Mumbai is vibrant, exciting and truly overwhelming to the uninitiated. Its streets are teeming with so much activity, there's always something interesting or peculiar to see. Street foods are plenty for the gastronomic adventurer, photo opportunities are countless for the landmark hunter and scores of attractions are available for the eager visitor.
If serenity is what you are looking for and rejuvenation is your goal, the city of Mumbai should be the last place you want to visit. However, if you are looking for a rich cultural experience and an insightful perspective, then you have done quite well in choosing this destination for you trip.
There is no better place to start your tour of Mumbai than from its most identifiable landmark, the Gateway of India. It is a triumphal arch built in honor of the country's British rulers. Many of the movies shot here always make it a point to pan their cameras toward the monument. A visit to the area does not only make for a good photo opportunity but also an exciting day out in a carnival-like atmosphere. You will find plenty of enterprising locals selling all kinds of trinkets or performing for the crowd. A throng of tourists and their guides are also a permanent fixture at this famous spot.
Doing an about face to leave the Gateway is not the way to go. Rather, take the steps down to the waterway and board one of the motor boats eagerly waiting for you. It will take you on a tour around Mumbai's vibrant harbor and if you desire, you can also take the ferry to Elephanta Island where a complex of cave-temples dedicated for the goddess Shiva is waiting to be explored.
Once back in the mainland, comb through the bustling streets of the city in search of bargains and interesting finds. The busy pavements of Colaba Causeway provide a rich source of souvenirs, but if you want a more organized and a much wider selection of merchandise, the Chor Bazaar Thieves Market is the way to go. If shoes and RTW are what you are looking for, then the Linking Road is a must-stop.
Mumbai also features several heritage buildings that are a stark reminder of its colonial past. They are definitely worth visiting not only for their historical significance but also for their impressive aesthetics.
The Victoria Terminus or the Chatrapati Shivaji Terminus as it is now known is a definite must-see. If not for the many locals milling around, you will think you are somewhere in Europe when you catch sight of the building. If you have been to the Victoria Terminus in London, you will be overwhelmed by the similarities. Other glimpses of colonial architecture in the city include the Prince of Wales Museum and the Horniman Circle.
The sizable Mahalaxmi Dhobi Gat is another major cultural attraction in Mumbai. Be forewarned though, it is not for the faint-hearted. Here you will find thousands of pieces of dirty laundry hand-washed by hundreds of dhobis or watermen in dingy water tubs. Definitely not pleasant, but it is surely an interesting sight.
Other visit-worthy attractions include the Mosque of Haji Ali, the Art District of Kala Ghoda and the National Park right smack in the heart of the city.
Mumbai is also famous for Bollywood - Hollywood's counterpart in this part of the globe. So, you may want to include a tour of the Film City in your itinerary to complete your Mumbai experience.
Sunee is author of this article on Hotels in Thailand. Find more information about Phuket Hotels here.
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