planned. The boat ride was fun, the caves were beautiful, and we made some amazing memories. Highly recommend them for a perfect day out in Mumbai!
Operator response
Dear Sir, Thank you for your lovely review! We're so glad to hear your Elephanta Caves tour in April was smooth, fun, and memorable. It's wonderful that you enjoyed the scenic speedboat ride and the beauty of the caves. We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you again for more unforgettable experiences in Mumbai!
G
A Family Day
A perfect family day! The caves were incredible, the guide was amazing with our kids, and everything felt so thoughtfully planned. Thank you, Passport Lifestyles, for making history feel magical. 😍
Operator response
Dear Sir, Thank you so much for your heartwarming review! We're thrilled to hear your family had a perfect day exploring the Elephanta Caves. It's especially wonderful to know that your guide made the experience fun and engaging for your kids. Looking forward to welcoming you back for more unforgettable memories!
S
Elephant cave private tour
Great services for my private tour to Elephant cave. Tour guide Avinash is very friendly and knowledgeable. The driver Prodeep is super friendly and professional. I enjoyed the tour very much!
Operator response
Dear Susan, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that you had such a great experience on your private tour to Elephant Cave. It's fantastic to know that Avinash and Prodeep made your tour enjoyable with their friendliness, knowledge, and professionalism. We appreciate your kind words and hope to see you again for more epic travel experience in Mumbai
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from$246
5.0(10) Free cancellation