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Mumbai – the city of dreams! The city where opportunities are limitless, where destinies change over-night and dreams meet reality. The never-die-spirit of Mumbai is as legendary as is its unique character - from its stunning architecture to the mouth-watering street food, from its overflowing local trains to glittering Bollywood and from its signature dabbawalas to the washer men of dhobi ghat! Each place in Mumbai exudes its distinctive charm and dynamic ebullience and all must be visited to get a real feel of the Mumbai vibe. Here are some places to visit in Mumbai that you must include in your Mumbai tour packages.
The Gateway of India is an iconic monument which is topmost in the Mumbai places to visit. Constructed to commemorate the arrival of King George V and Queen Mary in India, it draws inspiration from Mughal as well as 16th century Maratha architecture. Though a symbolic ceremonial entrance to British India, this monument also marks the place from where the last British troops left India after independence in 1948. This grandiose monument is located on the waterfront, overlooking the Arabian Sea opposite the Taj Mahal Hotel. Now synonymous with the city of Mumbai, it’s a tourist attraction you simply can’t miss.
Marine Drive ranks really high up in Mumbai tourist places. It is a 3.6 km beachfront promenade which offers spectacular views of the large expanse of the Arabian Sea. Make a trip to Marine Drive and enjoy a stroll by the sea, watch a glorious sunset or get a view of the Mumbai skyline. It is also called Queen’s Necklace since the glowing street lights at night resemble a string of pearls and quite literally represent the glamour and glitter of the city.
Tucked away on an island called Gharapuri (city of caves), 10 km from Mumbai, Elephanta Caves are a must-visit destination in Mumbai holiday packages. A collection of cave temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, these fascinating rock cut stone sculptures date as far back as 2nd century BC. These carved caves reflect not only Hindu but Buddhist sculptures too. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can reach the Elephanta Caves by an hour-long ferry from the Gateway of India.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, formerly known as Victoria Terminus (VT) is an imposing and magnificent train station. This impressive structure displays a fusion of influences from Victorian Gothic Revival architecture and deep Indian traditional architecture. It includes fascinating turrets, pointed arches, a stone dome, wood carvings, grand staircases and much more which make it a brilliant landmark that tourists visit. And when it is illuminated at night, it is sight that you simply can’t miss.
The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu, formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum is a leading a museum in India which showcases a vast collection of Indian art and sculpture. Miniature paintings, Hindu and Buddhist sculpture, terracotta figurines from the Indus Valley, artefacts and arms from the Mughal and Maratha era are exhibited here. This impressive domed structure is designed in the Indo-Saracenic style drawing inspiration from Mughal, Maratha and Jain architecture.
Deeply tucked away in the heart of Mumbai, are the ancient Buddhist Kanheri caves in the lush and serene backdrop of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. These beautifully carved rocks which date from the 1st century BC to 11th century AD is a prime tourist spot in Mumbai trip packages. This splendid cave complex consists of one hundred and nine caves which includes both unadorned caves as well as highly embellished ones. Other than Buddhist sculptures, inscriptions, and paintings, there is also a fascinating congregation hall with huge stone pillars containing a Buddhist stupa.
Spread over 103 square kilometres this verdant patch of wilderness lies bang in the heart of the metropolis of Mumbai. Home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, the Sanjay Gandhi National Park shelters 254 species of birds, 40 species of mammals, 150 species of butterflies, 78 species of reptiles and over 1300 species of plants. Known for leopard and other wild animals’ spotting, this tranquil forest offers tourists a respite from the chaos and bustle of the city.
Any Mumbai guide will tell you that the 400-year old Haji Ali Dargah, standing proud in the middle of the Arabian Sea, 500 yards from the shoreline is a prestigious landmark of Mumbai. Thousands of devotees of all religions throng to this iconic tomb of Muslim Saint Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari every day for the fulfilment of their wishes. This grand structure has white domes and is flanked by minarets giving it magnificent look. An absolute must-see!
If you are an adrenaline junkie, a trip to Essel World is necessary! Located in Gorai, right beside Water Kingdom, Essel World boasts of being the largest amusement park in India. The 42-acre complex has 57 attractions designed for all age groups. Get your share of thrills at Essel World’s famous rides such as Shot N Drop, Monsters in the Mist, Top Spin and Bowling Alley among others.
This world famous, 140-year-old open-air laundromat features in the Guinness Book of World Records and is one of Mumbai’s most distinctive landmarks. It is said that each day, half a million pieces of clothing are sent here from hotels, hospitals and homes to be hand washed, wrung, dried and ironed. To observe the entire process in progress is quite an unbelievable experience! This chaotic place which has unimaginable organisation behind the scenes, just adds to Mumbai’s unique character.
Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Shri Siddhivinayak Temple is a 200-year-old iconic place of worship in Mumbai. It is one of the richest temples in India where thousands of devotees flock every day. The inner roof of the sanctum has gold plating and the wooden doors are carved with images of the Ashtavinayak (8 forms of Lord Ganesha). A golden dome adorns the top of the temple. Explore your religious side with a tour of the Shri Siddhivinayak Temple.
Bandra-Worli Sea Link is India’s first eight-lane, cable-stayed bridge to be constructed in open seas, linking Mumbai’s suburbs to South Mumbai. It brings down driving distance between Bandra and Worli to just ten minutes. This man-made marvel is a perfect example of brilliant engineering. A drive over this bridge offers spectacular views of the sea as well as the fantastic Mumbai skyline. The night view of the beautifully illuminated street lights on the bridge is a mesmerising sight to behold.
Perched on top of Malabar Hill, Kamala Nehru Park sprawled over 4 acres is part of the Hanging Gardens complex of Mumbai. Standing above the city, this park offers panoramic views of the city, Chowpatty Beach and Marine Drive. Well-manicured lawns, large shady trees and a variety of flowers make Kamala Nehru Park a splendid picnic spot. One of its most unique features is a huge old woman’s shoe which is very popular with children who love to climb on it.
Rajabai Clock Tower is a notable landmark in Mumbai packages itinerary. This towering 250-feet structure stands tall in the Fort campus of Mumbai University. Inspired by the design of Big Ben in London, the Rajabhai Clock Tower is a fantastic fusion of Gothic and Venetian style architecture. The big clock in this majestic tower can be seen from a distance and plays a specific tune at fixed intervals. Now considered a World Heritage site, Rajabai Clock Tower with beautiful statues, carvings and stained-glass work is an absolute must-see!
If ever there is a street market full of interesting trinkets, fascinating souvenirs, intricate silver jewellery, clothes, bags, shoes and street jewellery, it has to be Colaba Causeway! Located in an upmarket neighbourhood, close to the iconic Gateway of India, Colaba Causeway is a treasure-trove of exquisite stuff. This Mumbai street is lined with shops where you will find trendy goods as well as roadside stalls where you can walk away with a steal. Don’t forget to hone your bargaining skills before a trip to Colaba Causeway.
The Global Vipassana Pagoda situated in Gorai, Mumbai is a famous meditation dome hall sprawled across 6000 metre square that can seat around 8000 meditators. Built using ancient Indian and modern technology to ensure it lasts for a thousand years, the centre of the pagoda boasts of being the world’s largest stone dome built without any supporting pillars and contains the relics of the Buddha. Declared as one of “Seven Wonders of Maharashtra”, it’s one of the noteworthy Mumbai places to visit.
The Shree Mahalakshmi Temple is a famous temple of Mumbai, built around 1785, dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi or “Goddess of Wealth”. There are three goddesses – Mahakali, Mahalakshmi and Mahasaraswati, with Mahalakshmi being the central presiding deity holding lotus flowers. All three goddesses are adorned with heavy jewellery like nose rings, gold bangles and necklaces. Thousands of devotees flock to this sacred temple every year and it is a must-visit if you are in Mumbai.
Standing on a hillock overlooking the Arabian Sea, this beautiful and grandiose basilica is popularly known as Mount Mary Church. The current church made in stone is 100 years old, but the statue of Our Lady was brought from Portugal by Jesuit priests way back in the 16th century. The Blessed Virgin Mary is believed to have miraculous powers and attracts people from all faiths who come in search of divine grace and blessings. This basilica is a symbol of hope, healing and peace.
