Things to do in Mumbai

The most satisfying way to get a feel for Mumbai after seeing the tourist attractions is to just wander around the citys streets, which are full of character and atmosphere. The streets of Mumbai are in essence the best sights there are to visit.

Gateway of India

Built in 1924, Mumbais most popular landmark was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911. However, it is mostly remembered for being the departure point of the last British troops in 1948. The square in which the Gateway is located is also home to a statue of Shivaji, who was regarded as the son of the soil, a nationalist symbol.

Hanging Gardens

The gardens, laid out in 1880, offer cool respite from the heat and dust of the city. Located on top of Malabar Hills, the gardens are famous for their interesting topiary. From the gardens there is a lovely panoramic view, especially at sunset, of the Arabian Sea.

Prince of Wales Museum (Chattrapathi Shivaji Museum)

The museum cannot be missed because of its distinctive, massive white Mogul-styled dome and Indo-Saracen architecture of the early 1900s. It stands out as a landmark in downtown Mumbai and houses an excellent collection of paintings and sculptures.

Jehangir Art Gallery

Located on Mahatma Gandhi Road, the gallery is best known for its collection of contemporary art and crafts from around the world. The exhibitions change quite often, adding to the uniqueness of the gallery. Outside the gallery, many budding artists have set up stalls selling paintings of famous landmarks in India, while others offer their services including caricaturing.

St Thomas Cathedral

This small cathedral is located on Tamarind Street and is said to be the oldest English building in Mumbai. Governor Aungier commissioned the cathedral to save the souls of the locals, but upon his death, the building was abandoned for more than 40 years, leaving only the 5 metre high walls. The cathedral was completed in 1718 and reflects a Classical and Gothic style. The walls are lined with memorials to the English parishioners who passed away in this land.

Mani Bhavan Mahatma Gandhi Museum

This was once the home of Mahatma Gandhi from 1917 to 1934, and it was converted to a museum upon his death. The museum serves as a memorial to Gandhi and displays many of his writings, photographs and letters to several world dignitaries. Visitors can read the simple, peaceful letter that Gandhi wrote to Hitler to request for world peace. Gandhis sitting room and bedroom can all be viewed at the museum.

Theme and water parks

Mumbai is home to several theme and water parks including Essel World, the regions first theme park; Water Kingdom, with the worlds largest wave pool; Fantasy Land; and Suraj Water Park. There are also several other water parks to visit in the surrounding area, all of which provide thrilling rides and lots of amusement for the entire family.

Bazaars and markets

India is known for its bazaars and markets which can be found in every city. The central bazaars at Mumbai line the streets north of Lokmanya Tilak. The bazaars are interesting because the different castes keep to their side of the bazaar and each casts specialises in one or two items. Everything can be bought here, from live animals, paintings and jewellery to meat and vegetables, and much more. Crawford Market is more British in style. It is a covered market that winds its way through several lanes. There is a wholesale wing; tobacco, pet and poultry sections; and many other areas.