This metropolitan city has a very rich and varied cultural background. It is overflowing with magnificent monuments and architectural wonders. There is no dearth of historical sites in Mumbai because of its historical significance. The city has grown exponentially in all spheres of industries over the years. Mumbai is an amalgamation of the old and the new. It has not only preserved its history in monuments but has also raised many iconic landmarks in its wake. All of these marvels have only added more beauty to the ever-increasing charm of Mumbai.
Let us take a walk down the memory lanes of Mumbai and try to rekindle the magic it is famous for.
1. The Gateway of India
Standing tall on the shores of the Arabian Sea, Gateway of India is the most iconic landmark of Mumbai. In the colonial times this was where the Viceroys and governors would enter the country and hence the name. This beautiful monument is one of the finest examples of Indo-Saracenic architecture. This entire structure is made out of yellow basalt stone. There is a lot of intricate carvings and plenty of latticework that catch the eye. There is a lot to be appreciated in its artistic arches and curved domes. It is one of the most visited tourist spot in Mumbai. This monument holds a special place in people’s hearts. This is definitely the first place that any tourist should start his journey from.
2. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
The next iconic monument in Mumbai would definitely be the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. This world heritage site was originally called Victoria Terminus. It is the most stunning and scintillating railway station in the country! It is widely acclaimed to be one of the most impressively designed railway station. Like a lot of buildings in Mumbai, CST combines the best of Gothic architecture and the traditional Indian style. It has a very innovative floor plan that makes it even more unique. One look at it and you will find yourself getting lost in its towering turrets and curved pillars. This form of fusion architecture has allowed it to stand out among the crowd of buildings.
3. Haji Ali Dargah
Haji Ali Dargah is one of the most impressive religious monuments in Mumbai. Firstly, its location is just beautiful. It sits on top of a small island off the coast of Worli, joined to the mainland by a narrow pathway. Thousands of people visit this place every day. Especially on special occasions the dargah almost seems to be drowning in a sea of humans. Though it is a mosque people of all religions come here to experience some part of divinity. The dargah has been designed in a typical Mughal architecture style. It is all a very picturesque sight to see the tall minarets, globular domes and curving arches. It is a very calm place, just right for some peaceful time alone.
4. Elephanta Caves
Another one of the world heritage sites, these caves have their unique stories to tell. They are a gift from the past to us. They are a part of our rich heritage and culture that need to be preserved for all of our posterity to witness. These rock-cut cave have a very simple design and exemplify the Indian style of architecture. Elephanta caves are a giant network of temples containing various idols of gods and goddesses especially Lord Shiva. Many scenes from the Indian mythological tales have been painted on the walls. Even though it might just seem like a pile of rocks with drawings on them, there is actually an artistic elegance to this place. It is an enchanting sight to see and one should definitely spare some moments for this historic site.
5. Town Hall
This neo-classical style monument is one of the last remaining crumbs of Victorian Bombay. It is one of the most majestic looking buildings in Mumbai. This hall has taken a lot of inspiration from Greek and Roman styles. The welcoming sight of 8 Greek Doric styled pillars at the entrance is enough to put you in a magical trance. The town hall is quite popular among the masses and often visited. The town hall houses a library and a museum. The museum contains many valuables like ancient manuscripts and coins from different timelines of Indian history.
Mumbai is the pulse of the country. There is much more to explore and discover in its concrete jungles than what is mentioned above. Mumbai is like a mixed pot in terms of tourist places. The city is always ready to welcome you in its folds, ready to showcase its multi-faceted beauty.
