Mumbai isn't just a city, it's a feeling! It's a city where dreams are turned into reality. So, you need to visit Aamchi Mumbai to get a taste of the city that never sleeps.
I'm sure you know all about the beautiful Marine drive and the grandiose Gateway of India, but today let me take you to explore some of Mumbai's best kept secrets (that cost practically nothing!). So, grab your vada pavs and fuel up on some Bombay grilled sandwich as you discover 10 of Bombay's hidden gems.
1. Kwan Kung Temple
The Kwan Kung temple, located in a two-story house on a tiny lane in Mazagaon, offers a glimpse into Chinese culture and traditions in the heart of Mumbai! Built in 1919, it is the only Chinese temple in the city and is remnant of the vibrant Chinese community that used to call Mumbai home. The Tham family, that takes care of the temple, even organizes the space for events such as Chinese New Year and Moon Festival.
Cost : Free
2. Pandavkada Falls
Yep, you read that right, we’ve found a waterfall for you in Mumbai! Okay, maybe not smack in the middle of Mumbai, but this beautiful spot can be found amidst lush green Pandavkada hills in Kharghar, a suburb of Navi Mumbai. This 107 metres high plunge waterfall derives its name from a myth related to the 'Pandavas' and is at its best during monsoon. Make sure you don't litter!
Cost : Free
3. Oval Maidan Art Deco
Shiv Shakti Bhavan is one among the stunning 18 art deco edifices on the Western side of Oval Maidan in Mumbai - a precinct that has now earned the honor of being a UNESCO World Heritage region for this unique architectural heritage. Oval Maidan thus stands between two phenomenal architectural time zones - a bevy of art deco beauties on one side and a bunch of grand Victorian buildings on the other.
Cost : Free
4. Mount Mary Steps
This one reminds me of Lyon and its giant, vibrant steps in France. But these beautiful and artistic steps are right here in Mumbai next to Mount Mary Church in Bandra West! These steps are a part of the art project was undertaken by artist Tyrell Valadares along with the founder of the ‘I Love Mumbai Foundation’, Rahul N Kanal. Don't they make for a great insta-worthy spot?
Cost : Free
5. Raj Bhawan
Imagine having Chai pe charcha with the governor for just Rs.25! Yeah, I'm not joking, because if you get lucky while visiting the 50 acres Raj Bhawan in the Malabar Hill, you might just get to do that. You can visit this place between 6 - 8 AM with a guided tour and can also get the chance to experience a beautiful sunrise! There's a cool Bunker museum that you can check out and plenty of nature to bask in as well.
Cost : Rs.25
6. CSMT Heritage Museum
Yep, your beloved Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Railway station has more to offer than what meets the eye! It also houses an awesome railway heritage museum that's open to the public. You can even take a guided tour that starts around 2:30 PM and get to know this UNESCO listed architectural beauty better for just Rs. 200.
Cost : Rs. 200
7. Moghul Masjid
Yep, even I can't believe that this stunning Persian beauty lies hidden in the bylanes of Dongri and not Iran. This 155 year old mosque can be found in the middle of the bustling Mohammed Ali Road, where you least expect it and also has well maintained lawns and a pond filled with fishes. Leave the the hustle-bustle of the city at the doorstop as you make your way in through the entrance made up of mosaics of striking blue tiles!
Cost : Free
8. Essel world Bird Park
Did you know Essel world is home to India's first interactive bird park? Well, now you know. So, head over and spend a few hours with some of the most exotic and beautiful birds ever. It's an interesting and informative place with shows and activities that you can enjoy by yourself or with your kids for Rs.390.
Cost : Rs. 290 - Rs. 390
9. Coastal and Marina Biodiversity Centre
When I first got to know that you can watch Flamingos in Mumbai, I didn't believe it but it is true. And one of the best places to do that is the Coastal and Marine Biodiversity centre in Airoli. Opened in 2017, this centre encourages ecotourism and biodiversity conservation. This place is equipped with everything for a great experience and also has boats that take you around the creek for a birdwatching joyride!
Cost : Rs. 400 - Rs. 500
10. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
With 70,000 exhibits from Asia & Europe, CSMVS is an art, history & natural history museum that'll make for a fun day visit. If museums are your thing, this place will be perfect with its archaeological collection and natural history section. Designed by Sir George Wittet, in the Indo-Saracenic architectural style, Set against a well-laid-out garden, the museum is an important Heritage building of the city.
Cost : Rs. 30 - Rs. 100
So, are you ready to explore Mumbai like you've never done before? Tell me which ones your favourite or even better, tell me some of your finds in the city of dreams!
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