Blog

The City that never sleeps! Pulsating, Alive, On the Move, Vibrant, Inspiring, Amazing; Remembering legend actor Johnny Walker in CID the super hit Hindi movie of the 1950s for true conveying lines…

Aye Dil Hai Mushkil Jeena Yahan;

Zara Hatke Zara Bachke; Yeh Hai Bombay Meri Jaan!

As the most modern city in the country, captures the spirit of the changing pace set by liberalization and modernization. The city has transformed itself into an entity with thriving markets, business houses, and diverse communities reflecting a cosmopolitan and trendy atmosphere rarely seen elsewhere

The city was once a cluster of seven islands that were presented to King Charles II in 1661 as part of the dowry when he married Princess Catherine de Braganza of Portugal. Surrounded by the Arabian Sea on almost all sides

The British gave the city its English name, Bombay, in the 17th century. In 1996, the government of India decided to change the name to Mumbai. However, the charming city is still frequently referred to as Bombay

On the surface, this city represents the ever-changing face of today’s India, with the old coupled with the dynamic new. Yet, at its core, the heart of the city is steeped in Indian customs and values. The city’s name was changed from Bombay to Mumbai

The city is a wonderful melting pot for Indians from all parts of the country and boasts the highest number of millionaires and billionaires among all cities in India. The heritage city is home to three world heritage sites listed by UNESCO: The Elephanta Caves, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, and the city’s distinctive ensemble of Victorian and Art Deco buildings designed in the 19th and 20th centuries. An abundance of historical and cultural sites makes this city one of the world’s most fascinating destinations. In addition to the Gateway of India, the city’s most iconic landmark, Mumbai has interesting museums, hanging gardens, natural sights, eye-catching architecture, colorful bazaars, charming beaches, and much more. The uniqueness of this wonderful city is beyond words.

It is one of the best places for visitors to gain an authentic insight into the Indian way of life. With a history dating back centuries, the city has been shaped by its diverse population, with influences from Portuguese, British, and Indian cultures. The city of Mumbai has much to offer tourists, from renowned heritage monuments to countless cultural and natural attractions. In 2019, UK-based global market research company Euromonitor International included Mumbai in its list of the Top 100 City Destinations in the world, ranking it 14th. As the financial capital of India and the capital city of Maharashtra state of India

Let’s take a Mumbai city walk and explore this bustling city on the west coast of India. The city is a hub of culture and history, offering visitors a wide array of sightseeing opportunities

Our first stop at the Gateway of India is one of the best places to visit in Mumbai. It is an iconic monument built by George Willet to honor the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai. Visit this place in the morning or evening hours to enjoy the cool sea breeze with your family and friends without the crowds. The Gateway of India, facing the vast Arabian Sea, will leave you spellbound in every possible way. Take a ferry ride offered here to experience a stunning view of this monument from the sea and visit other nearby main attractions

The Gateway of India is located near the coast, with the pier behind it and the majestic and luxurious Taj Mahal Hotel opposite. The iconic structure of the Gateway of India was designed in the impressive Indo-Saracenic architecture by Scottish architect George Wittet. The foundation stone for the Gateway of India was laid on March 31, 1911, and completed in 1924. Visit this place in the morning or evening to admire the beautiful scenery and capture one-of-a-kind moments with your camera. You can also experience a thrilling boat trip around the harbor

The city of Mumbai is home to a large number of Art Deco structures, with the second-largest count of buildings in this style after Miami. A string of Art Deco apartment buildings also lines the city’s waterfront promenade, Marine Drive

The Victorian and Art Deco Ensemble of the city of Mumbai is a UNESCO World Heritage site that was inscribed in 2018. The ensemble consists of a group of 94 buildings in the Fort area of Mumbai, which showcase the city’s unique blend of Victorian Gothic and Art Deco architecture

The buildings in the ensemble were constructed between the late 19th century and the early 20th century, during a time when the city was an important center of trade and commerce. The Victorian buildings are characterized by their Gothic Revival style of architecture, while the Art Deco buildings are known for their streamlined forms and geometric patterns.

For those fascinated by architecture, history, and culture, the Victorian and Art Deco Ensemble of Mumbai is a must-see. It provides a rare insight into the city’s diverse and rich heritage and reflects the city’s resilience in terms of creativity and innovation

Some of the notable buildings in the ensemble include the Prince of Wales Museum, the Bombay High Court, the Rajabai Clock Tower, and the Eros Cinema, among others. These buildings are not only significant for their architectural value but also for their historical and cultural significance. They represent the city’s colonial past and its role as a hub of commerce and culture

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), formerly known as Victoria Terminus, is a historic railway station located in the heart of Mumbai and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built-in 1888 during the British colonial period, this edifice exemplifies the Victorian-Gothic style of architecture. While visiting, make sure to take a photograph with your family and friends. And guess what, the magnificent CST is the second most photographed building in India, after the Taj Mahal. Designed by British architect Frederick William Stevens in the late 19th century, the station is one of the finest examples of Victorian Gothic architecture and blends influences from both Indian and European styles

Considered a masterpiece of railway architecture and, one of the busiest train stations in India, serving millions of passengers every year, it was renamed in 2017 in honor of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a famous 17th-century Maratha king and warrior. The building features a grand facade with carved stone friezes, and stained glass windows, and is topped by a large dome. Inside, the station is decorated with intricate tilework, ornate ironwork, and other decorative elements. The station’s unique architectural structures have been featured in several popular Bollywood films, including the hit movie “Slumdog Millionaire”

Boasting a grand Indo-Saracenic architectural style, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, initially named the Prince of Wales Museum, is one of the famous places in Mumbai that demands your attention as a center of entertainment and learning. The museum was built to commemorate the Indian visit of George V, the then Prince of Wales. Home to about 50,000 artifacts, this beautiful museum received the 2010 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award and is a must-visit if you are keen to learn about our country’s heritage.

The Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) Monetary Museum is located just a 10-15 minute walk from Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. It is considered one of the best museums in India due to its unique presentation of information in a compact and informative manner, which is designed to educate rather than overwhelm visitors.

The Monetary Museum was set up by the RBI to showcase India’s rich monetary heritage. It has a representative collection of “over 10,000 exhibits of Indian coinage, currency, financial instruments, and monetary curiosities” spread across its many galleries.

The Coinage Gallery is up next. Here, you will see that India was one of the earliest issuers of coins in the world, among other things. The earliest documented coins were punch-marked silver coins issued around the 6th century BCE. This gallery documents over 2,000 years of history through punch-marked coins, dynastic coins, coins from the Medieval period, British Indian coins, Republic of India coins, and contemporary coins. It is more fascinating to observe the designs on the coins than the coins themselves. The designs range from animals like horses, elephants, and lions, to human figures, calligraphy, and decorative motifs. The largest and smallest coins ever produced in India are also on exhibit in this gallery. The Coins to Paper Money Gallery showcases the transition from physical coins to paper money and tokens of money. It displays promissory notes, bills of exchange, and cheques, providing an overview of the concept of banking

Indian paper money, as we understand it today, was first issued in the late 18th century. The Paper Money Gallery displays notes issued from the early 19th century onwards. The entire range of notes issued by the Republic of India is on display, including something particularly special: the Haj notes. The Indian currency was accepted in the Gulf countries until the late 1960s and the RBI used to issue a special series for use there. Additionally, promissory notes, bills of exchange, and cheques are displayed, and there is an introduction to the concept of banking

Taraporewala Aquarium is India’s oldest aquarium. This place houses a variety of marine and freshwater fishes, including coral fishes from the Lakshadweep Islands

It also has an Oceanarium that gives you the feel of walking under the sea with exotic fishes swimming above you. Moreover, visitors can touch some of the aquatic fishes and animals without harming them at the Touch Pool. Additionally, there is a fish spa where visitors can enjoy a unique experience. This aquarium is a perfect blend of education and entertainment, making it an ideal place to visit with your family and friends

Jehangir Art Gallery is a must-visit spot for art lovers in Mumbai. It is the premier gallery for contemporary Indian art and features two large rooms displaying unique works by famous artists from all over the world. When you visit, you can also participate in various art exhibitions that offer interesting experiences and insights into Indian art

The Bandra-Worli Sea Link is a magnificent example of modern architecture. It is a cable-stayed bridge that features viaducts made of pre-stressed concrete and steel on either side. The bridge can support a total of 8 lanes of traffic (to and fro) and is a staggering 5.6 km in length. This bridge is not only a super site for photography, but also makes the thrilling travel between the places 

The Dargah Shrine Hazrat Sayed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari is located in the southern part of Mumbai, right in the middle of the Arabian Sea. It is one of the city’s most recognized landmarks and an exquisite example of Indo-Islamic architecture. The Dargah complex is built on a tiny islet located 500 meters from the coast, in the middle of the bay

The shrine was constructed in 1431 in memory of Hazrat Sayyed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, a wealthy Muslim merchant who gave up all his worldly possessions before making a pilgrimage to Mecca. Hazrat Sayyed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari hailed from Bukhara, present-day Uzbekistan, and traveled around the world in the early to mid-15th century before settling in the city of Mumbai

Chowpatty Beach is the most famous beach in Mumbai, located in the heart of the city. It is popular for its local delicacies, which most people enjoy whenever they visit the beach. Watching the glorious sunsets is a sight worth seeing! People of all age groups enjoy the scenic beauty offered by the beach. The sea, adorned by its long stretch of white sand, in addition to the magnificent sky above, creates a heavenly atmosphere for anyone who visits this beach

Marine Drive is a scenic promenade that runs along the coastline of Mumbai. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk, take in the beautiful views, and watch the sunset over the Arabian Sea. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the modern city

Marine Drive is around a 4.5 km coastal road from the Nariman Point area to the foothills of Malabar. Nicknamed the Queen’s Necklace, Marine Drive is attracting more and more tourists because of the shimmering beauty of the street lights that illuminate at night, resembling a pearl necklace

Juhu Beach is another popular beach located in the western suburbs of the city. It stretches for around 6 km and is known for its soft sands and breathtaking sunsets. The beach is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, who come here to enjoy the serene and lively atmosphere, take a leisurely walk along the shoreline, and indulge in some of the delicious street food available here. The beach also has many food stalls and restaurants that serve a variety of dishes, including Mumbai’s famous street foods. Juhu Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Mumbai

The Hanging Gardens, also known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens, is a terraced garden situated in the Malabar Hill area of Mumbai. The Hanging Gardens are a peaceful oasis in the heart of the bustling city of Mumbai, offering a respite from the chaos and noise of the metropolis. It is a must-visit place for anyone who loves nature, panoramic views, and serene environments. It is a popular tourist attraction and a serene spot that offers a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea and the cityscape

The beautiful terraced gardens are built on a water reservoir and were designed to cover the water source to prevent evaporation. The gardens are beautifully landscaped with a variety of flowers, trees, and shrubs, making it a favorite spot for nature lovers. The most prominent feature of the Hanging Gardens is the giant shoe-shaped structure that is made entirely out of flowers.

Dharavi is considered one of the world’s largest slum areas covering more than 520 acres of land. This slum is home to around one million people, making it one of the most densely populated regions of the world. Dharavi has residents from almost all over the country and thus, it is one of the most multicultural and colorful destinations you can find in Mumbai. Why would a slum be more popular? This slum has an annual turnover of more than USD one billion

In the 18th century, this region was nothing more than a mangrove swamp. By the beginning of the 19th century, a few hundred fishermen had set up a village in this area. By the mid-19th century, thousands of Indians migrated to Mumbai in search of jobs in the East India Company, and the city’s population grew rapidly. The city’s population density was ten times higher than that of London, and many Indians started to settle down in Dharavi. These settlers established small communities within the area, building schools, mosques, temples, and more. The first mosque in Dharavi was built in 1887

Currently, Dharavi is a must-visit destination on many travelers’ lists when visiting Mumbai. A trip to Dharavi offers a unique and eye-opening experience, providing insight into the daily lives of the local people. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets and alleys of the slum, interact with locals, and learn about the various businesses that operate within the area

Chor Bazaar is a bustling market in Mumbai that has a rich history dating back over 150 years. Its name translates to “thieves market” and it is believed that the market was initially set up to sell second-hand goods, including items that may have been stolen.

Mumbai has a wide variety of markets, including the famous Chor Bazaar, where visitors can shop for everything from spices and textiles to antiques to electronics and much more

Visitors to Chor Bazaar can expect a lively and chaotic atmosphere, with numerous shops and stalls selling a variety of goods, ranging from antique items to electronics, clothing, and more. The market is a unique destination for those interested in exploring Mumbai’s vibrant street culture and discovering hidden treasures

Bhindi Bazaar is a bustling commercial area located in the heart of Mumbai, known for its narrow, winding streets and crowded shops selling a variety of goods. The history of Bhindi Bazaar dates back to the early 19th century when Mumbai was being developed as a major trading port by the British colonial government. The area was primarily inhabited by traders who were engaged in the import and export of goods to and from various parts of the world. This area is also popular as Mumbai’s traditional food district, where visitors can experience street food and traditional cuisines

The city famous for its strong historical links, wonderful architecture, cultural, vibrant beaches, and thriving markets. Above all, it is a true galaxy of stars where Bollywood reigns supreme

When you think of Mumbai, the first thing that comes to mind is often Bollywood, isn’t it?

It’s not surprising given that it is one of the biggest film industries in the world. Bollywood has a massive fan following, not just in India but around the world. There is a whole world behind every movie and plenty of off-screen Bollywood activities and sites to explore

If you’re curious about the studio activities, then this is the trip for you. The name “Bollywood” is a portmanteau derived from Bombay. This is a world of wonder where you can put your imagination to the test and bring your thoughts to life

You can witness the live shooting of many upcoming Bollywood flicks. Whether it’s the stars practicing their dialogues or the director discussing scenes with them, the crew members preparing for a shot, or the technicians preparing the sets, you can observe it all. This tour gives you a chance to step into the magical and mesmerizing world of Bollywood

Mumbai is a city that has been influenced by various cultures, and as a result, it boasts a wide variety of delicious cuisines. The city is known for its authentic halal traditional cuisine, which is served with great charm and hospitality. You can find some of the best traditional dishes in Mumbai, and the city is sure to leave you with a memorable culinary experience

The famous traditional cuisines in Mumbai are a great fusion of Mughlai and native Indian styles of preparation. Some of the popular dishes you can find in Mumbai include Biryani, Nihari, Seekh Kebabs, Shami Kebabs, and Galouti Kebabs. Nihari is a slow-cooked meat stew that originated in the Mughal era and is often served with naan bread. Haleem is a traditional dish made with wheat, meat, and lentils that is slow-cooked for several hours until it reaches a thick, porridge-like consistency. Sheer Khurma, Kheer, and Shahi Feerni are popular traditional desserts made with milk, sugar, and dates

Overall, the beautiful city of Mumbai offers a unique experience for travelers. This city is one of the ideal and perfect destinations for Muslim-friendly holidays and experiences.

With HalalTrip India, you can discover all this and much more. Our tours aim to uncover cultural intricacies and connections across a wide range of subject areas and themes, including art, architecture, archaeology, history, and the natural beauty of unique destinations in India. Our services combine vibrant Indian history and culture with gorgeous natural scenery, offering not just ordinary tours, but meaningful experiences for lasting memories

We offer specially designed features and selected destinations to cater quality services for halal-friendly tourism and hospitality. We ensure that Muslim travelers the best hospitality while on trips and holidays in India

 

Follow us – www.facebook.com/IndianHalalTourism

 

Follow us – https://www.instagram.com/halaltripindia/

 

Write us  – travel.HalalTripIndia.com