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Formerly known as Bombay, Mumbai is a high-energy destination with a dizzying blend of grand colonial architecture and quirky bazaars. Grand temples and bustling beaches line this hardworking city, home to the Bollywood industry and centre for Indian finance. Go shopping for trinkets in the city’s lively markets, or explore the stately elegance of monuments like the Gateway of India. Museums and temples give you a moment of peace from the hectic pace of Mumbai’s city centre, or you can take a day trip to nearby beaches and the mysterious caves of Elephanta Island to get away from it all.
There’s plenty of jaw-dropping architecture in Mumbai, but one of the most iconic sights is the Gateway of India archway. The Taj Mahal hotel sits opposite to the arch, famed for its elegant style and turbaned doorkeepers. Inside there’s a bevy of high-end shops and restaurants for a welcome pit stop. Don’t miss a drive along the seaside Marine Drive to take in the ocean views, leading the way to glitzy Malabar Hill and the Jain Temple with its beautiful Hanging Gardens. The Gandhi Museum is dedicated to the famous historical figure, where you can learn more about India’s fight for independence.
There’s not much to see around the main cruise terminal, so it’s best to head directly into town. The easiest way to get around this large and at-times chaotic city is by taxi, and you’ll have your pick when you exit the port. Haggle to work out a reasonable price for getting around, or head to a nearby hotel where there will be metered official taxis. You could also opt to book a private (air-conditioned!) car and driver service for the day, and if you reserve your car in advance, you’ll get the best rates for this service.
Cosmopolitan Mumbai is a popular year-round destination, but it’s helpful to be aware of the monsoon season which takes place between June and October. This time period may be rainy, but it’s still beautiful and the public transport keeps running rain or shine! Many tourists choose to visit between November and February to beat the at-times extreme heat in May, when temperatures can soar to 40 degrees. Be sure to pack light-coloured, lightweight clothing if you’re visiting during this time period. February hosts plentiful cultural events like the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, with locals and visitors mingling in theatres and other venues.
Crawford Market dates back to the 1800s, featuring ornate Victorian carvings on its walls. Inside you’ll find an array of colourful, fresh produce – a great photo opportunity! Another throwback to Mumbai’s Victorian era is its train station, the Victoria Terminus.
There are some seriously impressive museums in Mumbai. Whether you’re a fan of classical artworks or history, you’ll want to visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, which used to be called the Prince of Wales Museum. It holds a dazzling array of unique artefacts from centuries-old swords to ancient figurines.
If you have time to get out of the city, take the ferry over to Elephanta Caves. There’s a series of 120 steps to get to the entrance, but it’s well worth the effort to see these gorgeous, massive deity sculptures carved into the rock. While the exact origins are unknown, it’s believed they were carved as far back as the 9th century.
Like much of India, Mumba is a fantastic place to dine. Vegetarians are spoilt for choice with the lovely vegetable-based curries available, yet you’ll also find top-tier gourmet restaurants to suit all international tastes. Kyber at Fort is a celeb hotspot with its famed wooden doors and excellent cuisine, and Trishna is another favourite for its tandoori.