Mumbai

Bombay, today known as Mumbai, is a modern commercial city and so cosmopolitan in its appearance and habits that the visitor feel at home immediately after their arrival. Bombay is the capital of Maharashtra and gateway to the beguiling sub-continent. The name Bombay, in its final form dates back to the 18th century. Bombay was a cluster of seven islands called “Heptanasia” by Ptolemy in 150 A.D. geologically; Bombay forms a part of peninsular India, which is considered to be the oldest part of the country. Coming by sea or air, the visitor cannot help but notice Bombay’s lovely natural setting – far away. Mumbai is also known as India’s National centre, the economic power house of the nation, Heart of Hindi film industry, one of India’s biggest software producers and the industrial hub of everything from textiles to petrochemicals.

Getting Around

Air: Mumbai International Airport is at Sahar(30 Kms.) and the domestic airport at Santacruz(26 Kms.)

Rail: Mumbai has five major railway terminals in the city-Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus-CST (formerly Victoria Terminus), Mumbai Central, Dadar, Kurla and Bandra Terminus.

Road: Mumbai is an important junction on the National Highway networks of the country. National Highway nos. 3, 4,6,8,9 and 17 connect it with all the major towns and cities in India.

Local Transport: Metered Taxi (black and Yellow) and Auto-rickshaws (in the suburban limits) Cool Cabs are also available in the city.

Local Train: Local Train Services ply on 3 separate lines-Central, Western and Harbour .

City Map of Mumbai

Essential Attractions in Mumbai

Hutatma Chowk/ Flora Fountain:

Flora Fountain, designed by R.Norman Shaw and sculpted in fine Portland stone by James Forsythe, the fountain which then cost 9000 pounds sterling, was placed in 1869 which stands at the established business centre in Mumbai to honour Sir Bartle Frere, the Governor of Mumbai, responsible for shaping much of modern Mumbai. The Fountain is named after the Roman Goddess Flora, whose statue dominates the structure. Flora Fountain now shares diminished areas with a monument and manicured garden honouring those who died fighting to carve the state of Maharashtra. The circle was later renamed as Hutatma or Martyrs Chowk.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (Victoria Terminus):

The city is most fascinating gothic building looks more like a lavishly decorated palace or cathedral (church). It was designed by Frederick Stevens as the head quarters of the great Indian peninsular railway company. Work on the Terminus commenced in May 1878 and it was completed in 1887. In 1998 the station was officially renamed as Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (C.S.T), but it’s still better known as Victoria Terminus (V.T).

Gateway of India:

The 25 meters high stone archway is the landmark on Mumbai. It was designed by George Wittet in the 16th century Gujarat style and was build to commemorate the visit in 1911 of King George V and Queen Mary to India. The foundations were laid on March 31, 1913 and between 1915 and 1919, the land on which the Gateway was to be built was reclaimed from the sea. The main structure is in yellow basalt stone, whereas the domes and galleries are of reinforced concrete. The central dome is 48 feet in diameter and 83 feet at its maximum height. The Gateway has become a popular emblem of the city and is a favourite gathering spot for locals in the evening and on weekends. Nearby are the statues of religious reformers Swami Vivekananda and the Maratha leader Chhatrapati Shivaji.

Taj Mahal Hotel:

It was built in 1903 by the parsi industrialist J.N.Tata, supposedly after he refused entry to one of the European hotels on account of being a native. Nearby is the August Royal Bombay Yacht (ship) Club.

National Gallery of Modern Art:

In the Sir Cowarji Jahangir public hall is a bright, spacious and modern exhibition stat showcasing a range of changing exhibition by Indian and international artist.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (Prince of Wales Museum):

The prince of Wales museum was built to commemorate king George V’s first visit to India in 1905. The gallery collection includes impressive sculptures from Elephanta Island, Gujarat and Karnataka, figures from Indus Civilization, Statue of Buddha and Minature paintings.

Hajialis Mosque:

At the end of a long causeway sneaking into Arabian Sea is a while washed mosque containing the tomb of the Muslim Saint Hajiali.

Mahalaxmi Temple:

This popular Hindu temple is dedicated to the goddess of wealth, which is not far away from Hajiali.

Juhu Beach:

A decade ago the luxury hotels fronting juhu beach were the height of glamour of Mumbai’s wealth. But juhu’s repetition is still strong enough to make it a most high fin do for all Indian tourists visiting Mumbai.

Practical Information

At landing at Mumbai Airport, after immigration and baggage clearance, you will find a couple of booths offering taxis to the city. Although next to each oyher the price difference is huge, so ask at both the booths!

Tours and Excursions

There are several options for sightseeing in Mumbai - the following are some good options:

1. The Government of India's tourism department ITDC has an office next to Churchgate station, where you can walk in and ask for a guide for the day. The charges are something like US$20-25 for the guide. You need to arrange your own car.
2. Mumbai Magic Tours - these are personalized tours of Mumbai's must-see places. Several offbeat as well as standard tour options are available, with car, driver, guide, handouts, etc. Guides are knowledgeable and experienced. www.mumbaimagic.com
3. Bombay Heritage Walks - if you want a walking tour of Mumbai's heritage district, try these guys. They have an in-depth appreciation of Mumbai's architecture and the history of its buildings. www.bombayheritagewalks.com
4. You can also visit Art galleries, Museums. Theatre and Dance is also quite vibrant in Mumbai and you must visit some of plays. NCPA in south Mumbai is one of the best theatres and a must in your itenerary. A complete event guide can be found at the following sites www.timeoutmumbai.net and www.kyakare.com