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Famous Places to Visit in Mumbai | Popular Attractions in Mumbai

Elephanta Caves

It takes 11km boat ride from the Gateway of India to reach this World heritage site. Situated away from the city in a lush green setting is this beautiful rock cut temple complex. It dates back to 800AD and was worked and expanded by many ruling dynasties over a period of 500 years. During the colonial period this island served as a naval bastion for defending forces in many naval wars. One can still see the beautiful carvings and rock images of Lord Shiva and his wife Uma. You can get a ride to this place by the regular motor boats from Apollo Bunder. The island is open to public till sunset so plan your trip accordingly.

Here are some pictures that will give you a visual idea.

Gateway Of India

Built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary of England, this monument has become now become a symbol of Mumbai and India. The imposing monument is blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture. While the gateway and turrets are on Islamic lines the pillars are distinct Hindu temple architecture. Through out the day domestic and internal tourists pour into this place for a taste of old regality and heritage. Just across the road is the famous Taj Hotel of Mumbai. Right in front of the GateWay a flight of steps lead you down into the waters of Arabian Sea. If you are planning a trip to Elephanta caves then this is the place where you can board the ferry. Else if you are in a mood to watch Mumbai cityscape while lazing in the sea air then you can take a ferry for the Bombay High oil wells view.

Here are some pictures that will give you a visual idea.

Marine Drive

Also known as the “Queen’s Necklace”, this is one place you cannot to afford to drop form your Mumbai Itinerary. Marine Drive connects Nariman Point to Mallabar hills and is actually a beautifully laid, crescent shaped, 6-lane road. People come here to enjoy the fresh air and the sparkling water of Arabian Ocean. This place is particularly busy before and after sunset. Mumbai’s famous Juhu Chowpaty is also located on the marine drive. Once the sun sets completely and the lights brighten the roads the marine drive is a sight to watch and this is where it derives the name “Queen’s necklace”.  Marine Drive also harbors some of the finest Hotels in Mumbai and ahs a distinction of being named world’s largest viewing gallery.

Here are some pictures that will give you a visual idea.

Taraporewala Aquarium

It is one of the major tourist attractions and lone the aquarium in Mumbai. The President of India Dr Rajendra Prasad had opened it to public in 1951. The aquarium houses around a 100 species marine and freshwater fishes. Apart form Sharks, Rays, Eels, Turtles you could also see varieties of corals form Lakhsyadeep Islands. One room is dedicated to marine fossils, rare sea shells and fishes preserved in bottles. The aquarium is reachable form Charni Road railway station by a 5 minute walk. It’s closed on Mondays. Working hours are 11 am to 8 pm.

Juhu Chowpatty

Famous for its evenings this beach is very popular among the Mumbaikars and visitors as well. An elegant setting for enjoying the Sun taking a plunge into the Arabian Sea and throwing crimson, red and orange blotches into the darkening sky. Unlike other beaches in India this is not a place for swimming and sunbathing. Rather it’s a spot to enjoy crowd and fairs. Placate your taste buds with delicious local snacks. If you were in Mumbai and you did not have Pav Bhaji, Bada Pav, Bhel Puri and Kala Khatta (Ice Lollies) then your trip would lack something big. You could see balloon vendors, monkey dances, cricket matches, magicians and other similar attractions. This is the site for the annual Visharjan of Ganesh Idols, where the great Elephant headed god is bade fare well by the people. It is accessible form Santa Cruz and Ville Parle areas.

Continued in: Places to visit in Mumbai Part 2