A holiday in Mumabi means glitzy skyscrapers towering over crowded bazaars, Bollywood movie productions you might even land a bit part in, and streets so crowded you’ll soon forget all about the concept of personal space.
Your holiday in Mumbai should be is more about experiencing the city in a sensory way rather than ticking off lists of attractions, but there’s still a few must-see sights and monuments. Start by visiting the Gateway of India, a distinguished archway facing out to Mumbai Harbour which has served as a doorway to the nation since its completion in 1924.
Next pay a visit to one of the busiest railway stations in the world, the extravagant Victorian Gothic Revival structure best known as Victoria Terminus but now renamed Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. The station is a UNESCO World Heritage site listed for its remarkable coming together of British and Indian architectural traditions.
.During your holiday, explore Mumbai’s constantly evolving dining scene and sheer variety of cuisines available, especially the abundance of seafood from the Konkan coast, which runs all the way south to Goa and beyond. Try specialities from other parts of India, too, including kebabs and tandoori from North India and dosas and thalis from the south.
To see how Mumbai’s jet set live, head to the ritzy beachfront neighbourhoods of Juhu and Bandra in Mumbai’s Western Suburbs, home to Bollywood celebrities, sporting personalities and influential politicians and businesspeople. Include in your holiday time to discover some of the trendiest bars, clubs and restaurants in the city, as well as hip boutiques, galleries and street art.
For a half-day trip, take the 30-minute ferry to Elephanta Caves, a network of archaeological remains scattered across Elephanta Island. This ancient site is almost as well-known for its monkeys as its rock carvings and temple and is one of the most popular holiday excursions in the city.
There’s no better way to end a day in Mumbai than with a twilight stroll along Marine Drive’s wide promenade as the street lights come on. This famous strip is lined with hotels, where you can sip a cocktail and watch the sun set over the Arabian Sea.
