Planning a trip to the city of dreams? Here are the 7 Places to Visit in Mumbai to have a gala time. A bustling city on the western coast of India has so much to offer its tourists. People often say that this city never sleeps.
Well, that’s true, but this time you are about to witness the vibrant life of Mumbai, or the old Bombay. For all the movie fanatics and Bollywood lovers, this city is a hub of art and artists. But wait, there is a lot more to explore. Let us find out.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
Remembered fondly as Victoria Terminus, CST is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mumbai was a major part of colonial rule, and this can still be observed in its architecture and habitat. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) is a popular architectural marvel. Apart from being one of the busiest railway stations, it captivates travellers for its monumental beauty.
It dates back to the 19th century and is a mixture of Victorian Gothic and Indian architecture. The domes, statues, and carvings are a great sight for history and architecture enthusiasts. When visiting Mumbai from any part of India, you are most likely to board a train to CST.
Elephanta Caves
Elephanta caves are listed by UNESCO, and they date back to the 5th and 8th centuries. The most unbelievable fact is that these caves are carved out of a single solid rock. The caves talk of Hindu mythology, which is depicted through old paintings in the caves.
It mainly depicts Shaivism, the legend of Shiva, with a Maheshmurti sculpture. It is a sculpture of a three-headed Shiva. The caves have been a blend of India’s religious and artistic approaches since ancient times.
How to reach: visit the Gateway of India in Mumbai and take a direct ferry to Elephanta Island. Your next ride is a toy train. After the ferry drops you, you can also take a walk. You then reach Ghararpuri village, cross the security gate, and walk another 120 steps. You can take dolly service if needed. You then reach the ricket counter of Elephanta Caves.
Fees- 120 INR for ferry, 10 INR for toy train, 5 INR for security, and 40 INR/ 600 INR (for Indians/ for Foreigners)
Timings- 9.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m., Monday closed.
Juhu Beach
You cannot miss the beaches when in Mumbai. Juhu Beach is one of the most popular areas. The sunset here is mesmerising. Local food stalls, a lively environment, and water adventures make it the best tourist destination.
Come here to relax and unwind from the chaos of the city. The best food items to try would be Vada Pav, Pav Bhaji, Bhel Puri, and Pani Puri. You can visit here early in the morning if you want some calm and serene nature. People often come here in the evenings to make the most of the sunset.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park
This well-developed city with many skyscrapers has a lot to do with nature, too. Sanjay Gandhi National Park has a lot of diverse flora and fauna. Kanheri Caves are the Buddhist caves inside the park. They belong to the 1st century BC.
You can take a local train to Borivali and then take an auto/ tuktuk ride to the national park. Visiting here during the rainy season will show you how dense the national park is. You can try boating, mini trails, and mini train rides here.
Tickets- 85 INR for adults, 45 INR for children
Timings- 8.00 am to 5.30 pm (Tuesday-Friday), 8.00 am to 11.00 am on Saturdays. It is closed on Mondays
Colaba Causeway
Colaba Causeway is heaven for all shopping lovers. This colorful market has so much for all its customers. If you want to buy all the latest and most fashionable items, including clothing and jewellery, this is the place for it.
There is scope to bargain as well, so try your luck. Take a local train to Churchgate, and then walk for a few minutes to reach the shopping lane. Apart from street vendors, it also has branded boutiques. You can shop for almost every fashion piece here.
Haji Ali Dargah
On an islet off the Worli coast is Haji Ali Dargah, a Muslim shrine. A small causeway connects it to the main road, more like a pathway. Dedicated to Saint Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, the dome of the shrine is its main feature.
It is situated on the Arabian Sea, and it seems to be floating during the high tides. The view is worth watching. Regardless of the religion, people come here to see the architecture, witness the sea, and seek the blessings of the saint.
How to reach- Take a local train to Mahalaxmi, Byculla, or Mumbai Central Railway station. You can then take a bus/taxi/auto to reach Dargah. Carry a scarf or cap, or else entry is prohibited.
Siddhivinayak Temple
The popular Hindu shrine devoted to Lord Ganesh is a must visit. The temple architecture involves the use of gold plating. Lakhs of devotees come here to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesh, also called Siddhivinayak.
How to reach: Board a train to Dadar Railway station if you are coming from Central Mumbai. And then take an auto ride. If you are already in South Mumbai, take a bus or auto ride directly to the temple.
Please note that you will need around 2-3 hours if you want to seek the blessings. This temple is always crowded. The temple opens at 5.30 a.m. and closes at 9 p.m.
Conclusion
A 7-day trip to Mumbai can actually give you a happening time. There is a lot more than these 7 spots that you can discover, explore, and have fun in. Don’t forget to try the Mumbai delicacies and the local food. We have tried to include almost all kinds of experiences in your 7-day vacation in Mumbai.
From being a part of ancient cultural heritage to the colonial era and now to modern times, Mumbai is beautiful. It is the crowd here that gives life to this city, where people come to make their dreams turn into reality.
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Editorial Staff at Travelco are experts in Global Tourism.