Gateway of India, Mumbai
Mumbai, a city of dreams witnesses a large influx of tourists all over the year for sightseeing, pilgrimage as well as seeking employment opportunities. The city is the home of those rolling in wealth as well as those shrouded in extreme poverty extending from the posh Cuffparade and Juhu areas to the poverty stricken slums of Dharavi, Asia's largest slum.
The city, which rarely sleeps at night, has recorded the fourth largest populace in the world. Mumbai metropolis also houses the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) and the corporate powerhouse of many Indian business conglomerates. Mumbai is also the headquarters of the Indian entertainment industry and thus has fans flocking there for a glimpse of their favorite Bollywood bigwigs.
The city offers a diverse platter of tourist attractions, shopping malls and beaches ranging from the Gateway of India, Bombay Natural History Museum, Chor Bazaar, Chowpatty Beach, Juhu Beach, Crawford Market, Elephanta Caves, Film City, Essel World, Prithvi Theatre, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Afghan Church, Haji Ali Dargah and Shangrila Water Park to name a few.
Places to See in Mumbai
1. The Flora Fountain
The Flora Fountain In the middle of the mega city, amidst the modern skyscrapers of Mumbai lies an architectural masterpiece. The Flora Fountain, with an aesthetically sculpted monument on the top, is situated on the Dadabhai Naoroji Road at the Fort business district in South Mumbai.
2. Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Market
All the Mumbaikars and those who have been to Mumbai will definitely vouch for the fact that the Crawford Market is the liveliest and the most crowded shopping arcade in the city of dreams. Located right in the heart of the city in front of the iconic Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Railway Station, the Crawford Market was built during the time of the British Raj. After independence, the market was officially named after the social reformer Jyotibha Phule and thus, gained popularity as Mahatma Jyotibha Phule Market.
3. Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
A perfect Indian architecture with a three-spired structure, Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Mumbai is counted among the popular temples of the city. It is made of pink stones with intricate carving. The temple and the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha works on the principles of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.
4. Radha Ras Bihari Temple
Spread over four acres of land, Radha Ras Bihari Temple (or commonly known as ISKCON temple) in Mumbai is among the most beautiful temples in the city. Located near the Juhu beach with over a hundred-feet high marble domes, the ISKCON temple cannot be ruled out while visiting the Mumbai nagari. Shree Radha Ras Bihari Ashta Sakhi Temple (the complete name of the temple) is dedicated to Radha-Krishna and the eight companions of Radha. It was opened in 1978 and houses the main temple, an auditorium, a seven-storeyed guest house, a restaurant and a bakery.
Amusement parks in Mumbai
1. Essel World
Essel world situated in the city of Mumbai has earned the honor of being the best amusement park in the country. Designed on international patterns, the park attracts numerous visitors across the country. Around 1.8 million people make their way to the park every year. Essel World is just the place you would like to be at if you are an admirer of thrill and excitement. The rides at Essel World will leave you thrilled.
2. Fantasy Land
Fantasy Land, spanning over 30 acres of greenery at Jogeswari near Mumbai, was made in 1992. A fun and amusement Park on the suburbs of the city, Fantasy Land is a treasure island with full of exciting rides and games. The Park enjoys the advantage of easy accessibility due to its convenient location.
3. Suraj Water Park
Suraj Water Park is set on a lush green area of 17 acres. The amazing wonderland surrounded by water has made a place in the Limca Book of Records for its 103 feet long cave made up of fiber glass. Located near Mumbai, the Park is an easily reachable destination. With a combination of exciting water rides, the Park is a perfect recreational hub of Mumbai.
4. Water Kingdom
Water Kingdom, Asia's largest water Park, is a renowned place of amusement located on the borders of Mumbai. The Park is a perfect world of delight with hordes of water wonders that come in the form of thrilling rides. Located by the side of Essel World, the place is connected with the western express highway.
5. Tikuji-ni-Wadi
Tikuji-ni-Wadi, a Family Theme Park, is set in between the serene hills of Manpada Chitralsar Thane. The Park is just a 40 km drive away from Mumbai. Opened in 1993 Tikuji-ni-Wadi today is an acknowledged tourist spot of Maharashtra. The place has an Amusement park, an Ocean Park and eateries.
Beaches In Mumbai
1. Chowpatty Beach
Chowpatty Beach is located on the north of Marine drive. Especially on weekends and holidays, the lively Chowpatty Beach turns into a picnic spot for the people of Mumbai. While on the ordinary working days, during the evening people come for a break from the tedious routine life. People of all age from young children to elderly people come here and enjoy the beauty of the sandy beach.
2. Juhu Beach
Juhu Beach lies in the suburbs of Mumbai. To the west of Juhu Beach is the Arabian Sea and to its east are Santacruz and Vile Parle. The Versova Beach is towards the north of Juhu. It is situated 18-km north of the Mumbai city centre and one of the most posh areas of Mumbai. It is a popular destination for elite class for residential apartments and bungalows. A number of well known film personalities of the Indian film industry live here. It is even a favorite destination of filmmakers of Bollywood for shooting films. People even come here to immerse the idols of Lord Ganesha during Ganesh Chaturthi.
3. Marine Drive
Marine Drive is a stretch of 3 km in South Mumbai, from Nariman Point to the end of the Malabar Hill. It is in the form of an inverted 'C', with a metal six lanes road running along the coast of Arabian Sea. It is popularly known as the 'Queen's Necklace', because during the night the street lights shine like diamonds from a higher elevation. The Chowpatty Beach lies on the northern fringe of Marine Drive.
Famous monuments in Mumbai
1. Elephanta Caves
The Elephanta Caves have large halls, courtyards, inner cells, porticos and vestibules that connect one part of the cave to the other part. The Caves have many images of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. No wonder this place vibrates with positive energy and resonates with spiritual energy. However, the presiding deity of the Cave is Lord Shiva.
2. Film City
The very name of the "Film City" of Mumbai, is a source of inspiration for many young and budding talents of our country. Apart from being the business capital of India, Mumbai is famous for the various production houses. The Indian film city is fondly called as "Bollywood" which is an important source of entertainment for most of us. The Film City is also a major spot of tourist interest. The travel agents who organize the sightseeing of Mumbai keeps almost an hour for the tourist to go round the Film City.
3. Flora Fountain
Located in the Fort district of Mumbai, the Flora Fountain is an attractive spot for tourist. The Flora Fountain was dedicated to the Governor of Mumbai, Sir Bartle Frere in recognition of his service to the city of Bombay. The Flora Fountain was named after the Roman Goddess Flora, the Goddess of prosperity and beauty.
4. Mumbai High Court
The Mumbai High Court was an important seat of legal and judicial jurisprudence, right from 1672. Under the strict supervision of Gerald Aungier, who was the Governor of the Surat Factory, George Wilcox became the Judge of the First British Court of Justice in Mumbai. However after the Revolt of 1857, the British Court was dissolved and the Bombay High Court came into prominence on 14th August 1862 under the 'Indian High Court Act' of 1861. After several decades of British rule, on 26th January 1950, the present day Bombay High Court acquired a separate Federal identity under the Supreme Court of India. With a long historical background, the High Court of Bombay is one of the oldest serving High Court of India.
5. Kanheri Caves
The Kanheri caves are spread over a wide area. Each cave served as the room of a single monk which had a stone podium that was probably used as a bed. There is also a huge hall which houses the 'Dagoba' , a Buddhist Image. The Hall was used as a place for mass religious meetings or for group worship.
6. The Gateway Of India
The Gateway of India is one of the architectural marvel of our country. Located on the southern part of Mumbai on the shores of Arabian Sea, the Gateway of India is an important landmark of the city. It is virtually the starting point for any tourist who wants to get acquainted with the exuberant and exciting life of Mumbai. The huge monuments speaks at length about the history of our country. The beautifully engraved designs and the well built pillars remind us of the colonial rule and the sacrifices of our fellow country men.
7. Rajabai Clock Tower
Located within the University Complex of Mumbai, Rajaji Clock Tower is one of the important landmarks of Mumbai that attracts many tourists through out the year. Modeled on the lines of London's "Big Ben" , the Rajaji Clock Tower was built in the 19th century between 1869 and 1878 by George Gilbert. The tower derived its name from "Rajaji" who was the mother of a stock broker Premchand "Cotton King" Roychand who had borne the entire cost of building the clock tower.
8. University Building
The University Building of Mumbai reflects the rich architecture and historicity of the city. The building is known for its rich architecture with its highly engraved pillars and ornamented arch. Spread over a huge area, the University building is a living example of French Gothic style. The University building was planned by Sir George Gilbert Scott. The large circular windows with stained glasses skylights showing the various zodiac signs are the main features of the building.
9. Worli Fort
The Worli Fort was built by the British as a precautionary measure around 1675 overlooking the Mahim Bay. The Fort is situated at a strategically important place from where the British Navy could see the vessels approaching the western coast of our country. The Worli Fort is does not attract many tourist because of the surrounding fishing areas. The Fort is in the middle of the Worli Fishing Village that makes the for quite inaccessible.
Gardens in Mumbai
1. Balodyan Gardens
Mumbai has many parks and gardens and one among them is Balodyan Gardens. Mumbai is located at the south west of India on the Konkani coast. Mumbai, the financial capital of India, is one of the most highly populated cities in the world. Often people need a break from their normal routine in Mumbai and the places to head for are the peaceful parks and gardens of Mumbai. Balodyan Gardens is one such place.
2. Hanging Garden
The commercial capital of India, Mumbai is also famous for the entertainment and tourism industry. Mumbai has many places of interest in and around the city that attract huge number of tourists throughout the year, Hanging garden is one among them. Hanging Garden in Mumbai was built in1880 on the Malabar hills and later renovated in 1921. It is so called because this terraced garden lies on the slopes of Malabar hills.
3. Jijamata Udyan Zoo
Jijamata Udyan Zoo is located in Rani Jijamata Udyan Victoria Gardens, is established in 1861. It is one of the oldest zoos of India. The zoo is a habitat for a number of uncommon and endangered species of birds and animals. The garden covers a total area of more than 48 acres in Byculla, in the centre of Mumbai.
4. Kamala Nehru Park
Kamala Nehru Park in Mumbai is the perfect spot for nature lovers, who want to spend their evenings or mornings in the lap of nature. It was established in 1952 and spread over an area of 4,000 sq. yards. The park derived its name after the wife of the first Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru.
5. Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a beautiful park in Mumbai. It is situated on the northern part of the suburbs of Mumbai and spread over a total area of 104 sq. km. A huge number of people visit the park, it is roughly estimated that 2 million visitors come here annually. The park is decorated with a wide variety of flora and fauna.
Religious Places in Mumbai
1. Babulnath Temple
One of the most ancient temples in Mumbai is the Babulnath Temple. The residing deity in the Babul Nath temple is Lord Shiva, who is in the form of a Babul tree. The Babulnath Temple is situated in the South of Malabar Hill towards the end of Marine Drive. Situated at an altitude of almost 1,000 feet, the temple of Babulnath stands pretty looking across the Arabian Sea.
2. Buddhist Temple
The Buddhist Temple of Mumbai is a renowned place of worship among the Buddhist people of India. This place of worship is located on Maulana Abdul Gaffar Khan Road in the north-west suburbs of Worli. This temple remains open daily. You can Visit the Buddhist Temple any time of the day.
3. Haji Ali Dargah
Haji Ali Dargah is a mosque in Mumbai built in the middle of the sea with a constricted path leading to the dargah. It is the tomb of Saint Haji Ali. The white mosque is located 500 yards into the sea and can be accessed only during the low tide.
4. Jain Temple
Babu Amichand Panalal Adishwarji Jain Temple is a very beautiful Jain Temple in Mumbai. Jain Temples are as it is famous for their beauty and the one in Mumbai is considered to be one of the most wonderful Jain Temples in India.
5. Mahalaxmi Temple
The atmosphere around the temple is filled with serenity. Visitors find the ambiance, ideal for offering their prayers to God. Three deities reside in the Mahalaxmi Temple namely Kali, Saraswati and Lakshmi. However, as the main idol is of the Goddess Lakshmi, the temple is named after her. The three religious idols are known as Mahalakshmi, Mahakali and Mahasaraswati. They are embellished with ornaments like pearl necklaces, gold bangles and nose rings.
6. Mount Mary Church
Mount Mary Church is located on a beautiful hill on the outskirts of Mumbai. It is one of the most well known churches in Mumbai. It was constructed by the Portuguese in 1640 and was later reconstructed in 1761. It is believed that Mount Mary Church was destroyed in 1738, during a Maratha raid. Later Mother Mary's statue was recovered from Arabian Sea by local fishermen and was kept in St. Andrews, before being moved to the newly constructed Mount Mary Church.
7. Mumbadevi Temple
Mumbadevi Temple in Mumbai is the temple of Maa Mumbadevi. Mumbai has derived its name from Goddess Mumbadevi. It is built to pay a tribute to the Goddess of Mumbai. There is a great mythological story attached to the creation of this temple.
8. Siddhivinayak Temple
The Siddhivinayak Temple is a very famous temple in Mumbai. It is also known as Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Temple. This temple is situated at Prabhadevi in Mumbai. It is a two hundred years old Temple. People believe that Lord Ganesh of Siddhivinayak Temple fulfills the desire of His worshipers.
9. Walukeshwar Temple
The Walukeshwar Temple was built around 1050 years ago by the Silharas. It got destructed by the French during the sixteenth century. The temple was re-constructed in 1715 by Rama Kamath. The recent structure of Walukeshwar Temple finally came into being in the 1950s.
Tourist Destinations Near Mumbai
One can make excursions from Mumbai to hill resorts and historical places around Mumbai. Bassein, which bears a close resemblance to Goa, is a quiet place where tourists can enjoy solitude away from the hustle & bustle of crowded cities.
1. Aurangabad
Aurangabad is a historical destination, famous for its medieval monuments and cultural heritage. It is well-known for the world heritage sites, Ajanta and Ellora Caves.
2. Khandala
Khandala is an exotic hill station, ideal for trekking.
3. Lonavala
Lonavala is a beautiful place covered with lush green sceneries.
4. Matheran
Matheran is a small hill station situated near Mumbai, known for its freshness and beauty.
The second largest city of Maharashtra, Pune offers many tourist attractions. It is famous for the Ashram of Osho Rajneesh and many gardens along with the banks of river Mula-Mutha.
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