Great Mumbai Attractions You Have To See

There are fewer people visiting Mumbai than other cities in India because there are fewer historical monuments and at first glance, fewer attractions. But, the truth is that when you fly into Mumbai with your Cathay Pacific flight, you sure have a lot to experience. The diversity of Mumbai is wonderful. You will basically find anything you want from Bollywood and picnic spots to beaches. And the attractions highlighted below will surely offer you a memorable getaway. 

Gateway Of India

Gateway Of India is the most recognized Mumbai monument. It was built in 1924 in order to commemorate a visit from Queen Mary and King George V. Also, this is from where the very last of the stationed British troops departed as the rule of the UK over India ended with the 1947 Independence. 

When constructed, the Gateway was meant to be the very first thing a visitor would see. And this is exactly what happens. As a result, it is a great place to start your exploration of the city of Mumbai. Nowadays, the local atmosphere is similar to a circus around the monument. There are many vendors that can enjoy almost anything, from Indian tea to balloons. 

The Gateway Of India is located in south Mumbai, in Colaba, opposite the Tower Hotel and Taj Palace. 

Heritage Buildings

Several interesting heritage buildings are present in Mumbai and you can easily enjoy the intricate colonial architecture of the past. Make sure to consider visiting the former Prince of Wales Museum (currently Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya) for its gothic appearance and the art precinct of Kala Ghoda. Also, consider the Horniman Circle buildings and the impressive Bombay High Court. If you are looking for something more historic, the Khotachiwadi village is the place to go for historic homes from the eighteenth century. And there are tours allowing you to visit several heritage buildings. 

Banganga Tank

The oldest of the Mumbai continually inhabited places, Banganga Tank gives you the possibility of experiencing the city’s history in a totally unique way. Even some locals do not know it. We are practically talking about a sacred water tank flanked by a special street filled with dharamsalas (they are religious rest houses), homes, and temples. Traditionally, Hindus believe that they can be purified when they walk on foot around the tank. If you are there, just absorb the daily way of being and spend some time on the steps. You can find the Banganga tank in Back Bay at Malabar Hill. 

Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat

What is interesting about Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat is that it is an open air laundry. It is massive and gives you a glimpse you will not forget into the city’s day to day activities. This place gathers dirty laundry coming from all around the city. It is being hand washed by washermen (dhobis) in concrete troughs. There are actually thousands of these dhobis spending hours every single day in water with chemicals as they are beating dirt out of laundry and manually scrubbing them. 

You can find this unique spot close to the Mahalaxmi railway station. Just walk out and then turn left. 

Kala Ghoda Art Precinct

Kala Ghoda means Black Horse and the name references a statue once located at the destination. Nowadays, Kala Ghoda is the cultural center of Mumbai. You can find some of the best museums and art galleries there. Also, it includes several cultural spaces like pavement galleries. You can simply stroll around but make sure to visit the renowned Jehangir Art Gallery. In addition, in February, there is a huge Kala Ghoda Arts Festival. It is interesting and perfect for everyone who loves art. 

Mumbai Dabbawalas

Dabbawala is a word that means an individual carrying a container. The term was associated with men who transported and delivered lunch boxes to the office workers of the city. This was done every day, a concept that appeared to meet some of the needs that the British rulers had. Nowadays, it is a tradition that services the Indian businessmen who are not capable of getting lunch at home. 

Haji Ali

Both a tomb and a mosque, Haji Ali is truly imposing. It was erected in the year 1431 at the orders of a Muslim merchant together with a Sufi saint. There was an inspiration to change life after reaching Mecca. Now, the body of the Sufi saint is in the tomb. 

Haji Ali is surrounded by ocean. You can only access it during the low tide hours through a walkway of just 500 yards. The island is reachable in Central Mumbai and there are countless tours that take you to it. 

Bazaars And Markets

Mumbai is a city filled with wonderful places where tourists can go shopping right on the streets. The Colaba Causeway has several colorful pavement vendors and the Chor Bazaar Thieves Market is just fascinating. The Colaba Causeway is perfect for souvenirs and Linking Road is great for clothes and very cheap shoes. In Chor Bazaar you can find antiques while fresh spices and food can only make the wonderful Crawford Market architecture better. 

Dharavi Slum

Dharavi is actually the largest slum in the continent and you can go on a tour to see it. Obviously, this is something you have to really think about since you might believe you are relishing in poverty tourism. But, the truth is actually different. Tours are insightful and aim to change the preconceived stereotypes you might have. The Dharavi Slum is bustling and small scale industries thrive. Buy things from the manufacturers and you are not going to regret it. 

Elephanta Caves

The Ellora and Ajanta caves are more impressive but Elephanta Caves do have something to offer. These rock-cut caves are basically 2 groups, a Hindu one and a Buddhist one. The most important cave is massive and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site ever since 1987. It is dedicated to the Lord Shiva and has really impressive artwork and sculptures. In order to reach the destination, you just have to take a ferry and if you decide to go further, several other Buddhist caves exist while you visit the Sanjay Gandhi National Park.