Mumbai, India

India's premier metropolis is a city of stark contrasts, modern towers of steel and glass stand next to stately stone edifices from the days of the Raj. Automobiles race down the crowded streets and everywhere one confronts the paradox of India. The commercial capital of the subcontinent, a large percentage of Mumbai's population lives in hutments without running water or electricity. Yet the fabled "Gateway of India" is a place of haunting beauty, from the marble serenity of the Jain Palace to the Elephanta Caves, where sculptures of Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu were carved out of solid rock over a millennia ago.

India's principal seaport, Bombay is "Mumbai" in Marathi. The Portuguese aquired the city from Bahadur Shah in the 15th century, they called their new possession Bom Baim, "good bay."

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Points of Interest

  • Prince of Wales Museum
  • Gateway of India
  • Mani Bhawan- Gandhi Museum and Library
  • Dhobhi Ghat
  • Jain Temple
  • Elephanta Island Caves
  • Victoria Terminus
  • Taj Mahal
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More about Mumbai, India Points of Interest

  • Prince of Wales Museum

    This museum offers an introduction into Indian history and culture, featuring an extensive collection that includes temple art and sculptures of Hindu, Buddhist and Nepalese heritage.

  • Gateway of India

    A popular Mumbai attraction, this arch was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. It features four turrets and intricate latticework carved into yellow basalt stone.

  • Mani Bhawan- Gandhi Museum and Library

    Devoted to the preservation and promotion of Ghandi's teachings, this museum includes an extensive collection of his letters, books, manuscripts, photographs and other personal effects.

  • Dhobhi Ghat

    Known as the world's largest outdoor launderer, you can see rows upon rows of concrete wash bins manned by washers or "dhobis" scrubbing linens for Mumbai's businesses.

  • Jain Temple

    Built in 1904, this major center of worship is attended by thousands of devotees of the Jain religion, which prescribes pacifism and is dedicated to non-violence towards all living beings.

  • Elephanta Island Caves

    Located in Mumbai Harbour, this World Heritage Site possesses a series of caves featuring fascinating carved reliefs and rock sculptures of Hindu deities and Buddhist images.

  • Victoria Terminus

    Formerly Victoria Terminus, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) is one of the busiest railway stations in India. This large, historic building is also headquarters for the Central Railways.

  • Taj Mahal

    As the pinnacle of love and devotion, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned as one of the wonders of the world. 20,000 workers over 20 years built this magnificent mausoleum fit for a queen.