Mumbai guide

 A city of extremes, a city of paradoxes, a city of unlimited possibilities and surprises, this is a city that defies all definitions. The heart of Bollywood, the commercial capital, a melting pot of cultures, traditions and religions, Mumbai has a little something tucked in for every kind of tourist that comes her way.

A city that’s always on the move, always in a hurry, always crowded, Mumbai has much to offer from history to arts to shopping and nightlife. You could start your day at the sea-facing Gateway of India and take a ferry along the coast or take a look at the latest inclusions at the famous Jehangir Art Gallery and stop for a cup of tea and conversation at the gallery’s quaint little café, Samovar.

Marvel at the colonial architecture of South Bombay, wind your way through the many streets of ‘Town’ as it’s lovingly called, gaze at the Queen’s Necklace at Marine Drive, touch the tip of the city from Nariman Point, walk along the famous spots where iconic Bollywood scenes have been shot, watch the city go by from the steps of the Asiatic Society Library and soak in all the activity with a tower of beer from Café Leopold.

Head to Chowpatty or Juhu beach for an ice gola and take a Victoria ride for a taste of the old world charm in this modern metropolis. Catch a play at the grand NCPA or the cozy little Prithvi Theatre. Hit the swish suburb of Bandra and check out the crowd waiting in front of the homes of Shahrukh Khan and Salman Khan. Bargain your way at the street shops on Linking Road or Hill Road.

From Haji Ali at Worli, to Siddhivinayak Temple at Prabhadevi, to the many beautiful churches sprinkled across the city, and a sneak peek into the city’s curious Parsi history, feel the peace and vibrancy of religious and cultural co-existence.

Eat the lip-smacking kebabs at Mohammed Ali Road, seafood at Mahesh Lunch Home, Berry pulao at Britannia, South Indian dishes at Matunga, street food like vada pao, pao bhaji, dosa and the ever popular Bombay sandwich. Those with a sweet tooth (or not), do try the interesting ice cream flavours at Naturals, K Rustom's and Bachelor's Juice House.

Whatever you do, don’t miss the Mumbai Local to really be a part of the madness that is Bombay.

• Public Transport

  One of the best things about visiting Mumbai is its convenient and safe public transport accessible round the clock. Tourists, especially girls, would have no trouble catching a taxi, auto rickshaw or even an air conditioned bus to get around the city.

• Nightlife

  Mumbai is known for its rocking nightlife. The multiple clubs and pubs across the city remain open till late into the night making it a partygoer’s paradise.

• Shopping

  From soaring malls to street shops, Mumbai offers a wide range of shopping options that suit every pocket.

• Crowds

  When you are in Mumbai you will have to get used to dealing with huge crowds at most times and places. Good news is, you will never be lonely.

• • Rains

    If you are travelling between June and September, be prepared for recurrent rainfall through your trip. But life never stops in Mumbai and people carry on with their days just as usual. Just carry an umbrella and a sturdy pair of shoes and you will manage.