In modern times, many wish to escape the clutches of technology and its impact. Travelling is the most preferred activity that people choose. The realm of travelling recovered significantly after the 2020 Pandemic; as of 2024, this sector contributes 9.2% to global GDP. As for India, it remains a beloved activity due to its vast natural, historical, and cultural richness. The first most visited city in India is Delhi, the capital, and the second city on the list is Mumbai, also known as the financial capital of India. This fact makes people question the best time to visit Mumbai. Before we dive into the specifics, here are some interesting facts about Mumbai:
A. Captivating facts about Mumbai:
- Financial Capital:
Many developments for India occurred for the first time in Mumbai. Currently, the city itself contributes over 6% to the GDP. It is also home to important financial locations like the Headquarters of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), and the National Stock Exchange (NSE). This makes Mumbai a financial hub for many institutions.
- Population:
Mumbai is also known as the most populous city in India, with over 20 million people (two crores). This statistic also makes it one of the most populated urban spaces globally.
- Entertainment:
Some of the best places in Mumbai are not only related to the financial sector but also the entertainment industry. This city is known as the ‘Heart of Bollywood’, and it is said to produce more films than Hollywood every year. The Film City in Goregaon is also another attraction that lures movie lovers, and with the increasing popularity of theatre and films, now is the best time to visit Mumbai and witness its grandeur.
- Transportation:
This aspect is amplified in Mumbai, as its suburban railway system carries over 7.5 million passengers (75 lakhs of people) every day, earning the title of the busiest rail system in the world, not just in India. In particular, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus is an allure to travellers because of the design of its railway station, an iconic blend of Indian Architecture and Victorian Gothic elements. The public bus system is run by Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST), which introduced electric buses in an attempt to decrease pollution.
- Urban Infrastructure:
In terms of real estate, the prices are soaring due to limited usable land and the ever-growing population. This makes Mumbai one of the most expensive cities in terms of real estate, earning this title across Asia. Many changes are also being implemented in Dharavi, known for its massive slums. Affordable housing and rehabilitation efforts are on the move, increasing welfare and productivity.
- Culture and Diversity:
Mumbai is an epitome of culture and diverse elements. Over 16 languages are commonly spoken in Mumbai, and the populace celebrates many major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, Christmas, and Eid with the same excitement. One of the best places in Mumbai is related to its cuisine; the city is known as the ‘city that never sleeps’, and food stalls are always open, making the night hours the best time to visit Mumbai and enjoy its scenery.
- Geography:
Mumbai is located on the Eastern coast, in the state of Maharashtra, and lies near the Arabian Sea. It is commonly known as the ‘land of seven islands’, because it was originally an archipelago of seven islands, which are: Colaba, Little Colaba, Mahim, Mazagaon, Parel, Worli, and Bombay Island. These small spaces were merged during the 18th–19th centuries through land reclamation projects by the British government, which led to the formation of present-day Mumbai. Due to high temperatures and delayed sea breezes, summer is not the best time to visit Mumbai.
Now that the basic and interesting facts about the city are stated, it could make you wonder about the best places in Mumbai and enjoy all the serenity it has to offer. Here is a small list of tourist attractions and their historical and cultural significance:
B. Marine Drive:
- Historical significance:
Marine Drive was built in the pre-independence era, and was a part of Back Bay before the Back Bay Reclamation Project began in the early 1920s. The road was finally completed in the 1940s and became a haven for the elite class of Mumbai. Spanning across three kilometres and known for its ‘banana shape’, the promenade was constructed by Pallonji Mistry, an Irish billionaire of Indian lineage. The landmark is also known as the “Queen’s Necklace” because the nighttime view resembles pearls on a string.
- Cultural importance:
Marine Drive houses the second-largest collection of Art Deco buildings in the world, second only to Miami. They were constructed between 1930-1950 and reflect the city’s opulence during the late colonial period. It revolutionised and utilised the architectural trends of that time. This space was included in the UNESCO World Heritage listing in 2018 under the category “Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai.”
- Notable facts:
Marine Drive is a symbol of modern Indian urban life, making an appearance in many Bollywood movies like Wake Up Sid (2009), Munnabhai M.B.B.S (2003), Fashion (2008), and some of its essence is captured in a few international movies. It has been a site for public gatherings, parades, and a space for political campaigns for decades. It is the closest to locations like the Oberoi Hotel, Wankhede Stadium, and Churchgate Station.
- Tourism and contibution:
Due to its aesthetic qualities, the boulevard is a popular attraction for tourists. Suitable months to visit this landmark are from November to February, making it the best time to visit Mumbai during the Christmas holidays.
C. Gateway of India:
- Historical purpose:
The Gateway of India was constructed between 1913 and 1924 by the Scottish architect George Wittet, who blended the essences of Hindu, Muslim, and European styles of architecture. Though its foundation stone displays the date, 31 March 1913, it was not completed until 1924 due to structural and other delays. It was originally built as a symbol of the power and elegance of the British Empire, and to celebrate the day when King George V and Queen Mary sailed to India (December 1911). It was used for two major purposes: as a ceremonial structure for the Viceroy and Governors of India, and to carry government officials to the country. After Independence (1947), all British troops departed through the Gateway of India, marking an end to their rule.
- Cultural significance and Tourism:
This monument represents India and Mumbai like the Eiffel Tower represents France. Whenever people search for India on the internet, the images of the Gateway of India are one of the first images to pop up on the screen. This site attracts both tourists and historians alike for its prominence. It is also a departure point for ferry rides Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A dazzling sight in the day and a sparkling visual at night.
D. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT):
- Historical background:
Formerly known as Victoria Terminus (VT), the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is one of the best places in Mumbai if one wants to see India’s cultural identity and the glory of colonial architecture. It was built between 1878 to 1887, to commemorate fifty years of Queen Victoria on the British Throne. Frederick William Stevens, the architect, combined the styles of Gothic and traditional Indian aspects. CSMT became a major railway terminal and a centre for the Great Indian Peninsula Railway (GIPR). It also aided in joining the distant regions in India. In 1996, it was renamed after the glorious and honourable ruler, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
- Cultural essence:
CSMT is a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognised in 2004 and stands as a symbol of colonialism and Indian culture. It is one of the busiest railway systems in India, carrying over three million commuters daily. Some of its features are a grand central dome with a female figure, who symbolises progress. It consists of stained glass windows, stone carvings, and European gargoyles, fascinating tourists. It is a crown jewel of Mumbai’s architecture, and the Mumbai University and other buildings are located nearby.
D. Elephanta Caves:
- Historical backdrop:
The Elephanta Caves are one of the most iconic places in Mumbai. They are speculated to have been built in the 5th century, under the Kalachuri dynasty or possibly the early Rashtrakutas. They represent the glory of ancient Indian temples, especially during the post-Gupta period. In the 16th century, the Portuguese arrived and named the island “Elephanta” after a large stone elephant statue near the shore, which is currently preserved in Mumbai’s Jijamata Udyan).
- Religious and Cultural importance:
The primary cave (Cave 1) is a grand Shaivite rock-cut temple built to honour Lord Shiva, an epitome of Hindu sculpture. The most memorable sculpture is the Trimurti (three-headed Shiva) — a 20-foot-high relief depicting three aspects of the divine: Creator (Brahma), Preserver (Vishnu), and Destroyer (Shiva). Other principal sculptures are Ardhanarishvara (a half-male, half-female form of Shiva), Gangadhara (Shiva bringing the Ganges to earth), and Shiva as Nataraja (Lord of the Dance). It is a dedicated balance between spirit and art. In 1987, it was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). They are a central element in the Elephanta festival, which is celebrated annually in February to honour classical dance and other art forms.
To conclude, India is a basket containing jewels that attracts travel enthusiasts of any age. The best places in Mumbai can vary on everyone’s travel list, but no one can deny that all of them are a time capsule to the past, luring everyone into awe. From a colonial hotspot for architecture to a modern-day financial and tourism hub, Mumbai continues to entice not only foreigners but also the natives. Like many other sites, nighttime is the best time to visit Mumbai, as people are gifted with the stunning visuals.
