Mumbai Travel Information, History, Most Visited Places, Things to Know About Mumbai (2024)
Mumbai (Formerly Bombay), the largest city in India, is located on the west coast and is known for being home to the prolific Bollywood film industry. Be it the Elephanta Island or the Gateway of India stone arch, Mumbai never fails to tempt one. The city is also known as the City of Dreams because of its ability to offer better career opportunities to everyone. What really makes Mumbai stand out is the combination of modernity and tradition. Apart from being the financial powerhouse of the country, Mumbai is home to strugglers, millionaires, slums, expensive homes, and so on. In this article, you’ll get to know more about Mumbai and its nitty gritty details.
Yeh Hai Mumbai Meri Jaan (This is Mumbai, my dear)
Mumbai, earlier known as Bombay, is originally made of seven islands that were home to the Koli people. After being ruled by the Portuguese empire and other indigenous rulers, Mumbai went under the control of the East India Company in 1661. Today’s Mumbai owes debt to the Hornby Vellard Project which literally transformed the city and made it one of the major seaports on the Arabian Sea.
Well, that’s all about the history of Mumbai. According to the 2011 census by the Government of India, Mumbai is home to 1.84 crores people. The city takes pride in having a natural harbor and being home to the highest number of millionaires as well as billionaires. Mumbai also boasts of its UNESCO World Heritage sites i.e. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Victorian and Art Deco buildings, and the Elephanta caves.
All About Mumbai – Climate, Economy, and People
Climate: Mumbai is known for featuring a warm and humid climate throughout the year. The city witnesses scorching heat during the months between March and May. However, the best time to travel are definitely the months in between December and February. The weather remains cool during this time. Mumbai also gets an annual rainfall of 1800 mm every year.
Economy: Mumbai is known for being the prime financial hub of the country. A huge part of the city’s economy relies on cotton textile manufacturing along with newer industries such as chemicals, electronics, and automobiles. Mumbai is also home to the Bombay Stock Exchange which is the leading stock and share market in the country.
People: The cosmopolitan city of Mumbai is known for its dense settlement. You’ll find people from every religion in the city. Even though the majority of the population is Hindu, Mumbai is home to a significant number of Christians, Jains, Sikhs, Zoroastrians, Jews, and Muslims as well.
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What Are the Most Visited Places in Mumbai?
Want to know about Mumbai places to visit? Any piece on Mumbai will be incomplete without mentioning the places that you must visit in Mumbai. Knowing Mumbai is all about delving deep into its history and architecture. Here are some of the top places that you must learn about.
Gateway of India: Built by George Willet, this iconic landmark to Mumbai is what Taj Mahal to Delhi. This is the perfect spot to relish the cool breeze of the Arabian sea. You can also go for a fery ride which allows you to see this monument from the sea.
Haji Ali Dargah: This popular religious shrine is home to the tomb of Sayed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari. Upholding the Indo-Islamic architectural style, this gran edifice lets you enjoy the surrounding blue water as well.
Elephanta Caves: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most prominent rock-cute caves in the country. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the caves here also reflect the grandeur of Buddhist architectures. You can easily reach the Elephanta Caves in an hour by taking a ferry from the Gateway of India.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus: This is another UNESCO World Heritage Site that you should definitely visit during your trip to Mumbai. This edifice adorns itself in the Victorian-Gothic style of architecture. Built in 1888, this is one of the most visited spots. A trip to Mumbai will remain incomplete without taking a photo of yourself outside the magnificent CST.
Taraporewala Aquarium: Known for being the oldest aquarium in the country, Taraporewala Aquarium features a wide variety of marine lives including freshwater fishes and coral fishes. The Oceanarium here is perfect for those who want to experience the feeling of walking under the sea. You can also get a fish spa here.
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9 Things That You Wish You Knew About Mumbai
Mumbai, as a city, has witnessed many historic moments and is home to some of the most picturesque architecture. Here are 9 things that you must know about Mumbai.
The Most Expensive House in The World
Antilla, the most expensive house in the world, is located in the Mumbai city district. The 27-story skyscraper belongs to Indian billionaire business tycoon Mukesh Ambani. Spread over 400,000 square feet, the mansion is valued at approximately $1 billion.
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India’s First Train
Did you know that the first train in India ran between Mumbai and Thane? Mumbai witnessed this historical moment on April 16, 1853. Today the local trains in Mumbai carry 2.2 billion passengers every year.
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First Airport in India
Founded in 1928, the Juhu Aerodrome was the first operational airport in India. The Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport has been awarded for being the 3rd best international airport in the world.
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7 Islands Formed Mumbai
Mumbai as you see today wasn’t always like this. Seven different islands i.e. Bombay, Little Colaba, Colaba, Mazagaon, Parel, Mahim, and Worli. It took more than 5 centuries to connect them and create the modern Mumbai that everyone loves.
First Bus Service
The first bus service in India started in Mumbai on July 15, 1926. It transported passengers from Afghan Church to Crawford Market.
150 Kilometers Coastline
Mumbai takes pride in having 150 kilometers of coastline which expands itself from the Marine Drive to the Aksa Beach.
The First Car Owner in India
Sir Jamshedji Tata, the founder of the Tata Group, was the first Indian to buy a car in 1901.
Migrating Flamingos
Did you know a large amount of flamingos migrate to Bhandup and swamps of Sewri? This happens between October and March every year.
The Largest Slum in Asia
Despite being the wealthiest city in India, Mumbai is home to Dharavi – the largest slum in Asia.
Now that you know a little more about the dynamic effervescence of Mumbai, it’ll be much easier for you to enjoy your Mumbai trip to the fullest. Whether you always wanted to know special things about Mumbai or more about the must-visit spots, this article gives you a perfect overview of the extravagant city. Get a personalized itinerary and visit the city of dreams with thetoptours.com!
