Top Tourist Attractions in Mumbai

Pro Tips for Perfect Car Hire Every Time

Mumbai, also known as the "City of Dreams," is a busy city on the west coast of India. It is always lively and full of energy that never sleeps. Mumbai's charm comes from its mix of cultures, old buildings, and lively streets. There are many famous and beautiful places to visit. The Gateway of India is a well-known landmark, and Marine Drive offers a beautiful view of the coast. The unique blend of old and new makes Mumbai an exciting place. From exploring busy markets and enjoying street food to experiencing its rich history, there is always something to do in Mumbai. The Gateway of India is a big and impressive structure that greets visitors. Close by is the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, a famous and beautiful old building. To experience Mumbai's spiritual places, you can visit the peaceful Siddhivinayak Temple and the Haji Ali Dargah. To explore these beautiful places conveniently, self drive car rental Mumbai is the best option. Renting a car in Mumbai gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace, visit multiple locations in a day, and enjoy a comfortable journey without the hassle of public transport. It is a practical and flexible way to discover the hidden gems around the city. In this blog, we will look at some must-see places near Mumbai. There are sunny beaches, green hills, and old forts to explore. Whether you love history, nature, or adventure, there is something for everyone. So, get ready, rent a car, and prepare for an amazing trip through the beautiful sights and cultural spots that make Mumbai and its nearby attractions so special. Here are some famous destinations you should visit.

Must Visit Places in Mumbai

Elephanta Caves: The Elephanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases rock-cut art and architecture from medieval India. These caves are on Elephanta Island, also called Gharapuri Island, located 11 km from Mumbai. You must visit this place with self drive car rental Mumbai. Locally known as Gharapurichi Leni, the caves today are ruins of what were once beautiful paintings. From the caves, you can also enjoy a great view of the Mumbai skyline. These caves have many temples that date back to the 5th to 7th centuries and are mostly dedicated to Lord Shiva. There are two groups of caves at Elephanta. The first group has five large Hindu caves, and the second group has two smaller Buddhist caves. The Hindu caves have stone sculptures that represent the Shaiva Hindu sect. Important sculptures here include 'Trimurti' (three-headed Shiva), 'Gangadhar' (a depiction of the river Ganga as she comes to earth), and 'Ardhnareshwar' (a representation of Shiva and Parvati in one body). Besides being a significant heritage site, the Elephanta Caves are also a popular spot for trekking.

Marine Drive: It is a famous place in Mumbai. It is a 3.6 km long road by the sea, shaped like a curve. It starts at Nariman Point and ends at Girgaum Chowpatty, known as Chowpatty Beach. It is great for watching sunsets or taking a walk any time of day or night. At night, the whole coastline lights up, which gives it the nickname Queen's Necklace. The palm trees along the coast and the lights at night make it beautiful. People love to come here in the evening to see the sunset and at night to enjoy the view of the city lights in a perfect arc along the coast. You can find vendors selling tea and cigarettes at all hours. The sound of the waves, the view of the Mumbai skyline, and the starry sky make Marine Drive one of the most romantic spots in the city.

Juhu Beach: Juhu Beach in Mumbai is the city's longest and most popular beach for tourists. It is famous for its Mumbai-style street food, which is sweet and sour. The area around Juhu is very posh and home to many Bollywood and TV celebrities. You might even see celebrities jogging on the beach, like Amitabh Bachchan. TV shows are often filmed here, and there are lots of vendors selling toys, roasted corn, and performers doing acrobatics. Nearby, you can visit the famous ISKCON Temple or watch a play at Prithvi Cafe. Despite past criticism for being dirty, efforts by BMC have greatly improved the cleanliness in recent years. Must visit this place with self drive car rental Mumbai.

Colaba Causeway: Colaba Causeway in Mumbai is a vibrant place loved by both tourists and locals. It is a famous shopping street where you can find everything from clothes and accessories to home decor items like lampshades and antiques. There are also high-end designer shops if you're into that. If you get hungry, there are many restaurants offering good food and affordable drinks, like Cafe Leopold and Cafe Mondegar. The Causeway connects Colaba and Old Woman's Island, near the Fort area, which has been important since British times. You can shop at roadside stalls or fancy boutiques and do not miss catching a movie at Regal Cinema. Just behind it, you will reach the Gateway of India, where the grand Taj Mahal Palace Hotel stands overlooking the Arabian Sea. Colaba Causeway truly represents the lively heart of Mumbai.

Gateway of India: The Gateway of India in Mumbai is a famous tourist spot overlooking the Arabian Sea. Built-in 1924 by architect George Wittet, it honors a visit by King George V and Queen Mary. The monument blends Indian, Arabic, and Western styles and is a hub for tourists. It marks the starting point for ferries to the Elephanta Caves. Made of yellow basalt and concrete, it is decorated with Hindu and Muslim designs. Before independence, it was India's entry and exit by sea. At night, the view from the sea is stunning. The Gateway of India is not just historic but also a marvel of architecture.

Film City: Film City, located in Aarey Colony, Mumbai, covers 520 acres and houses about twenty indoor studios. It is known as the heart of Bollywood, where up to 1000 film sets can be set up at once. Over the years, it has hosted over 900 movies and many TV shows. Film City offers top-notch facilities and is a popular location for film shoots. It is not just a studio but also a lush green area. Inspired by California's Film City, it is a symbol of Bollywood. Tours allow visitors to explore sets resembling foreign locations and even watch live movie shoots. It is a place where reality blends with dreams, making it a must-visit for movie enthusiasts.

Mumbai Zoo: Jijamata Udyan, once known as Ranichi Bagh (Queen's Gardens), is Mumbai's only zoo. It used to be called Victoria Gardens during British rule. Now it is named after Veermata Jijabai Bhosale, the mother of Shivaji, the Maratha Empire hero. The zoo is in Byculla, in the heart of Mumbai, and was built in 1861, making it one of the oldest zoos in India. At the zoo, you can see various wild animals like lions, monkeys, crocodiles, and elephants in separate enclosures. The aviary houses a colorful and noisy collection of birds. The zoo is currently undergoing renovations to add new features like a medicinal garden, a butterfly enclosure, and a sensory garden for the visually impaired. Recently, the zoo opened a penguin enclosure where eight playful penguins entertain visitors with their adorable antics. This is mus-visit place with self drive car rental Mumbai.

Why you should hire a self drive car in Mumbai

1. Flexibility and Freedom: You can explore Mumbai and its surroundings at your own pace without being restricted by taxi schedules or public transportation timetables.

2. Privacy: A self drive car rental Mumbai ensures privacy, allowing you to travel comfortably with your family or friends without the presence of a driver.

3. Cost-Effective: Depending on the length of your stay and travel plans, self drive car rental Mumbai can be more cost-effective than frequently hiring taxis or using ride-sharing services.

4. Convenience: Having your own vehicle means you can easily access various parts of the city, including remote areas that may not be well-served by public transport.

5. Comfort: You can choose a car that suits your comfort and needs, ensuring a more pleasant travel experience, especially during long journeys.

6. Local Exploration: Mumbai has many hidden gems and lesser-known attractions that are best explored by car. A self drive car rental Mumbai allows you to venture off the beaten path.

7. Luggage Space: Traveling with a self drive car rental Mumbai provides ample space for your luggage and any shopping you might do, making it more convenient than relying on public transport.

8. Safety: Driving yourself can feel safer than using public transport or hiring a taxi, especially when traveling at odd hours or in unfamiliar areas.

9. Customizable Plans: With a self-drive car, you can easily customize your travel itinerary, making sudden stops and changes to your plans without any hassle.

10. Avoiding Ride-Hailing Issues: During peak hours or in busy areas, finding a taxi or ride-hailing service can be challenging. Having a self drive car in Mumbai ensures you always have transportation ready.

FAQs

Why is Mumbai very famous?

Mumbai is a major city in India, and is a popular tourist destination. It is known for its large markets, beautiful beaches, tall buildings, and luxurious five-star hotels.

What is the best time to visit Mumbai?

The best time to visit Mumbai is in the winter, from November to February when the weather is nice and good for sightseeing.

What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Mumbai?

Must-visit attractions in Mumbai include the Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Elephanta Caves, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, and the Haji Ali Dargah.

What is the local cuisine of Mumbai?

Mumbai is famous for its street food, including dishes like Vada Pav, Pav Bhaji, Bhel Puri, and Pani Puri. Other local specialties include seafood, Bombay Sandwich, and Misal Pav.

What is the best and easiest way to explore Mumbai?

The best and easiest way to explore Mumbai is by using a self drive car rental. It gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace and visit places that interest you without depending on public transport or taxis. With a rental car, you can conveniently explore the city's famous spots like Marine Drive, Gateway of India, and Juhu Beach.

How can I experience Bollywood in Mumbai?

You can experience Bollywood by taking a studio tour, visiting film city, attending a live shooting, or watching a movie at one of Mumbai's famous theaters like Regal Cinema or Maratha Mandir.

What is the cost to rent a self drive car in Mumbai?

Cost for self drive car rental Mumbai depend on the rental period and the chosen car type and model. Contact us at 7528904589 to get more details and the exact price of your desired vehicle.

What is the primary language spoken in Mumbai?

The primary languages spoken in Mumbai are Marathi, Hindi, and English. English is widely understood and spoken, especially in the business and tourism sectors.

Which airport is in Mumbai?

The main airport in Mumbai is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (IATA: BOM, ICAO: VABB). It is one of the busiest airports in India and serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights. The airport is named after the 17th-century Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and has two primary terminals: Terminal 1 for domestic flights and Terminal 2 for international flights.