Mumbai is a city that never sleeps. The financial capital of India buzzes ceaselessly throughout the day as people chase their dream. But even within this bustling metropolis, there are some tourist hotspots that you simply must visit.
The Gateway of India
The Gateway of India Standing on the sea face, the Gateway of India holds a majestic charm to anyone visiting Mumbai for the first time. The Indo Saracenic architecture pays tribute to the Maratha and the Mughal Kingdom as the 85 feet arch stands tall before you. For all the photography and selfie enthusiasts, you will find a plethora of spots to take the perfect shot overlooking the Mumbai harbor. The stretch leading up to the Gateway lights up in the night to give a surrealistic experience with a salty sea breeze flowing on your face just like how you see in the movies.
Elephanta Caves
From the Gateway of India, you can find yourself on a ferry ride to the majestic Elephanta Caves, a series of natural caves filled with Hindu and Buddhist sculptures. It is a must visit for all history buffs. The caves are a land lost in time and walking into these caves is an enthralling mystery. Dating back to 5th-8th century A.D, these caves have endured centuries worth of turmoil. Getting to the entry of the caves in a toy train is fun for kids and adults alike. One of the most imposing rock form present is the enigmatic Trimurti located in the main cave. As the name suggests ‘Trimurti’ represents the three main gods of Hindu mythology: Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma and the magnanimity will blow you away. The main cave also houses a multitude of Shiva’s culture and some of them are truly mesmerising.
Maratha Mandir
Maratha Mandir Mumbai is synonymous with Bollywood: the epicenter of India’s filmmaking industry. So a visit to Mumbai will not be complete without paying a tribute to its cinema. If you are a true Bollywood buff, you would not want to skip this. Maratha Mandir is one of the oldest single-screen theatres in the country. This theatre packs together the nostalgia of an era gone by and has one of Shah Rukh Khan’s epic movies Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge on its screens for over 20 years and still running. So get a bucket of popcorn and lose yourself with the dance, music and romance of Bollywood.
Haji Ali Mosque
Haji Ali Mosque Being a port city, Mumbai has been heavily influenced by merchants from all over the world. One Uzbek trader left an indelible mark on the city’s skyline in the 15th century. The Haji Ali Mosque was built as homage to Haji Ali Shah Bukhari. The Dargah is built on a small island which is connected to the mainland through a causeway which is only accessible during low tide. Built of glass situated with a backdrop of the beautiful Arabian Sea, Haji Ali Mosque is a magnificent piece of architectural beauty. The mosque is a brilliant amalgamation of Indo-Islamic architecture. The tomb opens to a huge courtyard and exquisite sliver frames and marble coloumns. The white marble walls are adorned with green and blue glass along with inscriptions from the Quran. You can also find the Haji Ali Juice Centre nearby which is famous for serving fresh juices of every kind.
Girgaum Chowpatty
Girgaum Chowpatty To properly experience the culture of Mumbai, there is no better way than spending an evening at the Girgaum, Chowpatty. A small area facing the Arabian Sea that packs in thousands over the weekend. Amidst all the hustle and bustle, lies the core of Mumbai’s fast food. There is a load of butter and a burst of flavours in every bite you take, be it the Vada Pav or the delicious Pav Bhaji. With Mumbai being the financial nerve capital of the country, it draws in crowds from all over the country. Thus the food here is robust, spicy and brings a mixture of flavours from the neighbouring regions.
Pune
Pune Mumbai’s sister city Pune is situated at a distance of 200km from the city. Although not as buzzing as the capital, the second major city in the state of Maharashtra is filled with throwbacks to the Maratha Kingdom.
Shanivaarwada Fort
Shanivaarwada Fort The strong house of the Maratha Empire, this majestic fort was built in the early 18th century. The fort opens with the Dilli Darwaaza, a monstrous gate of wood and steel. It was large enough to even admit two elephants abreast. Although most of the buildings have been destroyed in a fire, the stone walls hold a magnitude of history that is unparalleled. The erstwhile staterooms were ornately carved and lined with polished marble and Persian rugs. Although most of the Shanivaarwada lies in ruins today, but the sixteen petal Lotus shaped fountain gives you a sneak peek into the royalty of yesteryears. It is said that this fort is one of the haunted palaces in Pune and locals believe that the ghost of Bajirao’s grandson still roams the corridors. Do not miss out on the light and sound show that takes place in three different languages Marathi, Hindi and English.
