Mumbai

MUMBAI

Mumbai  , also known as Bombay, is the capital city of the Indian state of Maharashtra. It is the most populous city in India . Along with the neighbouring urban areas, including the cities of Navi Mumbai and Thane, it is one of the most populous urban regions in the world. Mumbai lies on the west coast of India and has a deep natural harbour.  

The name Mumbai is derived from Mumba or Maha-Amba—the name of the Koli goddess Mumbadevi—and Aai, "mother" in the language of Marathi

Mumbai is built on what was once an archipelago of seven islands: Bombay Island, Parel, Mazagaon, Mahim, Colaba, Worli, and Old Woman's Island (also known as Little Colaba).

Mumbai is the commercial and entertainment capital of India . The city houses important financial institutions such as the Reserve Bank of India, the Bombay Stock Exchange, the National Stock Exchange of India, the SEBI and the corporate headquarters of numerous Indian companies and multinational corporations. It is also home to some of India's premier scientific and nuclear institutes like BARC, NPCL, IREL, TIFR, AERB, AECI, and the Department of Atomic Energy. The city also houses India's Hindi (Bollywood) and Marathi film and television industry. Mumbai's business opportunities, as well as its potential to offer a higher standard of living,  attract migrants from all over India and, in turn, make the city a melting pot of many communities and cultures.

Mumbai presents architectural styles which are a blend of modern designs & centuries old Gothic influences too. Home to one of the largest film industries in the world, churning out more than 300 films a year - "Bollywood" as its popularly known as, is the hub of all things creative from theater, arts, crafts, documentary to full on entertainment films, literary and artistic activities too. Its rich heritage can be seen in its several museums, art galleries & libraries.

MAJOR ATTRACTIONS

Elephanta caves

Elephanta caves are located at Gharapuri Island, a congregation of three small villages nearby Mumbai. These caves, which are declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are frequented by domestic and foreign travelers alike. The caves are said to be dating back to the period between the 9th to 13th century AD & are famous for its ancient sculptures and the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The prime deity in the temple is Ardhanarishwara, a blend of half man and half woman representing Shiva and Parvathy. The temple which is rock cut, is designed based on the Hindu astrological knowledge base, clearly taking into account the geometrical "Mandala" and energy levels.

Wonderful sculptures at the Elephanta Caves, depicting the three faces of Trinity, Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara , is a marvelous attraction here. All in all a must visit to take a glimpse into the countries rich history & heritage.

Gateway of India

Gateway of India is an impressive monument constructed to commemorate the visit of King George V & Queen Mary to the then "Bombay" in Dec 1911. It is placed perfectly in South Mumbai & aptly called the Gateway of India. Built as a mammoth arch at a mighty height of 26 meters and has a inner width of 15 meters - its presence is symbolic to the city.

The monument is an representation of the Indo-Saracen architectural style, with many features of the 16th century Muslim architectural excellence. This monument almost stands as an identity of the city - flanked by the ocean on one side & the monumental Taj Hotel to the other.

Boat facilities are available in the nearby water front and tourists can enjoy the fantastic boat ride from Gateway of India to Elephanta Island.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, earlier known as Victoria Terminus in Mumbai, is an important building spotted in the UNESCO World Heritage List and is located at D N Road. In 1888 this building was built, after nearly 10 years of construction, as the rail terminus based on the model of St Pancras Station in London and is designed by English architect Frederick William Stevens.

Presently VT station or CST is the headquarters of central railways. The architectural style of CST is a blend of traditional Indian style and Victorian Gothic style. The building is highly attractive with brass or ornamental iron railings, tiles, woodcarvings and iron grills. The building is adorned with the statue of Queen Victoria on the dome. VT is an architectural splendor and tourists should not miss out this heritage building.

Chowpatty beach

The crowning glory of this concrete city is the refreshing Chowpatty beach, famed for the immersion of Ganesh idols at the penultimate day of the Ganesh Chathurthi festival. This beach located at one end of Marine drive is considered as a holy place, where many Hindu rituals like thread tying events are performed.

The local cuisines prepared hygienically and deliciously, are the specific attractions of the beach. One can enjoy all local varieties of eatables from here. Many tourists like to spend hours together in this soft sandy beach, relaxing from the dreadful city rush.

Marine Drive

Marine Drive is one of the most scenic stretches amid the concrete jungle of Mumbai. Six lane roads along side the Arabian Coast, it is officially known as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road. This C shaped natural bay connects Malabar hills and Nariman Point in Mumbai.

Marine Drive's well-maintained pathways, is used by the public as a place to relax in the evenings, take a walk with or just sit down & soak in the beauty & calm of its serene surroundings. Marine Drive is presently renowned as a place for huge gatherings. Marine Drive is termed as Queen’s necklace, as it glows like a necklace in the night with the streetlights and can be seen from any elevated place in the city.

Prince of Wales Museum

Built at the beginning of 20th century, the Prince of Wales Museum is located at MG Road. The museum commemorates the visit of Prince of Wales to India. Presently the museum is known 'Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya' and the renaming had taken place after Indian Independence.

Built in Indo-Saracen architectural style, the museum has three major parts - Natural History section, Archeology section and Art section. All three sections display many valuable artifacts like rare displays of Buddhist Tankhas and specimens of Nepali and Tibetan art and many more.

Mahalaxmi Temple

Mahalaxmi Temple, a temple dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi the wife of Lord Mahavishnu, is built in 1785 and is located in the Bhulabhai desai Road near Worli. This common belief behind the reason for constructing this temple is related to the construction of Hornby Vellard in Mumbai. The construction collapsed two times and the chief architect dreamt about the Goddess Laxmi statue in the Sea near the place. It is believed that after the temple is built, the construction of the Vellard went on smoothly.

This is one of the famous temples in Mumbai attracted by many devotees. Devotees throng to this place to offer prayers during Fridays and also during Durga Puja days.

Haji Ali shrine

Haji Ali shrine is a tomb dedicated to the Haji Ali, a wealthy merchant turned Muslim Sufi Saint. This is one of the popular religious spots in Mumabi and is located at the coast of Worli. The shrine is placed in the backdrop of roaring sea all around. There is only a small pathway connecting the mainland to the tomb, and in nights these pathways are also covered with water. The tomb is known for its glass work and surrounding courtyard which offers scenic views.

Many people visit this place to get the blessings of the saint and it is a strong belief that if you visit the tomb and offer prays your wishes will be fulfilled. "Urs" is the festival celebrated here, which is witnessed by thousands of believers.

Essel World

Famed to be India's largest amusement park & Asia's theme water park - Essel World is every kid & adults dream come true. Ideal for a day outing with your office team or friends & family alike - the park has something in store for everyone visiting. Located at the coastal village of Gorai, the park spans a sprawling 64 acres which have both exciting dry rides & fun water rides too. Attracting over 1.8 million visitors each year, this is by far one of the most fun things you can do while at Mumbai.

Fashion Street

One of the most vibrant, varied & tempting shopping experiences await you at Mumbai's Fashion Street. Every fashion junkies dream comes true as soon as you spot this stretch of colorful stalls, selling everything from vivid color beads, the latest apparel trends both Indian as well as Western styles, multi-hued bags & much more at very low prices.