Mumbai, 16 April 2025

 

World Heritage Day is observed globally on 18th April every year to raise awareness about the importance of preserving cultural heritage. To mark the occasion in 2025, Indiatourism Mumbai, the regional office of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, has taken a commendable initiative.

In collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and Marriott Executive Apartments Navi Mumbai, Indiatourism Mumbai will organize a Clean-Up and Tree Plantation Drive at Kanheri Caves, Mumbai, tomorrow, that is, on Thursday, 17th April 2025.

The program will commence at 9:00 AM with a clean-up drive, followed by a tree plantation ceremony. The event will see participation from officials of Indiatourism Mumbai, ASI, and staff from Marriott Executive Apartments. Upon completion of the activity, the ASI will conduct a guided tour of the Kanheri Caves for all participants.

 

About Kanheri Caves:

Located in the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Borivali, Mumbai, the Kanheri Caves are a captivating historical and archaeological site comprising over 100 rock-cut caves carved into a basalt outcrop. Dating from the 1st century BCE to the 10th century CE, the caves served as Buddhist monasteries (viharas) and prayer halls (chaityas). Once a major center of Buddhism in Western India, they played a significant role in teaching, meditation, and as a stop along ancient trade routes.

Visitors can explore intricate carvings, Buddha statues, and inscriptions in Brahmi, Devanagari, and Pali, along with water cisterns, rock-cut benches, and a massive stupa—a testament to the architectural and spiritual legacy of the site.

This initiative underscores the Government’s commitment to preserving India’s heritage while also promoting cleanliness and environmental sustainability at our monuments.

 

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PIB Mumbai | SC/ DR

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