It’s easy to think of Mumbai as a concrete jungle where millions of people toil in the hot sun, but that doesn’t do justice to this complex city with a rich history.
Welcome to the enchanting city of Mumbai, the financial capital of India and one of the world’s most exciting cities! Bounded by the Arabian Sea to the west and the Western Ghats to the east, the city is a veritable feast for the senses. The city’s bustling energy and the diversity of its people are worth noticing. From the iconic Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus) to the leafy lanes of Colaba, the city has an astonishing amount of history and culture, making it a must-visit destination.
And now, summer is finally here, which means it’s time for holidaymakers to hit the roads and beaches. With the weather getting better and better, there’s no better time to book that dream holiday. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape or a shopping spree with the girls, we are here with the top 5 places to visit in the city of dreams, i.e., Mumbai.
1. GATEWAY OF INDIA
The Gateway of India is one of the most iconic buildings in the world. It is a monument to the Indian independence movement that was built on the shores of the Arabian Sea. It was the first major international border crossing point between India and another country, and the only one between India and another country not to be lined with a border fence. It was built as a symbol of Indian independence and as such is a fascinating monument to explore.
2. MARINE DRIVE
Marine Drive, Mumbai is one of the most famous and buzzing areas in Mumbai. If you are looking for a nightlife spot, this is the place to be. The area is a combination of old and new, with a mix of heritage buildings, modern architecture, and plenty of street food stalls.
Marine Drive is a 2.4 km road that starts from Nariman Point in the south to Dharavi in the north. It is a popular promenade for people to walk, cycle, play games, and relax. The road was originally built as a sewerage drain in the British era but has now become a commercial area where fishermen unload their catch and other vendors sell their wares. The road is famous for the Marine Drive cacti which add to the beauty of this road.
3. SANJAY GANDHI NATIONAL PARK
Mumbai’s Sanjay Gandhi National Park is the perfect place to get away from the city and experience the natural world at its most unspoiled. The park is home to over 100 species of mammals, including the Asiatic lion, sloth bear, and leopard, as well as over 3000 species of birds. The best way to explore the park is on foot, and the easiest way to get there is by hiring a cycle.
The best time to visit is autumn when the park comes alive with the sounds and sights of the forest creatures. Yet, visiting Mumbai and not exploring Sanjay National Gandhi Park can be a big loss.
4. ELEPHANTA CAVES
Elephanta Caves are located in Mumbai in an area around 20km from the city center. The Elephanta Caves, situated on the island of Elephanta in Mumbai, are a series of rock-cut caves built by the Gupta and Chalukya eras. The caves were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. The first cave, Elephanta I, is a large open-air complex that was used for worship, meditation, and celebration.
The caves are a popular tourist destination and are a significant archaeological site that was used by the Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist communities of Maharashtra. The caves serve as a reminder of the diverse history and rich culture of Maharashtra.
5. CHHATRAPATI SHIVAJI MAHARAJ TERMINUS (CST)
The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Mumbai or Victoria Terminus or VT, is the main railway station in Mumbai. It is the oldest terminus in Mumbai and the second busiest station in the country. The station was built in 1887 and is located opposite the Gateway of India, also known as the Viceroy’s House. The station was renamed the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus in 1982, in honour of King Chhatrapati Shivaji, the founder of the Maratha Empire.
The station is a major tourist attraction, with a number of restaurants, street vendors, and shops.
With a rich history and culture, you are never far from sight, a place, or an adventure in Mumbai. The city is full of monuments, forts, palaces, temples, churches, and mosques. The best way to discover the city is to walk around, ask for directions and start exploring.
Visited these places already?
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