Perhaps the most cosmopolitan city in India, Mumbai is a city high in energy. It’s not just the capital city of the state of Maharashtra but also the financial capital of India. It’s fondly named the ‘city of dreams’, as it provides opportunities to many people across India and the globe. But Mumbai is not just about business. It’s a city that is prominent in culture, history & food! While there are too many places to explore in Mumbai, here are the top destinations to check out with a local Mumbai tour guide if you want to experience an insider Mumbai tour!
Gateway of India
The Gateway of India is perhaps the most iconic spot in Mumbai to catch a glimpse of the city’s rich history. It is an arch-shaped monument that was originally designed in 1911 to honour the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. It was later formally inaugurated in 1924. Ironically, the last British regiment to leave independent India passed through the Gateway of India. Located on the Apollo Bunder waterfront in South Mumbai, the monument overlooks the Arabian Sea and is buzzing with people, both locals and tourists alike. It is open 24 hours a day to the public. If you want to skip the crowd, plan to catch the scintillating sunrise here.
Marine Drive
Marine Drive in South Mumbai is a 3 km long, C-shaped promenade bordering the magnificent Arabian Sea. It is the best-known spot in the city for catching beautiful sunsets. It is a must-visit place for photography enthusiasts to capture the stunning views of the coast. You will find locals walking, cycling or exercising, especially during mornings and evenings. Towards the northern end of the promenade is Chowpatty beach, which is known for its famous street food stalls. Bhel Puri (a snack based on puffed rice) is a must-try here.
Taj Mahal Palace
India’s first luxury hotel, the Taj Mahal Palace, is located right opposite the Gateway of India, overlooking the Arabian Sea in the Colaba area of Mumbai. The heritage hotel was built in 1903 and is one of the most photographed landmarks of India. Lovingly called ‘Diamond by the Sea’, the hotel is revered for its architectural brilliance. It is a six-storeyed building that follows the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture with a central Moorish dome. Historically, it boasts of many firsts in the hospitality industry in India – American fans, German elevators, Turkish baths and English butlers.
Shree Siddhivinayak Temple
Located in Prabhadevi in Mumbai, Shree Siddhivinayak temple is a famous and revered ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It was constructed more than two centuries ago, in 1801. The temple received massive renovations in the early 1990s by the Government of Maharashtra. Being one of the wealthiest temples in India, it is a six-storeyed structure, with its central dome plated in gold.
The temple timings are from 5 30 am to 10 pm on Wednesdays to Mondays. On Tuesdays and special days such as Vinayaka Chaturthi, it is open from 3 15 am to 12 am.
Bandra-Worli Sea Link
The Bandra-Worli Sea Link is a cable-stayed bridge that connects Bandra in the west of Mumbai to Worli in the south of Mumbai. It is an 8-lane road known for its architectural and engineering magnificence. Enjoy a drive across the bridge to get the best views of the city along with the sea breeze. During the night, the bridge lights up, further adding to its beauty and making the drive across very memorable.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
Formerly named ‘Prince of Wales museum’, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya holds close to an astounding number of 50 thousand exhibits. The museum was built in an Indo-Saracenic style of architecture. The idea of the museum was conceived in 1905 but was later formally opened to the public in 1922. The museum has three main sections – Art, Archaeology and Natural history. It hosts some relics even from as early as the Indus Valley civilisation.
Khau Gallis
To experience an authentic gastronomic tour of Mumbai, one must head to Khau Gallis (food streets). Lined up with the city’s best eateries and food stalls, these food streets are perfect for making your evening memorable with lip-smacking fast food at pocket-friendly prices. There are multiple such Khau Gallis located all across the city. Some of the most famous ones are at Carter Road, Zaveri Bazaar and Churchgate.
If you’re however on a trip to Mumbai for multiple days, then remember to ask your guide to add some of the following places to your tour.
Nariman Point
Nariman Point is a posh business hub located on the southern end of Marine Drive. It’s believed to be the fourth most expensive area in the world for office spaces. It’s also well known for being a shopping centre and has outlets of all popular Indian and international brands. Furthermore, shopaholics can head to the nearby Colaba Causeway, which is well-known for street shopping. The area is great for exploring Mumbai’s nightlife as it is filled with luxurious hotels and pubs.
Elephanta Caves
The Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is situated on Elephanta Island. It is located about 10 km from Mumbai’s mainland shore. It can be reached through a 1-hour ferry ride from the Gateway of India. Ferries to the island are available every 30 minutes, from 9 am to 3 30 pm. The Elephanta Caves are a collection of cave temples primarily dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. A fascinating set of five Hindu caves and two Buddhist caves are located on the two km-long islands. The caves are rock-cut, made out of solid basalt rock. Carving of the caves dates back to the mid-5th to 6th century AD.
Haji Ali Dargah
A well-renowned Islamic shrine, Haji Ali Dargah is stunningly located floating on the Arabian Sea and looks like an imaginary world. It is one of the iconic places in Mumbai and is open to all visitors, irrespective of their religion. The monument dates back to 1431 and has been designed with an Indo-Islamic style of architecture. It was built by a Sufi saint, Sayyed Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, a rich businessman hailing from Bukhara, which is in present-day Uzbekistan. The monument is built using the famous Makrana marble, also used in the construction of the Taj Mahal.
