Mumbai

Things To See - Historical Sites

Gateway of India

The Gateway of India was built during the British Raj in Mumbai. The 26m high structure was erected to commemorate the landing of King George V and Queen Mary, when they visited India in 1911. Built in Indo-Saracenic style, the foundation stone was laid on 31 March 1911 and construction was completed in 1924. The Gateway later became the ceremonial entrance to India for Viceroys and the new Governors of Bombay. It served as entry and access to India.

Things To See - Historical Sites

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus

Formerly known as Victoria Terminus Station, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is an outstanding example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture, with themes from Indian traditional architecture. The terminal was designed by British architect F. W. Stevens and was built over 10 years, starting in 1878. The station is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and headquarters to the Central Railways.

Things To See - Historical Sites

Kanheri Caves

The Kanheri Caves constitute a group of rock-cut monuments. Deep within the green forests of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, the caves are located 6 kilometers from the main gate. Tourists can enter after 7:30 a.m. The Caves showcase Buddhist influence on the art and culture of India. Kanheri comes from the Sanskrit Krishnagiri, which means black mountain. These caves date from the first century BCE to the 10th century CE. One hundred and nine caves have been carved from the basalt.

Things To See - Beaches

Juhu Beach

Juhu beach, on the shores of the Arabian Sea, stretches for six kilometres right up to Versova. It is a popular tourist attraction throughout the year, and is also a sought after destination for film shoots. The food court at its main entrance is famous for its 'Mumbai style' street food, notably bhelpuri, pani puri and shevpuri. Horse-pulled carriages offer rides to tourists for a small fee, while acrobats, dancing monkeys, cricket matches, and toy sellers vie for the tourist's attention.

Fitness - Sunrise or Sunset Walk

Marine Drive

This 3 kilometer promenade is perhaps the most iconic spot in Mumbai. Featured in numerous Bollywood films, Marine Drive is always populated with people that come to sit by the ocean and enjoy the cool evening sea breeze, or to walk or jog. It offers a great view of the skyline too. The stretch is often referred to as Queen's Necklace, as the lights along the promenade look like a string of glowing jewels.

Things To See - Alternative Diversions

Hanging Gardens

Located just opposite Kamala Nehru Park, these terraced gardens are also known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens. They provide sunset views over the Arabian Sea and feature numerous hedges carved into animal shapes. The park was laid out in 1881 by Ulhas Ghapokar over Bombay's main reservoir, some say to cover the water from the potentially contaminating activity from the nearby Towers of Silence.

Things To See - Forests

Karnala Bird Sanctuary

The sanctuary is centered around historic Karnala Fort and lies just off the Mumbai-Pune National highway to Goa. Buses leave Panvel Bus Stand from 5:00 am to 8:00pm at 30 minute intervals. The sanctuary is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset, and is a popular destination for avid bird-watchers and hikers in the Mumbai area. The sanctuary is home to over 150 species of resident and 37 species of migratory birds.

Hotels - Premium

Four Seasons Hotel

Part of the Toronto-based Four Seasons luxury hotels and resorts group, this 5-star hotel has 202 guest rooms, and also offers India's highest rooftop bar, Aer.