Elephanta Caves Elephanta Island Mumbai

Elephanta Caves and Elephanta Islands

Elephanta Caves are the great tourist attraction in the vicinity of the large Mumbai metropolis. The Elephanta Island is located 10 km away from the Gateway of India at Mumbai city. These caves have rock cut temples dating back to the 5th century. The Elephanta Island can be accessed only by boat. Ferry rides are available from the Gateway of India and it takes just 15 mins to reach the Elephanta Island. It is one of the most thrilling ride as the boat cruise up and down the wavy sea making it a life time experience.



The Elephanta Island was so named by the Portuguese, after the statue of an elephant close to the landing area of the island. These rock cut temples dedicated to Shiva Mahadeva are rich in its exotic sculptural content. There are 3 entrances provided to this temple. The eastern and the western entrances denote the axis of the temple. There is a 20 pillared hall that lines the axis, and on its western end is a chamber in which a Shivalingam enshrined. Along with this image there are splendid sculptured images of Kalyanasundara, Gangadhara, Ardhanariswara and Uma Maheswara on the southern wall. Other sculptured images of Nataraja and andhakaasuravadamoorthy are to the west of the northern entrance and the images of Yogishwara and Ravanaanugrahamurthy are to its east. Motorboats pickup passengers from Appollo Bunder near the Gateway of India.
Once known as Puri - later Gharapuri - this island was the proud capital of a coastal kingdom and the great cave shrine in praise of Shiva, excavated in the sixth century, added to the ruling dynasty. Several centuries later the Portugese took control of the island. They discovered the monolithic stone elephant at the place where they landed and also named this as ilha do elephanta, island of the elephant. There was a stone horse too, a little further, which has vanished without any clue.

These rock cut temples were created by carving out rock, and creating the columns, the internal spaces and the images. The entire temple is similar to a gigantic sculpture, through whose corridors and chambers one can walk. The whole structure was created through a process of rock removal. Some of the rock surfaces are highly finished while some are unprocessed bare rock.
The cave temple, which is the pride of Elephanta caves, sprawled over an area of about 5000 square meters, is reached by hiking a flight of more than 100 steps, to the top of a hill. Inside the temple, is a large pillared hall that appears to hold up the roof of the cave.

The Cross beams complete the illusion of a ceiling. One's attention is immediately drawn to the series of stunning sculptured panels, nine in all, which are set like tableaux on the walls. Only little facts are known about the architects and sculptors, who worked on this gem of ancient architecture. Each of the panel captures the volatility of Shiva's essentially ironic nature, and the magical interplay of light and shade, only intensifies the overall effect.

Cheers,
The Techmechanic

The Gateway of India !

Mumbai-Gateway of India

Here's something useful about Mumbai or Bombay's most popular hang out. It's not a mall, or a discotheque. Think again, it's a monument!

Mumbai's most well-known monument, this is the starting point for most tourists who want to travel around the city. It was built as a triumphal arch to memorialize the visit of King George V and Queen Mary, complete with four turrets and intricate latticework carved into the yellow basalt stone.Paradoxically, when the Raj ended in 1947, this colonial symbol also became a sort of epitaph: the last of the British ships that set sail for England left from the Gateway. Today this representation of colonialism has got Indianised, drawing droves of local tourists and citizens. At the back of the arch, there are steps leading down to the water. Here, you can get into one of the bobbing little motor launches, for a short cruise through Mumbai's fabulous natural harbour.Built in the Indo-saracenic style, the Gateway of India is meant to memorialize the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Bombay, prior to the Darbar in Delhi in December 1911. The foundation was laid on March 31, 1911 between 1915 and 1919 work proceeded on reclamations at Apollo Pier for the land on which the gateway and the new sea wall would be built. The foundations were finished in 1920. The Gateway is constructed from yellow Kharodi basalt and reinforced concrete (R.C.C). The central dome is 48 feet in dia and 83 feet above ground at its highest point. The whole harbour front was realigned in order to come in line with a planned walkway which would sweep down to the centre of the town.The total cost of this structure was Rs. 21 lakhs, sponsored mainly by the Government of India. Due to lack of funds, the approach road was never built, and the Gateway now stands at an angle to the road leading up to it. The construction was finished in 1924, and the Gateway opened on December 4, 1924 by the Viceroy, Earl of Reading. The last British troops to depart India, the First Battalion of the Somerset Light Infantry, passed through the gate in a ceremony on February 28, 1948.

The Gateway is Mumbai's most famous tourist attraction and has caused the surrounding area to flourish in support of the travel industry. In addition to the expected food vendors, hotels, and restaurants catering to serve visitors there are also boat launches to Elephanta Island and harbor cruises, a waterfront walkway with steps leading to the water, and a growing nightlife circuit close by.

To reach Gateway of India, one has to take the Western Metro line to Churchgate and take a taxi or walk about 20 minutes to the Gateway (taxi is recommended). As it is the most well-known landmark in the city nearly all taxi drivers know where it is. Bus tours to the Gateway can be arranged through the hotel.

It will take around 2 to 4 hours around the gateway. Although the monument itself may take several minutes to see, it's worth taking a cruise to Elephanta caves and or elsewhere in the harbor, strolling along the stone walkway, exploring a few streets inland to shop or eat is a great way to spend your time.

Have Fun!

Cheers,
Techmechanic

Beaches in Bombay !

Beach Tours of Mumbai - Tech Mechanic does it again!

Here are some great beaches to hit if you want to kick off and wind out at a beach at Bombay( Mumbai ). great for tourists, travelers, backpackers, or anyone who just wants to get out of home and do something with friends!

Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is the capital of the Indian state of Maharashtra. With a population of more than 10 million, it is the largest metropolis in India and one of the most heavily populated cities in the world. Mumbai is ranks 5^th in the world’s most heavily populated metropolises. There are several excursions that you can embark upon from Mumbai. There are religious and architectural marvels for you to see. Among these, the beaches of Mumbai are a truly marvelous sight. There are plenty of beaches in Mumbai. Every one of them is beautiful in its own unique way.

Marve and Manori Beach

The Marve and Manori beaches are located approximately 19 miles from Mumbai. The water of these attractive beaches is pleasant for bathing in. At Marve there is a 5-star resort that is ideal to spend a refreshing weekend in.

Marine Drive

Marine Drive is located in the center of Mumbai. It was built in the 1920-30 age on land salvaged from the sea. It is Mumbai's most well-known trail. Several people take strolls and relax at this beach. It is known to many as “Queen’s Necklace” because of the streetlights that illuminate and line the pathway which look absolutely beautiful when lit up. Marine Drive is a fun place to be; here you can enjoy yourself by watching children playing with sand and vendors selling toys and food.

Chill Out with the Missus at Marine Drive Beach, Mumbai !

Chowpatty Beach

Chowpatty beach is situated at the top end of Marine Drive. This beach is the venue where many Hindu religious ceremonies take place, like the annual thread-tying ceremony initiating young boys into the Brahmin caste. The idols of Lord Ganesha are submerged in the water here. This event occurs on the last day of Ganesh Chaturthi. It is a very large festival, celebrated with pomp and splendour.

The beach houses a statue of the historical figure, Lokmanya Tilak. The beach has several fair type stalls. These include balloon shooting, snake charmers and masseurs. The beach features several shops that sell the local roadside food, “chaat”. “Chaat” represents the spicy and delectable food that is popular through India for its great taste and low cost.

Juhu Beach

Juhu beach is one of the largest and most frequently visited beaches of India. It is situated at a distance of about 20 km north of the center of the city. The Juhu beach region is the location for a lot of film shoots and events. It is a very popular area to relax in. Most people visit this place for the variety it offers. Many actors and directors reside in this area. The area is surrounded by luxurious houses and hotels.

Juhu beach has many stalls selling the famous “Chaat” of Mumbai, which people enjoy while at the beach. Versova Beach is located to the north of Juhu beach. It houses the largest fishing community in Mumbai. Many tourists visit this beach for the quaint experience that it offers.

Travel Tips in Mumbai

TRAVEL TIPS MUMBAI- Techmechanic does all the ground work for your trip!

Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay attracts large groups of tourists with its various types of crowd pullers. These include temples, shopping, the parties, and many more. Mumbai has several tourist attractions. The architecture and religious spots are the largest attractions. Many people also come to Mumbai to enjoy the party scene. Tourists from out of India and in other parts of India reach Mumbai through air. While you travel to Mumbai you must take some precautions to ensure a good journey. These tips ensure that you enjoy every moment of your visit and also guarantee your safety.

Starting from the boarding of your airplane, always reach the airport a little early. Eat a light snack before boarding your plane to avoid hunger on the plane. Carry a book to avoid boredom. This keeps your mind free and relaxed. Don’t book tickets in the last minute. This causes unnecessary tension for all the parties involved. Carry some of your own food if necessary.

Upon reaching Mumbai, book into your room and catch some rest. Going sightseeing while you are jetlagged can really drain you. Catch up on sleep before you leave for the airport or after you have reached your destination. Avoid eating food bought from roadside vendors. The quality of food and hygiene is not very good. If you want to eat some food from roadside shops, insist that the food be made in front of you. Carry some medication for motion sickness and illnesses like diarrhea and vomiting.

If you take any medication carry additional dosages of it wherever you go. When staying at a hotel request bottles of mineral water or purified water. Carry an alarm clock with you to avoid waking up late for any tours you might embark upon. Ensure that your tour has adequate breaks. Avoid food that is complex or contains a lot of oil as it may cause an upset stomach. Eat light and travel light. Carry only the things that are necessary. Ensure that your travel service is a reliable one. When you hit the souvenir shops don’t go on an endless shopping spree. Keep yourself on a budget, stick to it and don’t buy too many items. Excessive baggage can cause several problems while you embark on your return journey. Be a good tourist and don’t litter. Try to blend in as much as possible and avoid any confusion. If possible, learn the basics of the local language to help you get around.

Always carry extra rolls of film if you want to take photographs. If you are using a digital camera, carry additional batteries. Make a checklist of all your possessions and keep track of them. Losing them can mean a lot of work trying to find them. Keep all the tips mentioned in mind while on your journey and stay safe. However, don’t forget to enjoy yourself.