Asia | Travel Tips & News

Magnificent Mumbai: A guide for all travellers

Recently updated on October 4th, 2022 at 11:48 am

A city that buzzes at a frenetic pace, Mumbai just begs to be explored. With exotic bazaars, ancient temples and modern skyscrapers, it’s a fascinating blend of cultures and communities. If you’re planning to visit India’s largest city for the first time, our essential Mumbai guide will show you what to see and experience along the way.

From the second you step off the plane, you’ll be captivated by the electric atmosphere of this intoxicating city. Handcarts jostle for space with rickshaws, street food sizzles in giant pans on the pavement and towering skyscrapers look down on the buzzing city below, signalling a more modern Mumbai. One of the most important monuments to visit on your first trip to Mumbai is the Gateway of India. Quite literally the window to the Indian Subcontinent, the intricately hewn arch stands proud on the portside, welcoming visitors since 1924, when it was erected by the British Raj. It’s a great place for people watching and generally relishing the hubbub of locals, vendors and tourists.

Mumbai guideA short ferry-ride across the harbour from the Gateway of India will take you to Gharapuri, or Elephanta Island as it’s more commonalty known thanks to its monolithic elephant sculptures. The island is home to numerous cave temples, the main one being the fascinating Shiva temple. A labyrinthine maze of courtyards, stone carvings, shrines and cavernous halls, the crowning glory is the enormous seven-metre statue of Shiva that stands at the entrance to Cave 1.

Back in the sprawling metropolis of Mumbai, head to Dhobi Ghat for an authentic slice of everyday city life. A giant open-air laundry, its workers (dhobis) wash hundreds of thousands of pieces of laundry each day, from both hotels and local homes. The colourful sheets billowing in the wind as they dry are certainly a sight to behold.

Mumbai guideA work of architectural significance, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site historical rail station used by millions of people every day. Designed by British engineer F W Stevens, the astonishing terminus marries intricate Gothic stylings with traditional Indian craftsmanship. A must-see not only for its sandstone gargoyles and floral carvings, but also for the sheer scale of the world’s busiest station.

No trip to Mumbai would be complete without sampling some traditional Indian street food. From refreshing yoghurt lassis to aromatic bhajis and crisy panipuri balls, you’re never far away from your next meal in Mumbai. Follow the heady aroma of spice wafting through the air and you’ll soon find yourself at a dhaba (street stall) serving freshly prepared, tasty dishes to all sectors of society. For great street food check out Bhendi Bazaar near Girguam and Crawford Market.

Mumbai guideThe home of Bollywood, who could come to Mumbai and miss out on seeing behind the scenes at a Bollywood studio? The city is home to one the world’s largest cinematic industries, and has produced a plethora of award winning actors. On a Bollywood studio tour, you can watch outdoor and indoor shoots in progress, and may even catch a glimpse of the artists at work. For a bit of star-spotting, take a tour and pass by the houses of some well-known Bollywood celebrities.

To experience the magic of Mumbai, click here to see our tour to this exciting cosmopolitan city.

Image credits: All images © Getty.

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