Formerly known as Bombay, Mumbai is the capital of state of
Maharashtra. Mumbai is the most populous city of India. It is located in the
west coast of India.Being the commercial and entertainment capital of India,
Mumbai attracts a number of immigrants from all over the country in large
numbers. Shopping malls full of designer labels, promenading families eating
bhelpuri at the Chowpatty beach are the prime sights that one come across
while in Mumbai.
The best time to visit this bubblegum glamour city of Mumbai is between the
months of September to April.
Tourist Attractions in Mumbai
Gateway
of India - Gateway of India is Mumbai's principal landmark. This
majestic monument was built to commemorate the visit of the first ever
British Monarch, King George V and Queen Mary in 1911. The monument was
designed by the British architect of that time, George Wittet and was opened
by general masses in 1924.
Chatrapati Shivaji Terminus - Earlier known as
Victoria Terminus, Chatrapati Shivaji Terminus is the headquarters of the
Western Railways. CST is one of the most prominent buildings of Mumbai. The
architectural splendour of CST is also worth a mention, combining the
elements of Gothic and Indian styles. The structure was designed by F.W.
Stevens and was completed in 1885. The 160 feet dome at the centre of the
structure is the crowning glory of CST. Chatrapati Shivaji Terminus is also
a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Haji Ali Mosque - The Haji Ali mosque is one of the
most revered pilgrimage spots for the Muslims. As the mosque is located 500
yards into the sea, it can only be reached during the low tides. The mosque
is dedicated to Muslim saint Haji Ali.
Marine Drive - The Marine Drive is one of the most
favourite spots for the leisurely walkers. It is also a well known
sunset-watching spots. It is also referred as the Queen's Necklace because
of the dramatic curve of street lamps lit up at night.
Siddhi Vinayak Temple - This revered temple is one
of the oldest temples of Mumbai and is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Followers
of Lord Ganesha from all over come to the temple.
Juhu Beach - Juhu beach is one of the most famous
beaches in India. Considered to be one of the most posh localities of
Mumbai, the area houses the residence of some of the top film personalities.
Chowpatty Beach - If you are in Mumabi for a visit,
you certainly cannot think of coming from there without visiting the
Chowpatty beach. It is a major tourist attraction here. During Ganesha
Chaturthi idols of Lord Ganesha is emerged here in the sea. Food stalls here
sell mouth watering, exotic foods.
Hanging Gardens- The Hanging Gardens in Mumbai are
also known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens. Built in 1880, the gardens are
frequently visited by many tourists from all over. One can relish the
panoramic views of the sunset from here.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Essel World and Water Kingdom, Kamla Nehru
Park and ISKCON temple are some of the other attractions of Mumbai, not
worth missing.
Shopping in Mumbai
Mumbai, without a doubt is a shopper's paradise. It caters to the needs and
demands of shopper of every hue.
Some
of the famous shopping localities of Bombay are Crawford Market, Chor
Bazaar, Colaba Causeway, and Fashion Street.
Crawford Market - The market has been renamed as
Jyotiba Phule Market. It is a wholesale market for fruits, meat and poultry
products.
Chor Bazaar - This bazaar is famous for its
phenomenal collection of antiques, jewellery, wooden articles and leather
wear. The market was earlier called 'Shor Bazaar', but mistakingly got the
name 'Chor Bazaar' by the British.
Fashion Street - "Fashion Street" is a
street market situated opposite one of Mumbai's clubs "Bombay Gymkhana".
This shopping paradise sells ready made clothes at reasonable prices. The
garments sold here are export rejects, and export "over-runs"
which are often excellent quality clothes at knock down prices. You need to
have strong bargaining techniques to extract fair deals.
Zaveri Bazaar - This bazaar is famous for selling
silver jewellery and other silverware stuffs. Here also you need to have
good bargaining skills.
Apart from these there are innumerable shopping destinations in Mumbai,
that would keep money flowing out of your wallet continuously.
