Mumbai Holiday: What Not to Miss in India’s Entertainment Capital

Mumbai, also known as Bombay is the ‘City of Dreams’. It is the largest city in India and apparently one of the most populous cities in the world with 20 million people. On one hand, it has the world’s most expensive home and on the other Asia’s biggest slums - Dharavi Slum. The city is filled with people from all over India and around the world.

Originally Mumbai was a conglomeration of 7 islands gifted to Charles II of England as a dowry. The local people of Mumbai are extremely humble and generous. What makes it even more special is the presence of Hindi cinema ‘Bollywood’ in the city. Once you step foot in this place it captures the imagination of your soul and leaves you with an unforgettable feeling. The line that says “Yeh hai Bombay meri jaan” (This isMumbai, my sweetheart) from famous Hindi movie becomes much more relatable then.

Dharavi Slum - The Biggest Slum in Asia

While spending your Mumbai holiday there are some must-visit places and some must do things that you simply can’t ignore. Here’s to name a few:

Evening in Marine Drive

It is a 3 km (1.9 mi) long C shaped concrete road that connects Nariman Point to Malabar Hills. This skillfully laid boulevard goes around the coastline of the Arabian Sea in south Mumbai. An evening walk at Marine Drive is a must. It is surely one of the best experiences that you can get in your Mumbai holiday.

To the north lies the famous Chowpatty Beach which is mostly visited by travelers for local fast food and Mumbaikars for evening walks. Plenty of palm trees are lined by the road which makes it a very popular sunset point. You can enjoy the breeze of the Arabian Sea or gaze at the mesmerizing sunset with your family, friends or the special one.

Day at the Gateway of India

Built-in 1934, it is one of the most famous sightseeing places in India. It is located in Apollo Bunder Waterfront and is 26 meters (85 feet) long. The structure is made from solid concrete and yellow basalt that served as a gateway to India through sea routes during the British monarch.

There are various Hindu and Muslim motifs embedded in them as a means to unite India. The place is packed with tourists from everywhere, photographers, and food stalls. Your Mumbai holiday will be incomplete without a picture of you standing under the Gateway of India.

Gateway of India, Mumbai

Buy Indian Spices in Mumbai

Shop for Life

Mumbai has the best taste in fashion and food. There are thousands of cheap markets like Kala Ghoda, Heera Panna Market, and Crawford Market, etc. You can find traditional Indian clothing, furniture, home decor, books, and unique artworks in these markets. Jewelry from Colaba Causeway, spices from Mirchi Galli in Kalbadevi or vintage Old Bollywood movie posters from chor bazaar are a must-buy while taking a Mumbai holiday.

Bandra-Worli Sea Link

Also known as the Rajiv Gandhi Sea Link, links Bandra to western suburbs of Mumbai through a cable-stayed bridge. It has 8 lanes to avoid traffic and caters to around 37,500 vehicles per day. It is very prestigious and looks extremely beautiful at night. It reflects on the modern infrastructure of Mumbai through some very impressive engineering.

The Spiritual Side

The city has some of the most famous and highly visited temples and mosques in India, which you cannot miss in your Mumbai holiday. Mahalaxmi Temple, Siddhivinayak Temple, Haji Ali Dargah, and Iskcon Temple are some of them. These places of devotion and spirituality bring you great peace and serenity. Millions of people go to such places to seek blessings, express their desires, and share sorrows. Once you are at the temple, you are free to make some offers, donate money or fruits and you get prasad in return.

Relax with Silent Sunset in Mumbai Beach

Sunkissed at Beach

While in Mumbai, it is crucial for you to visit the beautiful beaches in the city. The Juhu Chowpatty is situated at the northern end of the marine beach and is one of the most popular beaches in Mumbai. Crowded at some days it is a nice place to relax with warm sand and silent sun. The place also has horse riding, camel driving, etc. available for its visitors. The street food at the beach is famous for its variety and deliciousness. Also, a lot of celebrities have their bungalows near this beach which makes it even more popular.

For the Foodies

From street food like Pani Puri to cuisine at The Taj Palace Hotel, you get the most amazingly mouthwatering food in Mumbai. Of course, street food is a must-have, like Vada Pav which originated in Mumbai, Pani Puri in Bandra, Sev Puri and Bhelpuri along the roadside. However, famous and expensive restaurants like The Taj Palace and The Oberoi etc. have the most delicious menu offering a wide array of options.

Where Dreams Come True

The Film City in Mumbai comprises of 20 indoor studios and is spread across 520 acres of land. It has been a place of lights, camera, and action for Bollywood over the years now. Visiting the place will require a lot of your time but will also give you an insight into the world of acting and film-making. It is located in Aarey Colony and is known to be so vast so as to fit about 1,000 sets in it.