Bandra Fair (Mount Mary Fair) is an 8 day festive event to celebrate the birth of Virgin Mary. It is believed that Mother Mary was born on September 8. Every year Mount Mary Basilica at Bandra celebrates the feast to “Our Lady of the Mount”. Bandra Fair has a carnival-like atmosphere with shopping stalls, food stalls, street events, games, amusement rides, concerts, etc. Mount Mary Bandra Fair takes place within the Mount Mary Church complex and in the lanes around the church.

Start and End Date of Mount Mary Bandra Fair 2014

• Bandra Fair Start Date:  14^th September, 2014 (Sunday)
• Bandra Fair End Date:   21^st September, 2014 (Sunday)

The 9 days before the Bandra Fair, from 5 September to 13 September, Mount Mary Basilica performs “Novena” (prayer) for the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Visit this link for further information on why Mount Mary Bandra Fair is celebrated and about the Mount Mary Basilica.

Events, Mass Timing, Stalls at Bandra Mount Mary Fair

• 9 Day Novena before start of Bandra Fair: 5 morning mass for Virgin Mary (5:30 am, 6:15 am, 7:00 am, 7:45 am and 8:30 am) and 3 evening mass (5:30 pm, 6:30 pm, 7:30 pm). Salve Regina will be sung in the 7:00 am mass. On September 8, 2014, which is Mother Mary’s birthday, there is a Solemn Mass at 8:30 am.
• 14^th September, 2014, Start Of Feast Of Our Lady Of The Mount (Bandra Fair): Novena mass in English for Virgin Mary at 5:30 am, 6:15 am, 7:00 am, 7:45 am, 8:30 am, 9:15 am, 10:00 am, 10:45 am, 11:30 am (Feast Mass), 12:30 am. Note there is no Evening Mass. Pilgrims and worshippers can visit Mount Mary Church from 5:30 am to 11:00 pm to offer prayers (“darshan”) to Virgin Mary.
• 15^th September to 20^th September, 2014: Daily religious mass in English at 6:15 am, 7:00 am, 7:45 am, 8:30 am, 9:15 am, 10:00 am, 10:45 am. Mount Mary Basilica will be open from 5:30 am to 11:30 pm for pilgrims to offer “darshan” (prayers) to Mother Mary during the Bandra Fair.
• 21^st September, 2014, Last Day of Mt Mary Fair: Mass in English at 5:30 am, 6:15 am, 7:00 am, 7:45 am, 8:30 am, 9:15 am, 10:00 am, 10:45 am, 11:30 am (Feast Mass) and 12:30 am. Mount Mary Church will close at 8:00 pm.
• Mother Mary Novena Mass in Local Languages: “Mass for the sick and aged” at 10:45 on 15 Sept, 2014 (Monday); “Mass in Konkani” at 11:30 am on 16 Sept, 2014 (Tuesday); “Mass in Marathi” at 11:30 am on 17 Sept, 2014 (Wednesday); “Mass in Tamil” at 11:30 am on 18 Sept, 2014 (Thursday); “Mass in Malayalam” at 11:30 am on 19 Sept, 2014 (Friday); “Mass in Gujarati” at 11:30 am on 20 Sept, 2014 (Saturday).

Stalls and Shops at Mount Mary Bandra Fair

During Mumbai’s Bandra Fair, 430 temporary stalls selling religious artifacts, food, toys, clothes, handicraft items, etc, are set up at Mount Mary Church, Kane Road, Mt Mary Road, Eastern steps of Mount Mary Church, St John Baptist Road and Rebello Road. Most of these stalls are allocated to local residents. Bandra Fair stalls and stands are located at the following places:

1. Mount Mary Road to Kane Road: 280 stalls, each measuring 1.5 X 1.5 meter, set up on one side of Mt Mary Road and part of Kane Road. 20 stalls/pitches near Mt Mary Basilica were auctioned, whereas the balance 260 stalls were allocated to local residents based on a lottery. These stalls only sell religious items.
2. St John Baptist Road: There are 100 stalls on this road. Some of these stalls sell food delicacies such as Mawa Pedha, Home-made Cakes (wine, Plum, walnut, dates), Guava cheese, Fuggias, Kadio Bodia (Goan dish made of sugar and flour), Sorpotel, Vindaloo, Dodol (Goan sweet), etc.
3. Rebello Road: 50 stalls on this road, which is East of Mt Mary Church.

For the duration of Bandra Fair, Mumbai’s BMC has made arrangements to clear garbage twice a day. Also, drinking water, medical aid, fire fighting equipment and ambulance will be available at “Veer Jijamata Kridangan”, at St John Baptist Road.

Mt Mary Bandra Fair Information: Location, Map, Transport

The focal point of the Bandra Fair is the Mount Mary Basilica on Mt Mary Road at Bandra (West), Mumbai. Mt Mary Church is near Bandra Bandstand, Hill Road, Chapel Road, Mt Carmel Road, St John Baptist Road and St Andrew’s Church.

Closest local suburban railway station to Mt Mary Church is Bandra Station on the Western and Harbor Line.

Local Bus (BEST) to Bandra Fair and Mount Mary Basilica

1. BEST will run 222 special buses from Bandra Station (West) to Hill Road and Mount Carmel Road, near Mount Mary. Of these, 98 buses will run in the morning and 124 from afternoon onwards. BEST Bus ticket will cost Rs 8 and will be issued at the bus stop before the passenger climbs the bus.
2. BEST Bus 214: Bus is available from Bandra Station (West) to bus stop at St John Baptist Road. It’s a 0.5 Km walk to the Basilica.
3. BEST Bus 211: Bus is available from Bandra Station (West) to Bandra Bandstand (Byramji Jeejeebhoy Road). Exit at the bus stop near Shahrukh Khan’s Bungalow, “Mannat”. This is the second last stop on this route. It’s a short 0.25 Km uphill climb along either Kane Road or Cement Road (touches Shah Rukh Khan’s House).
4. BEST Buses 86, 211, 212, 214: All these public buses stop at Hill Road which is about 1 Km from Mt Mary Church.

For the duration of Bandra Fair, the below roads are “NO ENTRY” areas; so using private transport to get to Mount Mary is not advisable. Expect traffic jam in a radius of 1.5 Km from the Church.

• Mount Mary Road
• Chapel Road
• Saint John The Baptist Road
• Kane Road,
• Robello Road

This link has sensible precautions for visitors to Mt Mary Bandra Fair.

Attractions around Mount Mary Church

1. Bandra Bandstand: There is a beautiful sea facing promenade at Bandra Bandstand (Byramji Jeejeebhoy Road). Many film stars have houses in Bandra. Salman Khan’s House at Galaxy Apartments is at the start of Bandra Bandstand and Shah Rukh Khan’s House is towards the end of the road.
2. Bandra Fort at Land’s End: Bandra Bandstand road ends at Bandra Fort. This place has stunning views of the Arabian Sea and Bandra – Worli Sea Link.
3. By-lanes of Bandra West: The quaint Bandra by-lanes have an old world charm. Stalls are put up in many of these lanes.

RELATED ARTICLES:

• Pictures of the Best and Most Famous Ganpati In Mumbai
• Mount Mary Bandra Fair 2012
• Kala Ghoda Festival, Mumbai
• One Day Walking Tour of Mumbai Tourist Attractions
• Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai and best Ganpati Idols in 2013
• Famous Hindu Temples in Mumbai

• Hindi Film Stars who live in Bandra, Khar, Pali Hill
• Shahrukh Khan’s House, Mannat at Bandstand, Bandra
• Salman Khan’s House at Galaxy at Bandstand, Bandra

Navratri is a 9 day Hindu festival for Goddess Durga (Shakti). Navratri is one of the biggest festivals among Mumbai’s Gujarati community, which constitutes 19% of the population.

2014 Navratri Festival Dates and Garba Timing in Mumbai

• In 2014, Navratri festival starts on September 25, 2014 (Thursday) and ends on Dussehra on October 3, 2014 (Friday).
• Idols of Goddess Durga are immersed (Visarjan) on “Vijayadashami”, October 4, 2014 (Saturday).
• Mumbai has a 10:00 pm deadline for Dandiya Raas and Garba. On the last 2 days of Navratri, Garba and Dandiya organizers are allowed to play music up to 12:00 midnight.
• As per Mumbai rules, 55 decibels is the maximum level of noise allowed in residential areas before 10:00 pm. After 10:00 pm, the noise level should not exceed 45 decibel.

Activities and Prayers During Navratri Festival

Navratri is celebrated with the traditional Gujarati dances of “Garba” and “Dandiya Raas”. During the festival, devotees perform the following activities:

• Worshipers invite Goddess Durga (known as “Maa Amba” to Gujaratis) to their house by performing “Devi Sthapna” puja,
• Devotees visit temples and fast for Navratri’s nine days. Nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshiped, one for each day. The nine forms of Goddess Durga are Shailputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalratri, Mahagauri, Siddhidatri.
• Devotees light a lamp in a “Garbo” or “Ghatasthapana” (decorated earthen pot) for 9 days. The “Garbo” has holes in it and it represents the human body.
• In the evening, all family members celebrate the victory of Goddess Ambaji/Durga over Mahisasura by dancing “Raas Garba” and “Dandiya Raas”.
• “Dusshera” is celebrated on the day after the 9^th day of Navratri.
• Durga Idol Visarjan (Immersion) is done on the 10^th day.

Mumbai’s Most Famous and Best Navratri (Dandiya, Garba) Locations

Listed below are some of Mumbai’s biggest and most famous venues and organizers of “Dandya Raas” and “Garba”:

• Goregaon Sports Club, Link Road, Malad (West) – Sankalp Dandiya Navratri Group
• MHADA Ground, Malvani, Malad West – Musa Paik Navratri Utsav
• Kora Kendra Ground, Borivali (West) – Kora Kendra Navratri Mahautsav
• Malpani Ground, Link Road, Borivali (West) – Meera Navratri Utsav
• Jasodha Rang Mandir, Vile Parle (West) – First Road Navratri Mahotsav
• Somaiya College Ground, Vidyavihar (East) – Ghatkopar Gujarati Samaj (Preity and Pinky)
• EsselWorld, Madh Island
• Bhavan’s College Ground, D N Nagar Road, Andheri (West)
• Police Hockey Ground, Near Eastern Express Highway, Ghatkopar (East) – Wadhwa Raas
• Tulip Star Hotel, Juhu Tara Road
• Kamgar Krida Mandal, Babasaheb Ambedkar Nagar, Dadar (West) – Broadscope
• Cricket Club Of India, Churchgate

In addition to these venues, many housing societies in Mumbai organize Navratri celebrations in their buildings.

Famous Mumbai Navratri Dandiya Rass and Garba Singers, Performers

• Falguni Pathak; her band is called “Tha Thaiyaa”. In 2014 Falguni Pathak will play at the Goregaon Sports Club.
• Preeti and Pinky
• Manish Parekh and his band
• Devendra Joshi
• Bhumi Trivedi
• The Beaters, whose lead singer is Maneesha Savla

Traditional Navratri Dances of Dandiya Raas and Raas Garba

In “Garba” the dancer moves his/her hands and feet to four beats; whereas in “Dandiya Rass”, dancers dance with sticks.

Garba Dance

• The easiest and most popular Raas Garba dances are the “Be Taali” (2 claps) and “Traan Taali” (3 claps). Please see the below video for simple instructions on these Garba steps.
• Other popular types of Garba Rass Dance are “Butterfly” (clapping and moving in a circle like a butterfly), “Trikonyu” (make a triangle movement), “Hudo” (raise hands and clap with a partner after 4 beats), “Popatiyu” (clap after 2 steps forward and 4 steps back), “Dodhiyu” (forward and backward movement to 8, 10, 12 beats), etc.

Dandiya Rass Dance

• Dandia Raas is played with 2 decorated sticks which are touched with a partner’s sticks in a choreographed pattern. Usually, dancers form an inner and outer circle; one moves in a clock-wise and the other in a counter clock-wise direction. The inner and outer circle dancers partner each other in playing Dandiya Rass.
• Different types of Dandiya Raas dance are “Five Steps” technique, “Seven Steps”, etc. “5 Step Dandiya Raas” is the most popular Dandia and the below video has easy instructions on how to play 5 Step Dandiya Raas.

The original folk dances of Garba Rass and Dandia Raas started as a depiction of the 9 day battle between Goddess Durga (“Ambaji”) and Mahisasura. With this in mind, the “Dandiya” (sticks) and the “Garba” style of dance make a lot of sense.

Mahisasura was an “Asura” (Demon) who defeated Indra, the Hindu God of the “Devas” (Gods). Mahisasur threw out the Gods from Heaven. Since Mahisasura could not be defeated by any man, the Gods created Durga an avatar of Godess Parvati or Shakti. Maa Durga defeated the “Asuras” (Demons) and fought a long 9 day battle with Mahisasura, finally killing him on the tenth day.

Famous Navrati Dandiya Raas and Garba Rass Songs

Popular Navratri Garba and Dandya Raas songs are “Dholi Taro”, “Aavo Ramva Raas”, “Nagar Nand ji Na Laal”, “Hu tau Gai ti Mele”, etc

Clothes Worn for Navratri, Garba Raas Dance and Dandia Raas

Young girls and ladies wear colourful ethnic Gujarati style “Chaniya Choli”, “Ghagra Choli”, “Lehenga Choli” and sarees. Metal jewellery is often worn and so are white bangles on the forearms and biceps.

On top, boys and men wear the traditional Gujarati Kurta, called “Zabbho” or “Kedia” (“Kediya”) and on the bottom a Pajama or Dhoti called “Dhotiyu” or “Lehanghas”. Men also wear a “Pagdee” (Turban).

RELATED ARTICLES:

• Pictures of the Best Ganesh Idols in Mumbai in 2014
• Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai and Best Ganesh Idols in 2013
• Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai and Best Ganesh Idols in 2012
• Diwali Festival celebrations in Mumbai
• Famous Hindu Temples And Places Of Worship In Mumbai

IMAGES:

• Image 1: Image by FrenchKheldar. Image licensed under Creative Commons license Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)
• Image 2: Garba dancers perform in Ambaji temple premises. Image by Anurag Agnihotri. Image licensed under Creative Commons license Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0)
• Image 3: Image by Restless mind. Image licensed under Creative Commons license Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 2.0 Generic (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

Below tables have the list of candidates and winners for the 2014 Maharashtra Legislative Assembly (MLA) Elections, scheduled for 15^th October, 2014. These candidates and winners for the 2014 Maharashtra State Elections (Maharashtra Vidhan Sabha) are from constituencies in Mumbai, Thane and Raigad.

Winners of the 2014 Maharashtra State Legislature (MLA) Elections

Mumbai Winners of 2014 Maharashtra State Legislature Elections

Mumbai Suburban Winners of 2014 Maharashtra State (MLA) Elections

Thane Winners of 2014 Maharashtra State (MLA) Elections

Raigad Winners of 2014 Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Elections

Candidates for Maharashtra State Election 2014 From Mumbai, Thane

All parties are yet to declare their candidates for the 2014 Maharashtra Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha) Elections.

RELATED ARTICLES:

• 2014 Mumbai Lok Sabha Winners, with their profiles

Adlabs Aquamagica Water Park has 12 water rides and water attractions, and is one of India’s Best Water Parks. Aquamagica Water Park is located next to Imagica at Khalapur (Khopoli), and is part of the complex that houses Adlabs Imagica Theme Park and Adlabs Hotel.

Adlabs Aquamagica Water Park Dress Code and Rules

• All visitors going on water rides must wear synthetic swimwear made of nylon or polyester.
• Visitors are expected to dress modestly, so as not to make other visitors uncomfortable.
• Skimpy swimwear, transparent swimwear, underwear, jewelry, swimwear with exposed metals (buckles, zips, fasteners, etc) are NOT allowed.
• Only footwear such as Rubber clippers, Crocs, Flip flops are allowed. Sneakers, shoes, sandals, etc are not allowed inside the park.

Women Dress Code at Aquamagica

• Women can wear Swim wear and Tights made of nylon or polyester.
• Women can wear T-Shirts, provided they are made of nylon or polyester. Full body swim suits are also allowed.
• Saris, Salwars, Jeans, Cotton shorts, Cotton T-shirts, Kurta, etc are not allowed.
• Swim caps are allowed, though not mandatory.

Men Dress Code at Aquamagica

• Men can wear Beach shorts and Tights made of nylon or polyester
• V-Shaped or U-Shaped swimming suits and trunks are NOT allowed, even though they are allowed in most swimming pools.

Children’s Dress Code at Aquamagica

• Swimwear and Beachwear made of nylon or polyester is allowed.
• Special swim diapers are allowed. Regular Diapers are NOT allowed.

NOTE:

• Appropriate clothes for Adlabs Aquamagica Water Park can be purchased at stores inside Aquaimagica.
• Do remember to get your towels and at least one (if not more) change of clothes. Towels can be rented for Rs 100.
• Lockers are available on rent (Rs 150).

Cost of Ticket at Adlabs Aquamagica Water Park

NOTE:

• Children below 3 years are free.
• Senior Citizens are those over 65 years of age.
• AC Shuttle Service is available from Pune, Hinjewadi, Lonavala, Mumbai’s Western and Eastern Suburbs, Thane, Navi Mumbai. Shuttle cost additional Rs 500 per person. Please visit Adlabs Imagica Water Park website for details.
• Aquamagica and Imagica offer a free pickup from Khapoli Railway station at 10:15 am.
• At present there is no combined ticket for Aquamagica Water Park and Adlabs Imagica Theme Park.
• Once the 4 star Imagica Hotel starts operation, it is expected that there will be combined tickets for staying and visiting the Adlabs Water Park (Aquamagica) and the Entertainment Theme Park (Imagica).

Adlabs Aquamagica Water Park: Timing and Opening Time

1. Aquamagica Water Park Opening Time: 10:00 AM (It opens 1 hour before “Imagica”, which opens at 11:00 AM)
2. Aquamagica Water Park Closing Time: 6:00 PM (It closes 1 hour before “Imagica”)

Adlabs Imagica’s Water Park, “Aquamagica”  is open throughout the year.

Location of Adlabs Aquamiagica Water Park and How to Reach It

Travel To Adlabs Aquamiagica Water Park By Road

Mumbai to Aquamiagica Water Park Road Route And Map

1. Take the Mumbai to Pune Expressway.
2. At the Khalapur Toll Naka (2^nd Toll Naka) take the first left at the Khopoli exit. Distance from the start of the Mumbai Pune Express way, at Kalamboli (McDonald’s), to Khalapur/Khapoli exit, is 33.5 Km.
3. Take the overhead bridge and go south towards Pali Road. After the bridge, take the left turn towards Pali Road.
4. To reach Aquamiagica Water Park travel 3.7 Km on the “Khopoli Pali” Road. Imagica and Aquamagica will be visible from a distance.

Pune to Aquamiagica Water Park Road Direction And Map

1. Take the Mumbai to Pune Expressway. Take a U-turn just before the Khalapur Toll Naka.
2. Take the first left at the Khopoli exit.
3. Take the overhead bridge and go south towards Pali Road. After the bridge, take the left turn towards Pali Road.
4. To reach Adlabs Imagica Water Park travel 3.7 Km on the “Khopoli Pali” Road. Imagica and Aquamagica will be visible from a distance.

Adlabs Aquamiagica Water Park By Train And Bus

• The 7:50 am Local train from CST (VT) travels via Dadar (8:03 am), Kurla (8:10 am), Thane (8:28 am), Karjat (9:43) and reach Khopoli Station at 10:08 am.
• Adlab’s Aquamiagica has a free Shuttle service from Khapoli Station to Aquamiagica, which leaves at 10:15 am.
• The return train from Khopoli is at 5:57 pm.
• Auto-rickshaws, taxis and local buses are also available from Khopoli Station to Imagica and Aquamagica.

Adlabs Aquamagica Water Park Rides, With Age And Height Rules

PLEASE NOTE: Many of the water rides are suitable only for teenagers and adults. Many of the water attractions have a minimum weight restriction of 48 Kg (usually age 13/14 and above) and height restriction of 1.2 meters (usually age 7 and above).

Listed below are the water rides and attractions at Adlabs Aquamagica Water Park, along with their weight and height restrictions. There are 12 water rides and attractions spread over 20 acres.

Aquamagica Rides For Kids and Families

The Pirate Bay: Water toys, Mini Slides, tubes in a shallow pool of water. This is an ideal way for young children to spend hours in the water.

Age, Height and Weight: No age, height and weight restrictions.

Floatsa: Lay back on a float and have a relaxing ride along the Lazy River.

Age and Weight: No age and weight restrictions.

Wacky Wavess: Wave pool, with gentle waves one would experience on the beach.

Age and Weight: No age and weight restrictions.

Aquamagica Rides For Teenagers and Adults

Loopy Woopy: 39 feet free fall in a transparent tube.

Weight Restriction: Min 48 Kg and Max 136 Kg.

Height Restriction: Min 1.07 meters (42 Inches)

Zip Zap Zoom: First half of this mat ride is along a tube and the second half is down a large slide.

Weight Restriction: Max 120 Kg.

Height Restriction: Min 1.20 meters (47 Inches)

Yell-O!: High speed water slide ride through twists and turns.

Weight Restriction: Min 48 Kg and Max 136 Kg.

Height Restriction: Min 1.20 meters (47 Inches)

Swirl Whirl: Exciting twists and turns in a giant funnel.

Weight Restriction: Min 48 Kg and Max 136 Kg.

Height Restriction: Min 1.20 meters (47 Inches)

Splash: Water slide with turns and bumps.

Weight Restriction: Min 48 Kg and Max 136 Kg.

Height Restriction: Min 1.20 meters (47 Inches)

Boomeranggo: Experience weightlessness in this ride which drops and raises the rider.

Weight Restriction: Min 48 Kg and Max 136 Kg.

Height Restriction: Min 1.20 meters (47 Inches)

Soakerz: This is a family water ride in a raft.

Weight Restriction: Min 48 Kg and Max 136 Kg.

Height Restriction: Min 1.20 meters (47 Inches)

The Screamer: Thrill water ride in which riders are shaken with twists, turns and oscillations.

Weight Restriction: Min 48 Kg and Max 136 Kg.

Height Restriction: Min 1.07 meters (42 Inches)

Raftaastic!: A family water ride with drops and turns.

Weight Restriction: Min 48 Kg and Max 136 Kg.

Height Restriction: Min 1.20 meters (47 Inches)

Hygiene levels are maintained at Aquamagica by a state of the art water filtration system. Adlabs Aquamagica’s water requirement is taken care by a 260 million liter rain water harvesting reservoir. Adlabs Aquamagica has made provision to internally take care of its water requirements.

RELATED ARTICLES:

• Adlabs Imagica Theme Park
• Mumbai’s Main Tourist Places and Attractions
• One Day Walking Tour of Mumbai’s Main Tourist Attractions
• Mumbai’s Beaches and Sea
• Famous Temples and Places of Worship in Mumbai
• Pictures of Western Ghat Hill Stations Near Mumbai
• Tips for Tourist Visiting Mumbai

The boat trip from Gateway Of India in Mumbai to Alibaug (via Mandwa) is in two parts

1. Boat from Gateway of India (Mumbai) to Mandwa, and vice-versa
2. Bus from Mandwa Jetty to Alibag Bus Stop, and vice-versa

PLEASE NOTE:

• In the Monsoon season (early June to early Sept) there is NO BOAT SERVICE from Gateway of India to Alibag (Mandwa).
• The cost of the Gateway of India to Alibaug ticket includes both the boat trip and the bus journey.
• In Mumbai the boat journey starts and ends at Gateway of India, near Regal, Colaba. At Mandwa the boat trip starts/ends at the Mandwa Jetty and in Alibaug the bus ride starts and ends at the Alibaug Bus Station/Stop.
• Alibaug is also written and pronounced as “Alibag” and “Alibagh”.

Cost Of Boat Ticket From Mumbai (Gateway Of India) To Alibaug

All ticket prices are in Indian Rupees.

PLEASE NOTE:

1. This is the cost of an one-way ticket from Mumbai to Alibagh.
2. Ticket price includes both, the cost of the boat trip and the bus trip from Mandwa to Alibaug or Alibaugh to Mandwa.

Timetable of Mumbai to Alibaug, Alibag to Mumbai Boat Ferry

Listed below is the timetable and start time of boats from Gateway of India (Mumbai) to Alibaug (via Mandwa). Also listed are the bus timing from Alibaug Bus Stop to Mandwa Jetty and the ferry boat timing from Mandwa to Mumbai (Gateway Of India).

Location of Mumbai – Alibaug Ticket Counter and Boats

At Gateway of India (Mumbai), the Mumbai to Alibag boat ticket counter is at the entrance of the Gateway of India Complex (Please see the below image). Ferry tickets to Elephanta Caves are also available from here. Boats are available from a landing spot near the Gateway of India monument.

At Mandwa, the boat ferry trip starts/ends at the jetty. The Mandwa to Alibaug Bus is available from near the jetty.

At Alibag, the ferry bus starts/ends at the main Alibaug Bus Stop in town. Tickets can been booked from a counter near the bus stop.

Contact Info of Mumbai to Alibag Boat Operators

There are companies, such as Apollo Cruise Events, West Coast Marine Yacht Services, etc that rent out boats (yachts, catamarans, etc) for private charter and parties.

RELATED ARTICLES:

• Boat Rides from Gateway Of India to Elephanta Caves
• Mumbai’s Beaches and Sea Attractions
• Mumbai’s main Tourist Attractions and Things To Do
• One Day Walking tour of Mumbai’s key attractions
• Marine Drive – One of Mumbai’s main tourist attractions
• Mumbai’s Chowpatty Beach
• Mumbai’s Theme Parks and Entertainment Parks

2015 List of Public Holidays, Bank Holidays and Government Holidays in Maharashtra, Mumbai and India are listed below. Dates for “Gazetted Holidays” and “Restricted Holidays” in 2015, for Indian Central Government employees are also listed below.

2014 Public and Bank Holiday Dates in Mumbai and Maharashtra

Dates of Public, Bank and Government Holidays in 2015, for Mumbai and Maharashtra, are listed below.

Public and Government Holidays in 2015 in Maharashtra and Mumbai

Bank Holidays in 2015 in Maharashtra, Mumbai and India

• Navratri and Garba Celebrations in Mumbai
• 2014 Dates of Public and Bank Holidays in Mumbai, Maharashtra

Houses of Hindi Film Actors and Indian Movie Stars

Pictures of Aamir Khan’s House in Mumbai

 (Please click on Images of Aamir Khan’s Home to Enlarge)

• Aamir Khan and his family, wife Kiran Rao and son Azad, live at “Freeda Apartments”, which is off Carter Road in Bandra West. Amir Khan’s has a spacious 5,000 sq ft house.
• For a long time Aamir Khan lived at 11, Bella Vista Apartments, Pali Hill. He initially owned a 1000 sq ft 2 bedroom apartment. Later he bought another 2 bedroom flat and combined it to make one big flat.
• Aamir’s brother, Faisal, and his mother Zeenat Hussain, live at Bela Vista Apartments. Amir Khan’s Bella Vista Apartments home also houses his office.
• Aamir Khan has a 100 year old bungalow in Panchgani, which he bought from writer-director Homi Adjania.

Photos of Akshay Kumar and Twinkle Khanna’s Home in Juhu, Mumbai

 (Please click on Images of Akshay Kumar’s House to Enlarge)

• Akshay Kumar and Twinkle Khanna live in a beautiful sea facing duplex in “Prime Beach” in Juhu, Mumbai.
• Akshay Kumar’s home is on the ground floor and his mother, Aruna Bhatia, lives on the first floor and his sister, Alka Bhatia, and her husband, Surendra Hiranandani, live on the sixth floor of “Prime Beach” building.
• Akshay Kumar’s house has a nice lawn and a great sea view.
• Hrithik Roshan has a house in the same building as Akshay Kumar; on the third floor of “Prime Beach”.

Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek, Aishwarya, Aaradhya’s House

 (Please click on Images of Amitabh Bachchan’s Bungalow to Enlarge)

• Amitabh Bachan and his family (Abhishek Bachchan, Aiswarya Bachchan, granddaughter Aradhya) have five bungalows in Mumbai.
• The Bachchan family lives at “Jalsa”, which is their bungalow near Tulip Star Hotel in Juhu. In 2013, the Bacchan family bought the bungalow behind “Jalsa”.
• “Prateeksha” is the iconic home of Amitabh Bachchan. It was the Bachchan’s first bungalow in Juhu. Amitabh’s children, Abhishek and Shweta Nanda, grew up at “Prateeksha”.
• Amitabh Bachchan and his family own two other properties in Mumbai’s Juhu locality – “Janak” is a bungalow that houses the Bachan Office and gym and “Vatsa”, which has been rented out to Citibank.
• Please visit this link for more pictures and info on Amitabh Bachchan’s House.

John Abraham’s Duplex Penthouse Home

 (Please click on Images of John Abraham’s House to Enlarge)

• John Abraham’s house is an elegant 4000 sq ft duplex penthouse in Bandra West.
• John Abraham’s house was designed by his father, Abraham John, and his brother, Alan Abraham. John’s house has an open architecture design with no internal walls.
• Spread over the 7^th and 8^th floor of “Sea Glimpse Apartments”, John’s house has a beautiful panoramic view of the Arabian Sea. The seamlessly joined living room, dining room and kitchen are on the 7^th floor. John Abraham and his wife, Priya Runchal’s, bedroom and entertainment room are on the top floor, which has a sky lit terrace. A cantilevered staircase joins the two floors.

Deepika Padukone’s Home in Mumbai

 (Please click on Images of Deepika Padukone’s House to Enlarge)

• Deepika Padukone lives in a three bedroom apartment at “Beau Monde” in Prabhadevi, Mumbai.
• The interior design of  Deepika Padukone’s house is a mix of Indian and Western influences. Her flat was designed by Vinita Chaitanya.
• Dipika Padukone is among the few Hindi Film Actors who stays in Central/South Mumbai. Previously she stayed at “Cozihom” in Pali Hill, Bandra.

Pictures of Shahrukh Khan’s House (“Mannat”) in Mumbai

 (Please click on Images of Shahrukh Khan’s Home to Enlarge)

• Shahrukh Khan and his family (wife Gauri, children Suhana, Aryan and AbRam and sister Shehnaz) live at “Mannat”, a bungalow in Bandstand, Mumbai.
• Shah Rukh Khan bought “Mannat” in 2001. Subsequently he also built a 6 storied building behind his bungalow, which houses his offices, gym, library, guest rooms, residential quarters, etc.
• The interiors of Shah rukh Khan’s home is designed by wife, Gauri. Dark, eartly colors have been used for the interiors.
• Many Indian Film Stars live near SRK’s home; these include Farhan Akhtar, Salman Khan, Rekha, John Abraham, Tiger Shroff, Zeenat Aman, etc.

Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor’s House in Mumbai

 (Please click on Images of Saif and Kareena Kapoor’s Home to Enlarge)

• Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor live at Fortune Heights, which is just Off Turner Road, in Bandra West, Mumbai.
• Saif and Kareena live on the tenth floor and Saif Ali Khan also has an office on the second floor of Fortune Heights.
• After the death of his father, Saif was conferred the title of the tenth Nawab of Pataudi. His family owns “Ibrahim Kothi” (Pataudi Palace), near Gurgaon in Haryana. The palace is run as a luxury heritage hotel by Neemrana Hotels.
• The Pataudi family owns many properties in Bhopal. His grandmother was Begum Sajida Sultan, the “Begum of Bhopal”, and his great grandfather, Nawab Hamidullah Khan, was the last ruling Nawab of Bhopal. Saif’s elder sister, Saba Ali Khan, is the “Mutawalli” (Patron) of the “Aukaf-e-Shahi” Waqf Trust in Bhopal that manages mosques, orphanages, charitable institutions, etc.

Photos of Indian Actor Anil Kapoor and Sonam’s Bungalow

 (Please click on Images of Sonam and Anil Kapoor’s House to Enlarge)

• Indian film actor Anil Kapoor lives in a bungalow in Juhu with his wife Sunita, his three children (Sonam, Rhea and Harshvardhan) and their dogs.
• Address of Anil Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor’s house is 31, Shrinagar Residency Society, North South Road No. 7, Juhu Vlle Parle Development (JVPD) Scheme, Mumbai.

Pictures of Rishi and Ranbir Kapoor’s House in Pali Hill

 (Please click on Image of Rishi and Ranbir Kapoor’s Bungalow to Enlarge)

• Rishi Kapoor, Neetu Singh Kapoor and Ranbir Kapoor stay in a bungalow in Pali Hill, Mumbai. Their home is called “Krishna Raj” after Rishi Kapoor’s mother “Krishna” and father “Raj Kapoor”.
• Rishi Kapoor bought this bungalow from renowned nuclear scientist, Homi Sethna.
• Rishi and Ranbir Kapoor’s Bungalow address is Krishna Raj, 27, Pali Hill, Bandra (West), Mumbai 400050.
• Ranbir Kapoor also has 3 flats in a building on Hill Road in Bandra West.

Pictures of the home of Indian Film Star, Arjun Kapoor

 (Please click on Images of Arjun Kapoor’s House to Enlarge)

• Arjun Kapoor’s late mother, Mona Kapoor and his sister, Anshula, designed his house in Juhu, Mumbai.
• Arjun Kapoor’s apartment is tastefully decorated.

Indian Movie Star Imran Khan’s Bungalow in Pali Hill

 (Please click on Images of Imran Khan’s House to Enlarge)

• Indian Film Star Imran Khan lives with his wife, Avantika Malik, and daughter, Imara Khan, in a bungalow at 24, Pali Hill, Mumbai.
• Imran Khan’s bungalow used to belong to his grandfather, filmmaker Nasir Hussain.
• Imran Khan and Avantika were married in this bungalow in 2011.

Indian Film Star, Priyanka Chopra’s House in Mumbai

 (Please click on Images of Priyanka Chopra’s Home to Enlarge)

• Priyanka Chopra lives in a building called “Raj Classic”, in Versova, Mumbai. She has five flats on the sixth floor of this building. Three of these flats have been combined to make one large flat.
• Priyanka Chopra’s mother too lives in this building.
• Priyanka Chopra also owns a flat in “Green Acres” in Mumbai’s Lokhandwala area.

RELATED ARTICLES:

• Pictures of Amitabh Bachchan’s Houses and Bungalows
• Pictures of Shahrukh Khan’s Bungalow, “Mannat”
• Pictures of Salman Khan’s Home in Mumbai
• Address, Map of Indian Movie Stars living in Bandra, Pali Hill, Khar
• Address, Map of Indian Movie Stars who live in Juhu

Kala Ghoda Arts Festival is one of the largest cultural art festivals not just in India, but in the world. Kala Ghoda Festival has over 400 multicultural events across 11 categories. ALL EVENTS at the nine days Kala Ghoda Festival are FREE to the public.

Start and End Dates of the 2015 Kala Ghoda Arts Festival

• Start Date of Kala Ghoda Art Festival 2015: 7 February, 2015 (Saturday)
• End Date of Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2015: 15 February, 2015 (Sunday)

Schedule and Events of Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, 2015

The full schedule of the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival (KGAF) 2015 will be released in the end of January, 2015.

Location and Venue of Events at 2015 Kala Ghoda Festival

[Please note that the events and venues for Kala Ghoda Festival 2015 are yet to be finalized. The below list is based on the venues for the 2014 festival.]

Venue of various KGAF 2015 events and programs is as follows:

1. Children Events at KGAF 2015:  Museum Garden (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya Gardens), Kitab Khana
2. Dance Events at KGAF 2015: Cross Maidan Gardens
3. Movies and Film Programs at KGAF 2015: Coomaraswamy Hall (Museum Ground Floor), Max Mueller Bhavan (First Floor), Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS Ground Floor), Gallery Beyond
4. Theatre Plays at KGAF 2015: Horniman Circle Garden, Max Mueller Bhavan (Ground Floor), NGMA, M. C. Ghia Hall
5. Literature Discussions and Events at KGAF 2015: David Sassoon Library Garden, Kitab Khana, Arbour, Tarq
6. Music Concerts and Programs at KGAF 2015: Asiatic Steps, Cross Maidan Gardens
7. Food Programs at KGAF 2015: Westside Store
8. Street Events at KGAF 2015: Rampart Row
9. Workshops at KGAF 2015: Artisans, M. C. Ghia Hall, Gallery ICIA
10. Heritage Walks at KGAF 2015: Regal Bus Stop and other locations around South Mumbai
11. Visual Arts installations:  Along Rampart Row, in the Parking Triangle outside Jehangir Art Gallery, Cross Maidan, Museum Garden, David Sassoon Library, Art Entrance, Artists’ Centre

Map of Venues Where Events of Kala Ghoda Festival Are Held

Most activites at the Kala Ghoda Festival take place in and around “K Dubash Marg” (also known as Kala Ghoda Road). Due to a High Court ban, music and dance events have been moved to Cross Maidan. The below map shows the venues where the events of the Kala Ghoda Art Festival are held.

Click on Map to View Kala Ghoda Arts Festival Location in a Larger Map

How To Reach Kala Ghoda?

The closest Local Railway stations to Kala Ghoda are “Churchgate Station” on the Western Railway Line (1.5 Kms) and “VT/CST” on the Central Railway Line (1.5 Kms).

From both these stations, there are many buses to Kala Ghoda. Take any bus that goes to Fort, Regal or Colaba. They all stop near Kala Ghoda.

Visitors can also walk to Kala Ghoda from Churchgate and VT Stations.

Organizers of the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival

The Kala Ghoda Arts Festival is organized by the “Kala Ghoda Association”. Art galleries, cultural institutions and individuals from the Mumbai’s Kala Ghoda precinct formed the “Kala Ghoda Association” to conserve the unique heritage of Kala Ghoda – Mumbai’s premier art district. In addition to organizing India’s largest cultural art festival, the association is also involved in improving the physical infrastructure in and around Kala Ghoda.

• Tourist Attractions and Walking Tour of South Mumbai
• Mumbai’s Main Tourist Attractions and Activities for the entire Family
• Main Tourist Attractions in Mumbai
• Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2014
• Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2013 – Visual Art Installations
• Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2013
• Useful Tips for Visitors to Kala Ghoda Festival
• Kala Ghoda Art Festival 2012

Listed below are the best tourist attractions and the most famous tourist places in Mumbai.

British Victorian and Gothic Architecture of South Mumbai

Location: South Mumbai (Churchgate, Fort, Regal, DN Road, VT)

Attraction: Beautiful Architecture

South Mumbai has beautiful buildings which are based on British Victorian, Gothic and Indo-Saracenic (mix of Indian and Mughal) styles of architecture. Many of these stunning buildings were built in the late 19^th and early 20^th century. The most stunning examples of this are the Victoria Terminus (VT) Railway Station and BMC (Mumbai Municipality) building across it. VT station, which was renamed Chatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST), is one of two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Mumbai. D.N. Road from Flora Fountain in Fort to VT station is known as Mumbai’s “Heritage Mile”, with classic old buildings lining the road. South Mumbai also has the second largest collection of “Art Deco” buildings in the world. Some of South Mumbai’s most impressive buildings include Gateway of India, Bombay High Court, Mumbai University, Town Hall, St Thomas Cathedral, RBI, Museum, Taj Hotel, area around Horniman Circle, Elphinstone College, David Sassoon Library, NGMA and Western Railway HQ.

Please read this article for details on the walking tour of the key attraction of South Mumbai.

Marine Drive and Chowpatty Beach

Location: South Mumbai

Attraction: Scenic beauty

Marine Drive is a beautiful sea facing promenade on the Arabian Sea. The main attraction of Marine Drive is the stunning view and the pleasure of a walk in the cool sea breeze. The land from Nariman Point in the South to the Governor’s bungalow in the north is shaped as a necklace, which is why Mumbai’s Marine Drive is also called “Queen’s Necklace”. Marine Drive is home to the second largest gathering of Art Deco Buildings. To the north of Marine Drive is the golden sand beach of Chowpatty. In the center of Marine Drive are a fish aquarium and 5 cricket grounds, where one can catch a game of cricket.

Please read these articles for more information on Marine Drive and information on Chowpatty Beach.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park (Borivali National Park)

Location: Borivali East in North Mumbai

Attraction: Nature, Lion Safari, Trekking, Boat Ride, Religious Caves

Sanjay Gandhi National Park is the world’s largest National Park within city limits; it is also among the most visited nature parks in the world. Borivali National Park is one of Mumbai’s favorite picnic spots. Visitor attractions within Borivali National Park include a lion and tiger safari, boating, a 2.5 Km mini train ride inside the park, Kanheri Caves (which are historical Buddhist caves), nature trails conducted by Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) and WWF India, trekking and rock climbing. The 104 sq km Borivali National Park is home to many species of mammals, birds, insects, reptiles, trees and plants.

Please read this article for more information on Borivali National Park.

Elephanta Caves, Boat Rides from Gateway Of India

Location:Elephanta Island off the Eastern coast of Mumbai

Attraction: Historical Hindu and Buddhist Caves, Boat Ride

Elephanta Caves is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Elephanta Caves are located on Elephanta Island, which is an 11 Km boat ride from Gateway of India. Situated on a hill, Elephanta Caves comprise of 5 Caves with statues of Hindu deities and 2 caves with Buddhist statues. The most impressive statue at Elephanta is the 20 feet “Trimurti”, which is the three heads of Lord Shiva. Elephanta Caves is a pleasant ferry boat ride from Gateway of India. Ferries operated from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm and a return ticket cost Rs 120. Please note that there are NO boats on Mondays and boat service is stopped during the monsoon season, which is usually from the first week of June to mid September.

Please read this article for more information on boat from Gateway of India to Elephanta Caves.

Beaches and Sea Side Promenades of Mumbai

Location: Western and Southern Coast of Mumbai

Attraction: Scenic Beauty, Beaches, Sea-Side Promenades

Mumbai is an island city. Many of Mumbai’s beaches and sea attractions are along its Southern and Western side. Famous beaches in and around Mumbai are Girgaon Chowpatty Beach, Juhu Beach, Dadar Chowpatty, Versova Beach, Gorai Beach, Manori Beach and Madh Island Beaches (which include Marve Beach, Hamla Beach, Aksa Beach, Dana Pani Beach, Erangal Beach, Silver Beach). There are plans to declare the North-East of Mumbai, which consists of Madh Island, Manori, Gorai, Culvem and Uttam Beaches, as a tourism zone. Here in addition to the beaches, tourist can also visit the famous Global Vipassana Pagoda and Essel World Amusement Park. Sadly for a city surrounded by the sea, there are few water sport opportunities in Mumbai. Visitors can enjoys boat rides at Gateway of India, Chowpatty, Versova and Gorai.

Please read this article for more info on Mumbai’s Beaches and Sea Related Attractions.

Festival Celebration in Mumbai

Location: All over Mumbai

Attraction: Unique Public Celebrations, Religious Significance

Many festivals are celebrated on the streets of Mumbai and they have a community feel to them. Nowhere in the world is the 11 day Ganesh Chaturthi festival celebrated with more aplomb than in Mumbai; these festivities are unique to Mumbai and are a big tourist attraction. Other festivals that are celebrated with gusto are “Janmashtami”, where groups of youngsters form pyramids to break a yogurt pot strung high up; “Bandra Mount Mary Fair”, which is a 9 day celebration of the birth of Mother Mary; “Navratri”, where people dance Garba and play Dandiya Ras for 9 days; Parsi festivals of “Nouroz” (Parsi New Year) and “Petiti” (day of introspection); “Diwali”, when after the Laxmi Puja residents come to open spaces to burst fire crackers.

Please read these articles for more information on Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in Mumbai, Navratri Festival in Mumbai and Mount Mary Bandra Fair.

Hanging Garden and Kamla Nehru Park

Location: Malabar Hill

Attraction: Scenic Beauty

Located in Mumbai’s posh locality of Malabar Hill, these 2 gardens are like any other garden; but their main appeal is that they are located on top of a hill that has a beautiful view of Marine Drive and Chowpatty Beach in the East and Priyadarshani Park and the Arabian Sea in the West. Hanging Garden is constructed on a water reservoir, which supplies water to South Mumbai. There are steps, along a forested area, that lead from these gardens to Babulnath Temple in Gargaum (Chowpatty). Just north of Kamla Nehru Park and Hanging Garden is a forest that belongs to the Parsi Panchayat. There are three deep wells here where the Parsee community leave their dead.

Mumbai’s Global Vipassana Pagoda

Location: Gorai

Attraction: Amazing Architecture, Teachings of Buddha, Meditation Center

Mumbai’s Global Vipassana Pagoda was built to honour Buddha, spread his teachings, and promote social peace, harmony and tolerance. Relics of the Buddha are enshrined at the pagoda. Global Vipassana Pagoda is the biggest pillar-less stone dome in the world. Reaching a height of 325 feet (equivalent of a 30 storey building), 2.5 million tons of stone was used in the construction of this imposing structure. At the centre of the Pagoda is a large meditation hall, which is 280 meter in diameter, and which can accommodate 8,000 people. The Global Vipassana Pagoda is a replica of the world famous “Shwedagon Pagoda” in Yangon (Myanmar). Vipassana meditation classes are held free of charge at the Pagoda. Entry is free for all; foreigners need to have identification (passport, driver’s license, etc) on them. Pagoda timings are from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, daily.

Haji Ali Mosque and Dargah in Mumbai

Location: Haji Ali in South Mumbai

Attraction: Scenic Beauty, Beautiful Architecture, Religious Significance

Haji Ali is one of Mumbai’s most famous Mosque and “Dargah” (tomb). The reason it is a major tourist destination is because it is an impressive structure, which is located 450 meters in the sea. Haji Ali can be reached by a pathway, which leads to the mosque. This pathway in the sea adds to the charm of Haji Ali Dargah. When the sea high tide level is very high, Haji Ali Mosque is cut-off from the mainland. Haji Ali Mosque and Dargah are built in the Mughal style of architecture. It is a white structure with domes and minarets. Inside Haji Ali is the tomb (“Dargah”) of the Muslim saint Sayyed Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari. The Haji Ali Dargah was built in 1431.

Mumbai’s Prince of Wales Museum

Location: Fort, South Mumbai

Attraction: Historical Artifacts, Beautiful Architecture

This is the largest museum in Mumbai, housing over 50,000 historical artifacts from regimes such as the Indus Valley Civilization, Maurya Dynasty, Mughals, Pahari, Maratha, Guptas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakuta, etc. The three primary sections in the museum are Art, Archeology and Natural History. The museum building is an impressive domed structure built in the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture which is found in many British era buildings in South Mumbai. Mumbai s Prince of Wales Museum has been renamed Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS). Other popular museums in Mumbai include Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum at Mumbai Zoo, Mani Bhavan and RBI Monetary Museum at Fort.

Please read this article for more information on Mumbai’s Museums.

Mani Bhavan – Mahatma Gandhi Museum

Location: Gamdevi in South Mumbai

Attraction: Museum on Mahatma Gandhi, Historical Significance

Mani Bhavan was Mahatma Gandhi’s Mumbai based residence and headquarters from 1917 to 1934. Mani Bhavan has been converted into a Museum and Library in honor of Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian Independence movement. Its official name is Mani Bhavan Gandhi Sangrahalaya. Visitors come to Mani Bhavan because of its historical significance and also to feel the presence of a great man. In November 2010, US president Barack Obama and Michelle Obama visited Mani Bhavan.

Mumbai Art District and Art Galleries

Location: Kala Ghoda, Regal, Colaba in South Mumbai

Attraction: Indian Art

The area around K Dubash Marg (Kala Ghoda), Museum/Regal and Colaba Causeway is the art district of Mumbai. The most famous art galleries in this area are Jehangir Art Gallery, National Gallery of Mordern Art (NGMA), Prince of Wales Museum, Max Mueller, Institute of Contemporary Indian Art, Delhi Art Gallery, Gallery 7, Lakeeren Contemporary Art Gallery, Chatterjee & Lal, Volte, Sakshi Art Gallery, Pundole Art Gallery, Gallery Maskara, Mumbai Art Room and more. Every year the 9 day Kala Ghoda Arts Festival is held starting from the first Saturday of February. The Kala Ghoda Arts Festival has over 400 events related to the arts, such as theatre, music, dance, literature, movies, etc. Entry to all these events is free and this is the largest free cultural festival in the world.

Please read this article for more information on the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival and art galleries in Mumbai.

Famous Temples in Mumbai

Location: All over Mumbai

Attraction: Religious Significance

From the viewpoint of faith, the most important Hindu temples in Mumbai are the Mumba Devi Temple near Crawford Market (Mumbai is named after Goddess “Mumba Devi”), SIddhi Vinayak Temple in Prabhadevi, Mahalaxmi Temple near Peddar Road and Haji Ali, Babulnath Temple at Girgaum Chowpatty, Banganga, which is a holy pond at Walkeshwar, Sitaladevi Temple at Mahim, Kanyakaparameshwari Temple at Matunga, Kannikaparemashwari Mandir at Matunga. From an aesthetic point of view, the most beautiful temples are the Babu Amichand Panalal Adishwarji Jain Temple at Malabar Hill, ISKCON temples at Girgaum and Juhu.

Please read this article for more information on famous Hindu Temples in Mumbai.

Famous Churches in Mumbai

Location: South and Central Mumbai

Attraction: Beautiful Architecture, Religious Significance

Mumbai has some exquisite churches, most of which were built during the British era. Architecturally the best churches in Mumbai are St. Thomas’s Cathedral at Fort, Cathedral of Holy Name at Colaba (near Regal), RC Church near Navy Nagar, Gloria Church at Byculla, and Mount Mary Basilica at Hill Road in Bandra West. Many churches in Mumbai are frequented by people of all faiths; for instance Father Agnel Church in Bandra gets many Gujrati devotees and St. Michael’s Church at Mahim gets many Maharastrian worshippers.

RELATED ARTICLES:

• Mumbai’s Main Tourist Places and Things To Do
• One Day Walking Tour And Map of Mumbai’s Main Tourist Places
• Top 10 Best Hill Stations Near Mumbai
• Tips for Tourist Visiting Mumbai – Dos and Don’ts
• Boat Trips From Gateway Of India To Elephanta Caves
• Info On Boat From Gateway Of India, Mumbai To Alibaug
• Latest Fare of Mumbai Local Suburban Railway Ticket and Pass
• Latest Mumbai Taxi, Auto Rickshaw Fare
• Latest Mumbai BEST Bus Routes And Fare
• Mumbai’s Marine Drive
• Chowpatty Beach – Mumbai’s Golden Sand Beach
• Mumbai’s Ganesh Chaturthi Festival and Ganpati Idols
• Famous Hindu Temples in Mumbai
• Mumbai’s Navratri Festival, Garba and Dandiya Ras

Listed below are the best and most popular hill stations near Mumbai. Most hill stations around Mumbai are in Maharashtra’s “Sahyadri” mountain range, also known as the “Western Ghats”. The “Western Ghats” is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to over 139 mammal species, 508 birds, 179 amphibians, 288 freshwater fish species and 7,400 flowering plants species. Because of its rich biodiversity, the “Western Ghat” is one of only twenty five biodiversity hotspots in the world. The only other biodiversity hotspot in India is in the North East along the Indo-Myanmar border.

Matheran: Beautiful Eco-Friendly Hill Station

Location: 110 Km from Mumbai and 120 Km from Pune.
Height: 800 meters (2,600 feet) over sea level.
Attraction: Scenic Beauty, Horse Riding, Nature Walks, Pleasant Weather.

The many attractions of Matheran Hill Station include the wonderful views, proximity to Mumbai and Pune, toy train ride from Neral to Matheran, clean air (vehicles are banned in Matheran) and horse riding. Matheran has 38 look-out points which provide amazing views of the surrounding area. Matheran also has 2 lakes which add to its charm. The 20 Km narrow gauge toy train from Neral to Matheran is a tourist delight. The Matheran train started operation in 1907. Matheran is the only hill station in Asia where vehicles are not allowed; so to go from one place to another, there is a lot of walking or horse riding involved. Neral on the Mumbai CST to Karjat route is the closet Central Railway station to Matheran. There are regular train services from Mumbai to Neral. Private cars can be parked at the outskirts of Matheran.

Mahabaleshwar – Maharashtra’s Biggest Hill Station

Location: 270 Km from Mumbai (via Expressway), 226 Km via Mumbai-Kolad- Mahad, and 120 Km from Pune.
Height: 1372 meters (4,500 feet) above sea level.
Attraction: Scenic Beauty, Nature Walks, Pleasant Weather, Boating, Waterfalls.

Mahabaleshwar is located in the Sahyadhri mountain range and it is one of Maharashtra’s largest hill station. Visitors come to Mahabaleshwar to spend time in the hills, to enjoy its scenic beauty and for its lovely weather. There are many scenic “Points” around Mahabaleshwar that have stunning views of hills, forests and valleys; of these the most famous points are Lodwick Point, Arthur’s Seat, Tiger’s Spring, Elephant Point – aka Needle Hole Point, Bombay Point, Wilson Point, Kate’s Point, 3 Monkey Point, etc. Visitors to Mahabaleshwar can enjoy boating at Venna Lake. 24 Km from Mahabaleshwar is one of Maharashtra’s best fort – “Pratapgad Fort”. Built by Shivaji, it was here that he killed Afzal Khan. India’s third longest river, “Krishna River”, starts from the Mahadev Temple in Old Mahabaleshwar. Mahabaleshwar’s Panchganga Mandir is said to contain water of five rivers – Krishna, Koyna, Savitri, Venna, and Gayatri. Mahabaleshwar is especially beautiful during the rainy season, when everything is green and there are many waterfalls. Lingmala Waterfall is a spectacular waterfall that comes alive during the rains. Panchgani Hill Station is 19 Km East of Mahabaleshwar. Expect large crowds, and the accompanying traffic jams during long weekends and holidays.

Please visit this article for road route and travel map from Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar.

Panchgani Is a Charming Old World Hill Station

Location: 250 Km from Mumbai (via Expressway), 245 Km via Mumbai-Mahad-Mahabaleshwar, and 100 Km from Pune.
Height: 1334 meters (4,375 feet) above sea level.
Attraction: Scenic Beauty, Table Top Hill, Nature Walks, Pleasant Weather.

Panchgani means “Panch” (5) “Gani” (Hills). The main tourist attraction of Panchgani is “TableLand”, which is a flat hill top, which offers stunning views of hills and the Krishna River valley. Panchgani’s other main scenic places are Sydney Point, Parsi Point, Devil’s Kitchen and Mapro Garden. Panchgani is well known for its famous boarding schools; Freddie Mercury, the vocalist of the rock group Queen was an alumnus from Panchgani’s Saint Peter’s Boarding School. Old British era houses add to the old world charm of Panchgani. Both Panchgani and nearby Mahabaleshwar are famous for their strawberries and raspberries. “On Wheelz” in Panchgani is an amusement park for both kids and adults. Panchgani’s “Velocity Entertainmentz” has Go-Karting, rides and indoor games.

Please visit this article for road route and travel map from Mumbai to Panchgani.

Lavasa – India’s Newest, Planned Hill Station

Location: 185 Km from Mumbai and 55 Km from Pune.
Height: 640 meters (2100 feet) above sea.
Attraction: Scenic Beauty, Pleasant Weather, Adventure and Water Sports.

Lavasa is India’s newest city and hill station, which is located on the banks of Dasve Lake in the eco sensitive Western Ghats. Tourist attractions at Lavasa include spending time in the hills, nature walks, adventure sports, water sports on the lake, games arcade and indoor golf. In design and style, Lavasa is based on the Italian city of Portofino. Lavasa is planned as a collection of 5 towns built on 7 hills; currently construction is going on in 2 towns – “Dasve” and “Mugaon”. Lavasa has hotels, educational institutions, apartments, villas, water sport facilities, etc.

Malshej Ghat Has Great Views, Picnic Spots, Waterfalls

Location: 135 Km from Mumbai and 120 Km from Pune.
Height: 670 meters (2,200 feet) above sea level.
Attraction: Waterfalls (during monsoon), Scenic Beauty, Flamingoes and Migratory Birds, Forts, Trekking.

Malshej Ghat is a mountain pass that is located where the plains suddenly rise up and form the elevated Deccan plateau. The hills and valley views from Malshej Ghat are majestic. The best time to visit Malshej Ghat is during the rains. There are waterfalls everywhere and the sight is simply amazing. During the Monsoon season Malshej Ghat is among the favourite day trip picnic locations for people from Mumbai and Pune. Just south-east of Malshej Ghat is Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, where flamingoes and other migratory birds visit from November to February. The historical hill fort of Harishchandragad is located a short distance from Malshej Ghat. Shivneri Fort, the birthplace of Chatrapati Shivaji, is 30 Km from Malshej Ghat. 4 Kms from Shivneri is Lenyadri, which has 30 Hinayana Buddhist caves. Word of caution – during the rains there is heavy mist at Malshej Ghat, the roads get slippery, there are landslides and people come onto the roads to bath under waterfalls.

Igatpuri HIll Station – A Mix of Beauty and Spirituality

Location: 130 Km from Mumbai, 200 Km from Pune, 45 Km from Nashik.
Height: 600 meter (2,000 feet) above sea level
Attraction: Scenic Beauty, Vipassana Center, Nature Walks, Trekking, Pleasant Weather, Waterfalls, Forts.

Igatpuri is a hill station on the busy Mumbai-Agra National Highway (NH) 3. Vipassana International Academy, the world’s largest Vipassana meditation center, is located at Dhamma Giri, near Igatpuri. This meditation center has a lovely golden pagoda and it offers free Vipassana meditation courses. The best time to visit Igatpuri is during the Monsoon season because the whole place becomes bright green and visitors can enjoy the many waterfalls in this area. Places to see in and around Igatpuri are Valleys (Bhatsa River Valley, Camel Valley, Konkankada Valley), Waterfalls (Five Igatpuri Waterfalls near Ghatandevi Temple, Randha Falls, Umbrella Falls), Lakes (Bhatsa Lake Valley, Upper Vaitarna, Mukane Reservoir, Tansa Lake, Lake Beale, Kadwa Reservoir, Bhawala, Tringalwadi Dam, Wilson Dam, Arthur Lake, Talegaon Lake), Rivers (Godavari River, Darna River), Forts (Tringalwadi Fort, Ratangadh Fort), Temples (Ghantadevi Mandir, Trimbakeshwar Temple that as one of only twelve Jyotirlingas, Amruteshwar Temple), Nature Reserve (Kalsubai Nature Reserve), Mountain Climbing (Kalsubai Peak – the highest mountain in the Sahyadri range in Maharashtra), Bhandardhra Hill Station, Sula Vineyard, Kasara Ghat.

Note of caution – Igatpuri experiences heavy mist, which makes driving dangerous.

Lonavala, Khandala, Karla: Mumbai’s Closest Hill Stations

Location: 95 Km from Mumbai and 65 Km from Pune.
Height: 624 meters (2,047 feet) above sea level.
Attraction: Scenic Beauty, Buddhist Caves, Nature Walks, Trekking, Pleasant Weather, Waterfalls, Forts.

Lonavla and Khandala are two hill stations which have become popular because of their p[proximity to Mumbai and Pune. As with most hill stations in Maharashtra, the best time to visit Lonavala and Khandala is during the Monsoon when there are numerous waterfalls and greenery everywhere. Main tourist attractions in and around Lonavla and Khandala are its scenic viewing points (Rajmachi Point, Tiger’s Point, Lion Point, Monkey Point, Sunset Point, Duke’s Nose/Naagphani, Shooting Point), Buddhist Caves (Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves, Bedse Caves, Tikona Fort), Waterfalls (Kune Falls, Bhushi Dam, Kataldhar Waterfall), Gardens (Ryewood Park, Shivaji Udyan, Valvan Dam Garden), Lakes and Dams (Tungarli Lake, Valvan Dam), Forts (Lohagad Fort, Visapur Fort, Korigad Fort, Tikona Fort, Tunga Fort, Rajmachi Fort) and Amby Valley City.

Bhandardara Hill Station

Location: 165 Km from Mumbai and Pune, and 75 Km from Nashik.
Height: 915 meters (3,000 feet) above sea level.
Attraction: Scenic Beauty, Dam, Nature Walks, Trekking, Pleasant Weather, Waterfalls.

The central attraction of Bhandardara is Arthur Lake (Bhandardara Lake) and Wilson Dam; both of which are on the Pravara River. When water is released from the dam, it forms an Umbrella shaped waterfall and it is popularly known as the “Umbrella Falls”. Randha Falls is a popular tourist place near Bhandardara. It is located 11 Kms from Bhandardara and offers beautiful views. Maharashtra’s highest mountain peak is Mount Kalsubai (5,400 feet) and it is visible from Bhandardara. Climbers start the trek to Mt Kalsubhai from Bari Village which is 12 Kms from Bhandardara. The trek to Ratangad Fort is popular among visitors to Bhandardara. The beautiful Amruteshwar temple is 22 Kms from Bhandardara. The hill station of Igatpuri is only 45 Kms from Bhandardara. Igatpuri has many tourist places and things to do (please read the section on Igatpuri). The MTDC resort is located on Arthur lake; during the Monsoon it tends to be full so advance booking is recommended.

Jawhar Hill Station and Dabhosa Falls

Location: 160 Km from Mumbai, 260 Km from Pune, 80 Km from Nasik.
Height: 447 meter (1,470 feet) above sea level.
Attraction: Scenic Beauty, Nature Walks, Pleasant Weather, Waterfalls, Royal Palace.

Jawhar is a quaint little hill station that has not yet been fully commercialized. The road leading to Jawhar and Dabhosa Falls passes through ghats and around small lakes. Dabhosa (Dadar Kopara) Waterfall is a perennial fall located 16 Km from Jawhar. Falling from a height of 300 feet Dabhosa is one of the tallest waterfalls in Maharashtra. Other waterfalls around Jawhar are the 100 feet Kalmandavi Waterfall (perennial fall), Palusa Falls and Hiradpada Waterfall. Jawhar is well known for “Warli” artwork, which is done by the large tribal community in and around Jawhar. Jai Vilas Palace (Raj Bari) is a must see place in Jawhar. This pink stone palace was home to the Mukne royals, who were rulers of the princely state of Jawhar. Jawhar has two scenic viewing points – Hanuman Point (Sunrise Point) and Sunset Point, which have beautiful views of the valleys below. Jai Sagar Dam and Lake is a tourist attraction in Jawhar.

Panhala
Location: 375 Km from Mumbai, 230 Km from Pune, 20 Km from Kolhapur.
Height: 754 meter (2,474 feet) above sea level.
Attraction: Panhala Fort, Scenic Beauty, Nature Walks, Historical Significance.

The city of Panhala is built in the historic Panhala Fort. Built between 1178 and 1209 by Raja Bhoj II, Panhala Fort is the largest fort in the Deccan region. Panhala Fort was the Capital of the Maratha State until 1782. Interesting places to visit in Panhala include Ambarkhana (fort’s granary), Ambabai Temple, Teen Darwaja, Sajja Kothi, Sambhaji Temple, Someshwar Tank, Andhar Bav and Nayakini Sajja. A local guide will usually take visitors to 15 points. Located 20 Km Northwest of Kolhapur, Panhala Fort was an important outpost along a key route through the Western Ghats (Sahyadri). The road up the hill to Panhala is scenic, with lovely views of hills. Note of Caution – During holidays, visitors may have to park their vehicle before the city because of heavy rush and limited parking in Panhala.

Map Of Hill Stations Near Mumbai

Click to Enlarge Map of the Best Hill Stations Near Mumbai

RELATED ARTICLES:

• Mumbai’s Top 10 Best And Most Famous Tourist Attractions
• Mumbai’s Main Tourist Places and Things To Do
• Pictures of Western Ghat Hill Stations in the Rain.
• One Day Walking Tour And Map of Mumbai’s Main Tourist Places
• Tips for Tourist Visiting Mumbai – Dos and Don’ts
• Boat Trips From Gateway Of India To Elephanta Caves
• Info On Boat From Gateway Of India, Mumbai To Alibaug
• Latest Fare of Mumbai Local Suburban Railway Ticket and Pass
• Latest Mumbai Taxi, Auto Rickshaw Fare
• Latest Mumbai BEST Bus Routes And Fare
• Mumbai’s Marine Drive
• Chowpatty Beach – Mumbai’s Golden Sand Beach
• Mumbai’s Ganesh Chaturthi Festival and Ganpati Idols
• Famous Hindu Temples in Mumbai
• Mumbai’s Navratri Festival, Garba and Dandiya Ras

Listed below are foods that started in Mumbai. These food dishes originated in Mumbai and are unique to Mumbai.

Pav Bhaji: Wholesome Fast Food From Mumbai

Pav Bhaji is a popular street food that originated in Mumbai/Bombay. The origin of Pav Bhaji can be traced back to Bombay’s textile workers in the 1850s. Pav Bhaji consists of two parts – “Pav”, which is a small bread, and “Bhaji” (Vegetable), which is a mash of potatoes, tomatoes and boiled vegetables such as peas, cauliflower, capsicum/pepper, etc. The mashed vegetables are flavoured with “Pav Bhaji Masala”, which is a spice mix similar to “Garam Masala”, consisting of cumin, coriander powder, pepper, cardamom, dry chilies, cinnamon, cloves, mango powder and fennel seeds. For added flavor, a dollop of butter is added to the “Bhajji”, the bread (“Pav”) is toasted with butter and chopped onions are served on the side. In street stalls and restaurants, Pao Bhaji is usually cooked on a large flat utensil (“Tava”).

Vada Pav: Mumbai’s Version Of The Burger

Vada Pav is a tasty Mumbai street food that is similar to a burger. The patty is called the Vada (or Wada) and is made of coarsely mashed potatoes dipped in “Besan” (Channa Lentil flour) and deep fried. To add flavor to the mashed potato, spices (chili powder, cumin, coriander, mustard seeds, turmeric, garlic, etc) and herbs (chopped coriander leaves) are added. For further flavor, a little green chutney, sweet chutney and a dry red chilli-garlic powder is added to the bread (“Pav” or “Pao”). Wada Pav is quick to prepare and cheap and is usually sold at road side hawker stalls. Most Vada-Pav stalls also serve Samosas with Pav and Bhajias with Pav. Vada Pav originated in Mumbai and is an unique food from Mumbai. “Pav/Pau/Pao” is derived from the Portuguese word for small bread. Mumbai used to be a Portuguese colony before it was handed over to the East India Company.

Chicken Manchurian, Veg Manchurian: Invented In Mumbai

Indians travelling to China and the Far East are surprised that Chicken Manchurian is not a dish on the menu. How can the most popular gravy dish in Indian Chinese restaurants not be on the menu? This is because Chicken Manchurian is the invention of Mumbai chef and restaurateur Nelson Wang. According to legend, Nelson Wang invented Chicken Manchurian in the 1970s, when a customer requested him to serve him something different. Today, most Chinese restaurants in India serve Chicken Manchurian, and its offshoots (Veg Manchurian, Chilly Chicken, Chicken Schezuan, Veg Schezwan, etc). Chicken Manchurian consists of two parts – a Chicken “Pakora” (boneless chicken pieces coated in corn-flour and deep fried) and a dark brown gravy made of garlic, ginger, soya sauce, chilies, salt, sugar and corn flour.

Bhel Puri: This Street Fast Food Originated in Mumbai

Bhel Puri is a snack that was started in Mumbai. Before the advent of Bhel Puri, “Chaat” food dishes were popular in North India. In Mumbai a fusion of the North Indian Chaat and Gujarati snacks occurred and the unique Mumbai Bhel Puri was discovered. Bhel Puri is a mix of Puffed Rice, pieces of boiled potatoes, chopped onions, sweet chutney, green chutney with chillies, sev and a Puri/Papadi (small round deep fried flour). Usually a Bhel Puri seller also sells Ragada Pattice, Sev Puri and Pani Puri. Sev puri is a mix of chopped onions, boiled potatoes, sweet and hot green chutney, sev and seasoning, served on a Puri/Papadi. Mumbai’s Bhel Puri trade is dominated by sellers from UP. “Vithal Bhelwala” near VT station claims to have invented Bhel Puri.

Chinese Bhel: Street Food Created In Mumbai

Chinese Bhel is a food snack that was invented in Mumbai. Recipe for Mumbai’s Chinese Bhel consists of a serving of boiled noodles that are deep fried, mixed with cabbage, onions, green onions, capsicum/pepper, carrots, Schezuan sauce, soya sauce, chili sauce and salt. Just like Bhel Puri, Chinese Bhel is easy to prepare by simply mixing the ingredients together. Road side Chinese Bhel hawker stalls are gaining popularity in Mumbai. This food innovation is now done to other staple foods like dosas, pizzas, etc. Road side dosa makes offer patrons the choice of Chinese dosa, Schezwan Dosa, Kerala Dosa, Mysore Dosa, etc.

Mumbai Pani Puri: Tangier Than The Rest Of India

Pani Puri is a popular street snack in Mumbai. A puri (hollow, small, round, thin, deep fried flour) is filled with sweet tamarind chutney, tangy water and a filling of either Ragda or potato or boiled dal or onions. Although Pani Puri is not a Mumbai invention, what makes the Mumbai Pani Puri unique is the tang and bite in the water and the use of warm “Ragda” (small white chick pea) as a filling in the puri. Different versions of Pani Puri are popular throughout North India, East India, Nepal, Pakistan and Bangladesh. The equivalent of the Panipuri is called the “Gol Gappa” in North India, “Bataasha” in Western UP, “Phuchka” in West Bengal/East India/Bangladesh, “Phulki” in Bihar, “Gup Chup” in Odisha, and “Pakodi” in Gujarat. Many Mumbai Pani Puri stalls also sell Ragda-Pattise, Bhel Puri, Sev Puri and Dahi Puri.

Prawn Koliwada And Fish Koliwada: Cuisine From Mumbai

The dishes of “Prawn Koliwada” and “Koliwada Fish” were first introduced in the small restaurants in Mumbai’s Guru Tegh Bahadur Nagar (GTB). GTB Nagar was previously called Sion Koliwada, hence these dishes are called Koliwada Prawns/Fish. Mumbai’s GTB Nagar has a large population of Sikhs and Punjabis and is sometimes referred to as Mumbai’s mini-Punjab. After partition, refugees from Pakistan were housed in this area. Many of the restaurants and eating places in GTB Nagar are run by Sardars and Punjabis. Prawn Koliwada was invented in one such restaurant. Prawns and fish are marinated in the special Koliwada batter and deep fried. The Koliwada marinate imparts a typical red colour and is made of flour, red chili powder, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, lemon juice, yogurt, fennel powder and salt. Amritsari Fish from Punjab also has a similar marinate.

Mumbai Sandwich: Popular Street Fast Food

The recipe of the Mumbai Sandwich is simple; butter and green mint chutney is spread on two slices of bread and slices of cucumber, boiled potato, tomato, onion and beetroot are placed between the breads. What makes the Mumbai Sandwich unique is the large number of road side hawkers selling this sandwich. This sandwich is popular because it is nutritious, filling, hygienic, quick to make and cheap. With time sandwich makers have introduced new variants, like the grilled sandwich, masala sandwich, Chinese sandwich, chili sandwich, samosa sandwich, etc.

Frankie: Mumbai’s Tasty Wrap

Tibb’s Frankie was started by Mr Amarjit Singh Tibb. In 1967, Mr Tibb travelled to Beirut, where he was introduced to the Lebanese food custom of putting stuffing in pita bread. Back in Bombay, Tibb and his wife experimented and came up with the Tibb’s Frankie. A Frankie is a flour wrap rolled with chicken/mutton/vegetable stuffing, chopped onions, vinegar, chilies, tamarind water and a tangy masala powder. Tibb’s Frankie is a registered brand name, but there are many food stalls around Mumbai that sell similar wraps. Kolkata has its Kathi Roll and Mumbai has its Frankie.

Parsi And Irani Restaurant Food: Unique To Mumbai

Parsi food is a mix of Persian and Gujarati cuisines. Parsi Restaurants (Britannia and Co) and Irani Restaurants (Kayani Café, Yazdani Restaurant & Bakery, Sassanian Boulangerie) have been an important part of Mumbai’s food scene. Even though Parsee food is not unique to Mumbai; this cuisine has been added to this list because Mumbai has the largest population of Parsis in the world. Mumbai residents have a soft spot for the old school Parsi/Irani restaurants. Interesting Parsee/Irani dishes include Patra-ni-machhi (steamed marinated fish, wrapped in a banana leaf), Saas-ni-machhi (fish fillet in white gravy), Dhamsak (Mutton/Chicken/Vegetable in a 4 lentil gravy) with brown rice, Salli Boti (Meat gravy garnished with matchstick style potato fries), Chicken Farcha (fried chicken), Akuri (scrambled eggs), Lagan-nu-custard (caramel custard), shrewsberry biscuits, etc.

RELATED ARTICLES:

• Mumbai’s Top 10 Best And Most Famous Tourist Attractions
• Mumbai’s Main Tourist Places and Things To Do
• One Day Walking Tour And Map of Mumbai’s Main Tourist Places
• Tips for Tourist Visiting Mumbai – Dos and Don’ts
• Boat Trips From Gateway Of India To Elephanta Caves
• Info On Boat From Gateway Of India, Mumbai To Alibaug
• Top 10 Best Hill Stations Near Mumbai
• Latest Fare of Mumbai Local Suburban Railway Ticket and Pass
• Latest Mumbai Taxi, Auto Rickshaw Fare
• Latest Mumbai BEST Bus Routes And Fare
• Mumbai’s Marine Drive
• Chowpatty Beach – Mumbai’s Golden Sand Beach
• Mumbai’s Ganesh Chaturthi Festival and Ganpati Idols
• Famous Hindu Temples in Mumbai
• Mumbai’s Navratri Festival, Garba and Dandiya Ras

Listed below are the flood risk dates (high tide over 4.5 meter) for 2015 Monsoon in Mumbai. Also listed are the latest water levels in Mumbai’s lakes in 2015 and the Actual Vs Normal rainfall in 2015 in Mumbai.

June 2015 has been the wettest June month in Mumbai (please see below for details). Ironically last year June 2014 was the driest and July 2014 was the wettest month in Mumbai.

Flood Risk Dates In 2015 Mumbai Monsoon Due to High Tide Over 4.5M

On June 19, 2015, there was flooding in many parts of Mumbai. Schools, colleges, local trains (Western, Central, Harbour Railway), most offices and business establishments remained closed. Flooding in Mumbai on 19 June happened because of heavy rain, sea high tide level of 4.6 meters (please see details below) and what seems like inadequate preparedness of the BMC. From June 18 to June 19 morning, Mumbai Colaba received 209 mm of rain and Mumbai Santacruz received 283 mm of rain.

In Mumbai rain water flows into the Arabian Sea through the drain system. When high tide in the sea is over 4.5 meters, there is danger of sea water entering Mumbai via the drain pipes. In such situations Mumbai’s Municipal Corporation (BMC) closes the storm drains. When this happens, there is no exit for Mumbai’s rain water. When rainfall is heavy and high tide is over 4.5 meters, there is a high probability of flooding in Mumbai.

Listed below are the 36 flood risk dates and time when Mumbai is at risk of flooding during the 2015 Monsoon season.

JUNE 2015: Risky High Tide Dates During 2015 Mumbai Rains

JULY 2015: Flood Risk High Tide Dates in 2015 Mumbai Rainy Season

AUGUST 2015: Flood Risk High Tide Dates During Mumbai Monsoon

SEPTEMBER 2015: Dangerous High Tide Dates in 2015 Mumbai Rains

Latest Water Levels In Mumbai’s Lakes

Listed below are the latest 2015 water levels in the lakes that supply water to Mumbai city.

[Mcum = Million Cubic Metre]

Before the start of the monsoon, except for Modak Sagar and Middle Vaitarna, the water in Mumbai’s lakes was less than the 5 year average.

Mumbai’s Daily Water Requirements And Water From Mumbai’s Lakes

• Mumbai City’s daily water requirement is 4,200 million liters. Mumbai’s Municipality (BMC) supplies only 3,500 to 3,750 million liters of water per day. The gap between demand and supply is met by tankers, wells, bore wells, rain water harvesting, etc.
• Formula used by BMC to determine daily water requirement in Mumbai is 135 litres per person in housing societies, 45 litres per person in slums (almost 50% of Mumbai),135 litres per hotel bed and 70 litres per restaurant table.
• With a capacity to filter 2,100 million liters of water per day, the Bhandup water treatment plant is the largest such treatment plant in Asia.
• 7 lakes that supply water to Mumbai are Bhatsa Lake, Upper Vaitarna,Middle Vaitarna,,Tansa Lake, ModakSagar Lake, TulsiLake and ViharLake. The total annual water capacity of these 7 lakes is 14,47,000 million liters. Of these 7 lakes, only Tulsi Lake and Vihar Lake are within Mumbai city.
• Damanganga – Wagh – Pinjal water linking project and the Gargai project are the major new projects to increase water supply to Mumbai. For the Damanganga–Wagh-Pinjal Project, water from Damanganga River (in Gujarat), Wagh River and Pinjal River (both in Maharashtra) will be diverted to Mumbai using 3 dams and 2 tunnels. This will augment Mumbai’s water supply by a massive 1,600 million liters per day. An additional 865 million liters per day will be supplied once the Pinjal Dam is complete. The Gargai Dam project will increase Mumbai’s daily water supply by 227 million liters.
• Navi Mumbai gets water from Dehrang Dam in Panvel and Pune gets water from Panshet Dam and Khadakwasla Dam.

Latest Mumbai Rainfall Level: Actual Vs Normal Rain in Mumbai

Table contains the latest 2015 rainfall level in Mumbai. Table has the Actual Rainfall Vs Average (Normal) Rainfall in Mumbai.

• 2015 June month has seen the maximum rainfall in Mumbai of any June month, ever since BMC has been keeping records of Mumbai’s rainfall. BMC has rainfall records from 1951.
• June 2014 was the driest June month in Mumbai since 1951. July 2014 on the other hand was the wettest July month in Mumbai since 1951.
• Every year Colaba (South Mumbai) gets an annual average of 2160 millimeters of rain and Santacruz (Central Mumbai) gets an annual average of 2350 millimeters of rain.

RELATED ARTICLES:

• Pictures of Mumbai Hill Stations in the Rain
• Low Lying Areas in Mumbai that are at risk of flooding
• Top 10 Best Hill Stations Near Mumbai

2016 Public Holidays, Bank Holidays and Government Holidays in Maharashtra, Mumbai and India are listed below.

With 8 holidays on either Monday or Friday, there are many long weekends in 2016.

2016 Bank, Public Holiday Dates in Mumbai and Maharashtra

Listed below are the dates of Bank Holidays, Public Holidays and Government Holidays in Mumbai and Maharashtra, in the year 2016.

2016 List Of Holidays In Maharashtra And Mumbai

Bank Holidays in 2016 in Maharashtra, Mumbai and India

Holidays In 2016 In India That Fall On Sunday

• Best and Most Famous Ganpati Idols in Mumbai in 2014
• Best and Most Famous Ganpati Idols in Mumbai in 2013
• Best and Most Famous Ganpati Idols in Mumbai in 2012
• Navratri and Garba Celebrations in Mumbai
• Top 10 Hill Stations Near Mumbai and Pune
• Mumbai’s Top 10 Best And Most Famous Tourist Attractions
• 2015 Dates of Public and Bank Holidays in Mumbai, Maharashtra

This is a list of the best waterfalls near Mumbai and Pune. Most waterfalls near Mumbai and Pune are in the hilly Western Ghat (“Sahyadri”) mountain range. Most of these waterfalls are not perennial and are only formed during the Monsoon season.

Mulshi Dam Falls – Ashtdhara Waterfall and Palshe Water Fall

LOCATION: Mulshi Dam and Palase Village

Area around Mulshi Dam (on Mula River) is a beautiful green valley. Mulshi Dam is a Must-Visit place during the rainy season. There are clouds everywhere and many waterfalls dot the landscape. On the road to Palshe (or Palase) village, eight waterfalls in a row cascade down from the mountain. These are called the Ashtdhara Waterfalls. These waterfalls combine and form one large waterfall. Valne Ghat offers an amazing view of Mulsi Dam. Other attractions near Mulshi Dam include Lavasa, Pavana Lake, Tamhini Waterfall and Amby Valley.

Further from Mulshi Dam is Tamhini Ghat, which is a 15 Km mountain pass in the Sahyadri that connects Mulshi, Lavasa and Pune with the North Konkan region. There are dense forests along Tamhini Ghat and during the monsoon season many waterfalls are formed along the Tamhini Ghat road.

Malshej Ghat – Excellent Destination In The Monsoon

LOCATION: Malshej Ghat

Malshej Ghat is a “Must Visit” place during the Monsoon season. On the road to Malshej Ghat one leaves the plains in the west and climbs onto the hilly elevated Deccan Plateau. The scenic beauty of Malshej Ghat and the Sahyadri Hills (Western Ghats) is stunning; more so during the rainy season when there is greenery and waterfalls all around. In the monsoon, there are numerous waterfalls for visitors to get wet under. All vehicles get wet under waterfalls near the famous Malshej Ghat Tunnel. The MTDC hotel at the top of Malshej Ghat Mountain pass offers among the best views. A short distance South East of Malshej Ghat is Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, which receives flamingoes and other migratory birds between November and February. Other tourist attractions near Malshej Ghat are Shivneri Fort (birth place of Shivaji Maharaj), Lenyadri (Buddhist Caves) and Harishchandragad Fort.

NOTE: During the monsoons, be cautious of clouds of the road, mist, people bathing under waterfalls on the road, rock fall and slippery road.

Igatpuri Waterfalls

LOCATION: Igatpuri, near Ghatandevi Temple

Located at the end of Thal Ghat near Kasara, Igatpuri offers beautiful views of mountains and valleys. The magic of monsoons brings greenery and waterfalls to this hilly area. Near the Ghatandevi Temple (Goddess who protects the Ghats), are a series of 5 waterfalls which are a popular tourist attraction during the rains. Other keys attractions at Igatpuri are Dhamma Giri Meditation Centre (Pagoda that offer Vipassana meditation courses), Camel Valley, Bhatsa River Valley, Tringalwadi Fort and Tringalwadi Lake. 7 kms from the highway near Kasara town is a left that goes under a railway track; 4 Kms further on this road is the Vihigaon waterfall (13 Km before Igatpuri). Vihigaon waterfall is formed during the rains when the village pond overflows over the hill. Visitors can enjoy rappelling and rock climbing on Sundays when the waterfall is flowing. Visitors driving to Igatpuri from Pune, via Malshej Ghat, have the opportunity to visit two scenic hill stations.

Bushi Dam Waterfall, Lonavala – Popular Day Picnic Place

LOCATION: Jalvaayu Marg, Lonavala, 6.5 Km from Lonavala Railway Station, 5.5 Km from Old Mumbai-Pune Highway, 8 Km from Expressway Exit at Lonavala

This is not a natural waterfall but created during the Monsoon when water from Bushy Dam overflows on the steps on the side of the dam. It is a relatively safe place to enjoy a waterfall experience and hence it is a great place for families with young kids. During rains, expect large crowds on weekends and holidays. Short distances from Bushi Dam are small natural waterfalls which are also popular with visitors. Combine a visit to Bhushi Dam with the other attractions of Lonavala – Khandala (Tiger Point, Kune Falls, Pavana Lake, etc) and this becomes a great day trip for the family.

NOTE: Do not swim in the dam. Every year people drown in this dam. Expect large crowds, some unruly, on holidays.

Thoseghar Waterfall, Satara

LOCATION: 25 Kms South-West of Satara, near Tarali Dam

Thoseghar Waterfalls is a waterfall 25 Kms South-West of Satara and on the Eastern edge of Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary. Thoseghar Waterfall is among the tallest waterfalls in India. A concrete viewing platform has been constructed from where visitors can view Thoseghar Waterfall. The main attraction of Thoseghar Waterfall is the drive to the waterfall, the scenic beauty around the falls and the wind farms (Chalkewadi) near the fall. Other attractions near Thoseghar and Satara are Kas Plateau Valley, also known as Valley of Flowers, Kas Lake, Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, Vajrai Waterfall, Koyna Dam, Bamnoli Boat Club (boating), Tapole (boating), Ajinkyatara Fort, Sajjangad Fort (Samadhi of Chatrapati Shivaji), Nandgiri (Kalyangad) Fort,

NOTE: Visitors can not bathe under Thoseghar Waterfalls.

Vajrai Waterfall, Bhambavali, Satara

LOCATION: Near Kaas Lake, Kaas Road, 27 Kms West of Satara

Vajrai Waterfall is among the few perennial waterfalls in Maharashtra. With a height of 850+ feet, Vajraj Waterfall is also among the tallest waterfalls in Maharashtra. Vajrai Waterfalls is located 5 Km from the amazing Kas Plateau Valley (“Valley of Flowers”); it is also close to Kaas Lake and Bhambavli village. Vajrai Waterfall is 27 Kms from Satara, 140 Kms from Pune and 282 Km from Mumbai. During the rainy season, the entire region near the waterfall becomes green. Tourist interested in exploring the Vajrai Waterfalls and the area around it can hire a guide from Bhambavli village. Please see the above description of Thoseghar Waterfall for information on attractions near Vajrai Waterfall and Satara.

NOTE: The water under Vajrai Waterfall is deep, so bathing is not advisable.

Bhivpuri Waterfall – Easy To Reach From Mumbai And Pune

LOCATION: Near Bhivpuri Train Station on the CST-Karjat Suburban Line

Bhivpuri Waterfalls offers a wonderful waterfall, a nice trek, lovely hills and ample greenery. Falling for a tall height, visitors can enjoy a bath under Bhivpuri Waterfall. Bhivpuri Waterfalls is popular with Mumbai picnickers because it is relatively easy to reach; even for those without a vehicle. Bhivpuri Railway station is on the Central Railway’s CST-Karjat Suburban Local Train Line. It is located between Neral and Karjat stations. Visitors travelling by train can get off either at Karjat or Bhivpuri Railway Station and take an auto to the Bhivpuri Waterfalls, which are 3 Km from Bhivpuri Station. Tata Power has a hydro-electricity plant near Bhivpuri. 26 Kms South are the Zenith Waterfalls, near Khapoli, and 15 Kms north are the Vangani Waterfalls.

NOTE: The trek from Bhivpuri station to Bhivpuri Waterfall can be a little challenging for the elderly.

Chinchoti Waterfall, Tungareshwar Waterfall

LOCATION: In Tungareshwar National Park, 12 Kms East of Vasai Road Station

Located in the Tungareshwar National Park, Chinchoti Waterfalls are also called Tungareshwar Waterfalls. Since these waterfalls are in a National Park, the area is covered with dense trees. Chinchoti Waterfall is located at a height of 2000+ feet. It’s an adventurous trek from the base of the hill to the Chinchoti Waterfall (Tungareshwar Waterfall). There is one large waterfall and many smaller waterfalls. Tunganeshwar Waterfall is located 6 Kms from the Mumbai-Ahmadabad highway (near Sativali village) and 12 Kms from Vasai Railway Station. Auto-rickshaws are available till Sitaram Bapu Mandir, which is the starting point of the trek. Tungareshwar Temple is a famous Hindu temple in the hills, near the falls. Kamandurg Peak is another attraction near the falls.

NOTE: Every year there are reports of deaths of visitors to Tungareshwar, because of the terrain. Do be cautious.

Lingmala Waterfall – Mahableshwar’s Most Famous Fall

LOCATION: On the Mahabaleshwar-Panchgani road.

During the monsoon, Mahabaleshwar is a hill station of breath-taking beauty. The green hills, the cool climate, the greenery around and numerous waterfalls, make Mahableshwar a magical place in the rainy season. Lingmala Waterfall is one the most famous falls in and around Mahabalehwar. The Venna River is the source of Lingmala Falls. Lingmala Waterfall is situated 6 Kms from Mahableshwar along the Mahabaleshwar-Panchgani road. A large part of the attraction of Lingmala is the route to the falls, which is via a forest and over a series of steps. Other popular waterfalls near Mahabaleshwar are Dhobi Waterfall, Bhilar Waterfall, Mandakani Waterfalls, Ale’s Waterfall, Kelghar Falls, Needle Point Falls, and Chinaman’s Waterfall.

NOTE: During the monsoon, expect large crowds on weekends and holidays.

NOTE: Visitors can not bathe in this waterfall.

Zenith Waterfalls, Khapoli

LOCATION: Near Zenith Factory, Khopoli

Zenith Waterfall is a popular destination during the rains, because of its proximity to Mumbai and Pune and the ease of reaching the falls. Zenith Waterfall is a 40 minute walk from Khopoli Railway Station. To reach Zenith Fall, one has to wade through a shallow stream and walk through a forest area. All this adds to the charm of Zenith Waterfall. Once the monsoon is over, visitors can enjoy rappelling and rock climbing here.

NOTE: Expect large crowds on holidays. Do be cautious of the waterfall that comes down with force, the slippery rocks and the pond that is formed at the base of the fall.

PLEASE NOTE: Waterfalls can be dangerous because of landslides, rock fall, slippery surface, deep waters, etc. Please be cautious.

NOTE: The above list is based on the views of the author.

Map of the Best Waterfalls Near Mumbai And Pune

This map has the location of the best waterfalls near Mumbai and Poona.

List of Waterfalls in Maharashtra

• Kune Waterfall – (Near Duke at Khandala, District Pune)
• Rajmachi Waterfall – (Near Khandala, District Pune)
• Tiger Falls – (Near Lonavala, District Pune)
• Bushi Dam – (Near Lonavala, District Pune)
• Tamhini Waterfalls – (Tamhini Ghat, District Pune)
• Gavlideo Hill Fall – (Thane – Belapur Road, District Thane)
• Bhivpuri Waterfall – (Bhivpuri, District Thane)
• Dabhosa Waterfall – (Near Jawhar, District Thane)
• Chinchoti (Tungareshwar) Waterfall – (Tungareshwar, Near Vasai, District Thane)
• Zenith Waterfall – (Khopoli, District Thane)
• Malsej Ghat Waterfalls – (Malshej Ghat, District Thane)
• Usarvardhane Waterfall – (Near Kansai Village, District Thane)
• Vihigaon Waterfall – (Vihigaon, Near Itarsi, District Thane)
• Tigher Waterfall – (Near Karjat, District Thane)
• Pandavkada Fall – (Kharghar, District Raigad)
• Peb Waterfall – (Road to Matheran, District Raigad)
• Tapalwadi Fall – (Road to Matheran, District Raigad)
• Garambi Waterfall – (Near Murud, District Raigad)
• Ramdharneshwar Waterfall – (Near Alibag, District Raigad)
• Sawatkada Waterfall – (Near Alibag, District Raigad)
• Lingamala Waterfall – (Mahabaleshwar – Panchgani Road, District Satara)
• Bhilar Waterfall – (Mahabaleshwar – Panchgani Road, District Satara)
• Needle Point Waterfall – (Mahabaleshwar – Panchgani Road, District Satara)
• Mandakini Waterfall – (Near Mahabaleshwar, District Satara)
• Ale’s Waterfall – (Near Mahabaleshwar, District Satara)
• Dhobi Falls – (Near Mahabaleshwar, District Satara)
• Kelghar Waterfall – (Near Mahabaleshwar, District Satara)
• Chinaman’s Waterfall – (Near Mahabaleshwar, District Satara)
• Thoseghar Waterfall – (Thoseghar, near Satara, District Satara)
• Vajrai Waterfall – (Near Kaas Lake, District Satara)
• Chirkehind Waterfall – (Ambenali Ghat, District Satara)
• Ozarde Waterfall – (Nawaja, Near Koynanagar, District Satara)
• Dudhsagar Waterfall – (Near Nasik, District Nashik)
• Dugarwadi Waterfall – (Near Trimbakeshwar, District Nashik)
• Marleshwar Waterfall – (Near Devrukh, District Ratnagiri)
• Nivali Falls – (Near Dhamani, District Ratnagiri)
• Dodhvne Tivre Falls – (Near Sangameshwar, District Ratnagiri)
• Sawatkada Waterfall – (Chiplun, District Ratnagiri)
• Kandhar Waterfall – (Kandhar, District Sangli)
• Randha Falls – (Near Bhandardara, District Ahmednagar)
• Umbrella Falls – (Bhandardara, District Ahmednagar)
• Bhildari Valley Waterfalls – (Kannad, District Aurangabad)
• Barki Waterfall – (Near Barki Reservior, District Kolhapur)
• Palsambe Waterfall – (Palsambe, District Kolhapur)
• Ramatirth Waterfall – (Near Ajara, District Kolhapur)
• Berki Waterfall – (Near Gaganbawda, District Kolhapur)
• Napne Falls – (District Sindhudurg)
• Amboli Ghat Falls – (Amboli Ghat, District Sindhudurg)
• Nagartas Waterfall – (Amboli Ghat, District Sindhudurg)
• Vyaghreshwar waterfall – (District Sindhudurg)
• Savdav Waterfall – (Near Kankavli, District Sindhudurg)
• Chinchghar Waterfall – (Near Nandgaon, District Sindhudurg)
• Sahastrakund Waterfall – (Near Himayatnagar, District Nanded)

RELATED ARTICLES:

• Mumbai’s Top 10 Best And Most Famous Tourist Attractions
• Mumbai’s Top 10 Best Tourist Attractions And Things To Do
• Mumbai Top 10 Best Hill Stations
• Mumbai Top 10 Best Attractions Near Mumbai
• One Day Walking Tour And Map of Mumbai’s Main Tourist Places
• Mumbai’s Tourist Places and Things to do for Families with Kids
• Mumbai’s Main Tourist Attractions And Things To Do
• Famous Hindu Temples And Places Of Worship In Mumbai
• Mumbai’s Beaches and Sea Related Attractions

Dates of Ganesh Chaturthi and Ganpati Visarjan in 2015

1. 17 September, 2015 (Thursday): Start of Ganesh Chaturthi (Ganesh Festival) when Ganesh Idols are installed at homes and in Ganesh pandals. Ganesh Utsav starts on Shukla Chaturthi in the Hindu month of “Bhaadrapada”.
2. 18 September, 2015 (Friday): Ganesh Visarjan of Ganapati statues after 1 day. Many Ganpati idols that are brought to residential homes are immersed on this day. 95% of Ganesh murtis in Mumbai are installed in residential homes.
3. 21 September, 2015 (Monday): Gauri Visarjan when idols of Goddess Gauri (Parvati, mother of Ganesha) are immersed. The richest Ganesh Idol in the world, GSB Seva Mandal’s Ganpati, is immersed on the 5th day of Ganesh Chaturti.
4. 27 September, 2015 (Sunday): Final date of Ganesh Visarjan (Immersion), which falls on “Anant Chaturdashi” in the Hindu month of “Bhaadrapada”. Most of Mumbai’s biggest and most famous Ganesh Idols are immersed in the sea on this day.

Famous Ganesh Idols and Ganpati Mandals in Mumbai

This is a list of the best and most famous Ganpati idols and Ganesh Mandals in Mumbai. These famous Mumbai Ganesh Idols can be located on the map below.

• GSB Seva Mandal’s Ganesh Murti located at G.S.B. Sports Club Ground, King Circle. This is Mumbai’s and the world’s richest Ganesh Mandal.
• “Lalbaugcha Raja” (Lalbaug) Ganpati managed by “Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganesh Mandal”
• “Mumbaicha Raja” (Ganesh Gali, Lalbaug) Ganesh Murti managed by “Lalbaug Sarvajanik Utsav Mandal”
• “Khetwadicha Ganraj” Ganpati Idol is located at Khetwadi Lane 12 and is managed by “12th Khetwadi Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal”
• “Mumbaicha Maharaja” Ganpati Murti is located at Khetwadi Lane 11 and is managed by “Mumbai Cha Maharaja Sarvajanik GaneshOtsav Mandal”
• “Khetwadicha Raja” Ganesh Idol is located at Khetwadi Khambata Lane and is managed by “Khambata Road Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal”
• “Bappa Khetwadicha” Ganesh Murti is located at Khetwadi Lane 10 and is managed by “Om Tandav Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal”
• “Parelcha Raja” Ganesh Murti is located at Nare Park and is managed by “Parel Vibhag Sarvajanik Geneshutsav Mandal”
• “Ladka Lambodar Ganpati” Gampati Moorti is located at Rangari Badak Chawl, Kalachowki, and is managed by “Rangari Badak Chawl Ganpati Mandal”
• “Chinchpokli Cha Chintamani” Ganesh Idol is located at Chinchpokli and is managed by “Chinchpokli Sarvajanik Utsav Mandal”
• “Raja Tejukayacha” Ganapati Idol is located at Lalbagh and is managed by “Tejukaya Sarvajanik Ganesh Ustov Mandal Trust”
• “Tulsiwadi Cha Maharaja” Ganpati Murti is located at Tardeo and is managed by “Tulsiwadi Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal”
• “Kamatipuracha Chintamani Ganesh” is located at Kamatipura and is managed by the “Kamathipura Sarvajanik Ganeshutsav Mandal”
• “Dongri Cha Raja” Ganesh Idol is located at Dongri in Central Mumbai and is managed by “Chinch Bunder Dongri Sarvajanik Ganeshutsav Mandal”
• “Fort Cha Raja” Ganesha Idol is located at GPO in Fort and is managed by “Shree Balgopal Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal”
• Chandanwadi Chira Bazaar Ganesh Idol is managed by “Akhil Chandanwadi Sarvajanik Ganeshustav Mandal”
• “Vile Parle Vishwacha Raja” Ganpati Idol is located at Vile Parle (East) and is managed by “Bal Mitra Mandal Vile Parle”
• “Vile Parle Cha Samrat” Ganesh Statue is located opposite Bhuta High school at Vile Parle (East)
• “Navsala Pavnara Vasaicha Maharaja” Ganpati Statue is located at Anand Nagar, Vasai, and is managed by “Anand Nagar Sarvajanik Geneshutsav Mandal”
• “Navasala Pavnara Ganpati” or “Andhericha Raja” Ganesh is managed by “Azad Nagar Sarvajanik Utsav Samiti”
• “Andheri Telli Galli Cha Samrat” Ganpati Idol is located at Telli Gali in Andheri and is managed by “Lokmanya Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal”
• “Currey Road Cha Kaivari” Ganesh Murti is located at Currey Road and is managed by “Balgopal Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal”
• Ganesh Murti at Bori Chawl in Chira Bazar, which is managed by “Bal Gopal Mitra Mandal Bori Chawl”
• “Navi Mumbai Ka Raja” Ganesh Idol is located at Shree Ramtanumata Marg, Turbhe, Navi Mumbai is managed by “Shivchhaya Mitra Mandal”
• Lodha Foundation’s Ganpati Idol located at Mumbai’s Gilder Tank Ground at Grant Road (East)
• Ganpati Murti of Sahyadri Krida Mandal, located at Tilak Nagar in Chembur

Map Of Famous Ganpati Idols And Ganesh Mandals In Mumbai

Ganesh Chaturthi And Ganpati Festival In Mumbai

Nowhere in the world is Ganesh Festival (“Ganeshutsav”) celebrated with the passion and on the scale as it is in Mumbai.

It is estimated that around 200,000 Ganpati Idols are installed and worshipped during the 11 day Ganesha Festival. Around 955 of Ganesh Murtis are bought by individuals for their homes. The balance 5% Ganesh Idols are large statues that are installed in community “Pandals”.

Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations are unique in Mumbai because it a community event, which is why it is called “Sarvajanik Ganeshutsav”. Around 10,500 Sarvajanik Ganesh Mandals are registered in Mumbai and its suburbs. These Sarvajanik Mandals are given permission to install Ganesh Murtis in Pandals on public roads and open spaces.

This form of special community Ganesh Festival celebrations was first introduced in Mumbai in 1893 by the legendary freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak. He used Ganeshotsav to spread the message of freedom from the British and to unite Indians.

Mumbai Ganesh Visarjan Route, Locations and Map

Please click on the below links for route and map of the main Ganpati Visarjan (Immersion) locations in Mumbai.

• South Mumbai (Chowpatty)
• Detailed Chowpatty Map
• Lalbaug Cha Raja Route
• Dadar and Shivaji Park
• Juhu Beach
• Versova Beach
• Bhujale Talao (Malad West)
• Aksa Beach, Marve Beach
• Gorai Jetty, Borivali (West)
• Sheetal Talao, Kurla (West)
• Powai Lake, Pawarwadi

RELATED ARTICLES:

• Pictures of Ganpati Idols and Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai in 2014
• Pictures of 2013 Ganpati Idols and Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai
• Pictures of 2012 Ganesh Idols in Mumbai
• Ganpati Visarjan in Mumbai: Location and Route Map
• Navratri Festival and Garba in Mumbai
• Famous Hindu Temples and Places of Worship in Mumbai

Mumbai Ganesh Visarjan (Immersion) Route, Map and Location

The main Ganpati Visarjan (Immersion) routes in Mumbai are listed below.

South Mumbai and Chowpatty Route and Map for Ganesh Immersion

(Please click on “South Mumbai and Chowpatty” Ganpati Visarjan Route Map to Enlarge)

Chowpatty Beach (Girgaon) Ganesh Visarjan (Immersion) Road Route

(To see a large Girgaon Chowpatty Beach Immersion Map, Please Click on the Visarjan Route Map)

Lalbaughcha Raja Visarjan Route from Lalbaug To Girgaon Chowpatty

(Please click on Lalbaughcha Raja Visarjan Route Map to Enlarge)

Ganesh Visarjan Road Route for Dadar Chowpatty and Shivaji Park

(Please click on Central Mumbai, Dadar Chowpatty and Shivaji Park Ganpati Visarjan Map to Enlarge)

Juhu Beach Ganesha Visarjan (Immersion) Road Route amd Directions

(Please click on above Map to view a Large image of the Juhu Beach Visarjan Route)

Versova Beach Route and Direction for Ganpati Visarjan (Immersion)

(Please click on map to enlarge road route map for Ganesh Visarjan at Versova Beach, Mumbai)

Ganpati Immersion (Visrjan) Route for Bhujale Talao, Malad (West)

(Please click on above Malad Ganpati Visarjan Map to Enlarge)

Ganpati Visarjan Route for Aksa and Marve Beach in Malad (West)

(To see a large Ganesh Immersion Map, please click on above Aksa Beach, Marve Beach Map)

Gorai Jetty and Borivali (West) Ganesh Visarjan Road Route and Map

(Please click on above Gorai Jetty and Borivali (West) Ganpati Visarjan Route Map to Enlarge)

Ganpati Visarjan Road Route for Sheetal Talao (Pond), Kurla (West)

(To enlarge, please click on Ganpati Visarjan Road Route Map for Sheetal Talao, Kurla)

Ganpati Visarjan Route Map for Powai Lake, Ganesh Ghat, Pawarwadi

(To enlarge, please click on Ganesh Visarjan Route Map for Powai Lake, Ganesh Ghat and Pawarwadi)

Note: Many of these maps have been taken from Mumbai Police website.

Pictures of Ganpati Visarjan (Immersion) in Mumbai

(Please Click on above Mumbai Ganpati Visarjan Photos to Enlarge)

Pictures of Ganesh Visarjan (Immersion) in Mumbai

(Click on Image to Enlarge)

RELATED ARTICLES:

• Phots of Mumbai’s Best and Most Famous Ganpatis in 2014
• Famous and Best Mumbai Ganpati Idols during Ganesh Chaturthi 2013
• Best Ganesh Idols in Mumbai in 2012
• Famous Hindu Temples in Mumbai

Navratri is a 9 day Hindu festival for Goddess Durga (Shakti). Navratri is one of the biggest festivals among Mumbai’s Gujarati community, which constitutes 19% of the population.

Mumbai’s Most Famous and Best Navratri (Dandiya, Garba) Locations

Listed below are some of Mumbai’s biggest and most famous venues and organizers of “Dandya Raas” and “Garba”:

• Police Parade Ground, Ghatkopar East – Falguni Pathak and her Dandiya group “Ta Thaiya” will perform here in 2015. Seasonal Entry Pass cost Rs 2,280 and daily Garba ticket ranges from Rs 500 to Rs 1,140. 2015 Navratri Mahotsav Raas Garba is organized by Ghatkopar Gujrati Samaj.
• Somaiya College Ground, Vidyavihar (East) – Film singer Divya Kumar will perform here in 2015. Season Pass cost Rs 1,500 and daily ticket range from Rs 200 to Rs 400.
• Kora Kendra Ground, Haridas Nagar, Borivali (West) – Nilesh Thakkar and Chetan Gadhavi will perform here during 2015 Navratri. Organizer of Korakendra Navratri celebration is “Naidu Club” and the seasonal ticket is Rs 4,500 (VIP, AC lounge) and Rs 3,150 (Regular); daily ticket range from Rs 300 to 630.
• Pushpanjali Garden Ground, Borivali (West) – Sisters Preety and Pinky will perform in this new venue in 2015. 30,000 Garba dancers can dance at this venue. Dandiya Season Pass cost Rs 800.
• Kailas Ground, Mulund (West) – Garba artist performing at this venue in 2015 are Tushar Sonigra and his Dandiya band “Beats 16″, Umesh Barot, Manish Joshi, Teena Chheda, Kavita Nikam and Saurabh Mehta.
• Goregaon Sports Club, Link Road, Malad (West) – Organized by Sankalp Dandiya Navratri Group
• JVPD Ground, Juhu – Hindi film singer Bhomi Trivedi and Gujrati Folk singer Osman Mir will perform at this venue which can accommodate 10,000 Dandiya dancers. Seasonal ticket cost Rs 1,500 and daily ticket is Rs 350.
• MHADA Ground, Malvani, Malad West – Musa Paik Navratri Utsav
• Malpani Ground, Link Road, Borivali (West) – Meera Navratri Utsav
• Jasodha Rang Mandir, Vile Parle (West) – First Road Navratri Mahotsav
• EsselWorld, Madh Island
• Sahara Star, near Domestic Airport, Santacruz (East) – Popular Dandiya band, “The Beaterrz”, whose lead singer is Manisha Savla and band leader is Bipinchndra Chunawala, will perform at this 5-star hotel in 2015. Since this is an indoor venue, Garba dance can go on until 1:00 am. Daily ticket is Rs 1,000 and season pass is Rs 6,000.
• Bhavan’s College Ground, D N Nagar Road, Andheri (West)
• Police Hockey Ground, Near Eastern Express Highway, Ghatkopar (East)
• Ekta Ground, Borivali West
• Tulip Star Hotel, Juhu Tara Road
• Kamgar Krida Mandal, Babasaheb Ambedkar Nagar, Dadar (West) – Broadscope
• Cricket Club Of India, Churchgate

In addition to these venues, many housing societies in Mumbai organize Navratri celebrations in their buildings.

Famous Mumbai Navratri Dandiya Rass and Garba Singers, Performers

These are some of the most famous Dandiya and Garba Singers and Musicians who perform in Mumbai during Navratri.

• Falguni Pathak and her Dandiya band “Tha Thaiyaa”.
• Preeti and Pinky
• Manish Parekh and his band
• Devendra Joshi
• Bhumi Trivedi
• Tushar Sonigra and his Dandiya Band called “Beats 16″
• Nilesh Thakkar
• Chetan Gadhavi
• The Beaterrz, whose lead singer is Maneesha Savla
• Umesh Barot
• Manish Joshi
• Drummer Naitik Nagda
• Viju Shah
• Kirtidan Gadhvi

2015 Navratri Festival Dates and Garba Timing in Mumbai

• Navratri Festival Start Date in 2015: October 13, 2015 (Tuesday)
• Navratri Festival End Date in 2015: October 22, 2015 (Thursday). Dusshera is celebrated on this day..
• Idols of Goddess Durga are immersed (Visarjan) on “Vijayadashami”, October 23, 2015 (Friday).
• Mumbai has a 10:00 pm deadline for Dandiya Raas and Garba. On the last 2 days of Navratri, Garba and Dandiya organizers are allowed to play music up to 12:00 midnight.
• As per Mumbai rules, 55 decibels is the maximum level of noise allowed in residential areas before 10:00 pm. After 10:00 pm, the noise level should not exceed 45 decibel.

Activities and Prayers During Navratri Festival

Navratri is celebrated with the traditional Gujarati dances of “Garba” and “Dandiya Raas”. During the festival, devotees perform the following activities:

• Worshipers invite Goddess Durga (known as “Maa Amba” to Gujaratis) to their house by performing “Devi Sthapna” puja,
• Devotees visit temples and fast for Navratri’s nine days. Nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshiped, one for each day. The nine forms of Goddess Durga are Shailputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalratri, Mahagauri, Siddhidatri.
• Devotees light a lamp in a “Garbo” or “Ghatasthapana” (decorated earthen pot) for 9 days. The “Garbo” has holes in it and it represents the human body.
• In the evening, all family members celebrate the victory of Goddess Ambaji/Durga over Mahisasura by dancing “Raas Garba” and “Dandiya Raas”.
• “Dusshera” is celebrated on the day after the 9^th day of Navratri.
• Durga Idol Visarjan (Immersion) is done on the 10^th day.

Traditional Navratri Dances of Dandiya Raas and Raas Garba

In “Garba” the dancer moves his/her hands and feet to four beats; whereas in “Dandiya Rass”, dancers dance with sticks.

Garba Dance

• The easiest and most popular Raas Garba dances are the “Be Taali” (2 claps) and “Traan Taali” (3 claps). Please see the below video for simple instructions on these Garba steps.
• Other popular types of Garba Rass Dance are “Butterfly” (clapping and moving in a circle like a butterfly), “Trikonyu” (make a triangle movement), “Hudo” (raise hands and clap with a partner after 4 beats), “Popatiyu” (clap after 2 steps forward and 4 steps back), “Dodhiyu” (forward and backward movement to 8, 10, 12 beats), etc.

Dandiya Rass Dance

• Dandia Raas is played with 2 decorated sticks which are touched with a partner’s sticks in a choreographed pattern. Usually, dancers form an inner and outer circle; one moves in a clock-wise and the other in a counter clock-wise direction. The inner and outer circle dancers partner each other in playing Dandiya Rass.
• Different types of Dandiya Raas dance are “Five Steps” technique, “Seven Steps”, etc. “5 Step Dandiya Raas” is the most popular Dandia and the below video has easy instructions on how to play 5 Step Dandiya Raas.

The original folk dances of Garba Rass and Dandia Raas started as a depiction of the 9 day battle between Goddess Durga (“Ambaji”) and Mahisasura. With this in mind, the “Dandiya” (sticks) and the “Garba” style of dance make a lot of sense.

Mahisasura was an “Asura” (Demon) who defeated Indra, the Hindu God of the “Devas” (Gods). Mahisasur threw out the Gods from Heaven. Since Mahisasura could not be defeated by any man, the Gods created Durga an avatar of Godess Parvati or Shakti. Maa Durga defeated the “Asuras” (Demons) and fought a long 9 day battle with Mahisasura, finally killing him on the tenth day.

Famous Navrati Dandiya Raas and Garba Rass Songs

Popular Navratri Garba and Dandya Raas songs are “Dholi Taro”, “Aavo Ramva Raas”, “Nagar Nand ji Na Laal”, “Hu tau Gai ti Mele”, etc

Clothes Worn for Navratri, Garba Raas Dance and Dandia Raas

Young girls and ladies wear colourful ethnic Gujarati style “Chaniya Choli”, “Ghagra Choli”, “Lehenga Choli” and sarees. Metal jewellery is often worn and so are white bangles on the forearms and biceps.

On top, boys and men wear the traditional Gujarati Kurta, called “Zabbho” or “Kedia” (“Kediya”) and on the bottom a Pajama or Dhoti called “Dhotiyu” or “Lehanghas”. Men also wear a “Pagdee” (Turban).

RELATED ARTICLES:

• Pictures of the Best Ganpati Idols in Mumbai in 2015
• Pictures of the Best Ganesh Idols in Mumbai in 2014
• Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai and Best Ganesh Idols in 2013
• Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai and Best Ganesh Idols in 2012
• Diwali Festival celebrations in Mumbai
• Famous Hindu Temples And Places Of Worship In Mumbai

IMAGES:

• Image 1: Image by FrenchKheldar. Image licensed under Creative Commons license Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)
• Image 2: Garba dancers perform in Ambaji temple premises. Image by Anurag Agnihotri. Image licensed under Creative Commons license Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0)
• Image 3: Image by Restless mind. Image licensed under Creative Commons license Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 2.0 Generic (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

Pictures of Aaradhya Bachchan at Home on Her 1st Birthday

Family picture of Aaradhya Bachchan with father Abhishek and mother Aishwarya Rai on her First Birthday on 16 November, 2012. Aradhya has started resembling her mother Aishwarya.

Photos of Aradhya (age 1 to 2), Indira Bhaduri, Aishwarya, Abhishek

(Please Click on Picture to Enlarge)

In these pictures of Aaradhya Bachchan with her mother, Aishwarya Rai, she is between 16 and 17 months old.  Images taken in March and April, 2013.

Amitabh Bachchan’s grand daughter and Abhishek and Aishwarya’s daughter’s, “Aaradhya Bachchan“, was born on November 16, 2011. The meaning of “Aaradhya” is “Worth Worshiping“.

In Hinduism, Aradhya is a Brahman community or caste which has followers mainly from Karnataka. Aradhya’s belong to the Panchacharyas sect which worships Lord Shiva.

(Please Click on Picture to Enlarge)

These pictures of Aaradhya Bachchan were taken when she was 15 months old. These photos of Aaradhya and her parents were taken on Valentine’s Day (Feb 14, 2013) in Bhopal, where her grandfather, Amitabh, was shooting for Prakash Jha’s “Satyagraha”.

The below photos are of Amitabh Bachchan’s mother-in-law, Indira Bhaduri, who lives in Bhopal. She is Jaya Bachchan’s mother, Abhishek’s grandmother and Aaradhya’s great grandmother. Jaya Bachchan is from Bhopal. She studied at St. Joseph’s Convent School, Bhopal.

 (Please Click on Picture to Enlarge)

Photos of Aaradhya on Aishwarya Bachchan’s 39th Birthday and French Award Ceremony 

These are pictures of Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan with their daughter Aaradhya Bachchan. On 1 November, 2012, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan was awarded France’s second highest civilian award, “Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters“, for her contribution to cinema. Nov 1 was also Aishwarya’s 39th birthday. These photos of Aradhya were taken at the award function.

(Please click on Picture to Enlarge)

Pictures of Aradhya Bachchan at Amitabh’s 70th Birthday Party

(Click on Picture to Enlarge)

Picture of Aaradhya Bachchan and Mother Aiswarya

In this picture, Aaradhya  Bachchan is 10 months old  and she is at the stage of development where she is able to crawl. Great to see that Aiswarya has lost most of the weight she had gained post delivery and she is back to looking her glamorous best. Below are more pictures of Aishwarya, Abhishek with daughter Aradhya.

(Please Click on Pictures to Enlarge)

Photos of the Bachchan and Rai Families

(Click on Picture to Enlarge)

The above pictures are of the Bachchan and Rai families.

Aishwarya Rai’s elder brother Aditya Rai is an engineer in the Merchant navy. He co-produced the movie, “Dil Ka Rishta”. Aditya’s wife and Aiswarya Rai’s sister-in-law, Shrima Rai, was first runner-up at the 2009 Gladrags Mrs India pageant. Aishwarya Rai’s father, Krishnaraj Rai, is a marine biologist; he is a cancer survivor. Aishwarya’s mother is Vrinda Rai.

Amitabh, Abhishek and Aishwarya Bachchan’s Houses

Amitabh Bachchan and family (Aaradhya Bachchan, Jaya, Abhishek, Aishwarya) have five bungalows (Jalsa, Prateeksha, Janak, Vatsa and a bungalow behind Jalsa), within walking distance of each other, at Juhu (JVPD), Mumbai.

1. Jalsa: Located opposite Tulip Star Hotel (Juhu), “Jalsa” bungalow is where the Bachan family currently lives.
2. New Bungalow behind Jalsa: In mid-2013, Amitabh and Abhishek Bachchan bought the 8,000 sq ft bungalow behind Jalsa. This is their 5^th bungalow in Juhu. Along with “Jalsa”, this will be an extended residence for the Bachchan family.
3. Prateeksha: Is the first bungalow that Amitabh Bachchan bought in Juhu. Previously the Bachchan family, including Amitabh’s parents, lived at “Pratiksha”. The Metro railway line will pass near Prateeksha and this may be one reason for shifting to “Jalsa”. Amitabh Bachchan visits “Prateeksha” regularly to pray at the family temple which was hand built by his father, Dr. Harivansh Rai Bachchan. Amitabh has preserved both his father’s (Harivansh Rai Bachchan) and mother’s (Teji Bachchan) rooms just the way it was when they were alive.
4. Janak: Located near “Jalsa”, “Janak” bungalow is the Bachchan’s office. The Bachchans regularly use the gym at “Janak”
5. Vatsa: Located in Juhu, this Bachchan bungalow has been leased out to Citibank India.

Location of Amitabh Bachchan’s Houses on the Map

Click here to view Amitabh Bachchan’s Houses in Mumbai in a larger map

1] Photos of Amitabh Bachchan House – Jalsa

Amitabh Bachchan’s bungalow, “Jalsa“, is a large 10,125 sq ft, two storied house in Juhu, Mumbai. Jalsa is registered in the name of Jaya Bachchan.

Jalsa was given to Amitabh Bachchan by director Ramesh Sippy as payment for starring in “Satte Pe Satta” (1982). It is reported that due to tax reasons, ownership of Jalsa was in the name of Amitabh’s brother Ajitabh’s wife, Ramola Bachchan. So although the Bachchan’s lived at Jalsa it was in Ramola’s name. In 1993, Ramola Bachchan gifted Jalsa to Jaya Bachchan via a Gift Deed. The Bachchan’s delayed registering Jalsa in their name until January 2006. In 2006, Jalsa was finally registered in the name of Jaya Bachchan.

Jalsa has an imposing spiral staircase with pictures of the Bachchans on the wall.

Address of Amitabh Bachchan’s Jalsa:

“Jalsa”, Opposite Hotel Tulip Star (earlier called “Juhu Centaur Hotel”),

Vaikunthlal Mehta Road, Juhu-Vile Parle Development Scheme (JVPD),

Mumbai – 400049.

(Click on Picture to Enlarge)

Every Sunday Evening Amitabh Bachchan Meets His Fans At Jalsa

Do you want to meet Amitabh Bachchan? If yes, visit Jalsa on a Sunday evening (around 7:00 pm) and you could meet Amitabh and maybe even Abhishek and Aishwarya. Every Sunday, for the last 30 years, Amitabh Bachchan comes out of his house and greets the many fans who come there to meet him. Sometimes Abhishek and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan join Amitabh to meet their fans.

(Click on Picture to Enlarge)

2] Amitabh and Abhishek’s New 5^th House is Behind “Jalsa”

• Amitabh Bachchan’s newest house is an 8,000 sq ft bungalow, which is behind “Jalsa”. This new bungalow, which is spread over 750 sq yards, has a common wall with Jalsa. At 8,000 sq ft, this new Bachan bungalow is slightly smaller than the 10,125 sq ft “Jalsa” home.
• It is reported that Amitabh and Abhishek Bachchan bought this new residence for Rs 50 crore (USD $10 Million) in early 2013. The bungalow is part of Kapole Cooperative Housing Society.
• Whereas Jalsa opens onto the main road on Vaikunthlal Mehta Road, the new bungalow opens onto a narrow lane at the back.
• Landmark for this new bungalow is “Jalsa” and “Tulip Star” Hotel at Juhu-Vile Parle Development Scheme (JVPD).

3] Photos of Amitabh Bachchan Home – Prateeksha (Pratiksha)

“Prateeksha” was the original bungalow where Amitabh Bachan lived with his parents and family. Even after her moved to Jalsa, his parents continued to live at Pratiksha. All members of the Bachchan family (Harivansh Rai, Teji, Amitabh, Ajitabh, Shweta, Abhishek, Nilima, Namrata, Naina, Bhim, Aaradhya, Jaya, Ramola, Aishwarya) have spent time at Prateeksha.

Address of Bachchan’s Bungalow Prateeksha,

10th Rd,

Juhu Ville Parle Development (J.V.P.D.) Scheme,

Mumbai – 400049.

(Click on Picture to Enlarge)

Photo of Abhishek and Aishwarya Bachchan Wedding at Prateeksha

Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan were married at Prateeksha in 2007.

(Please Click on Picture to Enlarge)

Bombay Talkies Filmed at Bachchan Home Prateeksha

“Bombay Talkies” is a Hindi movie that celebrates 100 years of the Hindi Film Industry, popularly known as Bollywood. Bombay Talkies  is a collection of 4 short films by famous Indian directors Anurag Kashyap (“Murabba“), Dibakar Banerjee (“Star“), Zoya Akhtar (“Sheila Ki Jawaani“) and Karan Johar (“Ajeeb Dastaan Hai Yeh“).

Anurag Kashyap’s “Murabba” is about an Amitabh Bachchan fan (Vineet Kumar) from Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh (Amitabh Bachchan’s birthplace. Vineet Kumar’s mother’s dying wish is that her son should feed Amitabh Bachchan “Muraba” (sweet jam or preserve) made by her. Vineet comes to Amitabh Bachchan’s residence of Pratiksha in the hope of meeting him.

Amitabh Bachchan’s “Prateeksha” bungalow is the main location for this film. Most parts of director Anurag Kashyap’s section of Bombay Talkies was filmed outside and inside Prateeksha. Anurag Kashyup was allowed to film in the driveway and reception area of Pratiksha. Amitabh Bachchan also stars in Bombay Talkies.

These are pictures of Anurag Kashyap and Amitabh Bachchan filming “Bombay Talkies”.

 (Please Click on Picture to Enlarge)

4] Photos of Amitabh Bachchan’s Office – Janak

“Janak” is just 50 meters away from Jalsa. Bought in 2004, “Janak” is the Bachchan office. It also has a gym where the family works out. The Bachchans prefer to meet guests at Janak.

(Click on Picture to Enlarge)

Amitabh Bachan With Shanouk at Pratiksha and Jalsa

Amitabh Bachchan had a large Piranha Dane dog called “Shanouk“. When Shanouk stood on his hind legs he was as tall as 6.2 feet. Shanouk was very possessive about Amitabh and got jealous if Amitabh showered his love on anyone else. Click here for more pictures of Shanouk, the Bachchan family Piranha Dane Dog.

Bachchan’s pet dog, Shanouk, died on 6 June, 2013 of stomach and heart related illness.

(Please Click on Picture to Enlarge)

Bachchan Family Cars

The Bachchan’s have over 10 cars ranging from Rolls Royce Phantom, Bentley Continental GT, Audi A8, Mercedes Benz, Range Rover, BMW, etc. As one enters Jalsa, there is a covered parking space for these cars. Most Bachchan cars have VIP numbers.

(Please Click on Picture to Enlarge)

The car number (2882) of Amitabh Bachchan’s Red BMW Mini Cooper is special. 2882 stands for 2nd of August (8th month), 1982. This is the date that Amitabh Bachchan had temporarily died and had been brought back to life by doctors. This happened due to the accident on the sets of the movie, “Coolie“.

Amitabh Bachchan’s Signature

Amitabh Bachchan Rocks

(Click on Picture to Enlarge)

 
RELATED TOPICS ABOUT MUMBAI CELEBRITIES:

• Photos of Amitabh Bachchan’s Pet Piranha Dane Dog, Shanouk
• Salman Khan’s Houses, Family, Festival Celebrations, Dogs and Cars
• Photos of Shahrukh Khan’s House, “Mannat”, at Bandstand, Bandra(W)
• Picture of homes of Indian Movie Stars and Hindi Film Actors
• Amitabh Bachchan’s landmark Juhu bungalows, Jalsa and Prateeksha
• Address of Hindi Film Stars Who Live in Bandra, Khar, Pali Hill
• Address and Map of Bollywood Stars who live in Juhu, Mumbai

The post Photos of Aaradhya & Amitabh Bachchan’s Three Houses in Mumbai appeared first on Wonderful Mumbai.

Kala Ghoda Arts Festival is one of the biggest free cultural festivals in the world. All events at the Kala Ghoda Festival 2016 are FREE.

Schedule and Events at 2016 Kala Ghoda Arts Festival

Please click on the below PDF link for the FULL SCHEDULE of the 2016 Kala Ghoda Arts Festival (KGAF). It contains the list of events, dates and venues of the Kala Ghoda Festival 2016.

Daily Event Schedule of Kala Ghoda Festival 2016

Please click on the below links to view the Daily Schedule of the 2016 Kala Ghoda Arts Festival.

• Wednesday 10 Feb, 2016 – Kala Ghoda Festival Schedule
• Thursday 11 Feb, 2016 – Kala Ghoda Festival Schedule
• Friday 12 Feb, 2016 – Kala Ghoda Festival Schedule
• Saturday 13 Feb, 2016 – Kala Ghoda Festival Schedule
• Sunday 14 Feb, 2016 – Kala Ghoda Festival Schedule

Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2016 Start and End Dates

• START DATE of Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2016: 6 February, 2016 (Saturday)
• END DATE of Kala Ghoda Art Festival 2016: 14 February, 2016 (Sunday)

The 2016 Kala Ghoda Festival is extended by three days to coincide with the “Make In India” events that are taking place in Mumbai. Music and Dance events, as part of “Make In India”, will be held at Cross Maidan, from 15 to 17 February.

Events and Their Location at Kala Ghoda Festival 2016

The 2016 Kala Ghoda Arts Festival has 15 categories of events. The list of 2016 Kala Ghoda Festival events, along with their venue are listed below:

1. Children Events at KGAF 2016: Museum Garden (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya Gardens)
2. Children’s Literature at KGAF 2016: Kitab Khana (Somaiya Bhavan near Flora Fountain statue); Somaiya Centre
3. Dance Events at KGAF 2016: Cross Maidan Gardens. Dance Workshops will be held at Somaiya Centre (Somaiya Bhavan near Flora Fountain statue) and Artisans.
4. Movies and Films at KGAF 2016: Coomaraswamy Hall (CSMVS Museum Ground Floor), Visitor’s Centre (near entrance of Museum), Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS Ground Floor)
5. Food Programs at KGAF 2016: Westside (Army Navy Building), Wisk, Serafina, Somaiya Centre
6. Literature Events at KGAF 2016: David Sassoon Library Garden, Seminar Room of CSMVS Museum, Artist’s Centre, Kitab Khana and Somaiya Centre (Somaiya Bhavan near Flora Fountain statue)
7. Street Events at KGAF 2016: Rampart Row (Kala Ghoda), Rampart Row (K Dubash Marg – Kala Ghoda)
8. Music at KGAF 2016: Asiatic Society Library Steps, Cross Maidan Gardens
9. Visual Arts Installations at KGAF 2016:  Along Rampart Row, in the Parking Triangle outside Jehangir Art Gallery, Cross Maidan, Museum Garden, Art Entrance, Gallery 7, David Sassoon Library, Artists’ Centre. Art talk will be held at Tarq
10. Workshops at KGAF 2016: Artisans, Artists’ Centre, Somaiya Centre (Somaiya Bhavan near Flora Fountain statue), Museum Garden (CSMVS)
11. Theatre Plays at KGAF 2016: Horniman Circle Garden, National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), M. C. Ghia Hall (Kala Ghoda), Gallery Beyond
12. Standup Comedy at KGAF 2016: Irish House (Kala Ghoda)
13. Heritage Walks at KGAF 2016: At different locations in South Mumbai
14. Urban Design and Architecture at KGAF 2016: Max Mueller Bhavan, National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), Art Entrance Art Gallery, JJ School of Architecture, Army Navy Building Lobby
15. Make In India Festival at KGAF 2016: Make In India Dance and Music programs from 15 to 17 February, 2016, will be held at Cross Maidan.

Map of Venues of Kala Ghoda Festival 2016

Kala Ghoda is located in South Mumbai. K Dubash Marg is also known as Kala Ghoda.

Click on Map to View Kala Ghoda Arts Festival Location in a Larger Map

Organizers of the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival

“Kala Ghoda Association” organizes the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival. “Kala Ghoda Association” was started by art galleries, cultural organizations and individuals from the Kala Ghoda precinct in Mumbai with the objective to conserve this unique heritage art district. Funds raised during the Kala Ghoda Festival are used to maintain this precinct and for restoration activities.

RELATED ARTICLES:

• Mumbai’s Tourist Places and Things to do for Families with Kids
• One Day Walking Tour And Map of Mumbai’s Main Tourist Places
• Top 10 Best and Most Famous Tourist Attractions in Mumbai
• Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2015

The post Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2016: Schedule, Events, Venue appeared first on Wonderful Mumbai.

Listed below are the best tourist attractions, best places to see and things to do in Mumbai. Mumbai’s best tourist places are listed by region (South + Centre and West + North) and by type of attraction.

SOUTH & CENTRAL MUMBAI: Places to Visit and Things to Do

1. BEAUTIFUL ARCHITECTURE: South Mumbai is home to beautiful buildings built in the late 19th century and first half of the 20th century. Many of these buildings are in the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, which is a mix of Gothic, Victorian, Hindu and Muslim architecture, and Art Deco style. Among the most impressive buildings in South Mumbai are the CST Station (previously called Victoria Terminus), BMC Headquarters, Museum, Elphinstone College, St Xavier’s College, National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), Mumbai University, Bombay High Court, Rajabhai Tower, Gateway Of India, Taj Mahal Hotel, Police Headquarters, Western Railways Headquarters, Maharashtra Legislature Building, David Sassoon Library, curved buildings around Horniman Circle Garden,Town Hall (Asiatic Library), Reserve Bank of India, St Thomas Cathedral and Holy Name Cathedral. Please visit this link for a One Day Walking Tour of Mumbai’s Main Tourist Places.
2. CST (or VT) STATION: Victoria Terminus (VT), or Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) as it is now called, is one of two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Mumbai. This is a beautiful building built in 1887, in the “Indo-Saracenic” style of architect.
3. BMC HEADQUARTERS: Both this building and VT/CST Station are designed by architect Frederick William Stevens. Located opposite VT Station, the BMC Headquarter is one of the most beautiful buildings in Mumbai.
4. FORT, D N ROAD, CHURCHGATE AND OVAL MAIDAN: This bustling area is a mix of offices, residential buildings and tourist landmarks. On one side of the long Oval Maidan (Park) are the Bombay High Court, Rajabhai Tower and Mumbai University, which are built in the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture and on its opposite side are building in the Art-Deco style. Mumbai is home to the second largest collection of Art-Deco buildings in the world.
5. MUMBAI’S HERITAGE MILE: Route of Mumbai’s “Heritage Mile” covers Fort (Flora Fountain), D N (Dadabhai Naoroji) Road, VT/CST Station and Crawford market. The highlight of this stretch is the gorgeous British era buildings.
6. MARINE DRIVE, NARIMAN POINT AND CHOWPATTY: Marine Drive is a beautiful 4.3 Km long sea facing promenade. Also called “Queen’s Necklace” because of its shape, it has Nariman Point at its Southern tip and the golden sand beach of Chowpatty at its Northern end. In the center of Marine Drive are 5 cricket grounds and the Tarapore Aquarium. Marine Drive is home to the second largest collection of Art Deco buildings in the world. Please visit this link for Tourist Information on Marine Drive.
7. CHOWPATTY BEACH: The best golden sand beach in Southern Mumbai. In addition to sun, sand and scenic beauty, visitors can also enjoy Mumbai street food. Chowpatty Beach is a must visit on immersion day during the popular Ganesh Festival. At Chowpatty visitors can take short pleasure boat trips and enjoy water sports. Please visit this link for more tourist information on Chowpatty Beach.
8. GATEWAY OF INDIA: This lovely arched structure was built during the British Raj to celebrate the visit of King George V. Gateway of India is one of Mumbai’s most popular tourist destination. It is also the location for boat rides to Elephanta Caves, Mandwa (and Alibag) and short pleasure trips on the Arabian Sea. Opposite the Gateway of India is the iconic Taj Mahal Hotel.
9. ELEPHANTA CAVES: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located on an island off the eastern coast of Mumbai. Elephanta Caves consists of 2 Buddhist and 5 Hindu Caves, which have exquisite carvings. Elephanta Caves can be reached by ferries from Gateway of India. The boat trip adds to the sense of fun and adventure of visiting this tourist destination. Please visit this link for information on Boat Trip from Gateway of India to Elephanta Caves.
10. BOAT RIDE AT GATEWAY OF INDIA: A popular tourist activity at Gateway of India is to take a short 30 minutes boat ride in the Arabian Sea.Gateway of India also has regular boat ferries to Elephants Caves and Mandwa. There are buses from Mandwa to Alibag.
11. MUSEUM: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya is Mumbai’s main museum with over 50,000 artifacts. It was previously called the Prince of Wales Museum.
12. COLABA CAUSEWAY: Colaba is a popular shopping and dining area. Colaba has many hotels catering from budget to high-end tourist.Colaba has many shops catering to tourists, such as shops selling ethnic jewelry, Indian handicrafts and clothes. Colaba also has restaurants that offer Middle-East, Chinese and Continental cuisine.
13. HANGING GARDEN, KAMLA NEHRU PARK, PRIYADARSHANI PARK:Hanging Garden and Kamla Nehru Park are located on Malabar Hill, which is at the Southern End of Marine Drive. Kamla Nehru Park offers a new view of Marine Drive and its surrounding areas. Hanging Garden offer nice view of the Arabian Sea. There are walking pathways that lead from the Kamla Nehru Park to Chowpatty. Priyadarshani Park is located 1 Km downhill from these two gardens. Its chief attraction is that is built along the seashore and offers a nice place to walk and jog.
14. GANPATI FESTIVAL (GANESH CHATURTHI):10 day Ganesh Festival celebrations are unique in Mumbai. No other city in the world celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi with as much gusto and splendor as Mumbai. Many of the best and most famous Ganesh Idols can be found in South and Central Mumbai.
15. MANI BHAVAN: Mahatma Gandhi used to live and operate from Mani Bhavan when he was in Bombay. It has now been converted into a museum for Mahatma Gandhi.
16. CRAWFORD WHOLESALE MARKET: Crawford Market is the wholesale market. It consists of many lanes selling wholesale products such as textiles, toys, hardware, household goods, novelty items, accessories, jewelry, stationary, plastics, etc. It’s a great place for bargain shopping.
17. MUMBA DEVI TEMPLE: Mambadevi is the patron Goddess of Mumbai. The name Mumbai is derived from Mumba Devi. Aesthetically Mumbadevi Temple is okay; but it is very popular among devotees.
18. SAINT THOMAS CATHEDRAL: Key highlights of this beautiful Anglican Church are the wonderful carved memorials in the Church. St Thomas Cathedral Church is located in Fort, between Horniman Circle and Flora Fountain. Churchgate Station and the famous Cathedral and John Connon School get their names from St Thomas Cathedral.
19. HAJI ALI MOSQUE AND DARGAH:Haji Ali is a famous Mosque and Tomb (“Dargah”). It is situated in the sea and can be reached by a pathway in the sea. Haji Ali Mosque’s location in the sea makes it an interesting tourist attraction. Located nearby are the Mahalaxmi Temple and Mahalaxmi Racecourse.
20. MUMBAI’S ART DISTRICT: Kala Ghoda and Colaba are the major art precincts of Mumbai. The main art galleries to visit in this area are Jehangir Art Gallery, NGMA (National Gallery for Modern Art), Jehangir Nicholson Art Foundation (in the Museum), Max Mueller Bhavan Gallery, Volte, Sakshi Art Gallery, Chemould Prescott Road Gallery, The Contemporary Art Gallery, Project 88, Gallery Maskara, Galerie Mirchandani + Steinruecke. In the first week of February, Kala Ghoda hosts the “Kala Ghoda Arts Festival”, which is the largest free art and culture festival in the world. Please visit this link for more information on Mumbai’s Art Galleries and Museums.
21. NATIONAL GALLERY OF MODERN ART (NGMA): NGMA is an amazingly beautiful building both from the outside and the inside. NGMA is home to painting and artwork from some of modern India’s most famous painters and artists.
22. STREET SHOPPING IN SOUTH MUMBAI: One can get great bargains at street shops in Mumbai. “Fashion Street”, between Azad and Cross Maidans is a place for cheap textiles. Colaba has shops that offer handicrafts and ethnic goods. Fort has many street shops that offer electronic goods, which the author cautions readers from buying. The wholesale market at Crawford market offers good deals in many product categories.
23. NEHRU PLANETARIUM, NEHRU SCIENCE CENTRE, NEHRU CENTER: Catch a short movie on space at the domed theatre in Nehru Planetarium. Nehru Science Centre is an interactive science park and center with over 500 interactive science exhibits. Nehru Center has a wonderful section called “Discovery of India” which shows India through the ages. In addition the Nehru Centre also has an Art Gallery, Library, Exhibition Hall and a hall for cultural events.
24. MAHALAXMI RACE COURSE: There are regular horse races at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse. The highlights of not just the Mumbai horse racing calendar, but the entire Indian horse racing year, are the five Indian Classics.
25. MAHALAKSHMI TEMPLE: Temple is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess of wealth, Goddess Mahalakshmi. Devotees in the thousands visit Mahalaxmi Mandir (Temple) during Navratri and Dusherra festivals. Mahalaxmi Temple is built on a small hill next to sea. It has a nice view of the Arabian Sea and the nearby Haji Ali Mosque. Please visit this link for info on the Best Hindu Temples in Mumbai.
26. BABULNATH TEMPLE: Babulnath Mandir (Temple) is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a charming temple built on a hill. Babulnath Temple receives thousands of devotees during Mahashivratri and Shravan.Babulnath is located near the Northern end of Chowpatty beach and close to the ISKCON temple.
27. ISKCON TEMPLE AT GIRGAON CHOWPATTY: The ISKCON religious group has a beautiful temple at Girgaun Chowpatty. The intricate carvings at this temple are a work of art. This ISKCON temple is called “Sri Sri Radha Gopinath Mandir”.
28. AZAD MAIDAN AND CROSS MAIDAN: Located between CST (VT) station and Churchgate Stations, these two Maidans (fields) have many cricket pitches. Catch a game of cricket at these Maidans. The road between these streets is popularly called Fashion Street because it is lined with street shops selling clothes.
29. BABU AMICHAND PANALAL ADISHWARJI JAIN TEMPLE: This beautiful Jain Temple at Malabar Hill was once voted by a local publication as one of the seven best sights in Mumbai. Hanging Garden is a couple of kilometers from this temple. Most Jain temples in Mumbai have exquisite temple carvings.
30. BANGANGA HOLY POND: Located at the end of Napean Sea Road and Walkeshwar, this holy pond has old Hindu temples around it. On all four sides of Banganga steps lead down into the pond. Take some bread to feed the geese, ducks and fish in Banganga.
31. JAMA MASJID MOSQUE: This Sunni Mosque is located inMumbai’s wholesale market precinct. Jama Masjid is situated near Crawford Market and Zaveri Market (Mumbai’s main jewelry market). There is a small pond inside this over 200 year Mosque.
32. RBI MONETARY MUSEUM: Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) Monetary Museum has related to Indian money. This museum is located at Ballard Pier.
33. TARAPORE AQUARIUM: A small aquarium located along Marine Drive.
34. NIPPONZAN MYOHOJI BUDDHIST TEMPLE: Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple at Worli is a modest temple in the shape of a “Stupa”. The initial temple was built by a Japanese monk in 1931.
35. MUMBAI ZOO (JIJAMATA UDYAN): Mumbai Zoo is also known as Jijamata Udyan or Byculla Zoo. It is located in the heart of Central Mumbai, close to the Byculla Railway Station. Mumbai zoo has a fairly good collection of animals that are found in Indian jungles. Animals at Mumbai Zoo include lions, tigers, crocodiles, many species of deer, bears, elephants, monkeys, snakes, hippopotamus, hyenas and Indian birds (flamingoes, peacocks, peahens, pelican, etc). Located at the entrance of the zoo is the lovely Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum.
36. DR BHAU DAJI LAD MUSEUM: Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum is Mumbai’s oldest museum. It is located just outside Mumbai Zoo. Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum is housed in a beautiful Palladian style building. UNESCO has bestowed this museum with its “Award of Excellence”.
37. SHREE SIDDHIVINAYAK GANAPATI TEMPLE: Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Temple is Mumbai’s most famous Ganesh Temple. Temple receives large crowds of devotees on Tuesdays.
38. GLORIA CHURCH: Gloria Church at Byculla is one of Bombay’s oldest Roman Catholic Church. It is am impressive Ghotic style church.
39. FLAMINGOES AT SEWRI: Large flocks of flamingoes visit Sewri (Eastern Mumbai), Thane Creek and Uran from November to February. It’s a sight to behold these large pink birds feeding on algae near the shore. During winter, these birds come from the cold northern regions to the relatively warmer shores of Mumbai.
40. DHARAVI SLUMS: Usually tourists avoid slums, but the success of the movie “Slumdog Millionaire” has made Dharavi a popular tourist destination. Dharavi is reported to be the second largest slum in the world. Tourist companies offer guided tours of Dharavi.

WEST AND NORTH MUMBAI: Best Places to See, Things to Do

1. SANJAY GANDHI NATIONAL PARK (SGNP): It is one of the largest National Parks in the world within city limits. Visitors to this wonderful park can enjoy lion and tiger safaris, boating, mini train ride in the park, nature walks, Kanheri Caves (ancient Buddhist Caves) and much more. Be one with nature in this magnificent National Park. Sanjay Gandhi National Park is also known as Borivali National Park. Please visit this link for more information on Sanjay Gandhi National Park and Mumbai’s Nature Based Attractions.
2. KANHERI CAVES: These are over 100 Buddhist caves deep inside Borivali National Park. The Kanheri Caves were built from 1st Century BCE to 10th Century BCE. These caves were Buddhist monasteries used for living, studying, prayer and meditation. This is a Buddhist Stupa (prayer hall) among the caves. Do visit the top of the hill that house Kanheri Caves for a lovely view of Borivali National Park and Mumbai city.
3. JUHU BEACH: Juhu Beach is a popular 6 Km long sandy beach along the western shore of Mumbai. Visitors can enjoy horse rides, camel rides and popular Mumbai street food at Juhu Beach. Juhu is home to many artists from the Hindi film industry. Juhu and the area around it have nice restaurants. Weekends tend to get very crowded. Please visit this link for more info on Mumbai’s Best Beaches and Sea Based Tourist Attractions.
4. ART GALLERY AT MUMBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TERMINAL 2: The Terminal 2 (T2) of the Mumbai International Airport is a piece of art. It has a 3.2 Km Art Wall which has artwork from all over India. T2 is the largest public art program in India.
5. AMITABH BACHCHAN’S HOUSE: Amitabh Bachchan has been an icon of the Hindi film industry since the 1970s. His bunglow, “Jalsa”, is a landmark in the JVPD/Juhu area. Most Sunday evenings, Mr Bachchan stands at the gate of his home to greet his fans. Juhu area is also home to many Indian film makers and stars. This link has the Address and Map of the houses of Mumbai Film Stars in Juhu. This link has Pictures of Film Star Bachchan’s Houses in Mumbai.
6. FILM CITY AND HINDI FILM INDUSTRY TOUR: Mumbai is famous all over the world for the Hindi Film industry. Film City has many studios and post-production facilities for the film and TV industry. Many popular Hindi movies and TV serials are shot here. Tourists come to Film City to watch film stars and film/TV shooting. A sure-shot way of watching s shooting session is to book with a tour group.
7. ISKCON JUHU TEMPLE: This is a beautiful ISKCON temple in Juhu. The colourful idols in the temple are the center point of this temple.
8. MOUNT MARY BASILICA AT HILL ROAD: Mount Mary Church is located on a hill near Bandra Bandstand. Mount Mary Basilica is famous for the annual 8 days Mount Mary Fair (also known as “Bandra Fair”), which celebrates the birth of Mother Mary.
9. GOLDEN VIPASSANA PAGODA: Global Vipassana Pagoda at Gorai Beach is the biggest pillar-less stone dome in the world. The large meditation room at the center of the Pagoda is 280 meters in diameter. The Pagoda was built to spread the teachings of Lord Buddha and to spread peace. Global Vipasana Pagoda has relics of Buddha.
10. AAREY MILK COLONY AND CHOTA KASHMIR: Aarey is a large 1,287 hectare green area just south of Borivali National Park. It is a popular picnic spot. It also has nature trails. Chota Kashmir, in Aarey, has a small lake where visitors can enjoy boating.
11. BANDRA BANDSTAND AND BANDRA FORT: “Castella de Aguada”, popularly known as “Bandra Fort”, is a minor fort at the edge of the sea in Bandra. It’s main charm is that it offers a beautiful view of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link and the Arabian Sea. Bandra Bandstand is a large, rocky, sea-facing stretch of land popular with tourist and couples.
12. SHAHRUKH KHAN’S BUNGALOW “MANNAT” AND SALMAN KHAN’S HOME: Many film stars live near Bandra Bandstand, including Shahrukh Khan (at “Mannat”), Salman Khan (“Galaxy Apartments”), John Abraham (“Sea Glimpse”) and more. This link has pictures of Shahrukh Khan’s House in Mumbai. This link has pictures of Salman Khan’s House in Mumbai.
13. CARTER ROAD: North of Bandra Bandstand is Carter Road. It has a nice promenade along the Arabian Sea. Many top Film and TV personalities live in this area. Carter Road ends in a nice little park – “Jogger’s Park”.
14. BOMBAY ART SOCIETY: Founded in 1888 the Bombay Art Society is now housed in a funky new building opposite Rangsharda in Bandra West.
15. BANDRA LINKING ROAD: Bandra’s Linking Road is famous for shopping. In addition to branded stores, it also has many small street shops that sell a variety of personal items such as clothes, shoes, belts, purses, etc. This section of Bandra also has nice restaurants offering a wide variety of global cuisine.
16. MADH ISLAND BEACHES: Marve is located on the North-West of Mumbai. This area has not yet been urbanized to the extent of Mumbai city. One of the charms of this semi-rural setting is the beaches of Marve, such as Aksa Beach, Hamla Beach, Dana Pani Beach, Erangal Beach, Silver Beach and Marve Beach. Marve is a nice place for a day-out tour, especially if one visits the nearby Global Vipassana Pagoda and Esselworld Theme Park and Water Park. NOTE OF CAUTION: Marve and Gorai Beaches can be treacherous. It is best to avoid swimming in these waters.
17. ESSELWORLD AMUSEMENT PARK AND WATER KINGDON: Essel World Amusement Park is a theme park with rides. Water Kingdom is a water park. Both these Parks are located at Gorai in North-West Mumbai and are popular with tourist. The Global Vipassana Pagoda is nearby and so are the Gorai and Marve Beaches. This link has information on Theme Parks and Amusement Parks in and around Mumbai.
18. MAHAKALI CAVES: These are a series of 19 caves used by Buddhist monks from 1st BCE to 5th CE. This is a “Chaitya” which is a Buddhist prayer/meditation hall with a “Stupa”.

LIST OF MUMBAI’S BEST PLACES TO SEE BY CATEGORY

HISTORIC BUILDINGS AND GREAT ARCHITECTURE IN MUMBAI

1. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST), or Victoria Terminus (VT) as it was previously known.
2. Mumbai Municipality (BMC) Headquarter.
3. Bombay High Court
4. Rajabhai Tower
5. Mumbai University
6. Gateway of India
7. Taj Mahal Hotel
8. National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA)
9. Museum (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya)
10. Elphinstone College
11. Western Railway Headquarters
12. Maharashtra Legislature Building (Vidhan Sabha),
13. David Sassoon Library
14. Horniman Circle Buildings
15. Asiatic Library (Town Hall)
16. St Thomas Cathedral
17. Holy Name Cathedral
18. Art Deco buildings of Churchgate and Marine Drive
19. Heritage Buildings along D.N. Road and Fort

PLACES OF SCENIC BEAUTY IN MUMBAI

1. Marine Drive, including Nariman Point to its South and Chowpatty Beach to its North
2. Mumbai’s Heritage Mile
3. Gateway of India
4. Elphanta Island and Elephanta Caves
5. Borivali National Park and view from Kanheri Caves
6. Kamla Nehru Park and Hanging Garden
7. Juhu Beach
8. Flamingo watching at Sewri Mudflats
9. Haji Ali in the sea
10. Bandra-Worli Sea Link with Worli Sea Face Promenade to the South and Bandra Bandstand to the North
11. Banganga
12. Azad and Cross Maidan
13. Madh Island Beaches and Gorai Beach

BEST FUN ACTIVITIES AND THINGS TO DO IN MUMBAI

1. Boat rides at Gateway of India; these include boat trips to Elephanta Caves, Mandwa/Alibagh and short pleasure ferry trips.
2. Celebrate in festivals such as Ganesh Chaturthi, Navratri, Dussherra, Krishna Janmashtami, Makar Sankranti (Kite Flying) etc
3. Visit Theme/Amusement Parks such as Esselworld, Water Kingdom, Kidzania, Smaaash, Go Karting range, etc. Adlabs Imagica and Adlabs Waterpark are located 70 Km from Mumbai.
4. See Film/TV shooting at Film City
5. Watch Horse racing at Mahalaxmi Race Course.
6. Nehru Planetarium and interactive Nehru Science Centre
7. Visit the Byculla Zoo (Jijamata Udyan)
8. Lion and tiger Safari at Borivali National Park
9. Nature treks in Borivali National Park
10. Mini Train Ride in Borivali National Park
11. Boating at Borivali National Park and Chota Kashmir (Aarey)

BEST SHOPPING IN MUMBAI

1. Crawford Market for wholesale shopping
2. Colaba Causeway
3. Fashion Street
4. Dadar Market
5. Bandra Linking Road
6. Premium luxury goods are available at Malls all over the city.

HISTORIC PRECINCTS/DISTRICTS OF MUMBAI

1. Mumbai’s Heritage Mile, which stretches along Fort (Flora Fountain), D.N. Road, CST/VT Station and Crawford Market
2. Kala Ghoda, famous for its architecture and art galleries
3. Colaba Causeway
4. Marine Drive

BEST GARDENS AND PARKS IN MUMBAI

1. Sanjay Gandhi National Park (Borivali National Park)
2. Oval Maidan
3. Azad Maidan
4. Cross Maidan
5. Hanging Garden
6. Kamla Nehru Park
7. Priyadarshini Park
8. Shivaji Maidan
9. Aarey

BEST MUSEUMS AND ART GALLERIES IN MUMBAI

1. Mumbai International Airport Terminal 2 (T2) has a 3.2 Km long Art Wall.
2. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (Kala Ghoda)
3. National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA)
4. Jehangir Art Gallery
5. Art Galleries of Kala Ghoda and Colaba
6. Nehru Centre
7. Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum (outside Byculla Zoo)
8. RBI Monetary Museum
9. Bombay Art Society

BEST HINDU TEMPLES IN MUMBAI

1. Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Temple
2. Mahalaxmi Mandir (Temple)
3. Babulnath Mandir
4. ISKCON Temple at Juhu
5. ISKCON Temple at Girgaon, Chowpatty
6. Mambadevi Temple
7. Elephanta Caves

BEST CHURCHES IN MUMBAI

1. St Thomas Cathedral
2. Gloria Church
3. Mount Mary Church
4. Holy Name Cathedral

BEST BUDDHIST TEMPLES AND CAVES IN MUMBAI

1. Global Vipassana Pagoda
2. Elephanta Caves
3. Kanheri Caves
4. Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple
5. Mahakali Caves

BEST JAIN TEMPLE IN MUMBAI

1. Babu Amichand Panalal Adishwarji Jain Temple

BEAT BEACHES OF MUMBAI

1. Chowpatty Beach
2. Juhu Beach
3. Versova Beach
4. Madh Island Beaches
5. Gorai Beaches

RELATED ARTICLES:

• One Day Walking Tour of Mumbai’s Main Tourist Attractions
• Mumbai’s Top 10 Best And Most Famous Tourist Attractions
• Mumbai Top 10 Attractions and Things To Do
• Mumbai’s Tourist Places and Things to do for Families with Kids
• Tips for Tourist Visiting Mumbai – Dos and Don’ts
• Boat Rides from Mumbai’s Gateway Of India To Elephanta
• Mumbai Taxi and Auto-Rickshaw Fares

The post Best Places To See And Best Things To Do In Mumbai appeared first on Wonderful Mumbai.