About Mumbai (Mumbai City Information)

Mumbai a cluster of seven islands , derives its name from "Mumbadevi" ,the patron goddess of the Koli fisher folk ,its oldest inhabitants . Mumbai, till recently called Bombay, is the "Finance Capital of India" & one of the finest metropolitan in the world. Most of premier Multinational and National corporate houses are headquartered here, it remains the bastion of free enterprise. Its international airport and sea port are the busiest in the country and handle virtually 50% of all India’s foreign trade.The oldest stock exchange is located in Mumbai, The Mumbai Stock Exchange which has become an important indicator of the nation's financial business.

It does'nt lag behind even in as far as "Entertainment Industry" is concerned. The term industry is used because entertainment is like an industry which is churning out jobs to lakhs of people. Its famed Bollywood churns out more movies than any in the world. India's largest amusement park "Esselworld", spread over a sprawling 64 acres is situated at Gorai, Mumbai. It offers more then 45 thrilling & scintillating rides & games. "Waterworld" Asia's largest theme water park, with loads of innovative attractions ,world's biggest wave pool, heart stopping rides & slides, river adventures & much more. Water kingdom is situated just next to Esselworld.

An alluring mixture of races and cultures, the city pulsates with life and vitality from Nariman Point to its furthermost suburbs. Mumbai pulsates with activity .It is a city that is disciplined by no time frame neither by day nor night. A city of never-ending dreams is said about Mumbai & it is true.

Mumbai was port of the Mauryan Empire (273-242 B.C.). It was under Silhara Kings(810 A.D - 1260 A.D.). In 1534 Mumbai was ceded to the King of Portugal by the Sultan Bahadurshah of Gujarat.

In 1661 King Charles 2 of England married Princess Catherine de Braganza of Portugal & the island of Mumbai was given as a present to King Charles 2.Though Mumbai had a steady growth ,it rose into an unprecedented prominence after the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 charting out the shortest sea route to rich resources of middle east from Europe.

The birth of the Indian National Congress was a turning point in the political struggle of the country,Mumbai played a major part & has acquired herself a place of honour in the history of the nation.

During its long history Mumbai (Bombay) has been known by different names & ruled by different kings & different races. Whether the name Mumbai is derived from Mumbai Ai or Maha Amba the patron goddess of the Kolis or from the Portugese word 'Bombain' meaning 'Good bay', it today is the most modern & cosmopolitan city in the "Republic of India". Mumbai will always remain Gateway to India ,"India 's Pride".

Season
The temperatures during summers can reach a high of approx 33 to 35 degree Celsius & min of approx 22 to 23 degree Celsius, so if one feels summers are not severe in Mumbai they are not however one has to note that the humidity & sweat factor is quite high. During winters the temperatures reach a max of 27 to 29 degree Celsius & a low of approx 17 to 19 degree Celsius .Mumbai also receives an annual rainfall in the range of 212 - 225 cms. So though one can visit Mumbai round the year ,the best season to visit Mumbai is somewhere between October & February.

Places to See
Mumbai city is blessed as far as educational ,political, cultural, historical places, scenic beauty, parks & innumerable attractive places are concerned that a visitor can have a real dilemma, he just has a lot of options well as far as options are concerned.

Gateway of India
Mumbai's most famous landmark is located at Apollo Bunder. This triumphal archway was designed by George Wikket to commemorate the visit of King George 5 & Queen Mary to India in 1911.Nearest Railway Station C.S.T (C.RLY).

Elephanta Caves
The Elephanta caves are situated at about 10 kms away from the Gateway of India ,also known as "GHARAPURI", the island stores the mystifying rock-cut temples which date back to the 7th century. The chief attraction of this ancient place is the huge three headed bust of Lord Shiva, popularly known as "Trimurti". The caves of Elephanta are a fine example of Hindu architecture at its best. Nearest Railway Station C.S.T C.RLY).

Prince of Wales Museum
This famous structure was built in the Indo-Saracenic style by George Wikket in the honour of King George 5 when he first visited India. Nearest Railway Station C.S.T C.RLY).

Jijamata Udyan (Rani Baug)
This zoo is situated at Byculla on the central side of Mumbai, originally known as Victoria Gardens it houses many of the rare & endangered species of animals & birds. Nearest Railway Station Byculla C.RLY).

Nehru Planetarium
It is the only astronomical centre in Mumbai & is situated in Worli .It has also a concert cum auditorium. It is the only place which recreates the image of the sky as seen from anywhere on the earth at any time. Nearest Railway Station Mahalaxmi (W.RLY).

Hanging Gardens
These gardens are situated on the Malabar hill situated on the western side of the city. A panorama view of the city can be seen from these gardens & is also known as "Kamala Nehru Park". The added attractions of these garden are the old women's shoe & the musical fountain. Nearest Railway Station Charni Road (W.RLY).

Mahalaxmi Temple
The "Goddess of Wealth" resides in this temple .Thousands of devotees from all over the country throng for her blessings. Nearest Railway Station Mahalaxmi W.RLY).

Siddhivinayak Temple
The ultimate destination of thousands of devotees on a Tuesday is the Siddhivinayak temple .Even the never ending long hours of wait do not discourage them from seeking blessings of Lord Ganesha. This beautiful temple is situated at Prabhadevi. Nearest Railway Station Dadar.

Haji Ali
Haji Ali mausoleum the tomb of a Muslim saint has a dramatic offshore location, opposite the Mahalaxmi racecourse. During high tide ,the connection causeway is submerged in water giving the impression that the mosque and the tomb are floating out at sea in splendid isolation. It can be visited only at low tide.

Iskcon Temple
It is more popularly known as "Hare Rama Hare Krishna" temple & is situated at Juhu. A holy place of worship, meditation & spiritual knowledge. Nearest Railway Stations Vile Parle,Andheri.

Mount Mary Church
It is one of the most prominent & splendid churches in Mumbai. Â week long fair is popularly known as Bandra fair is held in the month of September to celebrate the birth of Mother Mary .

Sanjay Gandhi National Park
The famous Kanheri Caves carved by Buddhist Monks in the 2 Century A.D are located here. This park is situated off the Western Express Highway near Borivali. The main highlight of the park is lots of greenery ,wild animals & of course the fulfilled mini train ride.

The Beaches
Mumbai has a number of beaches. Chowpatty beach, Juhu beach, Gorai ,marvel, akshay beach.

Essel World
India's largest amusement park, spread over a sprawling 64 acres is situated at Gorai, Mumbai. It offers more then 45 thrilling & scintillating rides & games.

Water Kingdom
Asia's largest theme water park, with loads of innovative attractions ,world's biggest wave pool, heart stopping rides & slides, river adventures & much more. Water kingdom is situated just next to Esselworld.

Fantasy Land
Fantasy land is another amusement park which is located in Jogeshwari (E). It is a place for fun, frolic & games for all ages.