Travel Tourism Attractions Mumbai India

Built by the British in 1888, the city’s most exuberant Gothic building looks more like a lavishly decorated palace or cathedral rather than a transport depot. Carvings of peacocks, gargoyles, monkeys, and lions are mixed up among the domes, turrets and stained-glass windows. In 1998, the station was officially renamed Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST).

Occupying the city’s southernmost peninsula; it is one of the most vibrant districts. Sights to see are the Colaba Causeway (a busy commercial area), the Sassoon Dock and bustling, colourful Colaba Market.

Standing tall in the middle of a major 5-way intersection, the fountain marks the heart of Mumbai’s Fort district. The ornately covered stone fountain was created as a memorial to one Mumbai’s early governors, Sir Bartle Frere.

It is a magnificent 26 metre stone archway that serves as a launching point for boats going to Elephanta Island. The Gateway is a signature landmark of the city and is a favourite gathering spot for locals and tourists. Giant balloon sellers, photographers and the like give the area the feel of a bazaar. Behind the Gateway stands the majestic Taj Mahal Hotel.

A contemporary art gallery that hosts changing exhibits of well-known Indian artists. Most of the artwork on display is for sale as well.

The museum is housed in a circular building resembling New York’s Guggenheim Museum. Indian and International artists display their works in a bright and spacious venue. There is a small permanent collection of contemporary Indian art in the top-floor Dome Gallery.

Topped with Moorish domes, Mumbai’s first Victorian building and principal museum was completed in 1911 and built in honour of King George V. The museum is known for its art, archeology and national history.

Located a little beyond the Fort Area, in the neighbourhood of Kalbadevi, are Mumbai’s 100-year-old jewellery markets. The shops are filled with magnificent gold and silver in every conceivable design.

A popular Hindu temple, one of Mumbai’s busiest and most colourful, is dedicated to Mahalaxmi, the goddess of wealth. It is located in an area reached by the alleyways just off of Bhulabhai Desai Marg and is the focus of Mumbai’s Navratri (Festival of Nine Nights; Hindu festival leading up to Dusshera) celebrations in September/October.

Built in the 13th Century, this large, traditional Hindu temple gives you a panoramic view of South Mumbai, once you reach the top of the steps.

An essential part of the Mumbai experience, this bustling area is filled with vendors selling local savouries and sweets. It remains a favourite evening spot for couples and families.

It is a short walk north of the Mahalaxmi Temple and is set out on a thin, rocky jetty in the Arabian Sea. The shrine is reached by a long walkway just above the water. It was built in honour of the Muslim Saint Haji Ali and is a striking white mosque. The interior of the mosque is beautifully decorated with coloured-mirror mosaics.

Located in a Parsi neighbourhood on Malabar Hill is a 3-storey Gujarati house where Mahatma Gandhi lived in from 1917-1934. It houses a library and a small museum on Gandhi’s life and work. Many of his belongings are displayed in his room including his original copies of the Bible, The Koran and the Bhagvad Gita. Some important and moving letters from the fight for India’s independence are also on display.

Located 14.5 kilometres northeast of the Gateway of India are Mumbai’s premier tourist attraction. Little is known about the caves’ origins, but they are thought to have been created in the 7th Century. The Portuguese renamed it Elephanta after they found a large stone elephant near the shore. There is one main cave with a number of large sculpted panels, all relating to Lord Shiva (a Hindu God). The majestic Trimurti statue is also housed here. Take advantage of the English-language guide service (free with deluxe boat tickets). Tours depart every hour on the half-hour from the ticket booth in front of the temple complex.

Located on Eldon Road is the High Court. Local stone carvers, who often worked independently, carved a one-eyed monkey holding scales of justice on one of the pillars of the building. It’s permitted (and highly recommended) to walk around the inside of the court and see cases in progress.

The university was designed by Gilbert Scott of St. Pancras Station (London) fame. The gorgeous 15th Century Italian masterpiece is in the centre of an Indian metropolis. It is possible to go inside both the exquisite University Library and Convocation Hall.

The intricate 80 metre-high tower overlooks the university complex and is decorated with detailed carvings. Unfortunately, one can only view the tower from afar as it is off limits.

This majestic hotel, inspired by its namesake in Agra, faces the harbour and was built in 1903 by the Parsi industrialist, Jamshedji Tata. Particularly beautiful is the Palace side, where the grand central stairway is well worth a peek. The hotel dominates Colaba’s waterfront and its six-story domed structure is best viewed from an offshore boat. Alternatively, for a great view of the Gateway, head inside the Taj and go to the Sea Lounge or Harbour Bar.

The Gateway of India, the Taj Hotel and the Elephanta caves are just a few of Mumbai's must-see attractions. It is a city known for its fascinating history & culture, and for your convenience, we have outlined some of the premier sights that you should see when visiting Mumbai.