Family-Friendly Day Trip to Elephanta Caves from Mumbai on a Budget

Day 1: Adventure in Nature

Mumbai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Madras

Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast of idli and chutney at Café Madras, known for its authentic South Indian delicacies that will fuel you for the adventure ahead.
Take a local train from your accommodation to Matunga Station, which is a 20-minute ride.
INR150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Ferry Ride to Elephanta Island

Head to the Gateway of India and catch a ferry to Elephanta Island, where ancient rock-cut temples await, offering an incredible glimpse into India's heritage.
From Matunga Station, take a local train to Churchgate and walk to the Gateway of India (approximately 30 minutes total).
INR200 (ferry ticket), 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Elephanta Caves

Upon arrival, explore the magnificent Elephanta Caves, renowned for their stunning sculptures of Hindu deities, making it a fascinating experience for both adults and kids.
From the ferry dock, walk to the entrance of the caves (15 minutes on foot).
INR40 (entry fee for adults, INR20 for children), 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Savor a simple, budget-friendly lunch at one of the local eateries on Elephanta Island, where you can indulge in basic Indian dishes like rice and dal.
Enjoy lunch at a eatery close to the ferry terminal on Elephanta Island.
INR300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Ferry Return to Mumbai

After lunch, take the ferry back to Mumbai, enjoying the scenic views of the coastline as you travel.
Head back to the ferry terminal for your return trip.
INR200 (ferry ticket), 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, which boasts stunning Victorian architecture and fascinating historical insights.
From Gateway of India, take a local taxi to the terminus (around 15 minutes).
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Stroll at Marine Drive

Take a leisurely walk at the iconic Marine Drive where you can enjoy the beautiful sea breeze and watch the sunset while the kids play nearby.
From Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, take a local taxi to Marine Drive (approximately 10 minutes).
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Snack at Chowpatty Beach

Treat the family to delightful street snacks at Chowpatty Beach; try local favorites like pav bhaji and bhel puri as you soak in the ambience of the beach.
Walk from Marine Drive to Chowpatty Beach, approximately 15 minutes.
INR250, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Aaswad

End your day with a tasty dinner at Aaswad, where you can relish a variety of delicious vegetarian dishes, perfect for winding down after an eventful day.
Take a local taxi from Chowpatty Beach to Aaswad (about 15 minutes).
INR400, 1 hour
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