Mumbai: City of Dreams

Bombay. Bambai. Bonbaym. Monbaym. Boon Bay. Whatever you wish to call it, the city officially changed it’s name in 1995 when the Government decided to revert to one it was most easily recognized by locals - Mumbai (pron. muum-buhy).

For some, Mumbai is all about freedom, while for others, it's the land of endless opportunity. India’s pulsating heart and economic powerhouse, a city of over 27 million where dreams are forged in the fires of relentless ambition. Boasting a history over two millenia, the most fairly well-known part of which begins with the city being once a cluster of seven islands gifted by the Portuguese to the British.

For some, Mumbai is home, but for many, it’s a city of migrants chasing dreams. To some, Mumbai might seem indifferent, but others feel its never-say-die spirit. Some believe it's the city of the future, while others see it stuck in the past. It’s got the glitz and glamour, yet it's also got its fair share of slums and squalor. You’ve got your street food fans, munching on vada pav and bhelpuri, and then there are those who prefer the city's fine dining scene. One thing is certain – from its historic roots as a trading port to its current status as the financial capital of India, Mumbai's journey is nothing short of spectacular.

"There's nowhere else like Bombay. It's a feeling. It's a way of life." 

- Ruskin Bond, Indian author.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a Bollywood fanatic, or simply an urban explorer, this city has something for everyone. Here’s why Mumbai should be at the top of your travel list.

First things first- Tourist Traps to Sidestep

So, like any famous city, “Aamchi Mumbai” (our Mumbai, a term of endearment in the local Marathi language) is not without its tourist traps, but a savvy traveller knows how to navigate them. Here’s few of the typical itinerary sights –

The Gateway of India: a grand, arch-shaped monument built in the early 20th century to commemorate the arrival of King George V and Queen Mary to India in 1911. Ironically, it was also the last place British troops departed from in 1948. If you must, consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more peaceful experience.

Marine Drive: known as the Queen's Necklace at night due to its streetlights resembling a string of pearls, is a 3.6 kilometer long crescent-shaped promenade along the coast of Mumbai. Known for breathtaking sunsets, cool evening breeze and scenic views. If seeking a quieter experience, consider viewing the coast from vantage points like Bandra-Worli Sea Link, or any of the endless rooftop bars in the area!

“From kids frolicking on Marine Drive to the clubs of Bandra and the patchwork lights of Dharavi, when the sun sets, Mumbai rises”

– Unknown Quote

Crawford Market: bustling Victorian-era market spread over 22 acres, housing over 5,000 shops. It’s known for having an overwhelming variety of goods under one roof - spices, fruits, vegetables, clothes, flowers, household items, and more. Pro tip: in case you do visit, Go early to avoid peak crowds.

Elephanta caves: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these are a group of seven rock-cut cave temples dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, carved between the 6th and 8th centuries AD. A short one-hour ferry ride away from the Gateway of India, these caves hold sculptures and intricate carvings depicting various Hindu deities and scenes from mythology.

For architecture aficionados, there’s the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus), a UNESCO World Heritage site. This Gothic Revival masterpiece will leave you in awe. It took over 10 years to build and was completed in 1888.

These locations are all iconic and beautiful, yes, but they can either be overcrowded or overpriced. Explore them either with a guide or during off-peak hours for the best experience!

Hidden Gems Worth Your Time

For a deeper dive into Mumbai’s soul, embark on walk through its old neighbourhoods.

Kala Ghoda in particular, is the city’s famous area known for showcasing all things art & culture (think Mayfair, London or Chelsea, New York). The heritage walk in the Kala Ghoda area is a must, showcasing stunning colonial architecture and vibrant street art. You can of course stroll through the numerous independent art galleries here or visit uber-famous ones like Jehangir Art Gallery.

Here’s a quirky fact: Kala Ghoda literally means "Black Horse" and is named after an old statue that once stood in the area. The Kala Ghoda Arts Festival is an annual nine-day long festival held in the area and typically takes place from the first Saturday of February and closes on the second Sunday of February.

The festival is a celebration of all things art, with a focus on visual arts, dance, music, theatre, literature, and street art. It features exhibitions, workshops, performances and talks by artists from all over India and the world. It's a great opportunity to experience the rich culture and heritage of Mumbai.

"Mumbai, you're either loved or hated. But one thing's for sure, you never leave anyone indifferent."

– Unknown Quote

Try checking out the Banganga Tank, an ancient water tank surrounded by temples. often called as Mumbai's own Varanasi (India's spiritual heart), this hidden gem dates back to 1127 AD and offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. There is an interesting ritual where the swans are fed with leftover food from nearby local restaurants. Very sustainable!

Kanheri Caves are situated within the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, they provide a peaceful escape with scenic surroundings. Dating back to the 1st century CE, these caves were once a thriving Buddhist settlement on the Konkan coast. The caves feature intricate carvings and sculptures depicting Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and various Buddhist symbols. The complex includes viharas (monasteries) for living and studying, chaityas (halls) for congregational worship, and stupas (dome-shaped structures) containing relics. A great alternative to visiting the Elephanta caves, you will find it significantly less crowded, offering a glimpse into the rich history of Buddhism in India.

Really want to go off the beaten path?

Take a tour of Dharavi, Asia's largest slum. With an estimated population around 1 million residents, this bustling hub of small-scale industries offers a glimpse at the life of locals where every family hustles and does their bit to contribute to society. Interesting fact: on average, Dharavi generates an estimated $1 billion annually. The residents are mainly involved in cottage industries like handmade leather goods, pottery & ceramics, textile & garments, handicrafts etc. They even have a thriving recycling industry! Not too shabby for a slum huh?

Mumbai's high-rises contrast sharply with Dharavi in the foreground

Culinary Delights

"In Maximum City, the only constant is change, and the only path to survival is adaptation." 

- Suketu Mehta, Author

No visit to Mumbai is complete without indulging in its street food.

The ubiquitous vada pav, the city’s answer to the burger was born out of necessity when some vendors wanted to develop a fast food alternative to omelette pav(omelette bun). Vada pav is a slightly spicy, deep-fried potato patty in a bun.

Fun fact – Mumbai has a Vada Pav Day celebrated on August 23!

Misal pav, a spicy curry made from sprouted lentils served with pav (a local soft bun), is another local favorite. Interestingly, there’s a Misal Pav eating competition held annually!

For a taste of Mumbai’s diverse culinary heritage, try dishes from the local Maharashtrian and Parsi communities. Dishes like kombdi vade (chicken curry with a side of fried bread) Koliwada fish fry (wild caught, fried fish) and dhansak(a Parsi lentil-based stew with meat), are not to be missed. Sol-kadhi (a refreshing digestive drink made from coconut milk and dried mangosteen) and ice golas (think sorbet), are a staple during summers.

Mumbai chaat (street-food) is uber-famous with countless local vendors and restaurants (even internationally) serving up treats like paani puri and sev puri. Chaat encompasses a wide variety of snacks, traditionally served at streetside vendors (think a heavier version of tapas).

Some famous ones include -

Pani puri: Imagine tiny, crispy puffs cradling a symphony of flavors - tangy tamarind chutney, cool mint water, creamy mashed potatoes, and a hint of spice. Each bite is a delightful explosion in your mouth!

Sev puri: Picture a crispy bed of fried flatbread piled high with a savory mix of crunchy sev (thin fried noodles), chopped vegetables, and a dollop of creamy yogurt. Every mouthful is a textural adventure with a burst of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors.

But are you familiar with some of the innovative fusion chaat that has popped up lately?

Pani puri vodka shots - upgrade your pre-game drinks!

Indo-Mexican Papdi Chaat Cups - not your traditional canapés!

For underrated food hotspots, visit the lanes of Mohammed Ali Road during Ramadan or the Khau Galli (food street) in the suburb of Ghatkopar for a variety of mouth-watering snacks. A fun fact: Mohammed Ali Road transforms into a bustling food paradise only during Ramadan nights.

Bollywood Glitz and Glamour

Mumbai is synonymous with Bollywood, the world’s largest film industry. Unlike Hollywood, which produces around 600-800 films a year, Bollywood churns out over 2,000 films annually (as of 2019). The sheer volume ensures a constant stream of content for audiences. Bollywood movies grossed an estimated $2.28 billion in 2020 and contributed over 33% of India’s box office revenue .

No doubt Hollywood produces movies with bigger budgets and wider global appeal, but Indian stars like –

Priyanka Chopra Jonas

Deepika Padukone

These famous celebrities are steadily gaining international fame as part of blockbuster projects. Indian megastar Shah Rukh Khan was even featured on the Netflix hit “My Next Guest Needs No Introduction with David Letterman”

A visit to Film City in Mumbai is akin to stepping into a dream world, where you might even catch a glimpse of a film shoot. Here’s a quirky tidbit: Film City has over 20 indoor studios and is spread over 520 acres!

Cinephiles can visit the iconic Maratha Mandir theatre, which has been showing the Bollywood classic “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” (The Braveheart Will Take the Bride) for over two decades. Abbreviated to DDLJ, a beloved Bollywood romance; has been playing since its release in 1995 due to its relatable story, iconic characters, and timeless music, making it a cultural touchstone for families and fans.

Much like Hollywood in Los Angeles or Broadway in New York City, Mumbai’s Bollywood buzz is palpable and inescapable. Another fun fact: Mumbai has its own version of the Walk of The Stars in Bandra, where you can find handprints of Bollywood stars.

Bollywood is to India what Hollywood is to the world. The glitzy world of Bollywood is woven into the very fabric of the city. Take a Bollywood tour to see the homes of mega stars like Shah Rukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan or visit the Film City in Goregaon where countless movies are shot. It's like visiting Hollywood in Los Angeles or Times Square in New York City—chaotic, thrilling, and undeniably magnetic.

"Mumbai has a way of making you feel both insignificant and invincible at the same time." 

- Anurag Kashyap, Indian filmmaker

The Hectic Yet Lovable Madness

Mumbai is a city of contrasts, where the scale and madness can rival any other megacity of the world. The local trains, dubbed the lifeline of Mumbai, ferry over 7.5 million people daily and are an experience unto themselves. A quirky fact: The Mumbai suburban railway operates over 2,300 train services every day!

Amidst the chaos, you’ll find moments of unexpected serenity, like watching the sunset from the Bandra-Worli Sea Link or sipping cutting chai at a roadside stall. The Bandra-Worli Sea Link, by the way, uses cables that, if laid out, would stretch as far as Earth’s circumference!

Mumbai’s charm lies in its ability to be frenetic yet endearing, a city where every street corner has a story to tell, and every story is worth hearing. Did you know that Mumbai’s dabbawalas (lunchbox delivery men) have a six sigma rating for their efficiency, something which many multinational companies aspire to!

They even have their own website

The City of Dreams

In the words of Anthony Bourdain, Mumbai is a "wonderful chaos," a place that assaults your senses and leaves you craving more. The charm of any place usually leaves a lasting impression through the locals. The people of Mumbai, usually referred to as “Mumbaikars”, are a diverse mix that embody resilience and a zest for life. Navigating life’s challenges with unwavering determination and a spirit of joyful celebration. Despite the fast pace and chaos, Mumbaikars maintain a sense of community, mutual respect, and hospitality, defining the unique charm of this bustling metropolis.

In Mumbai, every street corner tells a story, every old building holds a secret, and every plate of food is a burst of history and culture. Discovering Mumbai is an exciting adventure, as this city does not wear its history visibly for all to see. One has to be patient and look beyond the obvious as the city does not reveal itself to you easily. It is a place that that dazzles, frustrates, and ultimately, captures your heart. So pack your bags, bring an open mind and get ready to explore the quirky, lovable chaos that is Mumbai.

"Mumbai is a city that gets under your skin. It crawls into your heart, and even when you leave, it stays with you." 

- Gregory David Roberts, author of "Shantaram."

Have you visited this vibrant city? What other destinations would you like us to explore next? Let us know in the comments below!

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