MUMBAI formerly known as Bombay, the wealthiest, most populated and the most visited city in India, is also one of the most populated in the world. A city that never sleeps, where everything or everybody is on the move. A city full of dreamers and artists, laborers and millionaires, actors & gangsters. A city that houses one of the world’s largest slums, that is equally known for being the homes to both slum dog millionaires as well as an ever-growing list of Forbes’ Indian billionaires. The city which will never grow out of you even if you grow out of of it.
Trust me when I say Mumbai is a city of extremes, as mumbaiker, it’s not for any dramatic reason. It’s very easy to feel overwhelmed in the city where 50% of population lives in slums, the city can be very difficult for some foreign travelers, some might get a cultural shock but it can be very inspiring too. Contrary to what you might think the city is enchanting in its own way, you can smell the rich history & culture as much you can smell the poverty in air, honking vehicles & street animal can be amusing but diversity of city can amaze you.
Amidst the swirl and all the chaos of filthy streets & buzzing bazaars there are lots to do and explore in my city.
In this article you will find a mini guide and list of top things to do in Aamchi Mumbai, watch out for next Mumbai post which will cover the hidden spots in the city.
Mumbai doesn’t have as many historical site as some other places in India but there are still many places you can visit and explore.
Visit Iconic Gateway of India: Located on the waterfront at Apollo bunder in south Mumbai, the Gateway of India is one of the top tourist destinations in Mumbai. It is an arch monument built during the 20th century to commemorate the visit of King George & Queen Mary, was later used as a symbolic ceremonial entrance to India for viceroys & the new governors of city.
Tip: I highly recommend to visit early morning for sunrise to avoid all the chaos and crowds and also the best time for the perfect pictures.
Taj Mahal palace hotel: one of the most famous & best luxury hotels in India is situated in picture perfect location of south Mumbai, Overlooking the Arabian sea & gate way of India. The Taj Mahal palace hotel add life to Mumbai’s beauty. It often plays host to most famous & rich people in the world including Barack Obama & Dalai Lama. Taj hotel offers an unrivaled fusion of warm Indian hospitality, world-class service and modern luxury. The hotel is a beautiful example of architecture from different era.
Tip: Not everyone can afford to stay in this luxurious architecture but you can also visit the cafe and restaurant to admire the interior and indulge in to local Cuisine.
Also Read: An Ultimate Guide To Niagara Falls – Canada
Explore the artistic side of Mumbai at kala ghoda. the khala Ghoda meaning “black horse” is the cultural & art hub of Mumbai. This street is home to Mumbai’s famous Jahangir art galleries and top art museums.
Tip: Are you an art fan ? If yes travel in February you can experience the 9 day kala Ghoda art festivals where you can find fine and performing arts.
Victoria terminus / Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus: Victoria terminus is one of the busiest train stations in the country. This beautiful Victorian Gothic architecture was build in 1887 to celebrate the golden jubilee of Queen Victoria. this historical building is not just any terminal it is life line of Mumbai city from where millions of Mumbaikers travel in and out of the city and also UNESCO world heritage site. if you are history buff, it’s a must visit place.
Tip: you are someone who doesn’t like crowds skip it , but some who love exploring beyond, try taking train ride to next station.
Enjoy the sunset at bandstand Bandra: Bandstand promenade is a kilometer long walkway along the sea located on the west suburb of Mumbai. Home to famous Bollywood celebrity and public figures. you can also enjoy the best view of city skyline & famous bandra worli sea link from the the rough rocks.
Explore the biggest sea link of Mumbai : Bandra worli sea link is a cable stayed bridge which connect the western suburb (Bandra) of Mumbai to south Mumbai (worli). The sea link has fascinating view from both side of Mumbai and it is best way to save travel time if you commuting between suburb and south Mumbai as the famous landmark (gateway of india, Taj palace hotel , victoria termius & marine drive) is located in the south Mumbai.
Tips: The best view point of the Bandra-Worli sea link is from lands end from bandstand Bandra fort. From here you can sea the beautiful bridge hanging in Arabian sea along with sky line of Mumbai.
Elephant island/cave: located in the sea of Oman, elephant island is home to archaeological remains and also have evidence of civilization that dated back in 2nd century. Elephant island also houses the series of rock heaven cave temples from the 5th century. You can also find 18 ft tall structure of the 3 headed God Shiva (Hindu deity). Elephant island is located in west side of Mumbai and can be reached by boat or a ferry from gate way of India.
Also Read: Top 10 Things to do in Beirut- Lebanon.
Stroll down on marine drive and enjoy the beautiful skyline of Mumbai. Marine drive is C shaped, 3.6 km long concrete road stretched along the coast of Arabian sea. Marine drive is also called called queen necklace because if viewed at night from elevated point along the drive street lights resemble a string of pearls in a necklace. It’s famous place for youngsters to hangout.
Experience the night life : As the sun sets, Mumbai being the business and fashion capital of India, its famous vibrant night life starts to unfold. Don’t forget to enjoy the vivacious night life at places like Bandra, carter road, marine drive, Andheri and lower parel. AER bar at Four Seasons, Tote on the Turf , China House Lounge, Trilogy Night club, Olive Kitchen & bar, Blue Frog are my favorite places to hang out after the sun sets.
Indulge into street food at Juhu chawpati Mumbai is famous for variety of street foods displayed on streets. Rich or poor, everyone relishes in the diverse street food in Mumbai. Food culture revolve around Muslims, Gujarati, coastal , south Indian and local Maharashtarian cuisines. These are some must try street food that define Mumbai culture , Pani Purri, Bhel puri, Batata Vada or Vada Pao(Indian burger), Pao bhaji and samosas.
Shop at local streets & bazaars: Before the end of your Mumbai adventure don’t forget to indulge in to some retail therapy in local bazaars. Colaba causeway and Crawford market are famous place to buy local attractive souvenirs. Linking road in Bandra is famous for cheap clothing & shoe shopping.
when to visit: Mumbai is warm city and it rarely gets cold, most of the year the weather is hot & humid throughout the day. December to February the weather is cool & dry. Best time to visit the city is from October to March. Avoid visiting the city in rainy/monsoon season which is from mid-June to august.
How to commute: Public Transport is the best way of getting around the city. Compare to other Indian City Mumbai actually has Good Public transport, However with over 80 % of Mumbaikers rely on it to get to work and back every day, so its get really congested and crowded. For foreign travelers I highly recommend to Use Taxis and Auto Rickshaws instead of metro and trains – and make sure to settle on a price before getting on!
Important Tips for Foreign travelers:
- Mumbai is warm through out the year so don’t forget to carry your sunscreen if your are someone not accustomed to heat.
- Mumbai is a dusty and polluted city so you should restrict to air conditioned car and restaurants, specially if you have asthma or other respiratory issues.
- Go easy on street food, and make sure to only go for freshly cooked and boiled food.
- Mumbai is one of the safest city in India, however you should travel with sense of caution. Avoid visiting remote areas alone in night.
- Be aware of pick pocketing in crowded area just like any major city.
- Tap water in Mumbai is not safe to drink directly from tap for foreign traveler, I highly recommend to use stralised water.
Mumbai City Information:
- Population: Mumbai’s urban population is estimated to be over 22 million.
- Time Zone: IST ( UTC=5:30)
- Language: Marathi is the official language of Mumbai (Bombay), yet languages like Hindi and English are widely spoken by the people.
- Currency: Rupees -INR
- public Transport: Mumbai public Transport include suburban , metro and monorails, Taxis and Auto rickshaws.
All the pictures in this article is taken by DEV in collaboration with MyMumbai community page on Instagam. check there Instagram pages for Mumbai Photo Inspiration.
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The use of travelling is to regulate imagination by reality, and instead of thinking how things may be , to see them as they are. One thing I have learned from the traveling is to embrace the differences, as the world is full of different people, religions and cultures. I Hope I can inspire you to get out of your comfort zone and travel and visit new places.
🙂 P.S Travel safe Stay Blessed 🙂
WOW BEAUTIFUL PICTURES
Thank you so much 🙂
I want to GO mumbai one day , Inshallah, <3
you should visit :)it’s beautifull.
AMAZING POST , I WANT TO VISIT INDIA SOON
Nice to hear that, let me know if you need any help. 🙂
wow nice article, very well written 🙂 jenice