Mumbai is the old capital of India during the colonial period. Mumbai or still Bombay? Not an easy choice. Travel to Mumbai: where to go, what to do and what to see

A real multifaceted miracle is the capital of the mysterious India - Bombay. Today the city is called Mumbai. Its streets are filled with people of different religions and wealth, and the Bollywood dream attracts a million Indians to the capital. Unheard-of luxury here borders on the appalling poverty of the slums, so Bombay is rightfully considered a city of contrasts.

Modern Bombay

Bombay itself is more reminiscent of a 19th-century city than a resort destination on the Arabian Sea coast. Its houses and buildings are made in the style of the Victorian era and are located next to the newest buildings modern architecture. In the southern quarters there are skyscrapers of companies, luxury hotels, and picturesque villas of the rich. This area was even nicknamed “Indian Manhattan.” Bombay has a large number of luxurious and picturesque villas for wealthy people and celebrities.

Bombay is the most interesting Indian city. It has the status of an economic free zone and is a center for the diamond trade. This treasure of India has been traded here for many centuries. Also, the Indian capital is the main financial center of the country. Banks, offices of major monopolies and transnational corporations, India's main film studio, and the largest Indian port are concentrated here.

Concerning cultural life capital, then in Bombay it is very diverse. Exhibitions of famous expositions from various museums, as well as works of contemporary artists, concerts of stars and theatrical performances are constantly held here. Bombay has a large number of different galleries and theaters, which is why the city is often called the “Paris of Asia”.

Despite the fact that the population of the state in which Bombay is located speaks Marathi, the language of communication is English. In the capital of India, it is the main one for all civil servants, businessmen and clerks. Today the city is inhabited by various people from religious and ethnic groups, giving Bombay a special Indian flavor with its diversity of nationalities.

History of development

In ancient times, on the site of luxurious Bombay there were only swampy islands. The few peasants living here made their living by fishing and extracting juice from palm trees. In the 16th century, the islands were transferred to Portugal, which began to actively develop the territory. The lands were then given, along with a dowry, to Catherine de Braganza, who married King Charles II of England.

In the 18th century, the construction of the Bombay fortress was completed, which a hundred years later was united with the islands, marking the beginning of the rapid development of a large industrial city. The walls of the fortress were dismantled in 1864.

Today the city is located on seven islands and is called the “Gateway to India”. Founded by the British, it attracts a large number of tourists from all over the world. Bombay has unique attractions that reflect the culture of ancient India - Hindu temple complexes and caves on Elephanta Island, ancient mosques and temples in the city center.

Also worth a visit are the Prince of Wales Museum, the capital's railway station, the Gateway of India memorial, the Raj Massif, Colaba and the bustling Crawford Indian Market. Rudyard Kipling himself, who lived nearby as a child, loved to stroll through the market. Among the most beautiful colonial buildings, the buildings of the University and the Supreme Court stand out.

There are also many exciting and interesting places in the nearby suburbs of Bombay. Some of them are a national park in the vicinity of the capital and the cave Buddhist monastery of Katheri. For everyone who wants to fully immerse themselves in the true Indian exoticism, these places will be an excellent holiday solution in India.

Which areas to visit?

Every tourist who comes to Bombay becomes interested in the Colaba area. This is where hotels of various levels, restaurants, Indian shops and restaurants are located. Nearby is the port and the Gateway of India memorial, the Prince of Wales Museum, and the five-star Taj Mahal hotel complex. The British Prince's Museum is adjacent to an art gallery, where various exhibitions are constantly held.

The business district contains an Armenian church and interesting colonial-era buildings. Many buildings were erected here at the beginning of the 19th century. The city massif is interesting for the Municipality building, which has an extensive library, as well as the Mint. The facade of the old Mint is made in a very interesting style. All buildings in the business district have a certain transport connection to the port, pier and warehouses.

One of the best places for exciting walks is Marine Drive. It houses the world famous Taraporewala Aquarium. Here you can see a large number of representatives of the marine world. The promenade leads to Chowpatty Beach and Malabar Hill, where Bombay's richest people live. There is an interesting monument to the Maratha leader Bal Gangadhar Tilak on the beach, and the governor's residence is located on Malabar Hill. The hill is crowned by a reservoir of water, at the top of which there are “hanging gardens” with bushes in the shape of animals. Nearby, hidden behind the foliage are the “Towers of Silence” - very interesting Persian structures. A popular picturesque park is located nearby. It offers a magnificent and impressive view of the entire Bombay from the hill. At the foot of the hill is the Hindu temple of Mahalakshmi, which is dedicated to one of the goddesses of India.

Also interesting to visit will be Chor Bazaar - the so-called “thieves' market”, where they sell ancient antiquities, items made of metal, leather, ivory and wood. Here you can buy many unique antiques.

Sights of Bombay

Gateway to India

The city is famous for its architectural monuments and attractions. The Gateway to India structure was installed at the former sea pier. It was this arch that immediately caught the eye of guests arriving in India. The structure was erected in honor of the arrival of the British ruler George V. British troops left India through these stone gates.

An eternal flame burns at the basalt memorial, and the names of soldiers are carved on the walls of the triumphal arch. Opposite the Gate is a park with a statue of the king who founded the Maratha Empire. Currently, the Gate is a symbol of India and a monument to the past colonial era.

Prince of Wales Museum

The complex is located next to the Gateway of India. The museum was erected in honor of the future British king George V. The three-story building is made in the Saracen architectural style, and its roof is crowned with a large dome. The building also has balconies, tiled floors and other interesting features from the Mughal era.

The museum has more than 50 thousand interesting exhibits. There is a lot to see and be surprised by. Some galleries are dedicated to the god Krishna, others reflect Indian traditions and cultural features.

Victoria Station

The architecture of this building is unique and inimitable. The station impresses with its majestic appearance, high arches, stone curbs and graceful columns. Today it is the main railway station of which the capital is proud. The architect of the project was the British Frederick Stevens. Construction of the station took ten years.

The central dome of the building is crowned with a statue of a woman holding a torch and a wheel - symbols of progress. The station is decorated with several statues, and the central gate is decorated with figures of a tiger and a lion. The station premises are paved with tiles and decorated with carved wood and metal. The station is a cultural heritage of India and is included in the UNESCO list.

Elephanta Island

On one of the islands of the city harbor is the amazing Elephanta Island. The place attracts many tourists from all over the world. There are unique temple caves here, which can be reached by a small tram.

The main entrance of the temple complex leads to Big hall, where the statue of the god Shiva is located. Along the island's tram road there are small shops selling souvenirs, drinks and food. There are three settlements on the island, one of which contains amazing temple caves that are definitely worth seeing. Unique temple complex will not leave you indifferent and will bring many interesting impressions.

Mani Bhavan Mansion

The house is located in the city center and is notable for its architecture and the visit of Mahatma Gandhi, who stayed in this mansion. It was this building that served as the headquarters of the Indian leader. The owner of the house was an associate of Gandhi, who subsequently donated the building to the National Gandhi Memorial Trust.

The city is proud of this house, as it was here that Mahatma Gandhi called on the Indian people to offer non-violent resistance to the British. At the entrance to the mansion there is a statue of the Indian leader of the liberation movement. The interior of the house has not changed since Gandhi stayed here. It was on the terrace of this mansion that he was arrested in 1932. Recently visited this museum American President Obama with his wife.

Fountain Flora

An interesting composition of sculptures is located in the southern quarter on Martyrs' Square. The fountain itself depicts the Roman goddess Flora, and was erected in the 19th century. The fountain is made of a unique type of stone and includes various figures of mythical animals and representatives of the water world. Next to the fountain is a monument to the Martyrs who died for independence. Walking around Bombay and visiting the sights will leave a lasting pleasant impression.

Mumbai (aka Bombay until 1995) is the largest Indian city with a population of more than 21 million people. This is economic and Cultural Center countries: the offices of the world's most famous corporations, fashionable hotels and haute couture shops are located here. Here, in the world-famous “Bollywood,” most Indian films and television programs are filmed. People from all over the country and from all over the world flock here in search of a better life. And yet in Mumbai they are at peace! Mumbai is absolutely different from the rest of India: both in its colonial architecture, which is breathtaking, and in how seamlessly representatives of different cultures and religions coexist here. When you get to Mumbai, you seem to be transported from dirty, noisy India to the Bombay of Kipling’s time and, despite the bustling life around you, it seems that time has stopped. We tell you how to get there, where to stay and what to do in this amazing city.

Guide contents:

Many airlines fly to Mumbai and you can often catch a ticket at a decent discount. However, there are no direct flights from Minsk, Kyiv, or Moscow. Arabic flies from Minsk with a transfer to Abu Dhabi Etihad. The cheapest way to fly from Moscow Aeroflot, the truth is waiting for you here long transfer in Delhi.

If you want to visit the Indian capital at the same time, then you can leave Delhi for Mumbai in two ways. Local low-cost airline IndiGo from $30 per ticket. The flight will take 2 hours. By train, which will take you 24 hours to Mumbai, for about the same cost in a 3rd class carriage. Train schedules, seat availability and ticket prices can be found on the Indian Railways website.

The most comfortable way to get from the airport to the city center is by taxi. In the terminal building there are Pre-paid Taxi counters with a fixed fare. A trip to the city center starts from $7.

In Mumbai, heavy street traffic often leads to hours-long traffic jams. Therefore, if you arrive during peak hours, it’s faster to get to the city center by train Mumbai Suburban Railway Network. The nearest Vile Parle station from the airport can be reached by taxi, rickshaw or bus: No. 312 (from Terminal 1) and No. 321 (from Terminal 2).

Comfortable BEST shuttles also go from the airport to the city center every 15-20 minutes. You can view the bus route and build it for yourself on the company’s website.

To know everything you need to know about public transport in Mumbai, download the app m-indicato. This is an irreplaceable thing in the city! With its help, you can build bus and train routes, find out transport schedules, and calculate the cost of taxi trips.

In Mumbai, rickshaws and bombilas are banned, only official taxis. True, during peak times and at night, a taxi driver may refuse to take you according to the meter, asking for a large amount. Bargain for a decline.

The most comfortable way to travel short distances in the city is by taxi. The first kilometer of the trip costs $0.25 according to the meter, then $0.15 per km. Don't forget to remind the driver to turn on the meter!

The Mumbai Suburban Railway Network has 4 lines and connects remote areas of the city. The fare depends on the distance and starts from $0.07 for a pair of stations. Tickets are purchased at ticket offices at stations. As a rule, trains have 1st class carriages (which differ in price, but not in comfort - from $0.70) and separate all-women carriages.

Bus service in Mumbai is very developed. As a rule, all inscriptions on city buses are in Hindi, including numbers. You can try to learn counting in Hindi, but it’s still extremely difficult to navigate bus traffic without Arabic numerals.

Surprisingly, it can be difficult to find accommodation in Mumbai: prices are 3 times higher than the national average (on Booking.com even higher), hotels are often overcrowded, many hotels accommodate only Indians, only men or only Indian men! Couchsurfers themselves do not recommend stopping through Couchserfing.com. In addition, web-based accommodation booking services are not that common in India, especially for budget accommodation.

You can find an inexpensive guesthouse by walking down the street Shahid Bhagat Singh Road (Colaba Causeway) where the famous Leopold Cafe. 4-5 star hotels are located nearby along the fashionable Marine Drive. Mid-price hotels are scattered between these two streets.

Salvation Army House or Salvation Army Home (43/45, BEST Marg, Apollo Bandar, Colaba) . Its 4-storey building is located just behind the famous Taj Mahal Palace. Salvation Army is a Protestant charity helping the homeless and disadvantaged. Now the building has been completely converted into a hostel: both dormitories and private rooms (AC and NonAC) are offered. This is the cheapest place in Mumbai! The cost of a night with breakfast starts from $5 (per bed in a dormitory). There are always limited spaces available; pre-booking is only possible for groups. Salvation Army is also famous for its unique “paramilitary” atmosphere: barracks-style dorms, staff in military uniform, an ascetic canteen, no hot water and thousands of travelers from all over the world! Minus: no bed linen and hot water. Pros: price, breakfast, location and atmosphere.

Hotel Volga II (Rustam Manzil, 1st floor, Above Leopord Cafe, NF Road, Colaba) located right next to Leopold Cafe (very small shabby sign, you have to climb the steps to the 2nd floor) - a popular budget place. Private rooms (AC and NonAC) are the cheapest in Colaba. Prices for a NonAC room with shared bathroom start at $10. Cons: small rooms, no breakfast. Pros: price, location.

Apollo Hotel (Mathuradas Estate building, Mathuradas Estate Building, 43/45 Colaba Causeway, Colaba) . A small guesthouse occupies the 1st floor of a residential building. Rooms (AC and NonAC) starting at $10/night. Minus: small rooms, no breakfast. Pros: price, location.

Carlton Hotel 1* (Florence House, No.12, MereWeather Road, Behind Taj Mahal Hotel) - a tolerable hotel for the unpretentious. The small, no-frills rooms make up for the great location. Great for collapsing and falling asleep after a busy day in Mumbai. Rooms (AC and NonAC) from $12 per night.

Bentley Hotel Marine Drive 2* (Krishna Mahal, 3rd Floor, Marine Drive, Churchgate) - a decent hotel in a historic building located right on Marine Drive, in walking distance from Churchgate railway station, but a bit far from Colaba. But jogging along the morning Marine Drive is guaranteed! Modern rooms with breakfast from $45/night. Some rooms overlook the bay. Disadvantage: distance from Colaba. Plus: breakfast, Marine Drive.

Bentley's Hotel 3* (17, Oliver Road, Colaba) - a quality, no frills hotel with large AC rooms and private bathrooms. Wi-Fi is only at the reception, in India it is called “in public areas”. Nightly rates from $45. Plus: location, breakfast, large rooms, renovated building.

Taj Mahal Palace 5* (Apollo Bunder, Colaba) . To fully feel the spirit of British Bombay, you should stay at the most famous 5-star hotel in the city, built in the nineteenth century. The Taj Mahal is a museum and a hotel rolled into one. Famous artists and musicians, politicians and members of royal families stayed here. The rooms are decorated in Indian style, some of them overlooking the Arabian Sea and India Gate. There are several restaurants, a SPA and a swimming pool on site. Nightly rates start at $215.

Mumbai is a city where poverty and wealth do not coexist so organically in the world. The business center of the city with the main attractions, hotels, restaurants, bars and nightclubs is located in the south in the Colaba area. In the north of Mumbai there are world-famous slum areas.

In the mid-90s, the city underwent a large-scale renaming. Therefore, get used to the fact that almost any attraction or institution has two names: the old, well-known one and the new, usually unpronounceable one. To this day, many establishments in Mumbai are called Bombay.

Rich Mumbai

Mumbai's nightlife is in full swing until 2 am. Afterwards, all establishments close, the city is strict about this. Bars are usually open until midnight. Most nightclubs prefer Indian music!

Aer (Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai, 1/136, 34th Floor, Hotel Rooftop, Dr. E. Moses Road, Worli) - pretentious rooftop bar Hotel Four Seasons, which offers a gorgeous view of Mumbai. Expats prefer to gather here to admire the city over a cocktail and a pleasant conversation.

Trilogy (Hotel Sea Princess, 969, Juhu Tara Rd, Airport Area, Juhu) . Bombay's favorite two-story club is located near Santracruz West airport. On Saturday, the entrance fee can reach $20.

Wink (Vivanta by Taj President, 90, Cuffe Parade) is one of the most glamorous bars in Mumbai. Located at the Vivanta by Taj President Hotel and open until midnight. Japanese cuisine and a pint of beer starting at $7.

China House (Grand Hyatt Mumbai Off Near Bandra Kurla Complex, Western Express Hwy, Vakola, Santacruz East) . Another popular club among locals is located at the Grand Hyatt hotel in the Santracruz area. There is strict face control here. On Fridays the club is open until 3 am. Besides everything, it is famous for its excellent Chinese cuisine.

Tryst (Phoenix Mill Compound, High Street Phoenix, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel) - one of the most popular and expensive clubs among Mumbai residents. You will have to pay $15-30 for entry depending on the day of the week, with the most expensive on Saturday. Table rental will cost $450.

Hype (Atria, The Millenium Mall, R1, 4/F, Dr Annie Beasant Road, Worli) . If you want to plunge into the atmosphere of a Bollywood party, then you need to go to Hype. Indian film stars often visit the club; remixes of famous Bollywood songs are played here and themed parties are held.

Colaba Causeway (Shahid Bhagat Singh Road) . Along the street there are shops and stalls with everything a tourist needs: souvenirs, magnets, clothes, shoes, jewelry. True, the quality leaves much to be desired. If you want to buy really good Indian things, you should go to the local markets. Prices for small souvenirs here are lower than the national average.

Book deals on Mahatma Gandhi Road(in the Flora Fountain area). In India books on English language cost mere pennies. For example, a large collection of Kafka can be bought on sale for $4. The publisher prints the recommended price on the back of the books, but here you can and should bargain!

Chor Bazaar (Mutton St, Kumbharwada) . Biggest swap meet Mumbai is famous for its variety of antiques and antiques that sell for pennies. Here you can find Victorian furniture and home decor, whimsical musical instruments and vintage Bollywood posters. The last ones in the store with the huge Mini Market sign.

Mangaldas Market(Janjiker St, Lohar Chawl, Kalbadevi) - Mumbai's largest textile market with a 200-year history. The best silks and saris in the city are sold here. In a huge number of stores you can find traditional Indian clothing of excellent quality at a low price (overshirts, trousers, scarves, etc.).

Zaveri Bazaar (Sheikh Menon St, Lohar Chawl, Kalbadevi) - the jewelry mecca of Mumbai, where thousands of shops sell cheap jewelry made from yellow gold, beloved by Indians. For jewelry you need to go to Bhuleshwar Market (Marine Lines East, Panjarpole, Bhuleshwar) - this is a real women's paradise, where the brilliance of jewelry blinds the eyes! The latter is closed on Sundays.

To the spice market Lalbaug Market (Dinshaw Petit Rd, Lal Baug, Parel) It is worth going for the world famous turmeric, red and Kashmiri chili peppers. Good spices in factory packaging can also be purchased at any grocery store. For example, at the Sahakari Bhandar supermarket (Colaba Chamber, Ground Floor, Shahid Bhagat Singh Road, Colaba) in Colaba.

Buying good tea in India is more of a myth than a reality. As often happens, excellent tea is immediately exported, and Indians drink what is left or powdered tea (as we do in tea bags). When brewed, it turns out very strong and completely tasteless. Of course, shops and markets sell loose leaf teas in beautiful packages especially for tourists. But they should not be confused with that very real Indian tea.

Map of Mumbai with attractions from the guide

Bargain like it's the last time in your life! Know that for the first time an enterprising Indian names a price at least 2 times higher than the real one. You need to bargain for everything except food, medicine and prices in government agencies (transport, post office, etc.). Retail prices are already printed on food and drink packaging by manufacturers.

Currency. In India, money is changed not by banks, but by special exchangers with the Currency Exchange sign. They charge a fee of 7% of the amount and do not set the most favorable exchange rate, so it is better to change on the black market (both from dollars to rupees and vice versa). In Mumbai, it is profitable to change money at Colaba Causeway (Shahid Bhagat Singh Road). Just walk along the market street and the money changers will approach you. You have to bargain for the course! Focus on the official exchange rate minus a dozen or two Indian cents. The larger the amount you change, the better the exchange rate you ask for.

Internet. Due to the 2008 terrorist attacks in Mumbai, strict security measures have been taken. First of all, this affects the availability of communications and the Internet. It may well happen that your roaming will stop working in the city. There is no Wi-Fi access in in public places, only in rare cafes and restaurants, as well as in hotels of medium and high price categories. At the same time, to connect to the network, you may be required to present a passport and access may be limited during the daytime.

If you need to always be in touch, you should connect a local SIM card. 1 GB of mobile Internet will cost about $4-5. This can be done at any street stand with icons of mobile operators. Colaba Causeway (Shahid Bhagat Singh Road) and Bharucha Road have them at every step. To connect, you need a copy of your passport and visa, 2 3x4 photos and, optionally, a hotel payment receipt. Activation of a purchased SIM card may take from several hours to a couple of days. This process is quite complicated and consists in the fact that the mobile operator carefully checks your data and always calls the hotel to confirm that you are staying there. The SIM card can be used throughout the country and top up your account anywhere.

You are allowed into Indian airports only upon presentation of your air ticket. Make sure it is downloaded to your smartphone. If you arrived and left the airport, they will not let you back in, because... the ticket has been used. Therefore, first of all, try to change money or withdraw it from an ATM in the airport building; it will be almost impossible to do this on the street.

First aid kit. If you have never taken sedatives in your life, take stronger and more challenging ones with you to India. You can start accepting them at the airport. Don’t flatter yourself, this is India, you won’t get away with simple valerian here. Also make sure you have a full range of medications with you for digestive problems. Don't forget the hand sanitizer. If you have asthma or lung problems, take antihistamines, a thick face mask (can be bought at any pharmacy in Mumbai) and do not walk around the city in the morning when smog descends on the streets. The air in Mumbai is so polluted, especially in winter, that unaccustomed tourists often become allergic to it. If this happens, go straight to the nearest hospital, they will give you special strong antihistamines against air allergies.

What to take with you. Make several copies of your passport and visa, they are needed when checking into hotels and connecting a SIM card. India has its own concepts about the purity and whiteness of white, so it’s a good idea to bring bedding that you don’t mind. If you are planning to travel around the country or go to Goa by train, take a light sleeping bag. If you are going north, the sleeping bag is thicker. Not all the streets of Mumbai are illuminated in the evening, and in Goa there is no street lighting at all, so a flashlight is a good idea. It is better to bring hygiene items with you; finding them can be extremely difficult in India. Indians do not use toilet paper; they sell it to tourists at a price of around $1 per roll.

How to become a disco dancer? In “Bollywood” they organize boring and insanely expensive excursions, where, at best, they will show one small filming pavilion. Do you want to see Bollywood from the inside? Go to the daytime Leopold Cafe (Shahid Bhagat Singh Road, Near Colaba Police Station, Colaba Causeway) or Salvation Army House (43/45, BEST Marg, Apollo Bandar, Colaba), where Bollywood casting managers hang out and gather Western youth for extras. A European face in an Indian film is prestigious! The filming process takes the whole day, but you will plunge into the world of Indian cinematography and earn about $7 for filming.

Text - Ekaterina Borisova, photo - KIDKUTSMEDIA, marina.shakleina,

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The name of the city comes from the name of the Hindu goddess Mumba Devi.

In Marathi this word means "mother".

Previously, Mumbai was called Bombay and only in 1995 did it acquire its modern name.

Hindi is spoken in the city, but Marathi is the official language. English is also popular.

Mumbai is interesting to many: it has ancient monuments, unique nature, developed infrastructure, and plenty of opportunities for entertainment.

Climate and weather

Mumbai has a subequatorial climate, which has a clear division into two seasons: dry and wet. It rains here from June to November, during which time the air warms up to +30 °C and above. The dry season lasts from December to May; the coldest months in Mumbai are January and February.

Nature

The city of Mumbai is located in western India along the coast Arabian Sea, at the mouth Ulhas River. It includes islands Bombay and Solsett, which rise 10-15 meters above sea level. The northern part of Mumbai is hilly, the highest point being 450 meters above sea level.

Three rivers flow through the city, and in some places there are mangrove swamps. In addition, Mumbai is located lakes Tulsi, Vihar, Powai. Chowpatty Beach this city is one of the cleanest in the world.

Attractions

Important attractions of Mumbai are India Gate — Triumphal Arch unusual shape, which stands on the water in the city harbor. It was built in honor of the visit of the English King George V and Queen Mary to the country in 1924. Also visit Prince of Wales Museum, which houses a large collection of Indian art artifacts. 42 kilometers from Mumbai is an impressive ensemble of a cave Buddhist monastery Katherti, created between the 2nd and 9th centuries AD. Many tourists are especially attracted to Elfanta Island. It has stunning cave temples with huge sculptures inside.

A striking example of Victorian Gothic is the Mumbai Central Railway Station - Victoria terminus.

IN national park You can explore the rock city, which consists of about 100 caves dating back to the 3rd century AD. These caves once served as a home for Buddhist monks. Today the park is home to numerous tigers, so you should not go deep into the caves without a guide.

Connoisseurs of natural resources should also visit bird sanctuary, which is home to more than 146 species of birds. It is located between Mumbai and Goa.

Among the attractions also worth noting:

• hanging gardens adjacent to the Tower of Silence,
• the famous cinema complex where you can meet stars,
• statues of Hindu gods on the walls of the Elephanta cave,
• Cathedral of St. Thomas,
• Flora fountain.

Nutrition

Indian cuisine is one of the oldest in the world. Her calling card is spices and tea. The most famous seasoning here is curry. She turns any dish into something special. You can appreciate all the features of Indian cuisine in the best establishments in Mumbai. So, in the building of the Jahangir Gallery, be sure to visit the restaurant "Samovar". This place is very popular among the creative elite of Mumbai. Persian, Indian, Chinese and European dishes can be tasted at the restaurant "Leopold"- the place is popular among young tourists.

Among the not too expensive establishments, it is worth mentioning the restaurant "Goa Portuguessa", which has a wide range of seafood dishes. At the restaurant "Oberoi" The delights of French cuisine await you.

Accommodation

In Mumbai, you can stay in the mountainous towns of Matheran and Mahabaleshwar or in the upscale famous hotel Taj Mahal Palace. If you want to save money, then pay attention to cozy inexpensive hotels Hotel Kohinoor Elite,Residency Hotel And Residence Hotel Andheri.

In general, there should be no problems with housing in Mumbai - the main thing is to find it immediately upon arrival, preferably in the morning, since by the evening the hotels are crowded with tourists.

Entertainment and relaxation

Mumbai is the center of the entertainment industry in India. A famous film studio is located here Bollywood.

Mumbai is also famous for its nightlife. The most popular clubs in the city are rightfully considered FireandIce And Not Just Jazzby The Bay. Indian musicians perform here from Wednesday to Saturday. Almost all luxury hotels have their own nightclubs and bars. The most famous are considered Insomnia V "Taj" And Opium Den V "Oberoe". Best suited for young people and tourists Athena.

Sports are well developed in Mumbai. The most popular view active recreation is cricket. There are two international stadiums for him - "Vankheed" And "Brabourne". The second most popular sport is football. Equestrian sports, tennis, field hockey, rugby, and golf are also well developed in Mumbai.

Film lovers should definitely visit the local cinemas. Gala premieres of new Bollywood films often take place here. For lovers of cultural entertainment, many exhibitions, festivals, and theatrical performances are always open. Fans of excursions can always explore Mumbai from the windows of a double-decker bus. Tours are not available between June and September due to the monsoon season.

Well, those who love water treatments will definitely enjoy the water park Water Kingdom, which is working all year round from 10:30 until the evening. After 14:00 there are usually a lot of people there.

Purchases

In Mumbai you can visit many excellent shopping malls with exclusive clothes. Leather bags, shoes, exquisite accessories and handmade jewelry can lift your spirits at any time. At fashion markets Bandra And Colaba you can buy everything: from a wooden figurine to Indian diamonds. At the farmer's market Jhaveri A wonderful selection of jewelry will open, each of which is one of a kind. On Bhubaleshwar you can go shopping for famous Gujarati textiles. Chor-bazaar sells antiques.

Inorbit- the largest shopping center in Mumbai. Here you will find ethnic items, fashion brands from Indian manufacturers, and clothing from global brands such as Wrangler And Tommy Hilfiger.

There is a coffee shop and fast food restaurants on the ground floor Pizza Hut And Ruby Tuesday. You can spend your day pleasantly by going shopping at Phoenix mills, where in addition to a variety of shops you will find a children's amusement park, 5 cinema halls, coffee shops and restaurants.

Transport

Buses run constantly around Mumbai. To get around the city, you can also turn to auto-rickshaws or order a taxi. IN this moment A metro is being built in Mumbai.

Connection

Mumbai has a city telephone network, and the city is also provided with sufficient quality mobile communications. When you come here, you don’t have to worry about how to contact your loved ones. Internet access is available in hotel rooms and internet cafes.

Safety

By Indian standards, crime in Mumbai is at an average level and this figure is gradually decreasing.

You have to be very careful in the city. Take care of your documents and money. Before leaving for Mumbai, make copies of documents in advance. Do not forget about the rules of behavior in society. Be respectful of cultural monuments.

Business climate

Mumbai is a city of contrasts, where luxury exists next to poverty. At the same time, it is also one of the largest economic centers in India. About 10% of all the country's workers work here. The cotton, chemical, oil refining and engineering industries are well developed in Mumbai, and there is a nuclear power plant. Industries are also actively developing in the city information technologies and healthcare.

Mumbai is home to many financial institutions and large companies. The business center is located in the southern part of the city. In addition to Indian financial institutions themselves, there are many different foreign organizations located there.

Real estate

In Mumbai, real estate is very expensive. A special jump in prices occurred at the beginning of 2011. Today, 1 square meter of real estate costs on average from $9,000 to $12,000.

It is worth agreeing on a hotel room in advance, since the demand for housing in the city is very high. After 21:00, all rooms in budget hotels are usually occupied.

Try not to travel on trains during rush hour with important documents.

The richest and populated city India, Mumbai amazes the traveler with its contrasts. Wealth and poverty coexist here, modern buildings made of glass and concrete and cows walking the streets, magnificent architectural structures and slums. To an unprepared tourist it may seem that the city is in chaos, but it is orderly chaos.

Briefly about Mumbai

Mumbai is located on seven islands along the Arabian Sea in western India. This administrative center Maharashtra state and the second most populous metropolis in India. It covers an area of ​​603 square meters. km, the urban population in 2011 was 12.5 million, and the agglomeration was 21.3 million people.

Mumbai is located on seven islands on the shores of the Arabian Sea

Until 1995, the city was called Bombay, which is how the British remade the name Bombain, given to the city by the Portuguese in the 16th century, in their own way. After India gained independence, the city was renamed Mumbai, after the goddess Mumba Devi, and the ending “ai” means “mother”.

The islands on which the city is located were inhabited back in the Stone Age. Throughout their history, they were part of the Magadha Empire, the possessions of the Silhara dynasty, and in 1343 they passed to the Sultans of Gujarat. In 1534, the islands were occupied by the Portuguese, who handed them over to the English King Charles II in 1661 as a dowry for Princess Catherine of Braganza. From that moment on, the lands came under the control of the British.

In 1668, Charles II leased the islands to the East India Company, which opened a trading post and military stronghold here. In 1672, the first governor, Sir George Oxenden, was appointed to the islands; this year is generally considered to be the date of the formation of Bombay.

Builders, traders, and officials flocked to the city, and the population grew rapidly.

Mumbai's architecture reflects its colonial past

In 1817, the unification of the islands began, which was completed in 1845. At the same time, roads were built between the city and the continent. This gave a new impetus to development; by 1906, the city's population was almost a million and continued to increase. Trade and its own industry developed. In the first half of the 20th century. A national liberation movement began in India, which resulted in complete liberation from British rule. On August 15, 1947, the country gained its long-awaited independence; the last British troops left Bombay in 1948.

Now Mumbai is the most important economic and cultural center of India, a major transport hub - about half of the country's passenger flow passes through its port. Here is the oldest university in India and the famous Bollywood - the center of the film industry.

How to get to the city

1. There are no direct flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg; you will have to get there with transfers in Istanbul, Delhi, Sharjah, Dubai, and Bahrain. The airport accepts flights from Turkish Airlines, Air India, Air Arabia, Emirates, Gulf Air. The shortest route from Moscow is by Aeroflot flights to Delhi, and then by Air India to Mumbai; the flight will take 11 hours.
   There are flights from St. Petersburg via Dubai, travel time is about 23 hours.
2. Mumbai Airport receives flights from all over the world
3. Buses No. 308, 312, 321 and minibuses of the BEST company run from the airport to the city center. You can order a taxi at the airport counter; the trip will cost about 600 rupees. You can order a transfer in advance, the cost of the trip will be fixed.
   Mumbai is a major railway junction and getting to it from anywhere in India is easy. Long distance trains on the Central Line arrive at Chhatrapati Shivaji Railway Station. There are 11 platforms for intercity trains and 18 platforms for commuter trains. The station is located in close proximity to the Colaba area. From New Delhi, trains arrive at the Central Station.
4. Both long-distance trains and suburban trains arrive at the Mumbai railway station

You can travel by bus from Ahmedabad, Aurangabad, Mahabaleshwar, Panaji, Pune, Udaipur. Buses arrive at the Mumbai Central bus terminal. There are state carriers and private ones. The fare for private travelers is higher, but the conditions are better.

Sights of Mumbai

The center of tourist attraction in Mumbai is the Colaba district, where the main attractions of the city are concentrated on an area of ​​several square kilometers. Usually this is where they start exploring the city.

The Colaba district is located along the waterfront in the lower part of the city on a cape jutting into the ocean, which was once a separate island. This is a historical colonial area, where Europeans have long settled, and now there are inexpensive hotels of varying levels of cleanliness and comfort, many diverse restaurants, cafes and retail outlets aimed at tourists.

This is a clean, relatively quiet area, well-groomed and surrounded by greenery, where Europe and Asia are intricately mixed. Modern skyscrapers rise next to colonial-style houses, and all this is seasoned with an indescribable local flavor. The area contains the main attractions of the city, including the Gateway of India, the Taj Mahal Hotel, the Prince of Wales Museum, the Secretariat building, the Rajibai Clock Tower, and the Leopold Cafe.

Address: Apollo Bandar, Colaba.

This is a triumphal arch erected in honor of the visit of the city in 1911 by King George V and Queen Mary. Construction began in the same year, but was frozen due to the First World War until 1915, and was completed only in 1924.

The Gateway to India was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to the city.

The arch stands at the very edge of the water; to implement the project, it was necessary to strengthen the coastline and completely rebuild the old sea pier. The author of the project was George Whittet, who gave the building features of Muslim, Indian and European styles.

It was through the Gateway to India that the last British soldiers left Bombay after India gained independence, for them it became the “Gateway from India.”

The walls are made of yellow basalt and reinforced concrete, the height of the structure is 26 m, the height of the central dome is 15 m, and its diameter is 25 m. The gate is crowned by four turrets, the facade is decorated with pilasters and openwork carvings. On both sides of the arch there are spacious halls, each of which can accommodate 600 people. The arch is especially beautiful in the morning, when the rising sun colors it in golden tones.

The gate is located at the very edge of the water, it opens from above scenic view to the harbor

Address: Maharashtra, Apollo Bunder.

Next to the Gate stands the luxurious building of the five-star Taj Mahal Palace hotel, whose architecture is an eclectic mix of Victorian, Moorish, Florentine and Indian styles. The hotel was opened in 1903 by metallurgical magnate Jamsetji Nuserwanji Tata, who was once refused entry to one of the English hotels. As a protest against the chauvinism of the colonialists, he built a hotel, which is still considered the most luxurious in the city. Taj Mahal Palace became the first of 70 hotels in the Taj chain - the most expensive exotic hotels in the world.

The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel is still considered the most luxurious in the city

Owning his own power plant allowed Jamsetji Nuserwanji Tata to install lighting in the hotel, making it the first electrified building in the city. The illuminated palace presented a mesmerizing sight in the evenings, and even now it looks no less impressive.

The hotel has its own swimming pool in the courtyard

The seven-story building is decorated with numerous arches, domes, turrets and balconies, giving it a festive look. A tower with a dome rises above the central part, and there is a large swimming pool with a terrace in the courtyard. The interiors are decorated in European and Indian styles and are richly decorated. Furniture and interior items were ordered from Europe.

The interiors of the Taj Mahal hotel amaze with luxury

The hotel has 560 rooms with views of the sea and historical buildings, each luxuriously decorated. The halls are lined with unique handmade carpets, decorated with expensive paintings and trim with semi-precious stones. Guests can enjoy 10 restaurants and a spa. Famous athletes, world film and show business stars, and politicians like to stay here. In the 70s, the hotel expanded due to a tower building built nearby.

Address: Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Area, Fort.

Chhatrapati Shivaji is also located in Colaba district. This is the main and busiest railway station in the city, receiving both commuter trains and long-distance trains from different parts of the country. The railway also connects the station with the airport. Until 1996, the station bore the name "Victoria", given in honor of the English Queen. In 1994, it was included in the UNESCO list of protected sites.

More like a palace, Chhatrapati Shivaji Railway Station is included in the UNESCO list of protected sites.

The station was built in 1878–1888, during the time of British colonization. The project was created by Frederick William Stevens, who took London St. Pancras station as a model. The outlines of the building are typical for a Victorian building of that century, but the decor is striking in its abundance and variety - it seems that all architectural elements known to the author have found their place in the building. It bears little resemblance to a train station; rather, it is a huge exotic castle or palace, in the architecture of which elements of Victorian neo-Gothic and Indo-Saracenic style are intricately intertwined.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Station looks no less impressive inside

Numerous arches and columns, domes and spiers, stained glass windows and carved borders completely cover the walls. The central dome is topped with a female figure, symbolizing progress. The building is decorated with several more statues, and the columns of the central gate are topped with figures of a lion and a tiger, symbolizing Great Britain and India. The walls of the station hide the central courtyard, the halls are tiled, decorated with carvings and forged fences.

Museum named after Prince of Wales

Address: 159-161, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Fort.

The beautiful museum building can rightfully be called one of the most striking attractions of Mumbai. The reason for the construction was the desire to perpetuate the name of King George V, who bore the title of Prince of Wales. The project belongs to the architect George Whittet, who also took part in the construction of the Gateway to India. The architect combined different styles in the project, which made the building even more interesting.

The Prince of Wales Museum is one of the most striking attractions of Mumbai

Construction began in 1905, with the Prince of Wales himself laying the first stone. The grandiose construction was completed in 1915, but the museum opened here only in 1922. During the First World War, it housed a children's center and hospital.

The three-story rectangular building occupies an area of ​​12 thousand square meters. m, the walls are made of basalt. The central part is crowned by a dome covered with white and blue tiles, together with the balconies, giving the building a resemblance to the buildings of the Great Mughals.

Exposition of the museum named after. Prince of Wales includes three sections and has 50 thousand exhibits

The museum's exhibition is divided into three parts: art, archeology and natural history. All of them are located on different floors, in total they contain about 50 thousand exhibits from all over the world and the collection continues to grow. At the beginning of the 19th century. the museum is renamed as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya.

Address: Maharashtra, Haji Ali. Visiting hours: from 9:30 to 17:30 daily, except Sunday.

The mosque is located on a small island, 500 m off the coast of Worli. The island is connected to the mainland by a causeway, but at low tide it can be reached along the shore. This is the main shrine of Indian Sunni Muslims and one of the significant city attractions. The mosque was built in 1431 with money donated by the wealthy merchant Syed Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari before the pilgrimage to Mecca.

Haji Ali Mosque - the main shrine of Sunni Muslims in Mumbai

According to one version, Haji Ali did not reach Mecca. He returned and died in Bombay, where he was buried on the island. Above the white stone entrance to the mosque you can still read the inscription: “Tomb of Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari.” The complex occupies an area of ​​about 4.5 square meters. km, the height of the minaret is 26 m. Sea air and salt water have a detrimental effect on structures. Despite constant restoration, the mosque is rapidly collapsing.

The snow-white Haji Ali Mosque is threatened with complete destruction from the constant sea breeze and salty spray

The tomb of Haji Ali is located in the main building surrounded by three halls: western, eastern and southern. It is covered with red and green brocade with a silver frame. A dome decorated with mosaics rises above the tomb. The mosque has a hotel for pilgrims with thirty rooms.

Address: Film City, M. A. H Film Stage Industrial Corporation, Near Aarey Colony, S. V Road, Goregaon East. Tour cost: $45–$75.

This name is known to all fans of Indian cinema - this is an Indian film studio, which received its name by analogy with American Hollywood from the former name of the city - Bombay. Most recently, the film studio celebrated its centenary. It is here that colorful films are born, distinguished by an abundance of songs and dances, through which the characters convey feelings that are understandable without words.

Bollywood is India's most popular film studio producing Hindi films.

The studio is open to tourists. You can get there with a tour, which includes a visit to the film set. You can even take part in the filming; often Bollywood agents look for white-skinned Europeans as extras right on the streets.

Address: Elephanta Island. Opening hours: ferries depart to the island from 9:00 to 14:30; last flight back - at 17:30. Travel time: 1 hour. Cost of visiting: islands - 10 rupees; caves - 250 rupees.

Elephanta Island is located 10 km from the mainland in the bay of the same name east of Mumbai. You can get there by ferry from the port near the Gateway of India, boats depart every 15 minutes. The island is considered mandatory place visits for tourists, because there are Hindu and Buddhist cave temples of the 5th–8th centuries. It is not for nothing that it is also called Gharapauri, which means “island of caves”.

Nothing is known about the builders of the temples. There is a legend that the cave temples were created not by people, but by the thousand-armed demon Banasura or the heroes of the ancient epic - the warrior brothers Pandava.

Until the 16th century the island was one of the main religious centers and a place of pilgrimage for believers. In the 16th century The Portuguese arrived here, discovered ancient temples on the island and destroyed them, believing that pagan sanctuaries of such beauty and grandeur would distract the population from the true faith. They gave the island the name Elephanta (Elephant), having discovered a three-life-size figure of an elephant carved into the rock.

Elephanta Island is famous for its cave temples, some of which have survived to this day.

After the destruction of the temple, the island fell into desolation, the ruins were densely overgrown with trees. A small part remains of its former splendor, but it also allows us to judge the greatness of the once existing civilization. A complex of temple-caves has been preserved on the island, the largest of which is the Brahma Temple, carved into a double-headed rock in the west of the island.

The spacious hall of the temple is decorated with several dozen columns with skillful carvings, the walls are covered with bas-relief illustrations from the life of the god Shiva. The statue of the three-faced deity is located here. This is a six-meter bust with three heads, faces facing in different directions. Since 1987, the cave temples have been a UNESCO cultural heritage site.

A six-meter bust of the god Shiva with three faces is installed in the hall of the Brahma temple

The island also attracts with its beautiful landscapes with exotic vegetation. It is covered with palm trees, mango and tamarin trees, mangroves stretch along the coast. The island is inhabited, there are three villages on it, but tourists are not allowed to stay overnight.

Address: Lower Parel, Shanti Nagar, Dhobi Ghat. How to get there: by skytrain to Mahelaxmi station. Cost of visiting: it is customary to leave 100-200 rupees as a voluntary donation to the aborigines or hire a guide whose services will cost 1000 rupees.

Dhobi Ghat is a special place in Mumbai where you can see the underbelly of life in the wealthy city. This is one of the largest open-air laundries in India, where clothes and linen are delivered every day from all over the city.

Here, male washermen belonging to the Dhobi caste work and live with their families, hence the name of the area. Most hospitals and hotels, including luxury ones, use their services.

Dhobi Ghat is one of the largest open air laundries in India. The area of ​​the quarter is 10 hectares. Washing takes place in open vats, tanks and concrete baths and requires physical strength. First, the laundry is soaked and then beaten against the concrete edge of the bathtub, expelling all the dirt. After washing, the laundry is dried in the sun and then ironed with charcoal irons.

Hard physical work is paid more than modestly, but such is life in India - a born Dhobi must be a Dhobi. The people working here do not favor tourists; you can only photograph them from afar. This can be done conveniently from the nearby railway bridge.

Address: Dharavi. How to get there: by skytrain to the stations “Sion”, “Chuna Bhatti”, “Mahim Junction”. It is more convenient to navigate the slums themselves on foot, but it is better to do this accompanied by a guide.

Another seamy side and an integral part of Mumbai is the Dharavi district. These are slums with a very high population density, per 2 square meters. km. More than 1 million people live. Those who came in search of work and a better life settle here. The area is considered the largest slum in Southeast Asia.

Dharavi - Mumbai slums

The settlement was formed at the beginning of the 20th century. on the site of mangrove swamps that have dried up due to the abundance of garbage brought here from the city. A fishing village was formed on the banks of the Mati River, where artisans and workers who came in search of work began to settle. This was not the only area of ​​this kind, but after a devastating plague epidemic, it was decided to move all the working people to one place - Dharavi.

The area is a chaotic jumble of buildings made from scrap materials, more like boxes. Narrow passages, huge crowds of people and cars, poverty and unsanitary conditions are the signs of the Mumbai slums. At the same time, people here do not look oppressed by fate; they accept life as it is. Over the past two decades, plans have been discussed to demolish the slums, build housing in their place and improve the area. But plans remain plans for now.

Address: Chaupati.

The Marine Drive embankment stretches in the southern part of the city along Back Bay all the way to Malabar Hill - the most prosperous part of the city. There is the residence of the Governor of Maharashtra - Raj Bhawan, a former British government office.

Marine Drive embankment is the most “European” part of Mumbai and a favorite walking place for tourists and locals

Numerous restaurants, cafes and shops are lined along the embankment; in the northern part there is sand beach Chowpatty. Few people risk swimming there - the water is too dirty, but there are plenty of people who want to take a walk along the shore, admire the views of the sea and breathe the fresh breeze. Not far from the beach is the Taraporewala Aquarium, built in 1961. It has two aquariums - a large and a small one, containing more than a hundred species of fish from the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean.

At the Taraporewala Aquarium you can meet the inhabitants of the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean

Here you can also take a walk through Nana-Nani Park, created specifically for older people and their meetings with their grandchildren. The park is equipped with newsstands, many benches for relaxation and canopies where you can hide from the rain.

Video: Nana-Nani Park

Those interested in history will be interested in visiting the monument to Bal Gangadhar Tilak. The monument was erected in 1920 in honor of the hero of the national liberation movement, one of the most popular Maratha leaders.

The monument to Bal Gangadhar Tilak was erected in honor of one of the popular leaders of the national liberation movement

Video: Mumbai

Mumbai at different times of the year

You should choose the time to visit Mumbai taking into account the weather in different seasons, which depends on the climate. It is tropical here, the wet, rainy season gives way to heat and drought.

1. From March to May is the hottest time of the year. At this time, it is better to stay in air-conditioned rooms and stay close to water. Visit the Haji Ali Mosque, Elephanta Island, and see the exhibition of the museum named after. Prince of Wales, take a walk in the park named after. Kamala Nehru.
2. The wet monsoon season lasts from June to September. It marks the most important holiday - the birthday of Ganesh Chaturthi, a god with the body of a man and the head of an elephant. It is celebrated in August-September and is dedicated to the god of wisdom and abundance, the remover of obstacles. On this day, it is customary to worship Ganesh, bring him milk, fruits, flowers and sweets, and perform colorful ceremonies. Statues of the Elephant-faced god are paraded through the streets. This bright, colorful holiday with national flavor is worth visiting.
   During Ganesh Chaturthi, statues of the Elephant-faced god are paraded through the streets.
3. At the beginning of October, the festival of Nine Nights - Navratri - is celebrated. The holiday is dedicated to the Divine Mother, who appears in three forms and every three days are dedicated to one of her forms. For nine nights on the streets of the city you can see the performance of national dances garba and raas.
   During the Navratri holiday you can see national Indian dances on the streets
4. In October–November, the Festival of Lights opens throughout India - Diwali or Deepavali, which means “bunch of fire.” For five days, the city is colored with the lights of candles and lamps, the air is shaken by explosions of rockets, firecrackers and firecrackers.
   The city lights up during Diwali
5. Winter is the most comfortable and popular time to travel. From December to February, winds blow from the north and there is no rain. The weather is favorable for educational tourism, sightseeing, and walks around the city. There are no obstacles to traveling to the islands.

Family holiday

Mumbai is not the best place to holiday with a child. A huge metropolis with a busy pace of life, overcrowding and very vague ideas about sanitary standards is more suitable for adults who are interested in history and love new experiences. But if you happen to take children on a trip, it is useful to know the places for their recreation and entertainment.

1. A real escape from the heat will be Water Kingdom - one of the largest water parks in Asia. For children and adults there are many slides and other water attractions. It is better to come on weekdays in the morning, there are fewer people at this time.
   Water Kingdom is one of Asia's largest water parks
2. The Essel World park is considered the local Disneyland, where children can enjoy a variety of attractions and entertainment. You can take a break from the heat on a huge ice skating rink.
3. IN entertainment center Snow World recreates winter among the hot summer. In the snowy town you can play snowballs, go sledding, and take pictures in an ice cave. There is a rental where you can take the necessary equipment and equipment.
   In the Snow World entertainment center, in the middle of a hot summer, you can suddenly find yourself in winter
4. Taraporewala Aquarium is the only one in Mumbai. In it, kids will see more than a hundred species of marine and freshwater fish, sharks, turtles, and starfish. Here you can admire sea pearls, fossils with preserved fish, and rare sea shells.
5. To take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, go to the recreation and entertainment park named after. Kamala Nehru Park is the most well-kept park in Mumbai. There are playgrounds for children; the house in the shape of a huge shoe is especially popular. The part of the park called the Hanging Gardens is famous for its chic terraces, colorful flower beds and animal figures created from topiary bushes.
   The Hanging Gardens are famous for their abundance of flowers and animal figures made from topiary bushes
6. In the small Mumbai Zoo, children will get acquainted with the typical inhabitants of these places: monkeys, hippos, deer. Some of them are allowed to be fed.
7. You can watch an original show with dolphins at the Dolphin Aquarium. For an additional fee you can even swim in the pool with dolphins.

How much time does it take to explore Mumbai?

Popular tourist spots can be explored on foot in one day, but this is not enough time to get to know Mumbai better. If your trip is limited to a day, start your exploration from the Colaba area. Here you can find an inexpensive hotel if you need to spend the night. A day is worth devoting to a trip to Elephanta Island; another day will be needed to explore Dharavi and Dhobi Ghat.

India is a delicate matter and you need to know about some of the peculiarities and customs of this country in advance. This will save you from many troubles, save money and maintain your health.

1. Women should not wear revealing clothing or expose their shoulders or legs. Shorts and miniskirts are best avoided. You should also not walk around the city alone. Avoid meeting Indians in bars and nightlife establishments, and do not agree to offers from strangers to let you down, so as not to become a victim of sexual harassment. If there is any threat to your safety, make some noise, someone will definitely help.
2. It is worth knowing that white clothes in India are worn during mourning, and yellow and orange are worn by monks.
3. It is better to get around the city by taxi or auto-rickshaw. City public transport is always crowded, subway cars and buses run with open doors, people even ride on the roofs of the cars. If you still dare to use public transport, do it not during rush hours.
4. The metro has separate carriages for women to ensure their safety. Usually they are at the beginning of the composition. There are heavy fines for traveling in a carriage that is not yours.
5. Be prepared for the fact that when traveling long distances you will have to change several taxi cars - the city is divided into zones and taxi drivers have the right to work only in two, less often - in four neighboring districts.
6. Find out about the price of the trip in advance, there is a high probability that taxi drivers will increase the cost. Make sure that the counter resets to zero upon landing. The same applies to auto rickshaws.
7. Wash your hands as often as possible, use only bottled water, including for brushing your teeth and washing fruits and vegetables. Eat only thermally processed and freshly prepared foods. This will help protect you from health problems.
8. Be prepared for the fact that all food in India is very spicy. This is dictated by necessity - spices help fight foodborne infections. If you cannot tolerate excess spices, ask the cook to add only salt to the dish. You will still be served a spicy dish, but there will be less spices.
9. Use sunscreen with maximum SPF, the sun in India is “evil”. When traveling to nature, insect repellent will not hurt.
10. The locals are friendly and always ready to help. They expect a small reward from you for your services.
11. Do not take large sums of money, jewelry, valuables or documents for a walk. Thefts are not uncommon in Mumbai.

A tour of Mumbai should start from Colaba - the most tourist area of ​​the city.

Mumbai is the largest among Indian cities; Indian flavor and the architectural heritage of the British are closely intertwined on its vast territory. Those who want to plunge into the world of new experiences, enjoy the atmosphere of a large city and at the same time see ancient sights should consider a trip to this unique Indian Manhattan. Features of holidays in Mumbai in 2019, attractions, entertainment and prices, you can learn from the article in order to better plan your trip to this stunning city.

Brief historical background

The history of settlement of this area goes back deep into the Stone Age. The settlements were located on seven islands. During the colonization of India, at the very beginning of the 16th century, a Portuguese settlement was founded here.

In the 17th century, the islands became a dowry for a princess who was married to the King of England, and the enterprising ruler leased them to the East India Company. At this time, Mumbai harbor became an important point on the maps of merchants, and the military was also based here. In the last third of the 17th century, the city became similar to the one that stands here to this day. Then it was called Bombay - this name thundered throughout the world.

In subsequent centuries, the city's infrastructure developed: roads were built, industrial enterprises appeared, and transport developed. Thus, at the beginning of the 20th century the city became a millionaire. Residents of the city actively participated in the movement for the independence of the country, and in the middle of the century the settlement finally became Indian.

Planning a trip to Mumbai: transport and accommodation

How to get there and how to get around?

Air travel is the only option to get from Russia to Mumbai. A one-way ticket will cost at least 170 euros. There are no direct flights. Depending on which company's flight the flight is carried out on, the transfer may be in Istanbul, Arabian Dubai or other cities. Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is the leader among Indian airports in terms of the number of flights received and passenger traffic. It consists of two terminals located one kilometer from each other. Free shuttles are a means of transporting passengers between terminals. Terminal 1 serves domestic airlines, 2nd – international.

By the way, each of the terminals, in turn, is divided into two parts.

Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is 30 km from the city. The most convenient way to get to the center of Mumbai is by taxi.

Payment in a taxi is only possible in cash in national currency, and there are no ATMs in the international terminal. Therefore, it is worth making a preliminary exchange in exchange offices airport.

• Option 1: Order a car at a special counter in the airport building. The cost of the trip is paid immediately.
• Option 2: Use a metered airport taxi. The benefit compared to the first option will only be in case of a long trip.
• Option 3: Catch a taxi on the street. The cost of the trip will depend on your bargaining ability.

An alternative to a taxi is to take a bus to the Vile Parle railway station, then take a train to the central part of the city. You should not use this option in the morning and evening hours, when the trains are very crowded. The ticket class must be at least first if you want to travel comfortably.

How to get around the city?

The Mumbai Metro is a popular mode of transportation for locals and an attraction for tourists. The train consists of first and second class carriages. A second class ticket costs INR 10 and a first class ticket costs INR 80. There are special carriages for women and men.

A more comfortable way to travel is by taxi. And for those traveling in a large group - it’s also cheaper. So, a trip along a route of 20 kilometers will cost about 350 rupees.

Besides these, Mumbai has buses, rickshaws and water transport. It is worth traveling by bus if you plan to leave the city or go to another locality. A motorized rickshaw is a unique way to move around the city with interest during the trip itself, but you should remember that not all drivers have a clear conscience, so it is worth agreeing on the price clearly and in advance. You can take a ride on water transport to admire the city from the water and listen to a guided tour.

Where to stay and where is the best place to live?

Previously, the city consisted of 7 separate islands, which were later united into one settlement with centralized management.

Areas of modern Mumbai:

1. South Mumbai is the oldest district where elite housing of the richest Indians is concentrated, interesting tourist sites, museums, exhibitions, and restaurants are collected. This area is the commercial center of the country.
2. The southern center of Mumbai - office buildings, the only tourist attraction is the zoo.
3. North Central Mumbai is a middle-class and immigrant residential area.
4. The outskirts in the west are a residential area of ​​wealthy Indians, there are several beaches.
5. The central area is a residential area, unremarkable for tourists.
6. The harbor area is Mumbai's atomic research centre.
7. North Mumbai – beaches that are clean by Indian standards, ancient temples.

Mumbai is full of hospitality establishments to suit every taste. India is popular among tourists who love adventure and are willing to sacrifice the European level of comfort in order to save money and see more interesting places. And in Mumbai it is quite possible to stay in an inexpensive hostel, where a night will cost about 500 rubles. However, not everyone wants to sacrifice comfort.

There are also mid-price establishments in the city: a night in a three-star hotel in the city center will cost approximately 1,500 rubles per person. Finally, there are some amazing five star hotels, not many in India but Mumbai has a good selection. So, in the city center you can stay in a hotel of an international chain, where there will be a rooftop bar, a swimming pool, a spa and fitness center, as well as a European level of comfort in the rooms. This will cost the traveler approximately 10,000 rubles per day.

Travel to Mumbai: where to go, what to do and what to see?

Attractions in Mumbai

Variety is what makes holidays in Mumbai, India different in 2019. For connoisseurs of Indian culture, architecture and history, sights of various types are presented here.

First of all, it is worth remembering that this is a city with an ancient history, with stunning nature, and therefore there are many worthwhile places for tourists to visit in Mumbai.

Definitely worth a visit Elephanta Island, famous for its cave temples and annoying monkeys. A trip as part of an excursion will cost 2000 rupees. You can get there on your own by tourist ferry for 160 rupees. It departs from the pier near the India Gate monument. The caves on the island are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and feature stone sculptures and rock paintings, the earliest of which date back to the 5th century.

Historical Quarter Kala Goda– a must-see place for lovers of museums and exhibitions. The most popular and largest museum is the Prince of Wales Museum with an attached gallery - a venue for exhibitions of Indian artists. In addition, this quarter will appeal to all lovers of colonial architecture; it is the center of the architecture of this period.

It's worth admiring buildings of the University of Mumbai and the Supreme Court. The University of Mumbai was built in the 19th century and is currently one of the most prestigious in the country. It is of interest from an architectural point of view: the monumental building is decorated with elegant, carved decorative elements. And the Supreme Court is somewhat reminiscent of a medieval castle, only it is surrounded by a park with palm trees - a suitable place for walks in the hottest hours.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Railway Station, formerly known as Victoria Station, is more reminiscent of a palace. This example of Victorian Gothic architecture has been active since the 1990s. The neo-Gothic base is complemented by Indo-Saracenic elements; the station is not only worth using for its intended purpose, but you can simply admire it.

Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, whose construction began in the late 19th century, has a rich history and is an example of a successful mixture of Indian, Florentine, Moorish and Victorian styles. Now it is one of the most luxurious hotels in the whole world. By the way, you can still stay there - for about 11,000 rubles per day per person.

India Gate Arch was erected at the beginning of the 20th century in honor of the visit of the British royal family.

If you get tired of contemplating majestic buildings, then you can go closer to nature. Malabar Hill, with its hanging gardens, Jogeshwari caves and a host of other interesting sites, is a great place to visit on a hot day.

You can get to Malabar along the beautiful and distinctive embankment of Mumbai - Marina drive. It's always crowded here. But it looks especially picturesque at sunset, when the sun’s disk descending behind the Malabar Hill is reflected in the sea, and sellers of various snacks and local residents flock to the embankment.

Hanging Gardens of Mumbai were also created by the British, and therefore represent an interesting example of landscape design. Well-groomed bushes and flower beds, gazebos are surrounded by flowering vegetation. In the gardens you can see bright fluttering butterflies. In turn, the Jogeshwari caves are in complete contrast to the well-kept gardens: these are ancient caves containing dilapidated sculptures from around the 6th century.

Hunters of unique footage should definitely visit Jobi Ghat block, where thousands of women wash clothes in concrete baths standing close to each other. True, a very aggressive washing method, which involves hitting soaped laundry on a special sharp stone for many hours, is quite consistent with a similar attitude towards tourists. It is better not to come close to laundresses. A suitable place for shooting is the nearest bridge.

For those who love Indian culture, however, not in such an exotic version, there is an opportunity to penetrate Bollywood. This is a huge film studio, the name of which has probably been heard by almost every person, and even more so by those who are interested in cinema. For several years now, the film studio's pavilions have been accessible to tourists. It is worth purchasing an excursion, which will cost about 3,000 rubles, and the guides will take you among the stunning scenery, tell the history of Indian cinema, and allow you to admire the filming process.

Entertainment in Mumbai

The city is located on the shores of the Arabian Sea, and therefore several beach activities are available here. There is Chowpati Beach, where swimming is prohibited, but you can ride a jet ski, go parasailing or go on a cruise along the bay. The prices for such attractions are not the lowest. Parasailing, duration 3 minutes, will cost 2500 rupees. You will have to pay 1900 rupees for a 10-minute jet ski ride.

For a beach holiday in Mumbai, you can go to the small island of Manori. If the beaches within the city are not clean, then here you can sunbathe, have a picnic or have lunch in a cafe or restaurant. However, it’s still not worth swimming, since there are a lot of fragments of corals and stones in the local waters.
However, there is no need to despair: you can go to the Esselworld water park and amusement park. A ticket to this establishment will cost approximately 600 rupees for an adult and 400 rupees for a child. It is located on the shores of Manori Bay. The water park has a swimming pool for kids, extreme slides, and something like a “sea” with waves.

Those interested in science can head to the Nehru Center and Planetarium. The ticket price will be only 50 rupees for an adult and 25 rupees for a child. Currently, this center is a large educational complex where you can listen to shows in English.

Those who love shopping will love Mumbai. Having previously been a center of trade, the city remains so to this day. You can buy branded items in boutiques and shopping centers, or you can visit the Indian market. Fashion Street is the best place for “European type of shopping”, and for some flavor you can go to Chor Bazaar, Zaveri Bazaar, Crawford Market and others. What to bring from Mumbai? These can be souvenirs and gifts such as:

• bronze products;
• silk products;
• incense, spices;
• Ayurvedic cosmetics and medicines;
• Indian tea or rum.

Mumbai is such a large city that you can easily find a restaurant of almost any cuisine.

Traditional dishes are South Indian cuisine: puri flatbreads, dosa pancakes, an abundance of vegetarian dishes. You should also try the Mumbai chicken curry. A snack in a street cafe will cost about 150 rubles; dinner for two with alcohol will cost about 1,000 rubles in an average restaurant.

The only disadvantage of Mumbai is that it is not highly recommended for families with small children. Noise and commotion on the streets, abundance of industrial production, lack of comfortable beach holiday. Yes, middle-aged and older children will quite like the city, since they can already appreciate the unusual surroundings and attractions, but children may not find it so comfortable and interesting here.

In general, a holiday in Mumbai is a good experience of getting acquainted with Indian culture and the architectural heritage left to Indians by the British. To visit Mumbai in 2019, it is better to set aside a few days to experience the local flavor of the city and get acquainted with all the sights.