The Gateway of India was built in 1919 and opened to public in 1924. The ceremonial arch was built in 1927 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary for the Delhi Durbar in 1911. Historically, the gateway holds greater significance as the last of the British troops left Independent India by sea and marched through its portals.
Nine kilometers by sea from Gateway of India, a ferry ride across the harbor takes one to the Elephanta Island. A Shiva temple on the island is a fine example of excellence in artisanship in rock-cut structures.
Built in 1914, the Prince of Wales Museum is surrounded by a beautiful landscape forming an ideal getaway from the bustle and hurry of the city. One of the best museums in the country, it is a treasure house of art, sculpture, rare coins, and old firearms. It also had a priceless collection of miniature paintings.
Standing on a busy five-point intersection in the heart of the commercial fort area, the Flora Fountain was erected in the memory of Governor, Henry Bartle Edward Frere.
Haji Ali’s Tomb is a mausoleum built in the memory of Haji Ali, a Muslim saint who was drowned while on pilgrimage to Mecca. It is accessible by a narrow causeway.
Overlooking the Marine Drive are the beautiful Kamala Nehru Park and the Hanging Gardens.
Chattrapati Shivaji Terminus is an imposing structure formerly known as Victoria Terminus. It was built in 1888, designed by Frederick William Stevenson. The entire façade is covered by sculpture of animals and birds.
No visit to Mumbai is complete without a foray into the bazaars of Kalbadevi and Bhuleshwar, north of Crawford market. Highlights include Mangaldas Market, Zaveri Bazaar, and Chor Bazaar. The Jama Masjid and Mumbadevi Temple are also worth visiting.
The Nehru Planetarium and the Nehru Science Center are located at Worli. Both are extremely popular not only with the children but also adults. Audiovisual shows are held here.
The Marine Drive is a winding stretch of road from Nariman Point to Malabar Hill with tall buildings on one side. This sweeping Queen’s Necklace, flickering with a thousand lights at night, turns into the main thoroughfare linking Malabar Hill—and the northern parts of the island—to, the southernmost points of Colaba, Cuffe Parade, Nariman Point, and Fort.
The other places of interest are Taraporewala Aquarium, ISKCON temple, amusement parks like Essel World and Fantasy Land, beaches like Madh Island, Manori, Versova, Goral, Marue, and Juhu. |
