Mumbai is a thriving metropolitan and is one of the busiest locations in all of India. It is also one of the most frequented places by tourist both from neighboring provinces and other countries because of the many structures and activities that reflect the local culture of the country.
Religious Structures
Mumbai is like the melting pot of religious cultures in India, as you can easily see different places of worship in the area. There is the beautiful Babulnath Temple in Southern Mumbai, with its gorgeous and palace-like façade. It is a temple frequented by Hindus who pray to the Hindu god Shiva. There is also the Mahalakshmi Temple in Bhulabhai Desai Road dedicated to the goddess Mahalakshmi, although it is also home to the idols of other goddesses like Mahakali and Mahasaraswati. Majority of the churches here are Hindu influenced, but you can also find catholic churches like the Mount Mary Church, a majestic Roman Catholic cathedral where the week long Bandra Fair in September is held in the nearby grounds. For Muslim visitors, you can drop by the beautiful white Haji Ali Mosque situated in a jetty along the lovely Arabian Sea.
Amazing Landmarks
Don’t forget to visit the famous landmarks of Mumbai as well, since you will definitely want to get your photos taken with them considering that their architectural designs are just stunning. First to visit is the Global Vipassana Pagoda with its golden roof and the seated Buddha. The Flora Fountain located in Martyr’s Square is also great for picture taking. It has ornate designs that are simply works of art. Don’t forget to pay the Rajabai Clock tower a visit as well, which is 250 feet high and boasts of Gothic and early French architectures. Not to be missed of course is the famous Gateway of India, constructed almost a century ago in honor of the then English King George V. The very spot where the monument stands is the very same spot where he stepped when he visited the city.
Fun Outdoors
There are many outdoorsy things to do in Mumbai. Caving is one example. Take note though, since the caves mentioned here are not those typical dark caverns with stalactites and stalagmites. The Kanheri Caves for example, is a cavern carved out of a basalt rock and is said to have been created in 1 BC. Inside the caves are sculptures of Buddha and the Avalokiteswara incarnation. The caves are located in the Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Borrivali, which is by the way a lovely nature park that is great for day walking. There is also the Hanging Gardens, also known as the Ferozeshah Mehta, is located in the Malabar Hill that overlooks Mumbai. If it’s the beach you want, you can go to Aksa Beach. You can take a walk along the sandy shore or take a dip in the warm waters. The sunsets are also said to be beautiful in this side of India.
Mumbai is one city that is filled with interesting sights to see, most of which are based in the mix of the local culture and natural wonders.
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Photo by azwegers on Flickr