Jogeshwari Caves: A hidden gem in Mumbai

Rediff.com's Hitesh Harisinghani visited Jogeshwari caves and returned with some amazing stories.

Right in the heart of Jogeshwari (a suburb in North Mumbai), you'll find one of India's largest and earliest cave temples.

Situated off the Western Express Highway, it is surrounded by encroachments.

But the minute you step into this place, a sense of calm will engulf you.

Around 1,500 years old, these caves are adorned with stunning pillars and a lingam at the end -- it is considered as a shrine to Lord Shiva.

Scroll down to take a look at the pics.

A closer look at the walls of these caves will reveal its Brahmanical rock-cut architecture, which can be found in Elephanta caves too. They are among the largest rock-cut caves in the country.

The caves maybe in ruins, but it still attracts tourists who take great pride in its history. Away from the hustle bustle of the city, there are students who come here to study.

Vakataka influence can be noticed in the planning and sculptural execution of these caves.

These walls are dipped in history.

Declared as a protected monument of national importance, these caves are in a state of great neglect.

Each of these walls has a story to be told. However, with time these structures are crumbling.

These caves are a must-visit spot in Mumbai if you want to explore the city's history.

Devotees gather around a temple of Lord Ganesha situated inside the caves.

Only time will tell if these caves become a victim of encroachments.

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