Mumbai is the classic combination of history, culture, diversity, and globalization. It’s been a significant place throughout Indian history and has witnessed multiple reigns and rulers. Today, the city is at the forefront of modern India, with a strong foothold in India’s rich and traditional past.
Mumbai is also a local favorite and folks from all over India, and even the world, come to Mumbai to scale the heights of their aspirations. There’s the National and Bombay Stock Exchange, the many financial headquarters, the corporate and commercial sector, science and nuclear institutes, and, of course, Bollywood. Visitors to Mumbai can experience the true essence of a global and diverse India.
No matter what you are looking for, Mumbai has something for everyone making it one of the best places for sightseeing in India. Here’s a list of the top five places that are a must-visit for anyone traveling to Mumbai.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
India is a big country and its railway network is massive. There are numerous magnificent railway stations spread throughout the country, however, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) is the most popular of all.
There are numerous magnificent railway stations spread throughout the country, however, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) is the most popular of all. (Image: Anoop Ravi via wikimedia CC BY-SA 3.0)
CST was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004 and is a stunning structure that was built in 1887 during the British reign. Its design represents both Victorian Gothic and classical Indian architecture. Even if you don’t intend to travel by train, make sure to visit CST for its marvelous structures and remarkable gargoyles.
Mumbai’s Marine Drive
The Marine Drive, also known as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road, is a 3 km long path that spreads across the Mumbai bay.
The Marine Drive, also known as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road, is a 3 km-long path that spreads across the Mumbai bay. (Image: pixabay / CC0 1.0)
The beautiful promenade offers a grand location for people to enjoy strolls by the Arabian sea day and night. If you visit at high tide, the waves hitting the sea boulders will drench you with salty sea water. It’s also one of the best spots to soak in mesmerizing sunsets with your loved ones.
The Gateway of India
This monument is undeniably the face of Mumbai. Built in 1924, the Gateway of India commemorated the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai.
Just by the Gateway, you can also visit the famous Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, which has hosted some of the highest dignitaries and royalties in the world. (Image: Joe Ravi via wikimedia CC )
Speaking of which, this gateway also witnessed the departure of the last few troops of the British Army, symbolizing the end of the British Era in India. The Gateway is iconic because it is built with a beautiful mixture of Hindu, Muslim, and European styles of architecture.
The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
Just by the Gateway, you can also visit the famous Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, which has hosted some of the highest dignitaries and royalties in the world.
Just by the Gateway, you can also visit the famous Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, which has hosted some of the highest dignitaries and royalties in the world. (Image: Joe Ravi via wikimedia CC BY-SA 3.0)
The area is full of heritage buildings and you can spend an entire day marveling at the great history of Mumbai.
Elephanta Caves
A 40-minute boat ride from the Gateway of India will take you to Elephanta Island.
A 40-minute boat ride from the Gateway of India will take you to Elephanta Island. (Image: Ashwin Kumar via flickr CC BY-SA 2.0)
This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts beautiful stone carvings, artwork, and sculptures. The seven cave excavations house both Hindu and Buddhist structures, and date back to the 6th-7th centuries A.D. On your way to and from the caves, don’t forget to take in the beauty of the Mumbai skyline.
Bollywood
No trip to Mumbai is complete without embracing Bollywood!
No trip to Mumbai is complete without embracing Bollywood! (Image: Mr. Bao via flickr CC BY 2.0 )
Everyone’s heard of Bollywood, and Mumbai is the place where it all began. There are a couple of film shooting sites and locations open to the public at Film City. While you are in Mumbai, try catching a Bollywood movie, or two, in the theaters.
Follow us on Twitter or Facebook
