South Mumbai is the perfect blend of history and modernity. This bustling locality has some of the finest restaurants, markets, as well as tourist attractions in the city. A visit to Mumbai is incomplete without visiting South Mumbai. This place captures the essence and spirit of Mumbai seamlessly. If you want to experience it too, find out what to do and places to visit in South Mumbai:
- Gateway of India:
The Gateway of India has been featured in many movies, book covers, photography magazines, and newspapers. Any reference to Mumbai usually has a picture of the Gateway of India next to it, and rightly so. The Gateway was built to commemorate King George V and Queen Mary during their visit to India in 1924 and has ever since attracted people from all over the world.
The Gateway of India is situated opposite the Taj Hotel and offers a great view of the Arabian Sea. You can come here early in the morning or late at night for a quiet and peaceful walk.
- Colaba Causeway:
Colaba Causeway is one of the best places to visit in South Mumbai if you have shopping on your agenda. A shopper’s paradise, Colaba Causeway is often compared to the famous Sarojini Nagar Market of Delhi. However, Colaba Causeway has more to offer.
While there are several shops and street vendors selling the latest trends in clothes, shoes, and bags at highly affordable prices, there are also restaurants, souvenir shops, and antique shops. The street food here is equally famous, and you can find many food stalls in the street for a quick bite.
- Chowpatty Beach:
A common feature in several movies and songs, the Chowpatty Beach is famous for street food like pav bhaji, bhel puri, and the like. It is often crowded, and you can find people running or jogging here, playing with Frisbees, and unwinding after a long day of hard work. Catching the sunset or sunrise here is nothing short of spectacular!
- Mahalaxmi Race Course:
Built in 1883, the Mahalaxmi Race Course is modelled on the Melbourne Race Course. The racecourse covers an area of 225 acres and usually hosts horse riding between November and April. Mahalaxmi Race Course is famous for the Great Indian Derby, an event hosted on the first Sunday of every February. On other days, you can find people enjoying a walk by themselves or with their pets here.
- Haji Ali Dargah:
Haji Ali is a holy shrine dedicated to the merchant Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, who gave up his wealth and became a Sufi saint after a trip to the holy land of Mecca. The dargah is situated on an islet and is surrounded by the Arabian Sea. Visiting the dargah is considered to bring happiness and mental peace!
- Elephanta Caves:
The Elephanta Caves is a short ferry ride from the Gateway of India, so you can visit both these places in one day. The caves date back to the eighth century and have beautifully carved Hindu and Buddhist inscriptions. The six-meter-high Trimurti sculpture is a must-see if you visit these caves.
- Marine Drive:
Last but not least, Marine Drive is one of the most famous places to visit in South Mumbai. The tranquillity of the sea can be seen from no place better than this. The long promenade beside the sea is hustling with people all day and night. There is hardly an hour you won’t find people here. Watching the sunset or sunrise with a loved one here can be the ideal way to end your trip to South Mumbai.
To sum it up
Life in South Mumbai is quite busy with all its offices and businesses; however, it also has several attractive tourist spots. Even a day spent here can leave you with beautiful memories to cherish for a lifetime. But if you are coming here, try to put aside at least a week’s worth of time.
