Maharashtra’s capital city, Mumbai, is known as the ‘City of Dreams’ and is located on the Indian peninsula’s west coast. When you’re looking for a place to spend quality time with your loved ones in Mumbai, you’ll have a wide range of options. In addition to beaches, theme parks, historical sites, and shopping malls, Mumbai has a wide variety of restaurants and bars to choose from. Mumbai is a great destination for a variety of types of vacations, including long-term stays, short weekend trips, and even day trips to the buzzing metropolis.
Listed below are the best tourist attractions in Mumbai.
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The Gateway of India
The Gateway of India, built during the colonial era, is one of Mumbai’s most popular tourist attractions. When arriving in Mumbai by sea, the first thing a visitor would see is this monument, which was erected to honour King George V’s 1911 visit. Everybody is still attracted to it because of its stunning architecture. The Gateway of India, which overlooks the Arabian Sea, is a must-see when in Mumbai. George Wittet designed the Gateway of India’s architecture, which is both historic and beautiful.
The Gateway of India attracts throngs of people every day as a popular hangout spot. This area is a hive of activity thanks to a plethora of local vendors, stalls, and photographers.
The Gateway of India’s history
To commemorate King George V and Queen Mary’s 1911 visit to Mumbai (Bombay), the Gateway of India was constructed. Governor of Bombay Sir George Sydenham Clarke laid the foundation for the monument in March 1911. In 1924, this monument was completed after years of construction.
It was also the location from which the last British regiment marched out of the country at the time of independence. In 1948, this site hosted a memorial service for the ‘First Battalion of the Somerset Light Infantry.’
India’s Gateway: Design and Construction
The Gateway of India, a 26-meter-tall monument, is awe-inspiring. George Wittet, a well-known architect in his time, created the design for this building. It’s in the Indo-Saracenic architectural style, but it also has Islamic influences. Elegant latticework is crafted from yellow basalt and binding concrete. The monument’s central dome rises to a height of 83 feet and has a diameter of 48 feet. The Gateway of India’s four pillars are a notable feature. Visitors to the Arabian Sea can take the steps behind the arch to get there.
Attractions in the area
Elephanta Caves and Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, two more popular Mumbai tourist attractions, are both within walking distance of the Gateway of India. As a result, you can visit all three locations on the same day.
The Gateway of India’s opening hours
The Gateway of India is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.
How to get there
You won’t have any trouble getting here because it’s a well-known landmark in the city. Getting to the Gateway of India from any part of the city is easy with an autorickshaw or a private taxi. If you’re taking a local train, you can get off at either Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus or Churchgate Station (both 2.5 km away). To get around, you can take an auto-rickshaw operated by the locals.
The Marine Drive
The Marine Drive is another place to visit in Mumbai. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road is a three-kilometer stretch of six-lane highway that follows the coast. It begins in the southern part of Mumbai and winds its way up to the northern part of the city. Visitors to Marine Drive are hypnotised by the natural beauty of the bay, which is formed by Marine Drive.
Marine Drive, a C-shaped road in Mumbai, is a must-see destination. It’s hard not to be drawn in by the palm trees on the side. It looks like a necklace when lit up by a wide swath of streetlights at night. When viewed from an elevated position, the view is even more breathtaking. Thus, it is often referred to as a Queen’s Necklace due to this fact. Nariman Point, another popular tourist destination in Mumbai, is connected to Babulnath via Marine Drive.
Marine Drive has a lot to offer visitors. In the evenings and in the mornings, Marine Drive is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and cool breeze create a peaceful atmosphere. As if that wasn’t enough, there are countless stalls and restaurants to keep things interesting. At Marine Drive, you’ll get the best of both worlds. It’s a place for people of all ages to take a break from the monotony of daily life.
There are numerous events held at Marine Drive, including the Bombay Marathon, the French Festival, the Indian Air Force (IAF) Airshow, and the International Fleet Review. So if you happen to be in Mumbai at the right time, you might get the opportunity to participate in one of these events. Close by there’s also an open-air gallery.
Chowpatty Beach is a popular Mumbai tourist destination located on Marine Drive’s northern end. You can enjoy the best of Mumbai’s nightlife at this location. During the night, the area transforms into an amusement park complete with food stalls, restaurants and rides like merry-go-rounds and ferris wheels. From Marine Drive, Chowpatty beach is a must-visit.
The Marine Drive shopping centre is open every day of the year. Visitors are welcome to come at any time of day. As a result, evenings are the best time of day to visit Marine Drive. A breathtaking sunset over the Arabian Sea, followed by a peaceful stroll in the cool, refreshing air, is a wonderful way to end the day in Dubai.
Marine Drive is free to visit. It is easily accessible because it is located in the middle of the city. The Malabar Hills form its southern border. All modes of local transportation are accessible to tourists. Tourists will have no problem locating it because it is a well-known landmark in Mumbai.
Juhu Beach
The beach at Juhu is one of the most well-known in India. It’s a popular spot because of the stunning sunset views and the numerous food stalls in the area.
On the beach, you can go camel and horseback riding in addition to feasting on the local delicacies. Juhu Beach is home to a variety of street performers, including monkey trainers, snake charmers, and tarot card readers. In addition, an artist may be working with sand to carve sculptures.
Beaches are popular with film-makers as well. Celebrity photo ops and movie sets are common occurrences in this city. The area is also home to a number of actors and actresses. And who knows, maybe you’ll run into them while you’re there.
There is also a reputation for a lively nightlife here. There are numerous bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can spend the night.
Nariman Point
Mumbai’s Manhattan, Nariman Point, is a popular tourist destination. One of Mumbai’s most iconic landmarks is located at the southern end of Marine Drive. This is Mumbai’s business district, and many well-known multinational corporations have offices here.
Additionally, you’ll find grand hotels, lavish restaurants, and posh pubs at Nariman Point. The area is well-known for its branded showrooms and shopping malls, as well as its numerous restaurants and bars. Nariman Point was built on land that had previously been submerged in the ocean. And from here, you’ll be able to take in a stunning view of Marine Drive and the horizon.
The nightlife in this area is vibrant, and it’s one of the best places to see in Mumbai at night.
Churchgate
Businessmen congregate in Churchgate, Mumbai’s central business district. It is home to a large number of banks and other businesses. Aside from that, it is home to the Bombay High Court and numerous other well-known educational institutions.
There was a church gate in this location in old Mumbai, which is why the area is known as Churchgate. In 1860, it was demolished and replaced with a new building.
Churchgate Station, Mumbai’s most famous landmark, is located in the neighbourhood. Churchgate is within walking distance of popular tourist attractions like the Gateway of India, Marine Drive, and the Elephanta Caves. The Churchgate area includes Nariman Point as well.
You can also shop while you’re here. You can find everything from cheap street vendors to high-end showrooms and retail stores to wholesale counters.
Flora Fountain
Among the Churchgate attractions is Flora Fountain. It occupies the site formerly occupied by Mumbai’s ChurchGate, which was destroyed in the attack.
By R. Norman Shaw, the fountain incorporates elements of Neo-Gothic and Indo-Saracenic architecture. Engineer James Forsythe was responsible for its construction in 1864.
Sculptures adorn this Portland stone building. Statues adorn each of its four corners. Stone fish and lion heads adorn the water basin below.
An impressive 7-foot-tall statue of Flora, the Roman goddess of flowers, crowns the fountain’s head. It’s also possible to catch a glimpse of Flora Fountain at night, when it’s lit up.
Jehangir Gallery
Jehangir Art Gallery has played an important role in the development of contemporary Indian art over the last decade. Sir Cowasji Jehangir’s donations allowed it to get its start in 1952. There have been a number of exhibitions for artists of all kinds at this art gallery since then. But it’s not just a place to hold art shows. Other art programmes are offered by Jehangir Art Gallery. It’s also a must-see for art enthusiasts and aspiring artists alike.
The shop on-site sells a variety of antiques and artefacts. The Jehangir Art Gallery is located in Mumbai’s art district, Kala Ghoda. Other art galleries and designer boutiques can be found here, as well as some of the best art in the city.
Siddhivinayak temple
One of India’s most popular temples, Shree Siddhivinayak temple is unquestionably one of Mumbai’s most popular. It is also one of Mumbai’s wealthiest temples, as it attracts thousands of devotees every day. Shree Siddhivinayak Temple was constructed in 1801 and is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Since then, people from all over the country have been flocking to it. On Tuesday, the temple holds one of its most important events. All walks of life come to the temple in search of divine assistance. Lord Ganesha’s divine statue adds to the temple’s splendour through its architectural excellence The Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Temple, which is over two centuries old, is revered for its ability to grant the wishes of those who pray to the Lord with complete devotion.
Shree Siddhivinayak Temple’s History
Deubai Patil, a wealthy woman, is said to have funded the construction of the temple. Having no children, she wanted to build an altar where childless couples could pray to God for children. Saint Akkalkot Swami Samarth’s ardent devotee Ramakrishna Jambhekar Maharaj later laid to rest in the temple the two idols that his guru had instructed him to place in front of it. A tree bearing a svayambhu Ganesha grew on the same spot after 21 years, as predicted by the saint.
Shri Siddhivinayak Temple’s architecture
It was built in the year 1801 that the Shree Siddhivinayak temple was first established. They are the brains behind its construction: Laxman Vithu. The temple was later rebuilt to accommodate a larger congregation.
The temple’s original design, despite its modest size, was no less impressive. In addition to the sanctum, there was a hall, and a water tank. On its right side, a temple administrative office was also constructed.
The statue of Lord Ganesha at the temple is as beautiful as the temple itself. There is only one black stone used to carve Lord Ganesha’s idol. It is 2.5 feet tall and 2 feet wide. In this particular idol, the Lord Ganesha’s trunk is tilted toward the right side. A Chaturbhuj idol of Lord Ganesha has four hands. Deity holds a lotus flower in the upper right hand and a rosary in the lower right hand. The Lord’s axe is in his upper left hand, and a modaka, which is thought to be his favourite sweet, is in his lower left hand. The deity’s neck is adorned with a snake, which dangles precariously. Goddesses Riddhi and Siddhi are depicted flanking the central deity.
Shri Sharad Athale, from SK Athale & Associates, is the architect behind the current structure of Shree Siddhivinayak temple. The temple was completely rebuilt, save for the main deity’s idol, which was left untouched.
Intricate carvings of eight forms of Lord Ganesha, known as Ashtavinayaka, decorate the wooden doors of the sanctum sanctorum. There are three entrances to the Shree Siddhivinayak temple in Mumbai. As a result of its current design, it has an aura of unrivalled opulence.
Shree Siddhivinayak Temple’s location
All over Mumbai, Shree Siddhivinayak Temple is easily accessible via Prabhadevi. This temple is easily accessible to visitors via taxi or auto-rickshaw. Those arriving by train can disembark at Dadar, the station located closest to the temple. From Lower Parel, Mahalaxmi, and Elphinstone Road, local trains can be taken.
Tourists can also visit nearby attractions like Worli Sea-Link and Shivaji Park Beach after darshan at the temple, which are both popular tourist destinations. It is possible to visit all of these places at once.
Taraporewala aquarium
Located in Mumbai’s historic Taraporewala neighbourhood, India’s oldest aquarium is home to more than 100 different species of fish and other aquatic creatures. There’s a fish tank and water plants on display in a glass tunnel at the entrance. Other fishes can be viewed in the gallery’s main room.
The aquarium is home to a variety of fish, including alligator fish, puffer fish, and moray eels. All kinds of tropical fish can be found here including angelfish, grouper and various tangs. A Jellyfish will also be spotted on your journey. Freshwater species are housed in nine of the aquarium’s 16 marine tanks.
You can see preserved corals, seashells, and other marine life in the museum there as well.
Chowpatty
Among Mumbai’s best beaches is Chowpatty. It is also one of Mumbai’s busiest tourist attractions. However, it’s a popular tourist attraction.
You’ll see a variety of people out for a jog or a yoga session on the beach in the early hours of the morning. Relaxing with friends and family is a popular pastime here at night. Throughout the day, street performers and magicians put on a variety of shows.
Girgaon Chowpatty does not have a good reputation when it comes to water sports or sunbathing. Rather, it’s the street food that attracts visitors. Food vendors offer a wide range of options, from spicy bhel puri to piping hot pav-bhaji.
In addition, this beach is well-known as a shooting location.
Caves of Elephanta
The Elephanta Caves are a must-see on any trip to Mumbai. In the Arabian Sea, these are the elephant islands, so named because of the enormous elephant that was discovered on one of them. Gharapuri is another name for it. Pre-medieval India can be seen in the Elephanta caves, one of the finest examples of cave architecture. The colonial era’s damage hasn’t deterred visitors from marvelling at its eminently sturdy and intricate structure.
There are two sets of caves on the island: one set includes five Hindu-related caves dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the other set includes two Buddhist-related caves. These caves are worth a visit not only because of their historical significance, but also because of their natural beauty.
Background Information on the Elephanta Caves
It has been suggested that the Elephanta Caves date from the fifth to eighth centuries BC, but no one knows for sure when they were constructed or who their builders were. According to some theories, these caves were excavated between the years of 450 and 750 AD. There were many rulers who came and went on Elephanta Island and the caves over time, from Chalukya of Badami Dynasty, Mauryas of Konkan, Trikutakas, Silaharas, Rashtrakutas, Yadavas of Deogiri, Kalyani Chalukyas, Shahi dynasty of Gujarat and Marathas.
The main cave of the Elephanta caves, which was a Hindu shrine, was severely damaged by the Portuguese rule from 1953 onwards. During the 1970s, a renovation was completed on the cave. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
The Elephanta Caves’ Architectural Style
The rock formations in Elephanta Caves were carved by hand. Its rock-cut architecture is a beautiful sight to behold. Over an area of 6000 square feet, the entire cave complex includes a main chamber, two additional smaller rooms, and numerous small shrines. The caves’ columns, spaces, and images have been sculpted to perfection.
One of the most fascinating caves is the one built in Brahmanical rock-cut architecture, which features stunning sculptures. It’s possible to get into the cave temple through three separate entrances, the main one located on the north side, as well as one on the west and one on the east. An enormous central hall adorned with six rows of pillared columns adds to the caves’ impressive design. Except for the row on the western corner, which contains a lingam of Lord Shiva, each row has six pillars.
Dvarapala is depicted in three large indentations on the walls. Ardhanarishvara, a form of Lord Shiva where the energies of male and female are combined, is on the east side, while Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are depicted on the west. While Mahesa-murti, a towering figure in Hindu mythology, is prominently displayed in the centre. There are many other beautiful carvings to be found in the cave. Andhakasura Vada, Kalyanasundara, Lord Shiva as Lakulisa, and Ravana shaking the Kailasa are just a few of the other notable figures on display.
The Elephanta Cave opening and Closing Times and Admission Fees
From 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., visitors can visit the Elephanta Caves. Mondays are the only day it is closed.
Visitors from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, the Maldives, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Afghanistan pay Rs.40 each to enter the Elephanta caves; tourists from other countries pay Rs.600 each to enter the caves.
The caves charge a small fee for videography, but photography is completely free. The Elephanta pier also has a toy train that runs between the ferry terminal and the caves. Rs.10 per person is the ticket price for the toy train.
From the Gateway of India, ferries depart at 9 a.m. for Elephanta Caves, with the first return boat leaving at 12 p.m. from Elephanta Caves. Elephanta caves’ last boat leaves at 5:30 p.m., so plan accordingly.
How to go to Elephanta Caves
Elephanta caves are not difficult to get to. The city’s other notable landmark, the Gateway of India, must first be reached by visitors. Elephanta caves can be reached via a one-hour ferry ride from here.
Gateway of India can be reached by taxi or public transportation. It is possible to get off at Church gate station, which is just a few blocks away. In addition, the UNESCO-listed Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus in Mumbai is a popular stop for tourists. Gateway of India and CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus) are both within a 10-minute taxi ride and a 30-minute walk of each other.
Temple of the Goddess Mahalakshmi
As one of Mumbai’s most ancient temples, the Mahalaxmi Temple was built in the 16th century. Built on the seafront, the temple is dedicated to the goddess of wealth, Mahalakshmi. The goddesses Mahakali and Mahasaraswati have statues in the temple as well. Devotees flock to this holy site year-round in search of blessings.
Even more so during festivals and other special occasions, Shree Mahalakshmi Temple’s allure is amplified tenfold. Lights and flowers adorn the entire complex. It is also possible for devotees to receive proper darshan and distribute offerings. The temple complex has many shops where you can buy coconuts, sweets, and flowers, among other things.
The Dargah of Haji Ali
Nearby Shree Mahalakshmi Temple, there’s the Haji Ali Dargah mosque, built on an islet. The only way to get to the mainland is via a narrow, pebbled walkway. The shrine of a Sufi saint, Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, can be found at Haji Ali.
The Indo-Islamic design of this mosque dates back to 1431. Marble is used to build the complex’s central courtyard. The main hall’s marble ceiling completes the look. It is adorned with a mosaic of coloured mirrors and Arabic inscriptions in the corners. There are also Quranic verses painted on the ceilings and walls.
In the Haji Ali Dargah, the tallest minaret rises 85 feet. The five daily namaz calls are broadcast from this minaret.
Bandra Worli Sea Link
Worli and Bandra are connected by an approximately 5-mile-long bridge built on the Arabian Sea. An architectural marvel, the bridge is India’s first cable-stayed structure built over the open sea. One of Mumbai’s most well-known landmarks is the Taj Mahal Palace.
The daily commuters save a lot of time by using this sea bridge. As a result, it has become one of Mumbai’s most popular photo locations. At night, when the lights are turned on, the bridge takes on an even more opulent appearance.
Another well-liked destination nearby is Worli Sea Face. Evenings can be spent indulging in a variety of local delicacies.
Kanheri Caves
The Kanheri Caves are 109 Buddhist caves located in Kanheri. These caves, which were once a Buddhist monastery, were constructed over an extended period of time. As far back as the 1st century BC, there are caves that date back to that time period.
The caves’ walls are covered in murals and sculptures made of stone. The caves are filled with Buddha statues in a variety of poses and sizes. Numerous inscriptions and epigraphs, both in Brahmi and Devanagari, can be found on the walls.
These caves served as a place of worship, study, and meditative practise. Cave 3 is the largest and most impressive of the Kanheri Caves.
An uphill trek through lush greenery and boulders is required to get to this peaceful cave complex. Several small streams and waterfalls can be found on this property. And from there, you can see the sprawling metropolis of Mumbai.
Film City
It’s possible to catch a live movie shoot in one of the many studios and around 50 outdoor locations. Movies can be shot in a variety of locations, from temples to playgrounds to open roads and bungalows. In addition to being an iconic Mumbai landmark, it is a must-see stop on any trip to the Indian city.
Located in the Dadasaheb Phalke Chitra Nagari Film City, you can see all the hard work that goes into making a film. There are also a number of commercials shot here.
The Essel World
One of the closest amusement parks to Global Vipassana Pagoda is Essel World. It’s a popular place for locals to relax, and it’s also one of India’s most popular amusement parks.
More than 50 rides and attractions await visitors at this amusement park. There are rides for both adults and children at the theme park. There are also group rides available. In addition to the rides, there are bowling alleys, ice skating rinks, and discotheques where you can have fun.
Many different cuisines are available at the many food courts in Essel World. In addition, a small retail store is housed there. Visit Water Kingdom while you’re at Essel World.
Mumbai Zoo
A wide variety of animals from India and around the world can be found in the zoo. Jackal, sloth bear, and swamp deer can be found in this area. There are also hyenas, tigers, and crocodiles to be found here. You can also meet penguins while you’re here.
There is an aviary for waterfowl at the Mumbai zoo as well. Pelicans, flamingos, and albino crows are among the birds with which you can communicate. Among the birds you can photograph are cranes, herons, and storks.
The fauna of the area is also well-known. There are over 3000 trees, herbs, and flowering plants in this botanical garden.