Mumbai truly justifies the title ‘City of Dreams’. With its astonishing locations, thrilling nightlife and pristine beaches, this place is a miraculous destination that will cater to all your getaway needs. So if you are looking for historical places, water parks, temples or gardens, this place has it all for a dreamlike encounter. I remember when the first time I visited here, I just planned for a Bollywood tour in the city, but when I actually reached here, I got to know about so many exciting places that I couldn’t resist but visit them all on my vacation. I also cancelled my return flight and extended my stay here at one of the renowned hotels in Andheri Mumbai for a week. That journey, even today, counts as one of the best that I have ever made in life. If you want to know about which prime locations I made my visit to, then scroll down as I will mention the top 5 places that you cannot miss on your Mumbai tour. Here I go!
Mumbai Film City
If there is one name that pops up immediately after listening to the name ‘Mumbai’, it is the Bollywood city or the Mumbai Film City. Also acclaimed as the Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagri, Mumbai Film City is a place of wonder. Stretching over 100000 sq. ft, this city is where you can taste Bollywood in close proximity. From a film industry close-up to exploring the recording rooms, gardens and the lakes surrounding the film city, you can do that all here and enjoy the incredible music, colour and dancing till the last minute of your departure. The best place about this location is that you can take a bus tour to the entire city, located in Aarey Colony and feel to be a part of a Bollywood film shooting. If you are a fan of Bollywood just like me, you can include this place in your itinerary and learn more about how the industry works. And if you are lucky enough, you might bump into your favourite celebrities as well.
Gateway of India
A trip to Mumbai is incomplete without enjoying the sight of the Gateway of India. Situated 25 km away from the Mumbai airport, the Gateway of India is one of the most eminent landmarks that speak about the history of this dream city from its magnificent pillars. Due to the place having immense popularity, make your sojourn here early in the morning so that you can enjoy the view without having to face any rush. Coming to the significance of this location, this incredible gateway came into existence to cherish the arrival of Queen Mary and King George V to the then Bombay by the Britishers. This is the reason why today, many tourists across the world travel here to catch a glance at the monument. With its great height of 26m, this place also serves as a great spot to appreciate the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture.
Marine Drive
For romantic couples planning for a sojourn in Mumbai, Marine Drive is a must-visit as here you can walk hand in hand with your beloved and enjoy the captivating view of the Arabian Sea. If you are single, even then you can plan here, to enjoy some time in solace. Although my last trip was with my friends, I came here one day alone at night and it was so peaceful that I cannot explain it in words. The waters of the Arabian sea pleased my eyes and I must admit, I made some really good life decisions here. In case you are wondering, it is situated in the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Road and no, there are no entry charges required to visit this place. So, stop procrastinating much and add this place to your travel bucket list right away.
Juhu Beach
For beach lovers, there is one destination in Mumbai that you cannot skip on your tour and i.e. the Juhu Beach. With the enchanting view of the sunrise from this spot, Juhu beach is the best place where you can come with your friends and play badminton or make sandcastles and also engage in thrilling adventure sports to make your tour, a splendid one. Besides, it is open all day so you can come here after your day tour to Mumbai and rejuvenate here in the warm sand of the beaches. For a picnic, Juhu beach is again a great option to consider.
Siddhivinayak Temple
Ideal for tourists in a spiritual quest, Siddhivinayak is one of the most acclaimed temples in the city. Nestled nearby the Mumbai airport, you can come here to pay homage to Lord Shri Ganesh and seek his blessings for a new initiative and future endeavours. This place is so renowned that you might also find some celebrities visiting here for spiritual satisfaction. A popular name in every tourist’s mind, Siddhivinayak Temple witnesses several people crowding here every day and getting lost in the majestic charm of this temple. If you want to take part in the morning ‘Arti’ of this place, come at 4.00 am to avoid long queues.
Abide by this guide to experience both the glamour and the eminence of this remarkable city at your own pace and I am sure, you will back with an aura of satisfaction in your heart.