Maharashtra • 14 monuments
India’s liveliest beach, Juhu Beach bustles with life, activities and unending entertainment. The beach has many Bollywood celebrities living in its close proximity and one may get lucky to watch ongoing film shooting which is common at the beach. Juhu Beach is popular for its food vendors serving tangy and mouth-watering snacks like pav bhaji, panipuri, bhelpuri and a variety of desserts. There are some very renowned Italian restaurants near the beach that serve delicious seafood preparations. When at Juhu, you can watch dancing monkeys, snake charmers and other sorts of street performers that keep the crowds amused. You may also like to have a camel or elephant ride at the beach. Another well-known aspect of the beach is that one can watch the majestic views of the sun setting across the Arabian Sea. Yoga and meditation are other good to perform activities here. Other attractions of the beach include ISKCON Temple and statues of Indian freedom fighters. The beach is also famous for being on the airplane take-off route, offering amazing views of the planes just after they rake-off or are ready to land.
Among several temples established by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) around the world, one in the Juhu region of Mumbai attracts hordes of devotees and tourists. Located close to the Juhu Beach, the astounding white marble temple stands in a huge complex which also houses an auditorium, a restaurant and a spacious guest house for the devotees to stay. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the temple is also popular by the names like Sri Sri Radha Rasabihari Temple and Hare Rama Hare Krishna Temple. The construction of the temple at a place which was once nothing more than a dense forest is indeed a matter of surprise. The dream was conceived by Swami Prabhupada who purchased the land and led the temple’s construction in 1978. Beautiful paintings and exotic interiors along with marble statues of various Hindu deities create spellbinding ambiance inside the temple. Constant chanting of Mahamantra, the divine syllable, fills the atmosphere with utmost spirituality. Attending prayers and bhajans organized on daily basis can be an experience of the lifetime. You can also visit the temple during Janamashthmi and other special occasions when exclusive cultural programmes are held.
Served as a residence to Mahatma Gandhi from 1917 to 1934, Mani Bhavan Gandhi Museum is a two-storey house symbolic of true patriotism. Deemed as the huge and most impressive mansion from pre-independence time, this house was transformed into a museum. Popular as the memorial of the Father of the Nation, Mani Bhavan Gandhi Museum houses the famous Old Charkha of Gandhiji. The museum has a picture gallery that showcases photographs, slogans, posters and items related to Gandhi’s life. Mani Bhavan Gandhi Museum houses a reference library that consists of more than 50,000 books, film and recordings related to Gandhi. Visitors can enjoy the special screening of films made on Gandhi in the auditorium inside the museum. A tour to this museum will give you serene and wonderful experience. Other nearby attractions includes, Shree Siddhivinayak Temple, Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Chowpatty Beach and Marve Beach etc.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, formerly known as Prince of Wales Museum is one of the premier museums of India. It was established in the 20th century by the Prince of Wales and hence gained its name. The museum is divided into three floors with several galleries displaying art, maritime, archeology and natural history. Its admirable architecture and an amazing collection of rare archeological artifacts, sculptures, and ancient artworks are spectacular. It has been awarded “The 2010 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award’ for the conservation of rich cultural heritage. This most important landmark of Mumbai is a must visit for educational tours as it is a storehouse of knowledge.
Constructed to commemorate the first visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India, the Gateway of India served as the entry for the British Viceroys and Governors and also as the final exit of the British as India got independence. Constructed from 1911-1924 using yellow basalt and reinforced concrete, the grab structure combines Hindu and Muslim architectural styles and is a perfect example of Indo-Saracenic construction style. The place bustles with tourist activities throughout the day. Tourists visit the monument to savour its old world charm and fascinating magnificence and also to enjoy mesmerizing views of the Arabian Sea. As many as five jetties exist nearby, serving interesting tourist routes to Elephanta Caves and Alibaug. Getting photographed in front of the monument is a favourite among the tourists. Another wonderful highlight is a ride in Victoria, horse-driven gilded carriages reminiscent of the British era. Probably the most iconic landmark of Mumbai, the Gateway of India also has nearby attractions like Statues of Chhatrapati Shivaji and Swami Vivekanand, Flora Fountain and the world-famous Taj Hotel.
Prince of Wales Museum, now known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, is known for housing more than 50,000 artefacts portraying the rich heritage of India. Established in the early 20th century to commemorate the visit of King George V to India, the museum building boasts of remarkable Indo-Saracenic Architecture, inspired by the royal Mughal Architecture. The main three sections of exhibits at the museum include Arts, Archaeology and Natural History. The Art section has spectacular collections of over 2,000 miniature paintings from various schools of art across India, along with many palm leaf manuscripts, decorative artefacts in jade, ivory, silver, gold and other metals and stone sculptures. The Archaeological exhibits include artefacts from Indus Valley Civilization and many powerful dynasties and empires. Terracotta figures and coins are among the top highlights. The Natural History section exhibits India’s rich flora and fauns, including many birds, mammals, reptiles and other species. In addition, the park has galleries for maritime heritage, forestry, armoury, textiles and European oil paintings. Students and other sections of visitors can obtain discount on the museum tickets. Additional charges are imposed for audio guides.
Among the several colonial landmarks of Mumbai, Flora Fountain has something extremely graceful and attractive about itself. A masterpiece of New Classical and Gothic Revival architectural styles, it boasts of exquisite sculpted art with highest sense of old world charm. Dedicated to Flora, the Roman Goddess, the monument was built in 1864. Since then, it has a count among the heritage treasures which Mumbai proudly showcases to the world. It is indeed an eye-pleasing moment to view the fountain in actions after sunset. Numerous shopping venues and vendors in the close proximity attract the visitors. Flora Fountain is a part of the Hutatma Chowk which is surrounded by numerous heritage wonders like the Gateway of India, Central Telegraph Office, Old Secretariat and many specimen of British Victorian architecture. Spending a full day exploring the classic architecture is certainly fascinating.
The iconic symbol of Mumbai’s Gothic City grandeur, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is an historic railway station serving as the headquarters for the Indian Railways’ Central branch. Constructed over the time span of 10 years from 1878-88, it was originally called Victoria Terminus to honour Queen Victoria. Portraying the wonderful blend of Victorian Italianate Gothic Revival architecture and Mughal palace architecture, the heritage building is a part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Apart from the exclusive architectural elements like domes, towers, spires, pointed arches and turrets, the building also boasts of ornamental work and splendid carvings and sculptures of animals like lion, tiger, peacock, elephant and snake. The use of colourful tiles and stained window glasses further enhance the glory of this architectural marvel. Visitors can access the areas like Heritage Gallery and Star Chamber and the Railway Museum featuring old railway crockery, furniture and telephones on guided tours that cost INR 200 per head (INR 100 for students). Timing for this guided tour is from 03:00 p.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Haji Ali Dargah and Mosque form a splendid whitewashed complex located spectacularly amidst Arabian Sea, some 500 yard off the Mumbai shoreline. Housing the tomb of the Sufi saint Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari and an adjoining mosque, the place greets people from all religions and faiths. It is believed that when the saint died on his way to Mecca, his body placed in a casket floated to this place and hence the dargah was constructed. A mosque was added later to the complex. Built in the impressive Indo-Islamic architecture, the structure boasts of ornamental gateway and ceilings with rich mirror work depicting Arabian patterns and 99 names of Allah. Recently added pure marble work has raised the overall splendour of the complex. There are separate entrance points for men and women. Thursday and Friday experience huge crowds of ardent followers and devotees. The complex is accessible only during low tide, as the pathway connecting it to the shoreline submerges in water during high tide. Visit the place early morning during the sunrise and watch it fabulously bathing in the orange light. Be sure to wear traditional clothes and follow the religious conduct when visiting the dargah. Outstanding peace and serenity and regular Sufi music performances at this sacred place create irresistibly engrossing environment.
One of the most coveted holiday spots in Mumbai, Essel World is famed as one of India’s largest amusement parks. The park amuses adults and kids equally with its thrilling rides. Located in the coastal village of Gorai, Essel World has the record of attracting more than 1.8 million visitors each year. Unfolded in 64 acres, Essel World showcases kids, adults and family rides under one roof, making it a fun-filled vacation destination for all the members of your family. Adult rides are the main attractions of the park that includes Shot-N-Drop, Top Spin, Hoola-Loop, Rainbow, Slippery Sultan, Thunder, Zyclone and Enterprise. The junior members of your family can enjoy the small yet amusing rides like Caterpillar, Boat-Ride, Big-Apple, Kangaroo Hop, Happy-Sky and Jr-Go-Kart etc. The electrifying family rides involve Copper Chopper, Aero Swinger, Aqua Dive, Zipper Dripper and Rocking Alley etc. The changing taste and growing demands of the present generation has urged the company to add a few more attractions. Some of the newly added ones are - a Skating Rink and a Laser Tag Arena. Other places of interest near Essel World are Gorai Beach and Water Kingdom.
Dubbed as ‘Mini-Goa,’ Manori Beach is one of the most visited and finest picnic spots in Mumbai. Positioned in a small fishing village of Northern Mumbai - Manori, the beach is popular for family outings and late night party buffs. The Manori village was once under the governance of Portuguese, whose remnants are still found in the hamlet through its churches and chapels. Outlined with orchards full of cashew nut trees, Manori Beach is believed to be one of the most beautiful and serene beaches in the city. Famous as a connecting link between Mumbai city and amusement parks like Essel World and Water Kingdom, this beach reminds of Goa through its culture and nearby settlement. The best thing about this beach, it is clean and less crowded therefore tranquil. Manori beach is surrounded by other wonderful attractions like Marve and Gorai Beaches. You can take a ferry ride from Manori to these beautiful beaches.
Set up over 140 years back, Mahalaxmi dhobi Ghat is a veritable land mark of Mumbai city life. This massive open air laundry where dirty clothes from all over the city are brought and washed manually by washermen in long rows of flogging stones is one of the top 10 attractions in Mumbai. Formed originally to serve the dominant English and Parsi population of the city, this facility is owned by the municipal council, which is let out to the washermen, many of them in this business for decades. There are over 1026 open-air concrete wash pens in this dhobi ghat and the clock work precision of the seasoned hands and the traditional washing methods have made it one of the unique experiences in the world. The spectacular glimpses of thousands of clothes on the cloths line would sum up the sheer amount of action that this washing ghat witnesses.
Marve beach is one of the unspoilt tranquil beaches in Mumbai, which is tucked away from the maddening rush of the city. It is a perfect place to enjoy a quiet evening away from the Mumbai crowd and for the views of rising sun. Situated in Mumbai’s western suburbs of Malad, it is one of the smaller beaches ensuring a calmer atmosphere than most tourist locations. INS(Indian Naval Base) Hamla camp is located here and it is a great sight to see the INS Hamla soldiers training on the beach in the mornings. Sunset time is the best time to enjoy the beauty of this beach. An ancient church and surroundings adorned with Cashew nut tress make the beach view exquisite. Numerous tourists visit this beach in the evenings to stroll across the golden sands. Hawkers’ selling hot items to eat and drink is a commons sight on this beach. Some of them even sell souvenirs and showpieces made of shells collected on the beach. Fishermen collecting fishes in baskets are a common sight on this beach. At the northern end of this beach, there are ferry services available to Essel World and Water Kingdom. Ferry boats are available to other beaches nearby like Gorai Beach, Uttan and to Manori Island. The beach is unsafe for swimming due to sinking sand and fast current.
Clown Town was established as one of the first amusement park in the city of Kolkata. Targeting children of all age groups, the amusement park is well-known for its attractions like jump walls, bike rides and bungee run. Children are extremely attracted towards bungee jump as it is full of fun and excitement. Kids’ Grand Prix is another popular section where children can enjoy motor racing. Kiddies Kingdom is specifically meant for the children up to 5 years. The section has a variety of soft toys as well as the most popular Disney characters that instantaneously grab the attention of the young ones. Roller skates, skate boards, aquatic games and a mini golf course are other highlights for the small visitors. Adults accompanying children can also enjoy at lawns and areas meant for playing games like table tennis, ball and board, archery and carom. Foot loose is a dancing floor for the kids. The park also boasts of a refreshment area where fast food and soft drinks can be enjoyed.
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