The Mandapeshwar Caves

The Mandapeshwar caves are also known as mandapeshwar Leni in Marathi is an 8th century rock cut shrine dedicated to lord Shiva located near Mount Poinsuri in Borivali.Originally these caves were on the banks of Dahisar river but later the course of river changed.Mandapeshwar caves are situated at a distance of 3 kms to the north of Borivli station(w).
These caves were used by traders and Buddhist monks who traversed down these stretches while on their way to Konkan or Sopara. In fact the Dahisar river running adjacent to the Mandapeshwar caves was earlier used for navigation. They would go from here towards Gorai and onward to their further journey.
Each cave has a distinct feature which sets it apart from others. One important factor being � the Kanheri and Mahakali caves are Buddhist caves while the Mandapeshwar is a Shaiva cave.the Mandapeshwar cave is a small cave because of the rock structure and its entrance shows equality of gender in the form of sculptures of donor couples.The interesting fact is that every cave has a distinct form of architecture and art that also depicts the life that existed in that era.
On major Shiva festivals like Mahashivratri, Navratri and Diwali the caves are lit with lamps.Mandapeshwar caves are situated at a distance of 3 kms to the north of Borivli station(w). You can take auto from Dahisar sation to the caves.

Compiled by – Townmumbai.com Team
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