About Mahakali Caves
The Mahakali Caves, also known as Kondivite Caves, are a group of 19 ancient Buddhist rock-cut monuments located in Andheri East, Mumbai. Carved from solid black basalt between the 1st century BCE and 6th century CE, these caves served as monastic retreats and meditation centers. The site comprises two groups of caves featuring viharas, chaityas, stupas, and water cisterns, representing significant early Buddhist architecture in western India.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore 19 rock-cut Buddhist caves carved into basalt hillocks, including simple monk dwellings and a main chaitya hall with stupa remnants. The site features ancient water cisterns, verandas, courtyards, and damaged Buddhist sculptures. The caves offer a quiet historical atmosphere contrasting with the surrounding urban environment of Andheri East. Most caves are plain chambers used for meditation, while Cave 9 contains architectural elements resembling Ashokan-era designs.
Key highlights
- 01
Group of 19 Buddhist rock-cut monuments dating from 1st century BCE to 6th century CE
- 02
Cave 9 chaitya hall with stupa and hemispherical dome inspired by Ashokan architecture
- 03
Ancient rock-cut water cisterns demonstrating early engineering
- 04
Carvings and scriptures in Pali language on cave walls
- 05
Two distinct cave groups: eastern cluster with 15 caves and western cluster with 4 caves
- 06
Protected archaeological site under Archaeological Survey of India
History of Mahakali Caves
Built between the 1st century BCE and 6th century CE, these caves represent early Buddhist monastic architecture in the Mumbai region. The chaitya hall (Cave 9) features architectural elements similar to Emperor Ashoka's Sudama Cave in Bihar, indicating connections to Mauryan-era Buddhist traditions. The site served as an active Buddhist monastery and pilgrimage center for over six centuries.
Culture & Context
The caves demonstrate the spread of Buddhism in western India and serve as evidence of Mumbai's ancient heritage predating modern urbanization. They contain Pali inscriptions and Buddhist iconography reflecting early Theravada Buddhist practices. The site is one of several important Buddhist cave complexes in the Mumbai area alongside Kanheri, Jogeshwari, and Mandapeshwar caves.