Mumbai: The Commercial Capital of India
Named after their much worshipped Mumba Ma- today, the commercial capital of Indian is called Mumbai since 1997. Previously it was Bombay. If we start talking about the wonderful city at the western fringes of India, by the coastline of Arabian Sea, Mumbai is a conglomerate of 7 islands and they are- Mazagaon, Colaba, Wadala, Parel, Mahim, Old Woman’s Island, & Matunga-Sion. The city holds the history since the rule of the mighty emperor Asoka until the Persians.
Today is city is known for the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Headquarters, the National Stock Exchange, the powerhouse of many corporate houses of the country and Bollywood- the Film City.
Winter is the best time to explore Mumbai. But the coastal city is 24/7 place that never sleep. So tourists can drop down anytime here but they should avoid the monsoon.
Places to See for Religious Interest
Siddhivinayak Temple
This is perhaps the most important Hindu Temples of Mumbai. Siddhivinakji is Lord Ganesha, the son of Hindu deity Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This two hundred years old temple is situated at the Prabhadevi in Mumbai. People believe that Lord Ganapati always listens to all and fulfils the desire of all His worshippers.
Mumbadevi Temple
There are old stories regarding the establishment of Maa Mumba Devi Mandir. This is one of the must visit temples of the Hindus. The city is named after this deity.
Walukeshwar Temple
Around 1050 years ago the Silharas built this temple. French destroyed the edifice during the 16th century but the temple was reconstructed by Rama Kamath in 1715. The recent one came into being on 1950.
Babulnath Temple
Babulnath ji is Lord Shiva. This temple is situated in the southern fringes of the Malabar Hills that is towards the end of the Marine Drive. The Arabian Sea looks wonderful from the temple which stands at a height of 1, 000 feet.
Buddhist Temple
This is an important temple of the Buddhist communities here. Situated on the north-west suburbs of Worli, this place is a must visit for the peace seekers.
Mount Mary Church
This is a beautiful church located on the outskirts of Mumbai on top of a lush hill. Back in 1640, the church was built by the Portuguese that was also reconstructed on 1761. This is an important shrine of the local Christians and Portuguese.
Haji Ali Dargah
Haji Ali Mosque is built in the middle of the sea. This is a tomb of Haji Ali that is located 500 yards into the sea and is only accessible during the low tides.
Alongside, the famous SwamiNarayan Mandir, The Mahalaxmi Temple, Radha Ras Bihari Temple are some of the important shrines of Mumbai.
Famous monuments in Mumbai
Elephanta Caves
The presiding deity of these caves is Lord Shiva. This is a marvel that shouldn’t be missed by tourists in Mumbai. The large halls, corridors, courtyards, porticoes connecting each part of the cave to the other are indeed a thing to see.
The Gateway of India
This is an architectural marvel of our country, located at the southern fringes of the city, on the shores of the Arabian Sea. The edifice is offered to our countrymen and their sacrifices during the freedom movement and later on in several quarters.
The Bombay Film City
Besides, the business capital of India, Mumbai houses the largest film producing studios. This place is a dream for many youths who want to see themselves on the silver screen. Fondly, the film city of Mumbai is called Bollywood. Tourists, interested on Indian cinemas never miss a chance to explore the film city.
Flora Fountain
This is a wonderful piece of artwork inside the city. The fountain is dedicated to the Governor of Mumbai Sir Bartle Frere for his contribution in recognition of the city of Bombay during the Raj. The fountain is named after Roman Goddess Flora, the deity of beauty and prosperity.
The other important places to explore in Mumbai are- The famous Beaches including the Marine Drive, Chowpatty and Juhu; the Mumbai High Court, the University Campus, Worli Fort, Kanheri Caves, Rajabai Clock Tower, Hanging Garden, Gardens in Mumbai, Balodyan Gardens, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Kamala Nehru Park, Jijamata Udyan Zoo, Essel World, Water Kingdom, Tikuji-ni-Wadi and many more.
How to Reach Mumbai?
By Air: The Chatrapati Sivaji International Airport is just 30 Km from the main city of Mumbai. This is an international airport which is not only connected with the states of India, but also with the major cities of the world.
By Railway: Mumbai has two major railway stations- Chattrapati Shivaji Terminus and the Bombay Central.
By Road: Mumbai is connected with the best NH in India that connects all cities and states.