The cosmopolitan city that never sleeps, the city that is the root of all my memories; my hometown, Mumbai. A remarkable anomaly of chaos, history, magic and fun is what this city is. From hills to beaches, from olden era monuments to classy urban architecture, Mumbai is known for all their perfect combinations. Residing India’s booming Bollywood film industry, Asia’s largest slum (Dharavi), world’s most expensive house (Antilla), Mumbai is the kind of city that you can never get enough of.
Formerly known as Bombay, Mumbai is the bustling financial capital of India and is the capital of the state of Maharashtra .It is also the fashion hub of the country which attracts thousands of people everyday seeking fortune and fame. Having a subtropical climate, it experiences a rich influx of tourists all year round.
A Guide to Mumbai :
Gateway of India– This monument is located at Apollo Bunder Waterfront, the southern tip of the city and is one of the most distinguished structures in Mumbai preserved since he year 1924. The view from the sea, especially at night is an enchanting one. It is the most popular tourist hub of the city. Gateway of India is also a significant symbol of India’s rich history and cultural heritage. (Ferry rides to closer destinations like Elephanta Caves and Alibaug are available from here.)
Transport– Mumbai has the backing of a strong public transport networking system. Local Transport: BEST Buses, Black & Yellow Taxis, Autorickshaws (only in the suburbs), Metros are efficient and convenient for all. Local trains are said to be the lifeline of Mumbai and run round the clock (except 1am to 4am). However I really recommend using Uber and Ola Taxis for transportation as they are inexpensive, comfortable and are used in and around the city in an air-conditioned vehicle. (The fares are prefixed and are seen on the app). *Tip: Travel long distances during off peak hours to avoid heavy traffic*
Hotels– Accommodations in Mumbai are very easy to find as this city offers numerous B&B options, serviced apartment and luxury hotels/resorts. Two prominent areas that are highly recommended for staying are Juhu (around the beach) and near Nariman Point (Mumbai Southern Tip)
Queen’s Necklace– A golden crescent of bright yellow lights adorns the shoreline of this beautiful patch in Marine Drive after sunset. Queen’s Necklace is main attraction of Nariman Point that offers glimmering views of the Arabian Sea.
Shopping – Keeping in mind the fact that Mumbai is the fashion hub of the country, it offers a variety of amazingly staggering flea markets including Fashion Street (highly recommended), Colaba Causeway (recommended for junk jewellery and clothes), Chor Bazaar (for antiques) and Crawford Market (for wholesale purchase). Phoenix Market City (Kurla), Palladium Mall and Infiniti 2 are few of the best malls for both dining and shopping experiences.
Food & Nightlife– The nights are so radiant in the city of Mumbai, because of which we call it a city that never sleeps. BKC (Bandra Kurla Complex) houses eateries like Nara Thai, Papaya, CinCin, Yautcha, Kitchen Garden by Suzette (organic health food) and many more. The Kamla Mills Complex holds endless nightclubs, dining and fast food options for every taste like Koko, Kode, Theory and Flea Bazaar Cafe to name a few. Beachside options towards the suburbs include lounge bars such as Estella, Club B and Olive’s (recommended Thursday nights). Must try the local food like Vada Pavs, Pav Bhaji, Grilled Sandwich, Bhel & Sev Puri. *Must specify that you want them non-spicy as they are particularly extra spicy*
Festivals– A large number of people belonging to different religions and cultures like Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Christians, Muslims etc. live together in this city, making Mumbai a multi-lingual and multi-cultural city. Few of the major festivals celebrated whole-heartedly in Mumbai are Diwali (October/November), Holi (March), Ganpati (September), Eid(June/July), Navratri (October/November) and Christmas (December).
Temples/Churches/Mosques– Temples such as Iskcon Temple (Juhu), Mumba Devi Temple (South Mumbai), Mahalaxmi Temple (Breach Candy) and Siddhivinayak (PrabhaDevi) attract millions from across the globe. Churches like Mount Mary Church (Bandra), St.Michael’s Church (Mahim) and St.Thomas Cathedral (Churchgate) are few of the oldest and most visited churches in Mumbai. The Haji Ali (Mahim) is a historical landmark of Mumbai and the most popular pilgrimage destination where thousands of devotees both Muslims and non-Muslims seek solace.
Beaches– The serene calm of the Versova beach to the street food of Juhu beach and the charm of Aksa beach make the evenings and early mornings in Mumbai a sight to behold. Chowpatty beach in Marine Drive is a perfect place to gather for a view of Lord Ganesha Immersions if you are visiting during the Ganpati festivities.
So what are you waiting for? Come get drenched in it’s cultures and traditions and fall in love with this city, the melting pot of hope and dreams…
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