Places around Mumbai
Film City
Mockingly called the Hollywood by locals, the Film City clings to the outskirts of the National Park, and is practically overrun by assorted stars and starlets- the demi Gods and Goddesses of modern India. Hollywood churns out over 900 films every year, all packed with those mandatory elements of song, dance, melodrama, violence and erotica that audiences love. Probably, this is why the Film City sets are heavily booked around the year. They are closed to visitors, but special permissions can always be obtained to check out the action. The city is also called the financial capital of India.Gateway of India
It is at the end of the Shivaji Marg. This majestic arch on the shore of Mumbai Harbour commemorates the visit of King George Vin 1911. It was designed by George Wittet to symbolise the enduring nature of British Rule. It is made of Indo-Islamic style with honey-coloured basalt. Behind the gateway there is a beautiful statue of the Maratha leader Shivaji, astride his horse, erected in 1960.The 26 metres high archway was built to commemorate the visit of king Geroge V and Queen Mary to India in 1911. It has a main, large arch flanked by two smaller arches, at the top are four spires enclosing a small space with large balconies on either side. An equestrian statue of chhatrapati shivaji and statue of Swami Vivekananda have been installed here. There are plenty of launches and cruisers anchored in the sea near the archway, which carry tourists to the famous Elephanta Caves. The famous Taj Mahal Hotel facing the Gateway of India is a prominent landmark of Mumbai.
Elphanta Caves (9 km - 11 nautical miles - by sea)
This place is strewn with spiritual remenants like small temples, Buddhist burial mounds and caves of lesser significance. The island is most revered for the Great Cave, a masterpiece of Chlukyan-Gupta art.The 7th century rock cut cave temples on Gharapuri or Elephanta island dedicated to Lord shiva is a World Heritage site of UNESCO. The Maheshmurti in the main cave is one of the most renowned and attractive sculptures. Here shiva is shown in one single carving as the Creator, Protecor and Destroyer of the Universe. Other deities of Hindu trinity, Brahma and Vishnu are also shown in the panels along with shiva. The island can be approached by launches and cruises available at the Gateway of India.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (victoria Terminus)
This first railhead of India is one of the largest and oldest train terminus of the East. Designed by F.W. Stevens in Gothic style, the modern terminus is one of the most magnificent railway stations of the world and was built over a ten-year period from 1878-88 at a cost of Rs.16,35,562. The station has an imposing dome surmounted by a figure symbolising progress. Recently, it has been listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.Hutatma Chowk (Flora Fountain)
The stone figure of Flora, the Roman goddess of flowers is set at the junction of five busy streets. It is surrounded by fountains and host of mythological figures and was built in honour of Sir Bartle Frere, Governor of Bombay (1862-1867). There is also a martyr's memorial in the same premises. Today, the area around the aquare is a flourishing business centre of Mumbai.High Court
The imposing white - pinnacled building was built in 1878 and designed by Gen. A. Fuller in English Gothic style. It is 169 metres long and the central structure soars upto 54.2 metres, surmounted by statues representing Justice and Mercy.Rajabai Clock Tower
The 19th century clock tower at the university campus rises to a height of 79 metres and is the most conspicuous landmark of Mumbai.Town Hall
This colonnaded building overlooking the Horniman circle houses the Asiatic Society Library.Netaji Subhash Marg or Marine Drive
It is one of the most beautiful and popular promenades in the world. Reclaimed from the backbay, the drive starts from Nariman point via chowpatty Beach upto the Malabar Hill. Exhilarating view of the promenade can be enjoyed from Malabar Hill, especially at night, when the string of lights on the curve shine like pearls and appears like a ‘Queen's Necklace'.This is one of Mumbai's most popular promenades and sunset-watching sports. Build on land reclaimed from Back Bay in the 1920s, the marine drive starts from below the hanging gardens on the Malabar Hill, and runs along the Arabian sea ending at the Nariman point. In the night, the colourful line of lights give a picturesque view.
Museums, Memorials & Planetariums
Bahu Daji Lad Museum (Victoria & Albert Museum)
The museum set amidst lush Veermata Jijabai Bhonsle Udyan was originally established in 1855, as a treasure house of the decorative and industrial arts. Today, it has a rich collection of archaeological finds, original maps, photographs, prints and paintings depicting the history of Mumbai. The museum was recently honoured with an ‘Award of Excellence' by UNESCO under is Asia - Pacific Heritage Awards for Culture Heritage Conservation Programme, 2005.Bombay Natural History society (Hornbill House)
It is located near Prince of Wales museumk and is a treasure house of natures wonders.Mani Bhavan (Gandhi Memoria)
Mahatma Gandhi often resided here during his visits to the city. It is now preserved as a national memorial. The building houses a research library, a film and recording archive a set of diorama on Gandhiji's life.Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastusangrahalay (Prince of Wales Museum)
It is one of the best museums in the country and was earlier named after King George V, who as Prince of Wales laid the foundation stone in 1905. The museum is housed in an impressive building built in Indo – Saracenic style and is surrounded by well laid out gardens.Nehru Planetarium
This imposing structure at Worli, houses the oly astronomical centre of the city. The circular sky theatre of the plantarium recreates an image of the sky as seen from anywhere on the earth. A library here has a rich wealth of books specialising on astronomy, astrophysics and space sciences. Nehru Science Centre, adjacent to the planetarium is especially designed for children and youth.Parks, Gardens & Amusement Parks
Kamla Nehru Park
The children's park named after the wife of Jawahar Lal Nehru is perched on the beautiful slopes of Malabar Hill. It was laid in 1952 and commands a panoramic view of Marine Drive and Chowpatty Beach. The "Old Womans' shoe" along with the swings and slides in the park are centre of attraction for children.Pherozshah Mehta Gardens (Hanging Garden)
This beautiful garden was laid out in 1881, atop a water reservoir. It is also a popular picnic spot and the sun - set view from here is spectacular.Veermata Jijabai Bhonsle Udyan (victoria Gardens)
The lush garden is a comprehensive complex of a Botanical Garden, Zoo and Museum, which has cultural and historical exhibits. Elephant, camel, pony and boat rides are available.Sanjay Gandhi National Park
It is located near Borivalli railway station, which is about 35kms. by suburban electric train from the town. The park also called as Krishngiri Upvan, has the Gandhi Smriti Mandir on Pavilion Hill. The Lion Safari Park is very exciting. Kanheri Caves, one of the largest groups of Buddhist caves in western India, are another attraction of the park.Essel World & Water Kingdom (70 km, near Gorai beach)
This very popular theme park offers exciting rides and games. The water kingdom nearby is great experience for any water loving individual.Fantasy Land (29 km. at Jogeshwari)
This amusement park is smaller in size and cheaper as compared to Essel World.Some Sacred Sites...
Babulnath Temple
Thios temple of lord shiva to the south of Malabar Hill, was built in 1780 and a tall spire was added to the structure in 1900. It enshrines a black stone shivaling and idols of various gods and goddesses.Bholeshwar Temple
It is dedicated to Lord shiva also known as Bholeshwar (the Pure one). The temple is covered with brass plates and has a red flag adorned with representations of the sun and moon.ISKCOn or Hare Rama Hare Krishna Temple
The magnificent shrine at Juhu is worth visiting, especially during the morning and evening prayers.Mahalaxmi Temple
The shrine of Mahalaxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity is set picturesquely on a rocky promontory at the edge of the sea and is one of the most popular shrines of Mumbai. The present temple was built in the 18th centry and enshrines elaborately ornamented statues of Mahalaxmi, Mahakali and Mahasaraswati.Mumba Devi Temple
It is dedicated to Mumba Devi, the patron goddess of the city and is believed to have been originally built by Koli fisherman in the 1st century B.C. demolished by the British in 1739. The new shrine was later reconstructed at kalbadevi in 1753 and enshrines a beautifully ornamented image of the goddess.Not much is known about the temple, though historians mention that the Goddess was seated in a hovel. The same hovel later made way for a more elaborate structure. Within the sanctum sits the Goddess surrounded by other Gods of the Hindu pantheon. The temple is just a cab drive away from Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus.
Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Mandir
The Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Mandir is located in Prabhadevi, Mumbai, in Maharashtra, originally built by Mr. Laxman Vithu and Mrs. Deubai Patil on November 19, 1801. The temple has a a small mandapam (hall) with the shrine of Siddhi Vinayak (spiritual Ganesha). The inner roof of the sanctum is plated with gold, and the central statute is of Ganesha portrayed with four arms, bearing respectively, a lotus, an axe, modakas (sweet deep-fried dumplings) and a garland of beads. Ganesha is flanked by two of his three consorts, Siddhi and Riddhi.Mumbaites have great and devotion for this holy shrine of Lord Ganesha, at Prabhadevi.
Walkeshwar Temple
This ancient temple near Malabar hill is said to have been built in 1000 A.D. by Silhara kings. It was vandalised by the Portuguese in 16th century and was beautifully rebuilt by Rama Kamthi, a wealthy Brahmin in 1715. As per legends Lord Rama made a shivlingam out of sand (Waluk) and prayed here. The sacred Banganga Tank nearby is said to have been created by Lord Rama.Afghan Church or St. John's Church
The magnificent church at at Colaba, with wide Gothic arches and beautiful stained glass windows was built in 1847, in the memory of the BRitish Soldiers who fell in the sindh and Afghan campaigns of 1838 and 1843.St. Thomas Cathedral
The church at fort is a fine blend of the classical and Gothic Styles of architecture. It also has several interesting memorials and monuments.The gloria Church
The church located at Byculla, was originally built by Portuguese in 1632. It was demolished and built on Gothic style in 1911.Mount Mary Basilica
The church dedicated to Mother Mary at Bandra is one of the most important Marian pilgrim centres of the world.Haji Ali
It houses the tomb of a Muslim saint, who died while on Pilgrimage to Mecca. When casket containing his mortal remains floated and came to rest on a rocky bed in the sea, devotees constructed the tomb and mosque at this spot. The mosque set amidst the waters of the sea can be approached through a causeway, which gets submerged during the high tide.Raudat Tahara
It has marble mosque and mausoleum built by the Dawoodi Bohra Muslims in honour of their spiritual leader, the late Dr. Syedna Tahar Saifuddin.Beaches
Juhu Beach
It's a pleasant beach with attraction of carnival atmosphere that develops on weekend afternoons and evenings.Chowpatty Beach
This white sandy beach is very attractive. It has witnessed some significant events in India's contenmporary history. A number of important ‘Quit India' rallies were conducted here during the Independence movement. This beah is a favouurite evening gathering place for Mumbaites. The erected statue of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak at thisbeach mark the spot where this great nationalist leader was cremated in 1920.The popular beach in the ‘Heart of Mumbai' has a Special place in the life of Mumbaites. It is the venue for important fewstivals like coconut Day and the Ganesh Chaturthi immersions.
Erangal Beach
35 km by suburban electric train to Malad, thence by road. Hotels and shacks are available at this lovely beach.Gorai Beach
The clean and calm beach of Gorai, is located 59km. from the city centre. Nearest railhead is Borivali, from there by bus or auto to Gorai creek, which has to be crossed by ferry. The famous theme park -Essel World is located nearby.The second most popular beach of Mumbai lies on the Bandra - Khar road, about twenty kms. from the city centre. The crowded beach lined by bungalows and high rise apartments offers various entertainment and amusements.
Madh, Marve & Manori Beaches
44.8km 38.4km and 40km respectively by suburban electric train to Malad, and thence 12km 5.6km and 6.4 respectively by road. Ferry services available from Marve to Manori beach.Al Omani's Island
This is the southernmost tip of Mumbai, which is merged with Colaba in such a way that nobody knows the existence of Al Omani. It is simply Colaba. The Gothic St John the Evangelist Church, also known as the Afghan Church, located here pays tribute to the British soldiers who died in the campaigns of Sind and Afghanistan.Colaba
It is a must visit for everyone. It is completely crowded with shops selling knick-knacks, leather goods, jewellery, bags and T-shirts. Regal Theatre, along with Prince of Wales Museum and the Maharashtra State Police Headquarters, is a part of the historical circle around the Wellington Fountain.Worli
One thing worth noticing here is the dhobi ghaat, the washermen's enclave where clothes are pounded and scrub cleaned in the old fashioned way. Besides this Worli also houses the 800-year-old Haji Ali Dargah, situated on a rock. The dargah is the resting place for a rich man who renounced his wealth for God.Parel
Once a site of a Jesuit monastery and church, it was also the residence of the British governor. Today, it's seeing a burst of construction activity as mil lands have been opened up for development.Mahim-Matunga-Dharavi-Sion
Like Matunga and Sion, Mahim is predominantly a quiet residential suburb today. The reclaimed marshland of Dharavi is home to half-a-million people and is Asia's largest slum.Vasai (50 km)
Close to the ancient port of Sopara, Vasai was sought by waves of invaders. In more recent times, Vasai (under the Ancient Monuments Preservation Act since 1917) has been the docking port for migrants. Make sure you have kept aside time for Vasai's beautiful churches and villages and for the sweet bananas, that the region is famous for.Around Mumbai
Alibag (112 km)
This fine beach resort was the home of Shivaji's admiral, Angre. There are two sea forts known as Khanderi and Undheri. Nearby, Chaul is an old fortress town. It is also a convenient base for visting Kihim and Nagaon beaches. The resort is well connected by road with Mumbai via Panvel and Pen.Ambarnath (70 km)
The Hindu pilgrim centre is famous for the 11th century Somnath temple, dedicated to Lord shiva. It is also a popular picnic spot connected by local trains from Mumbai.Bassein Fort
The 15th century Portuguese Fort is 76.8km by sub-urban electric train to Bassein Rd. and thence 4.8km by road.Bassein (now Vasai) was the richest of the Portugueses settlements in India. Already in decline it was plundered by the Marathas in 1739, and taken over by the British in 1780. The fort is intact and there are the ruins of many churches, but the local fishing village may well be of more interest.
The village of Sopara, near Vasai Road station, has been identified with the Biblical Ophir.
Arrival and departure. Vasai Road (the nearest station) is 1 ¼ hours from Mumbai Central on the main line to Delhi. Expresses do not stop only slow passenger trains.
Built by Bahadur Shah - Sultan of Gujarat from 1526 -1537, this fort was intended to guard the coast against foreign poweRs.The fort passed hands from the Sultan to the Portuguese, Marathas and finally the British.
Nearest Railway Station is Vasai Road (7 km). There are ST buses from Vasai Railway Station to Bassein Fort.
19 km away is Arnala Fort, (9 km from Virar ) a beautiful sea fort of Chhatrapati Shivaji. There are buses connecting Vasai city and Arnala Village and then ferry services to the Fort.
Karnala Bird Sanctuary & Fort (61 km)
The sanctuary lies on the Mumbai - Goa road. An old fort nearby is quite interesting.This small bird sanctuary is home to rare residents and attracts many winter migrants. Over 150 species have been spotted here.
Arrival and departure. By house or taxi (70 km) from Mumbai. Nearest station is Panvel (12 km) on line from Mumbai VT.
Accommodation. Forest Rest Houses to be looked through the Forest Office in Thane.
Matheran (105 km)
This clean and quiet hill resort in the Western ghats is a favourite weekend destination for Mumbaites. Some of the important sites are - Charlotte Lake, the Panorama and the Sunset Points and various other view points. Matheran is also known for cane and leather articles and chikki, a special sweatment. The ‘Toy Train' plying between Neral and Matheran was started in March 1907, covering a distance of 21kms. on 610mm gauge. The beautiful secdtion is very popular among visitors.Murud - Janjira (165 km)
The beautiful coastal town is famous for Janjira, an impregnable island - fortress, 5kms. south of Murud. It was built in 1140, by siddi Johar and became the capital of Siddis during 16th century. The fort remained virtually invincible in its lifespan. The palace of the Nawab and the Janjira caves are worth visiting. Murud lies 45kms. south of Alibag and the nearest railhead is at Roha (50kms) on the Konkan Railway.Tansa Lake & Sanctuary
Tansa Lake is 103km by sub - urban electric train to Atgaon and thence 14.4 km by road. The lush forests around the lake are haven for many species of birds and animals.The Tansa Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary are situated in Thane district, 103 Km and 90 Km away from Mumbai city respectively. The quiet but immense water spread of the lake nestles amidst the thick forest of Tansa. The wildlife sanctuary occupies an area of 216.75 sq km and is home to the tiger, panther, sambar, cheetal barking deer, wild boar, jackal, common langur and bonnet macaque.
Atgaon (14 km) (near Kasara) on the Central Railway line is the nearest Railway station.
Vaitarna Lake & Dam
The scenic lake and dam lies on the Kalyan - Nashik railway route. It is 122km by sub - urban eletric train to khardi and thence 12.8km by road.Nasik
Nasik is a major pilgrimage town reputed to have 2000 temples. The Godavari river is the holiest in southern India, and the great Kumbh Mela festival takes place here every 12 years.Arrival and departure. Nasik Road station (8 km from the city) is on the Mumbai VT (4 hrs)-Delhi railway.
Ganeshpuri(82 km)
Spread over an area of 75 acres is the famous spiritual institute, Shri Gurudev Ashram or Gurudev Siddha Peeth, which was founded by the renowned Swami Nityananda in 1949 where he had three rooms built for his disciple, Swami Muktananda. In 1956, Swami Muktananda settled there permanently and the Ashram began to grow. Swami Muktananda named it Shree Gurudev Ashram in memory of his guru who attained Mahasamadhi in August 1961. Around the Ashram is a new township set up for the resettlement of Adivasis or Warli tribe, the local inhabitants. Swami Nityananda's Samadhi, the Bhimeshwar Ganesh Temples are very close to the Ashram.The nearest railhead is Vasai Road (29km) on Western Railway and 3 km away is Vajreshwari.
Visiting Hours at the Temple: 0545-1200 hrs & 1500-1830 hrs
