Overland Wonderland
Exploring Mumbai
If the phrase “bustling city” had an image to go with it, Mumbai, the capital of Maharashtra, would come to mind. As the most populous city and the financial capital of India, it is always on the move, and has earned the title of being the “city that never sleeps”. Previously known as Bombay, Mumbai consists of seven islands by the coast of the Arabian Sea which are connected by bridges and landfill. The city is a magnet for dreamers, entrepreneurs, lovers, travellers, and people from all walks of life alike. Whether it is Bollywood glitz and glamour, or UNESCO World Heritage Sites that speak to its deep-rooted history and culture, Mumbai has something for everyone. After all, Mohammed Rafi, one of India’s most influential musicians, created the famous hit Yeh Hai Bombay, Meri Jaan – This Is Bombay, My Life – for a reason!
Things to see whilst walking through Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Fort
The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, formerly known as Victoria Terminus, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a railway station that carries 166 years of history. It was initially named after Queen Victoria, celebrating her 50th year of rule. However, its name was changed in 1996 to honour Shivaji, the 17th-century founder of the Maratha Empire, whose name is often preceded by Chhatrapati, a royal title. In 2017, Maharaj, or “Great King”, was added to the name, serving a second royal title. The famous architectural landmark was built in a Victorian Gothic-revival style, and is blended with themes deriving from Indian traditional architecture. The terminus became a commercial palace representing the economic wealth of the nation at the time, and still serves as the headquarters of India’s Central Railway. It is one of the busiest railway stations in India.
Gateway of India, Colaba
The Gateway of India, Mumbai’s most iconic historical monument built, was built during British colonial rule in the country. The triumphal arch was made to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai (then Bombay) in December 1911. However, its construction started in March 1911 and was finished only 13 years later, which meant the royal visit was actually welcomed by a mock cardboard structure! Constructed in a stunning Indo- Saracenic architectural style, this huge stone monument stands tall with four bartizans and detailed latticework – a must-see on any visit to the city!
Haji Ali Dargah, Worli
Serving as a mosque and tomb ( dargah), Haji Ali Dargah is an iconic landmark in Mumbai that seems to float in the middle of the sea. Its Indo-islamic architectural style and accompanying legend attracts about 80,000 tourists and devotees to the monument each week, and it welcomes people of all religions and backgrounds. The mosque was built in the 19th century and houses the tomb of Saint Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari. The story goes that Peer Haji Ali was a wealthy Muslim merchant who donated all of his wealth and started his pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, but then fell ill on the journey. Upon his request, his casket was put into the Arabian Sea and it miraculously floated up to the shores of Mumbai.
Marine Drive
Commonly referred to as the Queen’s Necklace due to its resemblance to a string of pearls in a necklace when viewed at night from high above, Marine Drive stretches along the Arabian Sea for about three kilometres. The road’s official name – Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Road – honours an Indian nationalist politician who acted as prime minister in the Provisional Government of Free India from 1943 until his death in 1945. Marine Drive is perfect for architecture enthusiasts, beach dwellers, and even the leisurely stroller, and is best visited on foot for the impressive sights it promises and the quaint cafs it has on offer. We recommend early evening visits, so that you can soak in the fresh sea air and see the lights come on, igniting the city that never sleeps.