Tourist Attractions
Gateway of India
Mumbai is most recognized monument and one of the top Mumbai attractions; the Gateway of India was constructed to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to the city. Designed to be the first thing that visitors see when approaching Mumbai by boat, the looming Gateway was completed in 1924 and remains as a striking symbol of the British Raj era. After this era ended in 1947, the last of the British troops departed through the Gateway.
Heritage Buildings
Mumbai has some captivating heritage buildings where you can marvel over staggering examples of intricate colonial architecture. Some of the best are the Gothic looking Prince of Wales Museum in the Kala Ghoda art precinct, Victoria Terminus (CST) railway station, the Bombay High Court and the buildings of Horniman Circle in the Fort area. The feature of Horniman Circle is its huge gardens, which provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Also have a wander past the historic 18th century homes in Khotachiwadi village.
Kala Ghoda Art Precinct
Kala Ghoda, meaning “Black Horse” in reference to a statue that was once located there, is Mumbai’s cultural center. This crescent-shaped stretch is home to Mumbai’s best art galleries and museums. It’s also filled with cultural spaces, including some wonderful pavement galleries. Stroll around at leisure, but be sure to visit the acclaimed Jehangir Art Gallery. Every year in February, the Kala Ghoda Association hosts a nine day Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, which is interesting.
Markets and Bazaars
From the multitude of colorful pavement vendors that line Colaba Causeway, to the fascinating Chor Bazaar Thieves Market, Mumbai is full of interesting places to go street shopping. Stock up on attractive souvenirs at Colaba Causeway, delight in cheap shoes and clothes at Linking Road, scour the narrow alleyways of Chor Bazaar for antiques, and sample the fresh food and spices while marveling at the architecture of Crawford Market.
Juhu and Marine Drive Chowpatty Beaches
At the end of a tiring day of sightseeing, relax with the locals on the beaches of Juhu and Marine Drive, and watch the sunset. If you’re feeling adventurous, you’ll also be able to feast on tasty snacks offered by the multitude of food stalls and mobile food vendors. Favorites include roasted corn on the cob, bhel puri, pani puri and pav bhaji.
Haji Ali
The imposing Haji Ali is both a mosque and tomb and situated in the middle of the ocean. It was built in 1431 by wealthy Muslim merchant and Sufi saint Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, who was inspired to change the course of his life after going to Mecca. It also contains his body. Haji Ali is only accessible during low tide from a narrow, 500 yard long walkway.
Bollywood
Film City was built by the Maharashtra state government in 1978 to help the Bollywood film industry and provide facilities for it to flourish. Mumbai is the center of India’s booming “Bollywood” film industry. Over 100 films are produced each year there. It’s possible to take a Bollywood tour to the heart of the action in Film City.
