Home to Bollywood, the charm and appeal of the films and the lifestyles that are portrayed are often associated with Mumbai as a whole. Alongside this, many migrants move to Mumbai in search of a better life in general – to ‘follow their dreams’. Due to this, there is a blatant attraction to the city of Mumbai, earning it this nickname of ‘The City of Dreams’.
As the city has umpteen tourist sites, you need to plan your trip in advance if you don’t want to miss out on anything!
Let us take a look at some of the best places to visit in Mumbai:
1. Witness the Old World Charm in Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
Strolling through Old Mumbai or South Bombay will take you back in time as you will find some buildings built in beautiful architectural designs. You will find a perfect blend of Gothic and contemporary architectural styles. You will witness greater British influence on the colonial-era buildings.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is an epitome of the colonial-era buildings. This is one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites in India. This is a classical architecture marvel of British era. This 135 year old structure is pride of Indian Railway terminus. It is one of the busiest railway terminus in India.
2. Explore the Gateway of India
An iconic landmark in Mumbai, the Gateway of India was built during the 20th century. It was built to commemorate the arrival of King George V and Queen Mary. Ironically, this was the place chosen by the British to give the final farewell to India. Your trip to Mumbai is incomplete without exploring the Gateway of India. The Taj Mahal Hotel is located completely opposite the Gateway of India.
3. Stroll Through the Marine Drive
You haven’t explored Mumbai unless you visit the Marine Drive. Mumbai is loaded with countless visual treats but the best one by far is the “Queen's necklace” or more commonly called the Marine drive. It's a paved promenade encircling the Mahim bay. This coastal road gives you a glimpse of the mighty Arabian sea crashing into the star shaped boulders and a stunning view of mumbai skyline.
Dotted with many posh places and eateries, these place is the highest rated tourist place in Mumbai. Marine Drive and Chowpatty are old landmarks of Mumbai, and quite popular among tourists. The night is the perfect time to stroll through the Marine Drive as the street lights and lamps surrounding the promenade act like a Queen’s necklace. This scenic sight of the enlightened Marine Drive is a sight to behold.
You can even try delectable street food from Mumbai at the Marine Drive. The Pearl of the Orient, a revolving restaurant at the top of Ambassador Hotel near Churchgate station, off Marine Drive, provides for a breathtaking view of Mumbai’s skyline. With The Gateway of India and Mumbai Stock Exchange Tower on one side it revolves to let us see the skyline of Nariman Point and Cuffe Parade in the distant, and Braborne Stadium on the South side.
4. Enjoy a Day Trip to Elephanta Caves
Elephanta Caves is a set of caves carved out of basalt rock at the Elephanta Island. You can take a ferry ride from Gateway of India and reach the Elephanta Caves. During the ride, you can even enjoy the scenic views of the Mumbai coastline. The caves will provide a glimpse of the rich historical past of the city.
5. Enliven your Taste Buds around Aksa Beach
If you want to satiate the foodie in you, Mumbai is the place to visit. From street food to fine dining options, you will find everything here. However, the highlight of the city is the street food such as Pav Bhajji, Sevv Puri, Vada Pav, Bhel Puri, Pani Puri, and a lot more. You can also try the authentic Iranian cuisine at the Parsi Café.
Leopold Café is one of the most popular cafes in Mumbai that you should definitely visit. If you want to try your hands at the Mughlai cuisines, Punjab Grill is the place to visit.
6. Take a Bollywood Tour from Carter Road Promenade
The City of Dreams is known for its glitz and glamour and of course Bollywood. Without taking the Bollywood tour, can your trip be complete? Locals can take you to the stops outside the houses of famous celebrities including Jalsa, Mannat, and a lot more. In case you are lucky, you might get a chance to meet the famous Bollywood stars!
7. Pay a visit to Haji Ali Dargah
Haji Ali Dargah is a popular place in Mumbai that attracts tourists from all walks of life. This structure was built in the 15th century on a small island. Taking a glimpse of the city from the shrine is truly an experience that you can cherish for your lifetime. Your trip to Haji Ali Dargah can become all the more memorable if you happen to meet the Qawwali singers.
The 500 year old Dargah is a blend of Indo-Islamic architecture. The Dargah has been listed in the World Book of Records as one of the most visited shrines. One of the most surprising facts is that the path that connects the island to the mainland gets submerged during the high tide. Thus, it can be reached only during the low tide.
8. Roam around Sanjay Gandhi National Park
This isn’t just another national park. This is situation right in the middle of Mumbai Metropolitan region. This 103 sq. km. area is a protected zone, and the biodiversity of this place is phenomenal. Covered with dense forests and ravines, hillocks and grasslands, it makes for a super place for nature lovers. And the best part - it is easily accessible.
Hikers, trekkers, bird watchers and animal lovers will simple love this National Park. Beware, you may come across big wild cats roaming around.
9. Make sure to visit Kanheri Caves
When you visit Sanjay Gandhi National Park make sure to visit these ancient caves (if you love historical places, these will take your breath away). Nestled in the forests of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, these caves date back to 1st century bce to 10th century ce.
10. See ancient artifacts in Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
This is magnificent structure is located in the Fort region near the Gateway of India. It is one of the most important museums of India which has ancient artifacts dating back from as far back as the Indus Valley Civilization, Mauryan, Gupta era to Maratha and Mughal empire. The structure itself is also a fabulous example of classical architecture of British era.
11. Go on a Shopping Spree around Colaba Causeway
Mumbai acts as a haven for shopaholics. Be it fancy designer outlets or shopping streets, you will have the best shopping experience in Mumbai. Colaba Causeway, Linking Road, and Fashion Street are some of the best shopping places in Mumbai where you can get anything you want from clothes, jewellery to accessories!
There is something for everyone in this beautiful city of Mumbai. So, book cheap flights to Mumbai and get spoilt for choice in this wonderful city.
