Mumbai, more commonly known as Bombay, boasts numerous historic places. These monuments stand as testaments to the vibrant culture that once thrived here. Furthermore, these landmarks tell remarkable tales from across its past that are impossible to ignore.
The Gateway of India is one of Mumbai’s most revered tourist spots, drawing inspiration from Greek and Roman architecture in its design.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus stands out among India’s prominent railway stations as a grand architectural masterpiece with multiple turrets and spires, embodying Mumbai’s heritage while reflecting its grandeur. Formerly known as Victoria Terminus before being rechristened after Maratha warrior king Shivaji Maharaj’s name change. This grandiose structure stands as an emblematic icon for Mumbai.
This structure exemplifies an intricate combination of Victorian Italian Gothic architecture and Indian design elements. Designed by British architect F.W Stevens and completed over 10 years.
The facade of this station features stunning artwork featuring gargoyles with their snarling heads, leaping griffins, peacocks and cobras locked in combat, carvings of figures, animals and motifs and even statues. Travelers arriving by train are left in awe as they witness such majestic beauty at this majestic station in this city of dreams.
Rajabai Clock Tower
Rajabai Clock Tower stands as an icon of India’s rich past and is part of Mumbai University campus and houses its library. Designed by George Gilbert Scott after London’s Big Ben clock tower, its construction began between 1869-1878 thanks to Premchand Roychand who donated cotton tycoon, Premchand Roychand.
Arches in this structure recall both Islamic architecture and Victorian-Gothic design, while its extraordinary Porbandar stone carvings were done by students and artisans from Sir JJ School of Art under Lockwood Kipling’s guidance.
Popular tourist destination and featured in many classic Bollywood movies. This place serves as an iconic reminder of the city’s diverse religious landscape while simultaneously reflecting their reverence towards their traditions.
Haji Ali Dargah
Built on an idyllic seafront location, this stunning mosque is an absolute delight to view. As a place of worship it draws devotees from across India; additionally it has even featured in classic Bollywood movies!
Built to honor a wealthy Muslim merchant who gave up all his possessions for pilgrimage to Mecca, he came across an elderly lady wailing along the road who told him her husband had assaulted her and started beating her. Seeing this, he asked what had happened and found out from her about their fight before offering aid and helping the woman recover her dignity.
The Saint agreed to help her and provided the oil she required, also asking that she take his name with her, which she did – giving rise to why the dargah bears his name today. Today, thousands of devotees visit it daily; its doors remain open all year except during monsoon season when access may only be gained via an underground path that often becomes submerged by flood waters.
Elephanta Caves
Elephanta Caves are one of the many historical attractions worth seeing when visiting Mumbai, and should not be missed by any visitors to this vibrant city. Built as an ode to Shiva over 2,000 years ago, these sacred caves have long been revered by pilgrims as an essential pilgrimage site. Additionally, in 1987 UNESCO recognized them as a World Heritage Site.
Elephanta Island, home of the caves, can be reached from Mumbai Harbour within an hour by taking a ferry ride. The island was named for a massive elephant sculpture discovered there by 16th-century Portuguese explorers and gave rise to its name.
Cascading carvings depict Hindu mythology and art that represents both Vedic and post-Vedic beliefs and traditions, making caves an excellent resource to learn about Indian history and culture. Additionally, IAS aspirants should explore this topic under General Studies Paper 1 as it is of benefit when taking any UPSC IAS exams. It would certainly be worthwhile checking out.
Mahakali Caves
The Mahakali Caves, commonly referred to as Kondivite Caves in Mumbai, are an impressive series of rock-cut monuments dating from between the 1st and 6th centuries and containing Buddhist figures. Considered UNESCO World Heritage sites by tourists worldwide, they remain an attraction worthy of visiting.
Caves offer visitors a great way to gain a greater insight into Buddhism and its culture, offering guided tours or the chance to explore sculptures. Additionally, Sanjay Gandhi National Park’s surroundings are popular hiking and trekking spots with scenic views and an opportunity to discover local flora and fauna.
As it’s an ideal spot for meditation and reflection, many students visit the caves. You might even spot street kids being tutored or studying together to prepare for exams!
