Mumbai, Bandhavgarh and Maldives
Although we have been to India several times we have never been to Mumbai. We also thoroughly enjoy seeing the big cats on our regular trips to South Africa on Safari. We have decided to combine a trip to India, visiting Mumbai and also seen the Tigers in the wild. We think this will be quite a busy trip so once the India section is finished, we’re gonna go to the Maldives for a spot of rest and recreation.
Mumbai
Mumbai, often called the “City of Dreams,” offers a mix of cultural landmarks, historical sites, vibrant markets, and scenic coastal spots. Here are some of the best things to do in Mumbai but as we are only going to be in Mumbai for a few days we are only going to concentrate on the ones in bold:
1. Explore Iconic Landmarks
• Gateway of India: A historic arch monument overlooking the Arabian Sea; a must-visit for first-time travelers.
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST): A UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning Victorian Gothic architecture.
• Marine Drive: A picturesque promenade to enjoy sunset views and the city’s skyline; often called the “Queen’s Necklace.”
• Haji Ali Dargah: A beautiful mosque located on an islet in the Arabian Sea.
2. Visit Historic Sites
• Elephanta Caves: Located on Elephanta Island, these UNESCO-listed rock-cut caves feature intricate sculptures dedicated to Hindu deities.
• Kanheri Caves: Ancient Buddhist caves located in the Sanjay Gandhi National Park.
• Mani Bhavan: A museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi and his role in India’s freedom struggle.
3. Indulge in Street Food
• Mumbai is famous for its street food. Don’t miss:
• Vada Pav: The city’s iconic burger.
• Pav Bhaji: Spicy vegetable curry with buttered bread.
• Bhel Puri and Sev Puri: Tangy and crispy snacks.
• Kulfi and Falooda: Traditional Indian desserts.
4. Discover Art and Culture
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya: Mumbai’s primary museum showcasing Indian history, art, and archaeology.
• National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA): Attend live performances, including plays, concerts, and dance recitals.
• Kala Ghoda Art Precinct: Explore art galleries, exhibitions, and street art.
5. Shop at Bustling Markets
• Colaba Causeway: Great for street shopping, jewelry, and souvenirs.
• Crawford Market: Perfect for fresh produce, spices, and imported goods.
• Chor Bazaar: One of India’s largest flea markets, famous for antiques.
• Fashion Street: A haven for budget fashion shopping.
6. Relax at Beaches
• Juhu Beach: Known for its lively atmosphere and street food stalls.
• Aksa Beach: A quieter beach for relaxation.
• Girgaum Chowpatty: Great for an evening stroll and snacks.
7. Enjoy Nature and Wildlife
• Sanjay Gandhi National Park: A large green space within the city, home to leopards, deer, and the ancient Kanheri Caves.
• Hanging Gardens: Beautiful terraced gardens with panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
• Maharashtra Nature Park: A hidden oasis of greenery in the heart of the city.
8. Experience Mumbai’s Nightlife
• Mumbai has a vibrant nightlife with rooftop bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. Popular spots include:
• Aer at Four Seasons for panoramic views.
• Trilogy for a lively party scene.
• Prithvi Café for an artsy, relaxed vibe.
9. Take a Bollywood Tour
• Mumbai is the heart of India’s film industry. Take a guided tour of film studios, learn about Bollywood’s history, and maybe even catch a live shoot.
10. Attend Festivals
• Ganesh Chaturthi: A grand 10-day celebration of Lord Ganesha.
• Kala Ghoda Arts Festival: A vibrant cultural festival featuring art, music, and dance.
11. Ferry Rides
• Take a ferry ride from the Gateway of India for a scenic view of the coastline or to visit Elephanta Island.
12. Heritage Walks
• Join guided tours around South Mumbai to learn about the city’s colonial-era architecture and history.
Mumbai’s diversity ensures there’s something for everyone, whether you’re into history, culture, food, or just soaking up the city’s vibrant energy.
Mumbai
Gateway of India,
The Gateway of India is an arch monument built during the 20th century in Mumbai, India. The monument was erected to commemorate the landing of King George V and Queen Mary at Apollo Bunder on their visit to India in 1911. Opposite side you can see Taj Hotel 5* Luxury Hotel is the iconic sea-facing landmark in Colaba, South Mumbai.
Colaba Causeway,
Shopping is the first reason why Colaba Causeway is famous, the next being food! From cheap, street clothes to fashionable boutiques, this lane, which houses old buildings from the British Raj, has it all. While you can stroll through the footpaths and look for clothes, shoes, purses, and even jewelry in the latest designs, you can also step into one of the boutiques and look at exquisite furnishings, clothes, etc. The street vendors sell the latest fashion at throwaway prices, which can be bargained for to a great extent. It is always good to spend some time here; you never know what steal you will find.
Marine Drive,
Marine Drive is one of the most beautifully laid boulevards in southern part of Mumbai. The C shaped area in South Mumbai, Marine Drive, also called “Queen’s Necklace”.
Chowpatty Beach,
Girgaum Chowpatty, is a public beach along the Queen’s Necklace adjoining Marine Drive in the Girgaon area of Mumbai, India
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Area Fort,
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, formerly known as Victoria Terminus, is a historic railway station and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India which serves as the headquarters of the Central Railways.
Crawford Market,
Crawford Market is one of South Mumbai’s most famous markets. The building was completed in 1869, and donated to the city by Cowasji Jehangir. Originally named after Arthur Crawford, the first Municipal Commissioner of the city, the market was later renamed to honour Indian social reformer Mahatma Jotirao Phule.
Mani Bhavan Gandhi Museum,
Mani Bhavan is a museum and historical building dedicated to Gandhi, Highlighting Gandhi’s life, this home features his room, a library, photos, films & other displays. Mani Bhavan was the focal point of Gandhi’s political activities in Mumbai between 1917 and 1934.
Sri Sri Radha Gopinath Temple
Sri Sri Radha Gopinath Mandir stands magnificently as part of the South Mumbai locale it is dedicated to Lord Krishna. ISKCON Chowpatty is a Hare Krishna temple, community, and ashram dedicated to the practice of bhakti-yoga. Loving service to Krishna, the Supreme Person (God). We are a branch of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), a worldwide spiritual movement founded by His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, in New York City in 1966. Under the guidance of His Holiness Radhanath Swami, ISKCON Chowpatty is home to a loving community of practicing Hare Krishna devotees and over 200 resident monks.
Hanging Gardens,
The Hanging Gardens spread out over a vast area that offers plenty of green space and trees amongst the heavily congested South Mumbai. Along with numerous hedges carved into the shapes of animals, the gardens feature a prominent flower clock at its very center. Another source of attraction for tourists is the ‘Old Woman’s Shoe’ or the ‘Boot House’ – a giant boot structure made out of stone and brick. Children can climb into the house. In addition, the spectacular view of the Arabian Sea offered by the gardens is its main highlight and tourists flock to the park during late evenings to take in one of the most beautiful sunset views in the city.
Antilia,
Antilia is a private home in South Mumbai, India. As of November 2014, it is valued at $2 billion, deemed to be the world’s second most valuable residential property, after British crown property Buckingham Palace, and the world’s most valuable private residence
Dhobi Ghat,
Dhobi Ghat is an open air laundromat in Mumbai, India. The washers, known as dhobis, work in the open to clean clothes and linens from Mumbai’s hotels and hospitals.
Banganga,
The Banganga Tank is a temple tank which is part of the Hindu Walkeshwar Temple complex in the Malabar Hill area of the city of Mumbai, Fountain of water is from Bhogawati or underground Ganga sprouted underneath the earth. Since, the river came forth due to piercing of an arrow or ban (in Hindi) it came to be known as Banganga. There is a legend behind the consecration of Walkeshwar Temple
Babulnath Temple,
Babulnath is an ancient Shiva temple in Mumbai, India. Situated on a small hillock near Girgaum Chowpatty, it is one of oldest temples in the city, Shiva in the form of the Lord of the Babul tree is the main deity in this temple.
Jain Temple
Babu Amichand Panalal Adishwarji Jain Temple, A Holy religious temple of jain community who follows Jainism in Mumbai is located at Malabar Hills (Walkeshwar Road), a monument now and way to tourist destination near hanging garden.
Bandhavgarh
Bandhavgarh National Park is spread over the Vindhya hills in Madhya Pradesh. The national park consists of a core area of 105 sq km and a buffer area of approximately 400 sq km. The topography of the whole area varies between steep ridges, undulating forest and open meadows. Bandhavgarh National Park is known for the Royal Bengal Tigers. The density of the tiger population at Bandhavgarh is the highest known in India as well as in the world. The national park was the former hunting preserve of the Maharaja of Rewa and at present is a famous natural hub for White Tigers.