Mumbai Tourist Guide
Mumbai is not for the faint of heart, and proudly so. The city's boisterous energy can make for an overload of the senses for even the most rugged of travelers. Known as the commercial capital of India, the chaotic metropolis can overwhelm with its noises, smells, sounds and people. But the birthplace of Bollywood will also wow you with its diverse art and theatre scene, culinary choices to please the connoisseur, rocking nightlife, big festivals, and warm, welcoming people.
Getting in and out
By Air
Recently renovated and brought to international standards, Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is the main international gateway to India. It is served by all major international airlines, including a slew of no-frills, budget domestic carriers.Prepaid taxis can be booked from counters in the arrivals area. (Each counter may offer a different rate, so shop around.). We suggest going with the government-run taxi services, as prices are fixed. A ride to Mumbai's southernmost point of Colaba, the main tourist district, will cost about Rs 350 and take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on the time of day.
By Land
Trains arrive from all over India, stopping at one of the three key stations: Chattrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly and still more widely known as Victoria Terminus, or VT), Dadar Terminus and Kurla TerminusGetting around
While slow and dilapidated, the city's signature yellow and black taxis are also cheap and convenient. The readings on the mechanical meters are outdated, so insist on seeing an updated fare chart, which must be carried by each driver by law. Auto-rickshaws are a speedier alternative, but can be very unsafe, and are only permitted in the suburbs, north of Bandra. For more expensive, yet safer and air-conditioned options check out a list of the city's "cool" cabs There local transport buses, 'BEST' by the State Government. There also local trains running from Churchgate to Virar (Western line) Chattrapati Shivaji Terminus to Karjat (Central line) and Chattrapati Shivaji Terminus to Panvel (Harbour line)..
These are cheap transport facilities but visitors are not suggested to travel by these local trains or buses as they are very crowded as it may be inconvenient for them.
Language
While Marathi is the official local language, used mainly by government officials, police officers and municipal employees, the locals have developed a jargon of Hindi, called Bambaiya Hindi, or Tapori Hindi. Most locals can also converse in English, which is the predominate language in the corporate world, as well as in the hospitality industry. Good to know
- The weather is always warm and humid, but it's most bearable between November and February when daily highs average 88oF (31oC). The monsoon can arrive anytime after late May, with the heaviest rainfall in June, July and August.
- Pack light-colored clothing made of airy cotton or linen. For women, modesty is strongly advised. No spaghetti straps, low-cup shirts or miniskirts. Non-revealing attire is mandatory at temples and mosques.
- During the rainy season, bring mosquito repellent to protect against malarial mosquitoes.
- Drink only bottled water. When purchasing, make sure the seal is intact.
- Smoking is not permitted in bars, restaurants and many other public spaces.
- ATMs, located throughout the city, are the easiest way to get local currency. Most have 24-hour security.
- When greeting locals, do as they do, whether they offer a handshake or a traditional 'namaste'. Never greet women with a kiss, even on the hand.
- Be prepared to eat with your hands, though most restaurants will happily grant silverware upon request.
- In crowded places, don't be afraid to push your way through or risk being pushed out of the way.
- India is four-and-a-half hours ahead of GMT time during the summer, five-and-a-half during the winter.
Where to stay
Business Stay
Grand Hyatt
With its proximity to the International airport, its business friendly services, swanky bar, and upscale restaurants, the Grand Hyatt Mumbai is an absolute favorite of all business travelers. Not to forget, the hotel hosts the hottest nightspot in town, China House.Western Express Highway, Santacruz (E) Tel: +91 22 6676 1234
Four Seasons Hotel
Centrally located in the emerging Worli district, the can't-go-wrong hotel giant whisks vacationers and business travelers into luxury with exquisite dining, an ayurveda spa and a lushly landscaped pool.114 Dr. E. Moses Road, Worli, Tel: +91 (0) 22 2481 80005
Tourist Stay
JW Marriott
About 20 minutes away from the International and Domestic terminals, the JW Marriott often reminds travelers of a Las Vegas hotel, with its grand, fire-lit pillar entrance, to its lavish grand lobby, to its Japanese landscaped poolside. The hotel also houses a great deli, a top-shelf obsessed lobby bar, three 5-star restaurants, and a once-legendary nightclub, which has lost its luster of late.Juhu Tara Road, Juhu, Tel: +91 22 6693 3000
The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower
About 20 minutes away from the International and Domestic terminals, the JW Marriott often reminds travelers of a Las Vegas hotel, with its grand, fire-lit pillar entrance, to its lavish grand lobby, to its Japanese landscaped poolside. The hotel also houses a great deli, a top-shelf obsessed lobby bar, three 5-star restaurants, and a once-legendary nightclub, which has lost its luster of late.Apollo Bunder, Tel: +91 (0) 22 6665 3366
Gordon House Hotel
Chic and minimalist, this boutique hotel is a quiet refuge right in the middle of Colaba's action-packed neighborhood.5 Battery Street, Colaba, +91 (0) 22 2287 1122
What to do
Bombay, today known as Mumbai, is a modern commercial city and more cosmopolitan in its appearance and habits than other Indian cities. Bombay is the capital of Maharashtra and the gateway to this beguiling subcontinent. Coming by sea or air, the visitor can be assured to keep busy with a combination of architectural beauty
Elephanta Cave
The Elephanta caves are a great tourist attraction in the vicinity of Mumbai. They house rock cut temples dedicated to the Hindu god, Lord Shiva and are located on an island about 11 km north-east of the Apollo Bandar, that is, the Gateway of India, Mumbai. The ferry ride itself provides a great view of the city. The site is designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.The Queen's Necklace
Marine Drive follows the sweeping curve of sea that stretches north from Nariman Point all the way to Girgoan Chowpatty Beach, located at the foot of the Malabar Hills. As the sun sets and the street lights come on, if to look from an elevated point, the lighting forms a semi-circle which looks very much like a string of pearls. This is why this stretch is alternatively known as the 'Queens Necklace'. It is also one of the world's largest viewing galleries.Mount Mary Church
Situated on a quiet hillock in suburban Bandra, Mount Mary is probably Mumbai's best known church for Christians and non-Christians alike. As the name suggests, it is dedicated to the Mother of Christ. In September, the festival of the Virgin Mother culminates in a week long fair, popularly known as Bandra Fair. The sick and suffering choose one that corresponds to their ailment and light it in church.Rajiv Gandhi Setu/Bandra-Worli Sealink
After taking over a decade to complete, the Rajiv Gandhi Setu, known to the locals as the Bandra Worli Sealink, perhaps depicts the best and worst of India. While the mysterious siphoning of infrastructure funds and political bureaucracy mired the timeline of this bridge, the end result is absolutely beautiful. Do not miss a night drive on this true world wonder of a bridge.The Gateway of India
One of Mumbai's most famous monuments, the Gateway of India, is the starting point for a majority of the tourists who want to explore the city. Located on the waterfront in the Apollo Bunder area of South Mumbai, the Gateway is a basalt arch that is 26 m (85 ft) in height.Where to eat
Indigo
Consistently tagged one of the best restaurants in the world, the fusion cuisine draws celebrity diners such as Bill Clinton and Brad Pitt.Tote On The Turf
The new restaurant and banquet hall is the star attraction of the derby hub. On offer is a plush dining facility and garden area serving global flavours, spirits and wines.Wasabi
This place is very popular for its Japanese cuisine. Wasabi is at the pinnacle of freshness and everything is prepared to perfection.Trishna
This seafood eatery prides itself in the fresh catch of an array of fish, jumbo prawns, king crabs, lobsters and even shark. The butter garlic crab, Hydrabadi rawas and Hyderabadi dal are the must try delicacies here.Where to drink
Hard Rock Cafe
Hard Rock Cafe Mumbai rocks with live music on two stage areas that can be simultaneously used for performances. The 6,000-square-foot, 169-seat cafe features an outstanding American menu to serve you.Zenzi Mills
Popular Bandra lounge Zenzi brings the brand to town bang opposite The Blue Frog in Lower Parel. Enjoy more of an upbeat, lively scene, while enjoying South East Asian cuisine familiar to the sister restaurant.Leopold Cafe
There is a good mix of Indian and foreign crowd at this place. The tables really give a feel of the contemporary Irani joints given a slightly neater and more polished look. A good joint to hang out with friends and enjoy drink.Blue Frog
Housed in a 6,000 square foot defunct warehouse in Lower Parel, the club blends acoustic excellence and lush, opulent ambience design with live performances, inventive cuisine and an excellent bar.Wink
The drinks here at Wink are adequately stiff and reasonably priced considering it is inside the Taj President. The decor, ambience, drinks menu were all above average, good laidback drinking spot with some good in-house music.Where to shop
Linking Road, Bandra
Trendy Bandra, in Mumbai is a well known shopping haven. From the bustling street bazaars to the exclusive designer boutiques, fashion blends and clashes here in a way that's unique in its own way. While shopping here, bargaining is must.Fabindia
This vast, long-standing boutique offers shirts, trousers, kurtas and salwar kameez all made from colorful block-printed silk and cotton.Good Earth
A complete tasteful home and interior decor store for contemporary Indian design, that are made to match your home style.bColaba Causeway
This is Bombay's very own version of a flea market, juxtaposing the typical road-side vendor, peddling luxury knock-offs, pirated DVDs, and other knick knacks; along with a fabulous array of branded retail stores, such as Lacoste, United Colors of Benneton, and Nike. Grab a bite at one of the many great age-old Parsi/Irani bakeries and eateries on this street as well.Kala Niketan
A name synonymous with style in traditional Indian wear especially for bridal sarees and trousseau. It offers ethnic Indian sarees from all across the country. The categories include: wedding, exclusive sarees, printed sarees, salwar suits, traditional mens wear, exclusive mens wear, fabrics, borders and accessories.Kimaya
This fashion house represents all the best designers in the country. . It offers latest fashion wear for women. Kimaya is one of them who has more then 100 India's best fashion on its palate.Health & fitness
Almost all the 5 star hotels in Mumbai offer luxury gyms for their guests. The following gyms in the city offer world-class equipment for short duration memberships as well
Gold Gyms
5 Fitness Club
Talwalkar's Gym
Fitness First
Business
Wi-Fi:
Mumbai is a bit behind when it comes to wireless Internet technology. It's best to buy a portable plug. Service providers include Tata Indicom, Idea and Vodafone, though the tech-savvy will tell you Reliance is the fastest option. Almost all five-star hotels are Wi-Fi-enabled or have broadband service, but getting online usually comes with a hefty price tag. Domestic and international airports have wireless service, but the connections are slow.Business attire:
Suits are reserved for boardrooms, conferences and top management. A full-sleeved shirt and trousers is generally considered business wear. Skirts are acceptable for women as long as they're at least knee length.Money
Visitors can exchange foreign currency at the airport or any of the banks in the city. The American Express Travel Services office is also a reliable place to exchange money.Most major banks are on the Cirrus and Visa networks.
Thomas Cook, Standard Chartered, Deutsche Bank and Bank of America have offices in the Fort area in South Mumbai
Avoid exchange of foreign currency at hotels as they don't offer a fair deal.