The Elephanta Festival is held annually in the month of February. The Elephanta Island, the tranquil abode of Lord Shiva, just one-and-a-half-hour's journey by motor launch from Mumbai is the favoured destination for this festival.

Once known as Puri or Gharapuri, the island was the proud capital of a powerful coastal kingdom. Later the Portuguese found a monolithic stone elephant at this place and named it 'Elephanta'.

The Elephanta caves are a showcase of legends created around Lord Shiva, beautifully presented here in all his splendour in the rock cave temples. The festival also involves a boat ride from the Gateway of India in Mumbai to the Elephanta Islands.

During the festival renowned dancers and musicians perform outside the caves, beneath a star-studded sky, to a select and appreciative audience. Special launch services and catering arrangements are provided for visitors.