Mumbai (formerly called Bombay) is the capital city of the Indian state of Maharashtra. The name Mumbai is derived from Mumba Devi—the name of the goddess of the native community. Situated within a crowded market area, this temple is one of the oldest temples in Mumbai. Mumba Devi temple boasts of simple yet beautiful architecture. An impressive idol of the deity is installed, decorated with Marigold flowers and many ornaments.
Mumbai is the sixth most populous metropolitan area in the world with a population of over 23 million. Mumbai lies on the Konkan coast on the west coast of India and has a natural harbour.
Photo: Nightlife in Mumbai
Mumbai is built on what was once an archipelago of seven islands: Isle of Bombay, Parel, Mazagaon, Mahim, Colaba, Worli, and Old Woman's Island (Little Colaba).
Mumbai is the financial, commercial and the entertainment capital of India. It is also one of the world's top ten centres of commerce in terms of global financial flow. The city is also home to Bollywood(Indian film industry) and Marathi(Regional language) cinema industries. Mumbai's business opportunities attract migrants from all over India.
Photo: Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE)
Sightseeing in Mumbai
Mumbai is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Elephanta Caves, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, and also famous for the city's distinctive Victorian Art Deco buildings.
1. Elephanta caves
Built in mid-5th to 6th centuries AD, it is a collection of Shiva and Buddhist rock-cut temples located near Mumbai. There are legends that say that the Prince of Chalukya Dynasty - Pulkesin ll built these caves. Elephanta Caves are among the finest rock architecture existing in India. When it was ceded to the Portuguese by the kings of Ahmadabad in the 16th century, it ceased to be a place of worship, and the caves and sculptures were damaged by Portuguese soldiers. Whether you are a history buff, a connoisseur of art and architecture or an excited traveler, do not miss out on exploring this prime attraction in the city.
2. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus
This high Gothic Victorian landmark is the centrepiece of the city's suburban train network. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus was built during the British rule in India. The construction of this iconic landmark was commenced in 1787 and went on all the way till 1887.
3. Gateway of India
The Gateway of India is a major tourist attraction for visitors who arrive in India for the first time. Built during the 20th century, it was erected to commemorate the landing of King George V and Queen Mary, the first British monarch to visit India in December 1911. Hotel Taj Mahal which is the most luxurious five-star hotel of Mumbai lies exactly to the opposite side of Gateway of India.
4. Rajabai Tower
One of the most beautiful and a big tourist attraction of South Mumbai is the Rajabai Clock Tower. It is located in the Fort campus of the University of Mumbai. It stands at a height of 85 m. It was built during British rule where its design was based on the model of the Big Ben, the clock tower in the United Kingdom.
5. Hutatma Chowk and Flora fountain
Hutatma Chowk was erected as a martyrs’ memorial to Marathi nationalism, marking the 105 people who died in protests against Nehru’s (politician) plan to separate Mumbai from Maharashtra after independence. The square hosts Flora Fountain built in 1864 and was known by that name until 1960 when it was officially renamed in memory of the said martyrs.
Photo: Hutatma Chowk
Photo: Flora Fountain
6. The Asiatic society of Mumbai
Up the spectacular steps of the grand and impressive Town Hall at Mumbai's Horniman Circle lies the Asiatic Society of Bombay's library with its treasures of books and periodicals, ancient manuscripts, painted folios, coins, artefacts, maps and prints.
Photo: Horniman Circle
7. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum
Formerly named as the Prince of Wales Museum, it is the main museum in Mumbai. Its collections include Tibetan art, Chinese porcelain, Mughal and Rajput miniatures, jewelry and glass collections along with the natural history section. The history section contains dioramas, and there is a collection of exhibits from the period of the Maratha confederacy (17th–18th century).
8. Bhau Daji Lad Museum
It is the oldest museum in Mumbai situated in the vicinity of Byculla Zoo. The exhibitions here consisting of dioramas and models strongly focus on decorative arts collection, Mumbai’s origins and development in the 18th, 19th and early 20th century and culture and lifestyle of communities migrated to Mumbai.
9. Sanjay Gandhi National park and Kanheri caves
Established in 1996, known for its dense forests, vast bird life, butterflies, and the small population of tigers(especially white tigers) , SGNP is notable as one of the major national parks existing within a metropolis limit. The famous Kanheri Caves are located within the park. These are more than 100 Buddhist caves inhabited for nearly a millennium until the 11th century. They also have the distinction of having the largest number of cave excavations from a single hill.
Photo: White Tiger at SGNP
Photo: Kanheri Caves
10. Marine drive
Marine Drive is a 3.6-kilometre-long promenade in South Mumbai. Visit this serene location for watching mesmerizing sunset or for taking an evening stroll enjoying the cool breeze. Marine Drive is also known as the Queen's Necklace because, when viewed at night from an elevated point anywhere along the drive, the street lights resemble a string of diamonds in a necklace.
These were some of the popular tourist attractions in Mumbai. If you visit Mumbai, be sure to visit these places. I hope you spend a good time in Mumbai!
See you! Bye bye!
Comments