You will love Mumbai
Mumbai – Bombay’s official name since 1995 – is one of the largest cities in the world. India’s epicenter of fashion, entertainment and commerce, this sprawling metropolis cultivates a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Alternately under the authority of the Portuguese and the English, the city is rich in sumptuous colonial buildings such as the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus station, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004.
Mumbai is also about much appreciated green spaces, high vegetarian cuisine and impressive architecture. Fascinating, the capital of Maharashtra seduces visitors eager for discovery.
5 reasons to visit Mumbai
1. Visit Bollywood studios
Mumbai is home to one of the most important film industries in India: Bollywood, a combination of the terms Bombay and Hollywood. If you want to explore behind the scenes of the 7th Indian art and contemplate the villas of the biggest Bollywood stars, treat yourself to a Bollywood Tours.
2. Discover huge parks and nature reserves
The capital of Maharashtra has an exceptional network of natural parks and preserved areas like the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. This green setting extends over an area of 104 km² and is home to many wild animals such as leopards, fruit bats and langurs.
3. Admire the architectural richness of South India
The heart of the city is home to elegant colonial and Art Deco buildings. During your architectural walk, discover the delightful David Sassoon Library & Reading Room, the sumptuous 80-meter high Rajabai Clock Tower and the unmissable Art Deco Regal cinema.
4. Explore the markets of Mumbai
Pick up basic items at the large Mahatma Jyotiba Market or bargain for British-era trinkets at the Chor Bazaar flea market.
5. Test the delights of Indian gastronomy
Rich in colors and flavors, Indian cuisine will tickle your taste buds. Comfortably seated at the Samrat restaurant, discover the unmissable tahli, the Indian meal consisting of bread, chutney, dholl, vegetables and a dessert.
What to do in Mumbai?
1. Pass under the Gateway Of India
Built in the Gujarati style of the 16th century, the India Gate recalls the arrival in 1911 of the Emperor of India, King George and his wife Queen Mary. Ideally located on the seafront, it is the starting point for many excursions on the water.
2. Explore Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Railway Station
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Railway Station is a fine example of the fusion of Victorian Gothic Revival style and Indian elements, as evidenced by the stone dome, off-center plan, turrets and pointed arches.
3. Visit Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya Museum
In Indo-Gothic style, this museum contains nearly 50,000 works of Indian history as well as foreign works.
4. Contemplate the High Court
Built between 1871 and 1878, this building is 171 meters wide and 60 meters high. With a massive central tower and two small octagonal towers, it sports the appearance of a large German castle.
5. Discover the Ali Mosque
Built on an islet located 1 km from the coast, the Haji Ali Mosque houses the tomb of Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari. According to legend, this holy man died during his journey and his coffin miraculously floated to the islet.
6. Where to eat in Mumbai?
With a budget of ₹90, you can taste authentic South Indian cuisine at Dakshinayan South Indian Restaurant. Starting at ₹140, indulge in a healthy and balanced menu at Yoga House Cafe. Finally, between ₹780 and ₹1250, you can sit on the superb roof terrace of the Indigo restaurant to discover Indo-European flavors.
