Mumbai
Mumbai, the
financial and commercial capital
of India, is a modern metropolis as well as a living museum of the British era
in India. It was originally a cluster of seven
islands namely, Colaba, Fort, Byculla,
Parel, Worli, Matunga and Mahim,
which have been linked through successive reclamations. In 1534, the seven islands
were ceded to Portugal by the
Sultan of Gujarat in the
'Treaty of Bassein'. The major island of the group Mumbadevi, was passed on to Britishers in 1661, as part of
the dowry when Catherine of Braganza married England's Charles II. In 1665, the
British occupied all the seven islands and leased them to East India Company.
Today, the vibrant metropolis presents a true cosmopolitan outlook.
Tourist Acctration in Mumbai
- Gateway of India
- Elephanta Caves
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (Victoria Terminus)
- Hutatma Chowk (Flora Fountain)
- High Court
- Raj abai Clock Tower
- Town Hall
- Netaji Subhash Marg or Marine Drive
- Taraporewala Aquarium
Gateway of India : The 26 metres high
archway was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to
India in 1911. It has a main, large arch flanked by two smaller arches, at the
top are four spires enclosing a small space with large balconies on either
side. An equestrian statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji and statue of Swami Vivekananda
have been installed here. There are plenty of launches and cruisers anchored in
the sea near the archway, which carry tourists to the famous Elephanta Caves The famous Taj Mahal Hotel
facing the Gateway of India is also a prominent landmark of Mumbai.
Elephanta Caves (9 km. - 11 nautical miles-by sea) : The 7th century rock cut cave temples
on Gharapuri or Elephanta island dedicated to Lord Shiva is a World Heritage Site
of UNESCO. The Maheshmurti in the main cave is one of the most renowned and attractive
sculptures. Here Shiva is shown in one single carving as the Creator, Protector
and Destroyer of the Universe. Other deities of Hindu trinity, Brahma and
Vishnu are also shown in the panels along with Shiva. The island can be
approached by launches and cruises available at the Gateway of India.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (Victoria Terminus) : This first railhead of India is
one of the largest and oldest train terminus of the East. Designed by F.W.
Stevens in Gothic style, the modern terminus is one of the most magnificent
railway stations of the world and was built over a ten-year period from 1878 –
88 at a cost of Rs.16,35,562. The station has an imposing dome surmounted by a
figure symbolising progress. Recently, it has been listed as a
World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Hutatma Chowk (Flora Fountain) : The stone figure of Flora, the Roman goddess of
flowers is set at the junction of five busy streets. It is surrounded by
fountains and host of mythological figures and was built in honour of Sir
Bartle Frere, Governor of Bombay (1862 - 1867). There is also a martyr's
memorial in the same premises. Today, the area around the square is a
flourishing business centre of Mumbai.
High Court : The imposing
white-pinnacled building was built in 1 878 and designed by Gen. A.Fuller in
English Gothic style. It is 169 metres long and the central structure soars
upto 54.2 metres, surmounted by statues representing Justice and Mercy.
Raj abai Clock Tower : The 1 9th century clock tower at the university campus rises to a height
of 79 metres and is the most conspicuous landmark of Mumbai.
Town Hall : This colonnaded
building overlooking the Horniman circle houses the Asiatic Society Library.
Netaji Subhash Marg or Marine Drive : It is one of the most beautiful and popular promenades
in the world. Reclaimed from the backbay, the drive starts from Nariman Point
via Chowpatty Beach upto the Malabar Hill. Exhilarating view of the promenade
can be enjoyed from Malabar Hill, especially at night, when the string of
lights on the curve shine like pearls and appears like a ' Queen's Necklace '.
Taraporewala Aquarium : It houses an exotic collection of marine and fresh water fish.
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