Jan
10
Mumbai Travel & Sightseeing Guide
Filed Under India
A trip to Mumbai
One of India’s most remarkable cities, Mumbai is eclectic mix of old and new worlds. The old city has hung on to a good portion of its Victorian architecture and still remembers the former colonists. However, a great deal of this history is overshadowed by Mumbai’s towering modern infrastructure, an indicator of outstanding success in the world market. No matter how you look at it, the city has much to offer visitors; whether it be the sights, sounds and smells of India or simply the creature comforts of five-star accommodation.
Flights to Mumbai
Mumbai is an important hub for air traffic and flights are divided between the international and domestic airports. While these facilities are relatively close together, they are not one and the same; they do however share the same name (Chatrapati Shivaji). If you’re afraid you’ve confused the two, stick to the nicknames: ‘Santa Cruz’ handles domestic travel while ‘Sahar‘ manages international flights. If you are looking for a cheap flight to Mumbai try lastminute.com. A shuttle bus connects them.
India’s railroads are extensive and well-maintained and Mumbai is serviced by two different train companies: Central and Western Railways. You can book tickets through computerised booking agents at Churchgate and Chatrapati Shivaji Terminus. Buses from Mumbai head out into the whole of India, although don’t be afraid to pay a few extra rupees for a private coach. They’re much more comfortable than the government-run buses.
Mumbai
Sightseeing in Mumbai
Mumbai’s fusion of architectural styles makes sightseeing an all-day affair. The Gateway of India is the city’s ubiquitous landmark, built to honour a visit by George V. It was later the launching point for the final exodus of British troops. Victoria Terminus is another important site, a historic train station designed in Italian Gothic style.
Formerly the Prince of Wales Museum, the Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sanghalaya has an impressive collection of local artefacts. The farther you venture from the port and old city, the greater the access to more ancient relics. The Mahalaxmi Temple, honouring the Hindu goddess of wealth, rests close to the Malabar Hills; it’s the oldest temple in Mumbai.
Fun by night – eating drinking and partying
The Colaba district is the best place to enjoy a meal. The focus here is on upscale dining and five-star accommodation, which means you’ll find some of the most creative cuisine and with all kinds of international flair. Meanwhile, at street level, you’re just as likely to find vendors specialising local fare such as kebabs and rotis.
In India, Mumbai is the place to head for a party, with more nightclubs, discos and bars than you’re liable to find anywhere else on the whole subcontinent. Juhu Beach hosts a large portion of the merrymaking, with a lot of hotspots on or near the waterfront. Risqué cabarets line Grant road; and the more bohemian crowd usually settles in an area known as ‘the ghetto’.
Fun by day - shopping and activities
Mumbai is a non-stop shopper’s paradise. For souvenirs, textiles and handicrafts, head to the bazaars and open-air markets. The Chor Bazaar specialises in antiques, though many of them aren’t the genuine article. If you’re looking for authentic antiques (and don’t mind paying the steep prices) then try out Phillip’s on Madam Cama road.
When all else fails, endless days can be passed at the beach. Juhu Beach is home to several four and five-star resorts so you’re sure to find all kinds of entertainment options. Inquire before heading out to a more remote beach, as industrial waste has fouled some of the waters in outlying areas.
Daytrips
There are some fascinating daytrips that visitors can do from Mumbai, all of which can be easily reached by taxi or boat. Just a 15-minute ferry journey away from Mumbai is the beautiful and famous Elephanta Island, with its stunning temples carved out of rock. Visitors can explore the sprawling chambers of this fascinating monument.
If you are travelling with the family then Asia’s largest theme park, Water Kingdom, is the perfect place to escape the city on a hot sticky day. Home to the world’s biggest wave pool and an array of thrilling rides, Water Kingdom is situated close to Mumbai.
For a more natural retreat, head to the beautiful Sanjay Gandhi National Park, set over a sprawling 5,000 acres. If you’re lucky you can spot lions on the park’s excellent lion safari, or else just unwind at one of the many picnic cottages.
Must-see attractions
Among the must-see spots in Mumbai is Colaba, where most of the hotels and guesthouses can be found. Home to the Gateway to India and a few hotels, the area also contains an interesting dock which comes alive at dawn when fishermen return from a night’s work and the surrounding streets are abuzz with market traders selling everything from fresh fruit to tourist trinkets.
The wonderful indoor Crawford Market is where the locals go food shopping. Rudyard Kipling was born nearby and a decorative fountain designed by his father sits within the market.
Running along the shoreline of the Arabian Sea, Marine Drive is perhaps Mumbai’s most famous landmark and is the perfect place from where to watch the sunset. Chowpatty Beach is a favourite spot for locals to gather in the evening, among a colourful array of balloon sellers, food vendors and entertainers. Along the coastline lays Juhu Beach, a favourite destination among the Bollywood set and a great place to try some delicious street food.
Best time to go
Mumbai is most popularly visited during the winter months between November and February, when the temperatures peak at around 30°C and evenings are cool and comfortable. Summer and springtime tend to be hot and humid while the heavy monsoon rains fall throughout July and August. Each February, Elephanta Island comes to life with the magnificent Elephanta Festival.
Rainy day suggestions
With the rainy season stretching out over two months, visitors to Mumbai may want to have some indoor activities planned. Luckily the city is brimming with interesting attractions including the excellent Mani Bhawan memorial to Mahatma Gandhi and the Greco-Roman style Victoria and Albert Museum. Bollywood fans should head for Film City, Asia’s largest film studio, where you can see the latest productions being filmed.
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