Travel to Mumbai

In earlier colonial times, the Portuguese and the English spent many months at sea as they traveled to India's west coast and built settlements here. Today the city of Mumbai, previously known as Bombay, and the financial capital of India, is a cosmopolitan and fast paced city connected to the rest of the world by international flights. This historic city, extending along the sea, has grand buildings and is the center of India's commercial film industry. Travelling around Mumbai's monuments and sights is a great way to get to know this fascinating city and to begin your travels through India. Gaze in wonder at the majestic Victoria Terminus and the impressive Gateway of India, be bewitched by the beauty of the beaches, tour the Prince of Wales museum and the Bombay Natural History Museum to know more about India's wildlife and browse through the markets for handicraft and textile items, made by master craftsmen.

Travelling around Mumbai is a must-do for any visitor. From historic buildings and renowned museums to popular beaches and tours of India's commercial film industry - this pulsating city has a lot to offer. Mumbai is a cosmopolitan city with a fascinating history. Some of the places to visit while travelling through Mumbai are:

Marine Drive:

Mumbai's distinctive curving seafront avenue connects the skyscrapers of Nariman Point to the green villas of Malabar Hill. It is also called the Queen's Necklace because of its appearance after dark, when the street lights sparkle around the curve of the bay.

Juhu Beach:

This popular beach stretches for about 5 kilometers and is sure to be crowded on a weekend. Activities on the beach include food stalls, performers and camel and pony rides.

Chowpatty Beach:

Situated in the suburbs of the city, and known for its festive atmosphere, food stalls and hustle and bustle. This beach encapsulates the spirit of Mumbai.

Gateway of India:

This graceful ceremonial archway was built to commemorate the arrival of King George V and Queen Mary for the Delhi Durbar of 1911. Is has historical significance for India because after the country gained Independence, the last British troops left Indian soil, marching to their ships under this imperial archway.

Elephanta Island:

Situated 9 kilometers out to sea, from the Gateway of India, this island has a beautiful rock-cut Shiva Temple on top of a hill. The island can be reached by a short enjoyable ferry ride.

Prince of Wales Museum:

One of the country's renowned museums, this heritage building is situated amidst green lawns, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The museum contains a priceless collection of miniature paintings as well as extensive collections of art, sculpture, china, rare coins and weaponry.

Chhattrapati Shivaji Terminus:

Formerly known as Victoria Terminus, after the English Queen, who was also known as Empress of India, this imposing building was built in 1888. Designed by Frederick William Stevenson, the façade of this railway terminus is covered with sculptures of birds and animals.

Flora Fountain:

Situated at a busy 5-point intersection in the heart of Mumbai's commercial area, this popular public landmark was built to commemorate the Governor, Henry Bartle Edward Frere.