MUMBAI

Business and Bollywood glamour infuse Mumbai, the commercial capital of and largest city in India, home to more than 20 million people. Founded as a trading post, this vibrant, bustling metropolis is a mercantile and business center overflowing with corporate offices. But visitors will discover more than just commerce on the city’s vibrant streets. Explore the beautiful architecture of Mumbai’s landmarks, check out a Bollywood film, haggle with street vendors and experience the city’s culture through its spices, street foods and seafood.

GETTING THERE

One of the busiest airports in India, Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM) is the gateway to India’s financial capital, located approximately 17 miles from downtown Mumbai. Prepaid taxis, rather than metered taxis, are the safest form of travel for visitors who don’t wish to get scammed. The airport recently launched a new automated system that allots prepaid taxis. After purchasing tickets at one of the airport’s many prepaid counters, customers receive a printed receipt with details.

GETTING AROUND

Various modes of public transportation connect Mumbai. BEST (Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport) offers a far-reaching network of buses and day passes from about $2.66 for all buses, including express and air-conditioned, and about 71 cents for buses without those services. Visitors can pick up route maps at newspaper stands and railway stations. For honest taxi services, travelers should look into scheduling cabs rather than hailing them. Branded cabs offer clean, air-conditioned taxis that provide respite from the heat and humidity. Rates typically start from about $14 within the city.

TOP ATTRACTIONS

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
A historic railway station with beautiful stained-glass windows and towering spires, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is a masterpiece of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture that blends themes of Indian and British culture. Constructed over the course of 10 years starting in 1878, the terminal, formerly known as Victoria Terminus Station, was built to honor Queen Victoria and was renamed following Indian independence.

Elephanta Caves
A UNESCO-classified World Heritage site located in Mumbai Harbor approximately 6 miles east of Mumbai, the Elephanta Caves are a network of ancient cave temples decorated with images from Hindu mythology. Hop on a ferry or catamaran to Elephanta Island and check out some of the finest examples of rock art in India and an excellent view of Mumbai from the water.

Gateway of India
One of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and a great spot for visitors to begin their exploration of Mumbai, the Gateway of India is a gigantic arch with intricate latticework overlooking the Arabian Sea. Built in 1911, it was constructed to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary.

EVENTS AND FESTIVALS

Elephanta Festival
Enjoy Indian dance, sculpture and art at the Elephanta Festival, a music and arts extravaganza held annually on Elephanta Island during the month of February.

Ganesh Chaturthi
Plan a trip in late August or early September (if you can handle the humidity) and revel in the festivities of Ganesh Chaturthi, a 10-day festival honoring the elephantheaded Lord Ganesha, one of the most well-known and widely worshipped Hindu deities.

Kala Ghoda Arts Festival
The country’s largest multicultural festival celebrated each year in late January or early February, the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival is a nine-day festival showcasing art, music, dance and theater from various cultures. Take an art seminar, indulge in Indian street food and pick up an artisan’s creation to take home as a unique souvenir.

RESOURCES

For more information, visit incredibleindia.org