Mumbai, commonly referred to as Bombay earlier, serves as the state capital of Maharashtra in India. With a population of nearly 20 million, it is the most populated city in India. Many of India’s largest businesses and institutions are based in Mumbai, which is also the nation’s financial, economic, and entertainment hub. Mumbai is a city on India’s west coast that is built on a peninsula that is encircled by the Arabian Sea. The city is well-known for its hot weather, crowded streets, and famous sites including the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Marine Drive, and the Gateway of India. Mumbai has a long and illustrious history that extends back to the Maurya Empire’s reign over the city in the third century BCE. Bombay has been governed by numerous empires over the years, notably the Mughals, the Portuguese, and the British. Mumbai developed into a significant hub of trade and business under British administration, and many of the city’s iconic structures were built at this time.
Mumbai is now a thriving, multicultural city where residents come from all across India and the globe. It is renowned for its hopping street markets, exciting nightlife, and top-notch dining establishments. The National Museum of Modern Art, the Jehangir Art Gallery, and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya are just a few of the museums, art galleries, and cultural establishments that can be found in Mumbai.
Mumbai is a city full of contradictions and contrasts, with both contemporary skyscrapers and historic temples, busy streets and serene beaches. It is a city that is continually changing while maintaining its distinct personality and allure.
History of Mumbai
The city of Mumbai was not established by a single person, and its history is lengthy and complicated. The region that is now Mumbai was first populated by native tribes, and over the years it has been ruled by a number of civilizations, including the Maurya Empire, the Satavahanas, the Chalukyas, and the Silhara Dynasty.
The Sultanate of Gujarat took over control of Mumbai in the fourteenth century, and the city remained under Muslim administration until it was taken by the Portuguese at the beginning of the sixteenth century. Mumbai was the site of a fortified Portuguese town known as Fortaleza da Cidade (Fort of the City). Also, they referred to the region as Bom Baia, which is Portuguese for “excellent bay,” and which later became “Bombay.”
As part of the dowry for the marriage of the Portuguese princess Catherine of Braganza to Charles II of England in the 17th century, Bombay was given to the British. Bombay was taken over by the British East India Company, which turned it into a significant hub for trade and business.
Mumbai has thus been influenced by the different dynasties and civilizations that have ruled it throughout the years, despite the fact that it has no single origin.
Tourist Hot-spots in Mumbai
1) Gateway of India:
Mumbai’s Gateway of India is a must-see tourist attraction. It is a sizable archway that was constructed in the early 20th century to honour King George V and Queen Mary’s trip to India. Read more
2) Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya:
The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya is a museum that exhibits the art, history, and culture of Mumbai and Maharashtra. It is housed in a stunning heritage edifice.
3) Marine Drive:
Marine Drive, sometimes referred to as the Queen’s Necklace, is a 3.6 km long promenade that runs alongside the Arabian Sea and is renowned for its breathtaking sunset views.
4) Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus:
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus is one of the busiest railway stations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features spectacular Victorian Gothic architecture.
5) Mahalaxmi Temple:
Mumbai, is home to the well-known Hindu temple Mahalaxmi Temple. The temple is devoted to the Hindu goddess Mahalaxmi, who is regarded as the patroness of wealth and success. Dhakji Dadaji, a Hindu businessman, constructed the existing temple in 1831, and it was later refurbished in the 20th century. The temple is located close to the Arabian Sea shore in Mumbai’s Mahalaxmi neighbourhood.
6) Haji Ali Dargah:
Located on an island in the Arabian Sea, this mosque and tomb is a well-liked destination for both Muslims and non-Muslims.
7) Hanging Gardens:
The Hanging Gardens of Mumbai, also known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens, are a series of terraced gardens perched on the western side of Malabar Hill, directly across from Kamala Nehru Park. Read more
8) Siddhivinayak Temple:
Siddhivinayak Temple is one of Mumbai’s wealthiest and most well-known Hindu temples and is devoted to Lord Ganesha.
9) Juhu Beach:
This well-known Mumbai beach is a terrific place to unwind, observe people, and eat regional street food.
10) Crawford Market:
This old market, built in the nineteenth century, is an excellent place to buy fresh food, spices, and trinkets.
11) Nehru Science Centre:
The Nehru Science Centre is a fantastic place to learn about science and technology through hands-on exhibits and interactive activities.
12) Sanjay Gandhi National Park:
For those who enjoy the outdoors and an active lifestyle, this national park in the northern outskirts of Mumbai is a wonderful destination. Leopards, deer, and monkeys are among the diverse flora and wildlife that call it home.
13) Dhobi Ghat:
One of the biggest open-air laundries in the world, Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat is a sight to behold. It is a fantastic location to see the conventional Indian method of washing garments.
14) Bandra Worli Sea Link:
The Bandra-Worli Sea Link spans the Arabian Sea and links the suburbs of Bandra and Worli. It is a feat of contemporary engineering. It is a fantastic location to take in the metropolitan skyline.
15) Chor Bazar:
The Chor Bazar is a fantastic destination to find antiques, vintage stuff, and used goods. Due to its history of selling items that had been stolen, it is also known as the “Thieves Market.”
16) Mount Mary Church:
The Gothic-style Mount Mary Church, a mediaeval Catholic building in the Bandra neighbourhood of Mumbai, is a well-known destination for pilgrims.
17) Prithvi Theatre:
The Prithvi Theatre is a well-known venue where you can see a play or show. It is renowned for supporting Hindi and local theatre in India.
18) Colaba Causeway:
This crowded street market is a fantastic location to purchase for apparel, accessories, and trinkets. Street cuisine and cafes are other well-known features.
19) Elephanta Caves:
Gharapurichi Leni is another name for the Elephanta Caves, which are located on Elephanta Island near Mumbai, Maharashtra. The centre chamber, two lateral chambers, numerous minor shrines. Read more
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