Having a good time in Mumbai or Bombay is fairly easy simply because Mumbai
has a lot to offer. There is also no major hindrance to finding your way around.
English is commonly used and even an average man on the street can speak and
understand it well enough to guide you. Some areas that are a must to experience
include -
Marine Drive - Eulogized by Bollywood, Marine Drive caresses the seashore
from Nariman Point to the foot of the Malabar Hill. Passing Chowpatty Beach,
Marine Drive is also famous as the Queen's Necklace. One of the busiest roads
in Mumbai, it is also one of the breeziest due to its proximity to the sea.
Chowpatty Beach - Come August/September, Chowpatty Beach comes alive
as the devout Hindu population of Mumbai comes thronging to its sands to immerse
their larger than life idols of Ganesha and incur his blessings. On every other
ordinary evening Chowpatty is where the common man comes to eat and be entertained.
A gastronomic paradise of bhelpuri, a savory snack made from puffed rice with
loads of onions, coriander, a medley of spices topped with sweet and sour tamarind
sauce, chuski ice balls dipped in syrup, pao bhaji buttered buns served with
a spicy potato side dish or pungent chutney sandwiches. Chowpatty is an experience
that should not be missed.
Hanging Gardens - Also known as the Ferozeshah Mehta Gardens, they are
built over 3 reservoirs, which store billions of gallons of water for cleaning
before they are pumped to the thirsty city of Mumbai.
Colaba - The hub of tourist activity in Mumbai, Colaba is known for its
street stalls, cafes and kitsch ambience. Colaba is also home to the most pocket
friendly guesthouses and economy hotels.
Fort - The Fort area in Mumbai is choc-a-bloc with old Victorian, Gothic
buildings. An important financial and commercial center this area is always
full of activity. The BSE or the Bombay Stock Exchange on Dalal Street is also
located in this area. Avoid the Fort between 9.00 - 10.00 a.m. and 6.30 - 8.00
p.m. when the office traffic is at its peak.
Crawford Market - With a 50 feet high sky lit awning, Crawford Market
is the place to shop for a wide variety of fruit, vegetables and meat. It is
famous for the frieze just above its main entry point that has been designed
by Lockyard Kipling father of the famous author Rudyard Kipling. It depicts
the rural Indian farmer amidst the wheat fields. The building is a blend of
Flemish and Norman architecture. Named after Arthur Crawford, the first Municipal
Commissioner of Bombay, the building, which was completed in 1869, was donated
by Cowasji Jehangir to the city.
