Mumbai is an eclectic mix of the old and the new. From iconic heritage structures to amusement parks there is plenty to see and do for the tourist.
The Gateway of India overlooking the Arabian Sea is usually the first stop for most tourists. A ferry ride to Elephanta Caves leads to ancient Hindu caves with rock stone sculptures of Lord Shiva now a World Heritage site. Other popular places to visit include the Haji Ali dargah, a famous 15th- century mosque and dargah (tomb), Hanging Gardens known for its terraced gardens or Sanjay Gandhi National Park which is a protected forest area and home to many species of flora and fauna. Tigers and lions can also be spotted here while on safari. Mumbai is also home to Bollywood where you can spot stars jogging on Juhu Beach or in the coffee-shops of luxury hotels. Intrincic to Mumbai are the ‘Dabbawaalas’ who deliver lunch tiffins to 200,000 office-goers. Watch them in action at Churchgate around noon where tiffins are sorted and dispatched.
A few hours’ drive from Mumbai will take you to the sea-side town of Alibaug or to hill-stations like Khandala or Lonavala.