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The city of Mumbai (formerly Bombay) is the largest city in India.
For many travelers, it is the gateway to the country before moving to other sites in India. Mumbai is enormous in size and mixed with extraordinary wealth on the one hand and abject poverty of the slams on the other. The city of Mumbai actually lies on an island, which is connected by bridges to the mainland.
Mumbai is India's commercial center economically, and the Indian film industry, Bollywood, is one of the high-tech centers and industrial centers.
Food:
Street food is abundant for those who are adventurous, while Western fast-food chains are also readily available for those craving familiar options.
Visa:
A visa is required for entry into India - https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html
Transportation:
Driving in India is an experience like no other. The roads lack rules, road signs, and any regard for right of way. Seat belts and helmets are rarely used, and children are often seen riding on motorcycles without safety measures.
Drivers in India are known for their competitive approach, constantly trying to overtake one another in any direction possible, regardless of the road. It’s a chaotic, honking-filled experience, as every driver seems to have their own idea of how to navigate traffic.
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1. Colaba Causeway
Colaba Causeway is a popular and bustling street located in the Colaba area of South Mumbai. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, historical significance, and eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and landmarks, it's one of the most famous shopping streets in the city.
Colaba Causeway is a bustling main street that attracts millions of visitors each year, offering a wide variety of stalls. Here, you’ll find fashion items, accessories, decorative pieces, food, and a vibrant, lively atmosphere. Don’t be afraid to haggle with the vendors just like in any market, the initial prices are often negotiable, so be prepared to bargain for a better deal.
2. Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai is one of the most iconic luxury hotels in India and a symbol of the city's rich history and heritage. Located in the Colaba area, it overlooks the Gateway of India and offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. It’s renowned for its grandeur, opulence, and impeccable service.
Key Highlights of the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel:
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Historical Significance:
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Opened in 1903, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel was designed by renowned architect Sir George Wittet and is known for its blend of Moorish, Oriental, and Florentine architectural styles.
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It holds a special place in Mumbai's history and was the first hotel in India to have electricity.
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The hotel was also the site of a tragic terrorist attack in 2008, during the Mumbai attacks, but it has since been restored to its former glory, further cementing its status as a symbol of resilience.
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Luxury and Facilities:
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The hotel boasts 560 rooms, including luxury suites that offer world-class amenities. It has a blend of traditional and modern decor that reflects India’s rich heritage while providing top-tier comfort
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Architecture:
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The Taj Mahal Palace’s architecture is a blend of styles, including Islamic, Gothic, and Renaissance influences. Its grand, domed structure is particularly famous, with a combination of white and red stone.
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The hotel’s facade features intricate detailing, beautiful arches, and ornate windows. Inside, it boasts stunning chandeliers, expansive marble floors, and luxurious lounges.
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Website: The Taj Mahal Palace, Colaba, Mumbai - 5 Star Hotel in Mumbai | Taj Hotels
3. Gateway of India
The Gateway of India is an iconic monument located in Mumbai, it was built during the 20th century to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India in 1911. Completed in 1924, it is made of yellow basalt and reinforced concrete and features a blend of Hindu, Muslim, and Western architectural styles.
Standing at 26 meters (85 feet) high, the Gateway of India has become a symbol of Mumbai's historical significance and cultural heritage. It is situated on the waterfront in the Apollo Bunder area in South Mumbai, overlooking the Arabian Sea. The monument also served as the site for the departure of the last British troops from India in 1948, marking the end of British colonial rule.
4. Elephanta Island
Elephanta Island is a small island located in Mumbai Harbor, about 10 kilometers (6 miles) to the east of the city of Mumbai. The island is known for its ancient rock-cut temples, most notably the Elephanta Caves, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These caves are carved into the island's hillsides and are dedicated primarily to the Hindu god Shiva, with intricate sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
The Elephanta Caves date back to around the 5th to 8th centuries CE, and they feature several stunning statues and carvings. The largest and most famous is the 20-foot-high sculpture of Trimurti, representing the three faces of Lord Shiva, symbolizing creation, preservation, and destruction. The caves are an important site for historians, archaeologists, and tourists alike.
Elephanta Island is a popular day-trip destination from Mumbai, and visitors can reach it by ferry from the city. The island also has a tranquil atmosphere with a mix of lush greenery and scenic views, making it a peaceful retreat from the bustle of Mumbai.
Website: elephanta.co.in
Arrival: The island is 10 km northeast of India Gate. About 1 hour of sailing on ferries departing from Pier 4 of Mumbai Port (India Gate). Nice attraction at the entrance to the island It's a train along the platform.
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5. Rajabai Clock Tower
The Rajabai Clock Tower is part of the University of Mumbai campus and is known for its striking Victorian Gothic style. Built between 1869 and 1878, the tower was designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott, a prominent British architect, and funded by a wealthy Gujarati businessman named Premchand Roychand in memory of his mother, Rajabai.
The tower is 85 meters (280 feet) tall, and its design is inspired by the Big Ben clock in London. The Rajabai Clock Tower was once the tallest structure in Mumbai and is recognized for its intricate details and magnificent clock that chimes every hour. The tower's design incorporates a mix of Western and Indian architectural styles, making it a notable example of colonial-era architecture in Mumbai.
6. Horniman Square
Horniman Circle Gardens is a historic park covering approximately 2.5 acres. Established in 1872, it was originally known as Elphinstone Circle, named after Lord Elphinstone, the then Governor of Bombay.
Following India's independence, the area was renamed in honor of Benjamin Horniman, the editor of The Bombay Chronicle newspaper, who supported Indian independence.
The gardens are surrounded by notable buildings, including the Asiatic Society of Mumbai (Town Hall) and the Reserve Bank of India. Adjacent to the gardens is St. Thomas Cathedral, the first Anglican church in Mumbai, completed in 1718.
In recent years, the Horniman Circle Gardens have undergone restoration to preserve their historical significance and enhance their appeal as a public space.
The gardens host various cultural events, including the annual Sufi and mystic music festival, Ruhaniyat, and serve as a venue for the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, featuring music and dance performances.
7. Flora Fountain
Flora Fountain was built during the British colonial era in 1864. The fountain is named after Flora, the Roman goddess of flowers, and it features a beautiful statue of her in the center, surrounded by intricate carvings and sculptures. The fountain stands as a symbol of the city's colonial past and its architectural grandeur.
Flora Fountain is located at the junction of various important roads, including the famous H. T. Parekh Marg and Veer Nariman Road. It's surrounded by notable landmarks such as the Bombay High Court, the Bombay University, and other colonial-era buildings, making it a prime spot for both locals and tourists.
8. Victoria Railway Station | Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), formerly known as Victoria Terminus (VT) located in the heart of Mumbai, it serves as a major railway station, connecting Mumbai to various parts of India. The station is named after Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Maratha warrior king, and was previously named Victoria Terminus in honor of Queen Victoria during the British colonial period.
CSMT was designed by the British architect Frederick William Stevens in the Gothic Revival style, blending Victorian and Indian elements. The station's design features intricate carvings, arches, domes, and towers, making it one of the most visually stunning buildings in the city. Its grand façade and ornate interiors make it a notable example of colonial-era architecture in India.
The station was completed in 1887 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its historical and architectural significance. CSMT handles both suburban and long-distance trains and is one of the busiest stations in India. The station is a central hub in Mumbai’s railway network and serves millions of passengers daily.
Website: www.mumbainet.com
9. Marine Drive Beach
Marine Drive is often referred to as the "Queen's Necklace" because of the way the streetlights form a necklace-like shape when viewed from above at night. The drive runs along the Arabian Sea and stretches for about 3.6 kilometers (2.2 miles) from Nariman Point to the southern tip of the city at the end of Charni Road.
The area is home to several important buildings, including art deco-style structures, which are also part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some notable landmarks along Marine Drive include the Oberoi Hotel, the famous NCPA (National Centre for the Performing Arts), and the Liberty Cinema.
10. Chowpatty Beach
Chowpatty Beach offering a beloved escape from the bustling urban life. Situated along the famed Marine Drive, it draws crowds throughout the day, especially during evenings and weekends, thanks to its lively atmosphere and scenic surroundings.
Known for its popularity among locals and tourists, the beach is a favored destination for families, friends, and travelers looking to relax, enjoy the refreshing sea breeze, or simply take in the view of the Arabian Sea. Chowpatty Beach is especially renowned for its street food scene, where visitors can indulge in local snacks such as bhel puri, pani puri, pav bhaji, and ice creams. The variety of food stalls adds to the lively, festive vibe of the place, making it a hub for food lovers and social gatherings.
The beach also has cultural significance, particularly during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival. It becomes a central point for the immersion of Lord Ganesha statues in the Ganesh Visarjan procession, a colorful and spiritual event that draws thousands of people every year. The celebrations bring a unique energy to the beach, making it one of Mumbai’s most memorable spots during the festival season.
11. Crawford Market
Crawford Market, now known as Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Mandai Located in the heart of the city, it was built in 1869 during British colonial rule and was originally named after the then-municipal commissioner, Arthur Crawford.
The market offers everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to spices, dry fruits, flowers, pet supplies, and household items. It's especially known for its wholesale trade, attracting people from various parts of Mumbai and beyond.
The building itself is a blend of Victorian Gothic and Romanesque styles, designed by architect William Emerson. It has intricate stonework and a beautiful clock tower, making it an architectural landmark in Mumbai.
Website: Crawford Market Mumbai: The Go-To Place for Thrift Shopping (holidify.com)
12. Mumbai City Laundry | Dhobi Ghat
Mumbai's Dhobi Ghat is one of the largest and most famous open-air laundromats in the world, located in the heart of the city near Mahalaxmi. It's also known as "Mumbai City Laundry" and is a unique part of the city’s culture, offering an interesting glimpse into a traditional method of laundry that has been practiced for centuries.
The practice of laundry in Dhobi Ghat dates back to the British colonial era, and it continues to be an essential part of Mumbai's urban life today. It's where the city's laundry is cleaned, washed, ironed, and returned to its owners, often by the city's iconic "dhobis" (laundry workers).
In Dhobi Ghat, clothes are washed by hand in large concrete troughs, often using soap and water from nearby local sources. The clothes are then beaten with sticks on large stones to remove dirt and stains.
The workers (dhobis) take great care in identifying the owner of the clothes and then return them after washing, often in a meticulous manner.
There are around 2,000 to 3,000 dhobi families working at Dhobi Ghat.
They process hundreds of thousands of pieces of clothing each day, from ordinary citizens to hotels, hospitals, and even Bollywood stars.
What sets Dhobi Ghat apart is the traditional and labor-intensive method of laundry that’s been passed down through generations. Despite the presence of modern washing machines, the dhobi system continues because many people trust this manual process for delicate clothes that require special care.
While many things in Mumbai have modernized, Dhobi Ghat remains an integral part of the city. In fact, there are still ongoing debates about how the area can be modernized without losing its traditional roots.
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13. Phoenix Mall
Phoenix Mall, located in the Kurla area of Mumbai, is one of the city's largest and most modern shopping complexes. It provides a Western-style shopping experience, with over 500 stores offering a wide variety of goods including clothing, electronics, footwear, accessories, and much more.
The mall features international brands and luxury labels, attracting Mumbai's affluent shoppers. In addition to its retail offerings, Phoenix Mall has numerous dining options, entertainment facilities, and a cinema. With its sleek design and wide range of services, it's a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking for a contemporary shopping experience in Mumbai.
Website: Biggest Shopping Mall in Mumbai | Phoenix Palladium Mumbai
14. Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) is located in the northern part of Mumbai. It spans an area of about 104 square kilometers and is one of the largest urban parks in the world. The park is a protected area, offering a blend of lush greenery, wildlife, and various recreational activities.
The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including over 1,000 species of plants, 270 species of birds, and 40 species of mammals. You can spot animals like leopards, monkeys, and various reptiles.
The park is famous for its leopard population, and a safari allows visitors to spot these elusive big cats in their natural habitat.
Antilia, located in Mumbai, is a striking example of the vast disparity between the rich and the poor. This extraordinary building is owned by Mukesh Ambani, the chairman of Reliance Industries. What sets Antilia apart is that it is registered under the name of just one tenant Ambani himself. The building employs 600 staff members who are solely responsible for its upkeep.
In 2014, Antilia was ranked as the second most expensive residential property in the world, trailing only behind Buckingham Palace. The tower’s immense scale and luxurious features are a testament to Ambani's wealth, offering a stark contrast to the surrounding areas of Mumbai.
Key Facts about Antilia:
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Location: Antilia is situated on Altamount Road in the Cumballa Hill area of South Mumbai, one of the most expensive real estate locations in the world.
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Size and Structure:
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The building is 27 stories tall, with a height of 173 meters (570 feet), but its floor count is unconventional as some floors have double or triple height.
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It spans approximately 400,000 square feet of living space.
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Antilia has features like multiple swimming pools, a health center, a temple, a ballroom, and even a snow room that generates artificial snow.
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Architecture:
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The design of Antilia combines modern and traditional architectural elements, and it was designed by the Chicago-based architecture firm Perkins and Will.
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The building includes many innovative and eco-friendly features, like earthquake-resistant construction.
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Facilities:
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Parking: It has a six-story parking garage capable of holding up to 168 cars.
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Helipad: The mansion has a helipad on its roof, catering to its owners' luxurious needs.
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Staff: It is said to house a staff of several hundred to maintain the mansion and its services.
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Cost:
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The cost of constructing Antilia was estimated to be between $1 billion to $2 billion, making it one of the most expensive private homes in the world.
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The unimaginable gap between the poor and the rich
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