Mumbai is the capital city of Maharashtra, India. It lies at the mouth of the Ulhas River on the west coast of India and it boasts of a natural harbor. This city was called Bombay for more than four hundred years and it was changed to Mumbai in the year 1997. Mumbai is known as the financial capital of India and it houses corporate offices of various Indian and multinational companies. It commemorates the famous Ganesh Chaturthi (birthday of Lord Ganesha) in a luxurious manner.

 

Places to visit in Mumbai:

 

• Gateway of India is the most prominent monument in Mumbai and many tourists begin their trip from here only. It is a 26 meter high stone archway built to honor the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India in the year 1911. It was designed by Writtet and it stands as a stunning example of Indo-Sarcenic style of architecture. It is located on the waterfront in the southern part of Mumbai.

The arch is made up of yellow basalt and reinforced concrete. The central dome of this structure is 15 meter in diameter. Its peak is at the attitude of 26meters from the ground. It is the center of attraction for all. You can enjoy viewing the majestic Arabian Sea from this monument. The steps at the back of the Gateway leads into the sea, where you can take a motor boat ride. You can simply go for a round in this natural harbor or can access the Elephanta Caves by riding on a motor boat.

 

• Elephanta Caves also known as Gharapuri (Fortress City) is a cave temple complex dated 7th century. It is located in the Mumbai harbor. It features high stone reliefs of Hindu deities, especially that of Lord Shiva. You need to climb over hundred steps to reach the hill, where you can get the divine glimpse of the entire island.

There are seven caves and the most important is the Maheshamurthi cave. You can see a magnificent three headed bust of Shiva as the Maheshamurthi. The gigantic figures of the doorkeepers are yet another major attraction here. There is a huge hall with rows of pillars within this temple. You would be impressed by the extraordinary sense of creativity of the architects and sculptors in the sculpted panels. Each panel represents the figures of Lord Shiva. You can also see a massive idol Panchamukha Shiva (lord with five faces). The carved walls of this temple depict several scenes from Hindu mythology.

 

• Chowpatty beach is an important attraction of Mumbai. Your trip would not complete without visiting this splendid beach. It is located in the northern end of Marine drive in South Mumbai. This beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming and relishing various cuisines. It hosts the two most significant events- Coconut festival and Ganesha Chaturthi. Coconut festival or Narali Purnima is an important festival for fishermen and they offer coconuts to the sea god, Varuna. Ganesh Chathurthi immersions are taken place in this Chowpatty beach.

 

• Juhu beach is the most beautiful beach in Mumbai. It is located in the central suburb of Mumbai. It is the best place to view the awe-inspiring sunset that makes the sphere tinted in red and orange shades. You can savor the appetizing Pav Bhaji, Pani puri and other local snacks here. You can also enjoy viewing acrobats, cricket matches, dancing monkeys and horse rides here.

 

• Haji Ali Mosque is located on an island off the coast in Worli, Mumbai. It looks amazing amidst the turquoise waters of the sea. It was built by Haji Ali, a rich Muslim merchant in the year 1431. This shrine is visited by thousands of pilgrims, irrespective of faith and religion. This place is prone to sea waters during high tide, so you can visit only during low tides. The 500-yard walkway is the highlight of this shrine. The touch of cool breeze and sea water offers you a heavenly experience. Inside the mosque, you can view the marble pillars ornamented with multihued mirrors. Ninety nine names of Allah were engraved on these pillars.

 

• Mumba Devi temple is one of the most important temples in Mumbai. It is located in Bhuleshwar, Mumbai. It is devoted to Goddess Mumba, a form of Shakti. You can see the divine image of the Goddess adorned with a silver crown and golden necklace here. You can also see goddess Annapurna (goddess of food) mounted on a peacock on the left side. There are other shrines dedicated to Mahadev, Maruti, Ganesha, Indrayani and Balaji in this temple complex.

 

• Mahalakshmi temple is located on the northern side of Malabar hills at breach Candy in Mumbai. It is dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi (wife of Lord Vishnu). She is the goddess of wealth and her temple is adorned with rich decorations. It is believed that this temple was built as per the instructions of the Goddess.

 

• St. Michael’s church is the oldest Catholic Church in Mumbai. It is located in Mahim area of Mumbai. It was built by Antonio do Porto in the year 1534.

 

• Hanging gardens is a stunning retreat for the people of Mumbai. It is a terraced garden that sprawls on the slope of the Malabar hill. The main attraction of this garden is that it offers the spectacular sunset views across the horizon of the Arabian Sea. You can also see different shapes of animals made with hedges and a beautiful flower clock in this garden.

 

• Flora Fountain is a stone fountain located in the Fort business district, South Mumbai. It was built in the year 1864. It is an aesthetic structure featuring a stunning white marble statue.

 

• Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus has been declared a world heritage site by UNESCO. It is a railway station that stands as a brilliant specimen of the Victorian Gothic style of architecture. It was built in 1888 and it features a striking stone dome, turrets and arches.

 

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