Mumbai, the metropolis on India’s western coast, formerly known as Bombay, is a powerhouse of business, industry, and fashion and is easily India’s most cosmopolitan city. Its urban sprawl has long since expanded beyond the original seven islands that made up the city and is now home to over 20 million people. South Mumbai is where most of the tourist attractions are, and here you can see the architectural glories of the city—from Victorian Gothic to Art Deco styles.
Mumbai is the birthplace of Indian cinema and home to the largest Hindi-language film industry; people come here hoping for big roles in Bollywood films. India’s wealthiest people call it home, but it’s also where you’ll find Asia’s largest slum, Dharavi, one of the poorest and most densely populated areas in the world—made famous by the film Slumdog Millionaire.
Sip a pleasant tea on the deck of the Victoria Residential Ship before you embark on exploring Mumbai. Over the next four days, you’ll have the chance to visit the city’s impressive landmarks, while the comfort and luxury of the ship provide a perfect place to relax after each day’s adventures.
TIP: Mumbai: Full-Day Sightseeing Tour
TIP: Mumbai: Dharavi Slum, Dhobi Ghat, and Dabbawallas Tour
TIP: Mumbai: Private Bollywood Tour in Mumbai Film City
History
Mumbai’s history stretches back over a thousand years. The city originally consisted of seven islands that were united during British colonial times. The Portuguese acquired the area in 1534, and in 1661, it became a wedding gift to Great Britain. Under British rule, Bombay (now Mumbai) became an important port and trade center. After gaining independence in 1947, the city grew into India’s economic heartbeat, becoming one of the largest cities in the world.
Attractions
Gateway of India – This iconic gateway was built in 1924 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary and is a popular tourist attraction thanks to its seaside location and imposing appearance.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus – This stunning Victorian building is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the busiest stations in India’s rail network.
TIP: Mumbai: Gothic and Art Deco Walking Tour
Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat – An unmissable sight: a massive open-air laundry where washers clean endless quantities of clothes and linens by hand for the city’s hotels and hospitals.
TIP: Mumbai: Dhobi Ghat Laundry and Dharavi Slum Tour with Locals
Haji Ali Dargah – The incredible mausoleum of the legendary Sufi saint Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, who helped spread Islam in the region. Don’t worry: people of all faiths are welcome in this building, so you don’t need to be Muslim to enter. The tomb, or Dargah, is built on what looks like the sea (especially at high tide!) One thing to note is that the structure is only accessible at low tide. To reach Haji Ali Dargah, you’ll need to walk a narrow, often crowded path over half a kilometer long.
Elephanta Caves – The island caves off Mumbai’s coast boast over a thousand-year-old Hindu and Buddhist sculptures. The ferry ride to the Elephanta Caves takes about an hour. After disembarking, you have the option of taking a train along the paved road leading to the island. The train ticket costs only ₹10 and is recommended, as afterward, you can only walk. Once you reach the entrance to the Elephanta Caves, you’ll be greeted by mischievous monkeys. While they may look cute, be cautious as these cheeky creatures tend to snatch food and belongings at any chance. Climbing the 120 steps to the cave is no easy feat. A total of three caves are open to visitors. One cave is dedicated to Buddha, another larger cave houses monoliths of Hindu deities, and the third, the largest of them, is dedicated to Shiva, the supreme god of Hinduism.
TIP: Mumbai: Half-Day Elephanta Caves Guided Tour
TIP: Mumbai: Half-Day Elephanta Caves Guided Tour with Ferry
Marine Drive – Known as the “Queen’s Necklace,” this scenic promenade is the perfect spot to admire the sunset with the modern skyscrapers of Mumbai in the background.
As most Indians are vegetarian, most street vendors and restaurants serve only vegetarian dishes. Local foods, such as vada pav, a spicy potato patty in a bun, or pav bhaji, a savory vegetable curry, can be sampled on the streets of the city. Masala chai, India’s famous spiced tea, is found on every corner and is a true local favorite. Mumbai is known for both its coffee and tea culture. From street vendors to luxurious cafés, you can enjoy fresh filter coffee or traditional masala chai, made from black tea, spices, and milk. Street food is an essential part of the Mumbai experience, from bhel puri to pani puri.
TIP: Mumbai: Street Food and Night Markets Tour
Here are some tips for your stay in Mumbai:
- Wear comfortable footwear. You’ll likely be walking a lot.
- Wear light-colored clothes. White is best.
- Carry a mask and hand sanitizer.
- Avoid using public transport.
- Switch to a vegetarian lifestyle, but avoid eating raw fruits or vegetables. Anything cooked over fire and eaten immediately is safe.
- Never drink water from the tap or a public cooler. Only drink mineral water.
- Try to communicate with locals by first saying, “Namaste.”
Mumbai is a city that is both modern and ancient, calm and chaotic. Those who visit encounter the true face of India: rich culture, delicious food, stunning sights, and hospitable people. In this vibrant city, there is always something new to discover, and staying aboard the Victoria Residential Ship brings travel to a new level. Passengers can enjoy the ship’s elegant comforts and the city’s historic sights, promising a truly unforgettable adventure.