Mumbai Attractions

Arriving in Mumbai, every sense is assaulted by the overwhelming chaos of color, noise, smells, people, energy and movement,leaving any visitor feeling touched by a sense of the unique. Mumbai's secret lies in its clashing contradictions; modern, suave, and cosmopolitan meets timeless spirituality and ancient cultural heritage. Whether it be avoiding a wondering sacred cow, observing a Bollywood filming or darting a rickshaw, the city will not fail to marvel and mesmerize you. For a sighting of one of Mumbai's finest historical monuments, take a walk down to the harbor where you will find the Gateway of India; one of the most well known city landmarks. The ceremonial structure was constructed to mark the visit of King George V way back in 1911, and is a impressive arch made of yellow Basat. The area is a popular meeting spot for many locals and a great starting point for tourists wanting to explore the city. Once down by the water's edge, don't miss the opportunity for a fantastic day drip over to Elephanta Island. Now designated as a UNESCO world heritage Site, the island, which is a short ferry ride from Mumbai port is home to the awe-inspiring sacred Elephanta caves. The caves are an intricate composite of ancient cave temples that date back to the 7th Century, beset by intricate sculptures and stone work depicting important Hindu Gods and Goddesses. The island is covered with luscious foliage, exotic plants and complete with mischievous monkeys scampering around, ready to make away with any smidgen or food from an unsuspecting tourist's hand. Once back on dry land, the only place to spend sunset is down at Chowpatty Beach. A long sprawling stretch of sand, by night the beach is alive and action-packed with political rallies, pony rides, snake charmers, food sellers all come to participate in the carnival like scene. When the sun sets into the sea, the beach provides an amazing spectacle of the Mumbai city skyline, ablaze with rich orange and reds. Yet, if you are looking for a real experience out of the ordinary, take a trip down to the Dhobi Ghats which is where the whole of Mumbai's laundry is washed. Here you will find 5.000 men beating dirt out of clothes brought to them from all over the city; an almost unbelievable reality. The open air toughs spread for miles, and can be seen in all their immensity from the bridge across the Mahalaxmi Railway station.

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