Mumbai: The most populous city in the world. Mumbai or still Bombay? Difficult choice Crime among the population
Each person, having heard the words: "Mumbai", "India", will immediately imagine flexible, dancing women in colorful clothes. He will hear melodic songs that sink into the soul, and smile, remembering romantic films about love. They are associated with something distant and fabulous, almost inaccessible.
But visiting the country is easy. And then everything that was known only from frames from the cinema will be within walking distance. Before traveling, it is recommended to get acquainted with the information, features, customs and mores. In this case, the trip will pass without unexpected surprises.
Mumbai is sometimes referred to as the gateway to India. Let's figure out why this happens.
A large metropolis, located very conveniently. Through it they get to any point of the state. In the past it was called Bombay. Only in 1995, the policy was returned to its former name, which existed before, until the moment it was settled by the Portuguese. Mumbai means "mother".
The capital of the Indian state is connected with the settlements by rail and road. You can get not only through the air, but also in other ways. Therefore, it is called the "gate" of the country.
Geographic location
Spread on the shores of the Arabian Sea, it stretches along the coast for about 150 km. Part is located on the islands of Solsett and Bombay.
Erected on a hilly area. Its highest point above sea level is 450 meters.
Climate and weather
The climate is tropical. This means that the area is characterized by rainy and dry seasons.
The rains begin in March and continue until October. It's hot and humid here. The rainy season peaks in July-September. It looks like the downpours will flood the streets. But that doesn't happen. The air warms up to +30 degrees and above.
There is no precipitation from November to February. Two months - January and February - are called the coldest. The air temperature does not rise above 10 degrees Celsius.
Many people think that this best time for visiting. The weather does not interfere with sightseeing and long walks.
Story
Archaeological finds prove that the settlement existed in the 2nd century BC. e. It is believed that then it occupied 7 islands. Tourists travel to Elephant Island to personally inspect the stone caves and ruins of religious buildings preserved from that era.
At the beginning of the 16th century, the Portuguese invaded and occupied the city. Associated with this is a change in religious beliefs. Many Hindus converted to the Catholic faith. It was then that Mumbai began to be called Bombay.
In the middle of the 17th century, the area on which Bombay was located was given as a dowry to the English king. He, in turn, handed over the islands to a trading company. Since then, the harbor has been used for trading purposes.
The first governor was an Englishman. He took office at the end of the 17th century. But by the beginning of the 19th century, the British considered the location of the policy on the islands inconvenient. Work began on the unification of the islands into one point. The railroad was built. It was a necessity - there was a cotton mill in Bombay, and the cotton needed to be exported from the country.
By the beginning of the 20th century, Bombay had become a major polis with a population of one million. Communication routes, large factories contributed to the fact that people from different places began to flock here in search of work.
Now it is the cultural, commercial, economic capital of India.
The most populated metropolis of India, but also the largest port in the west of the country. The population increased by as much as 50,000 in 15 years. This happened in the middle of the 17th century, with the arrival of the Portuguese.
In the late 19th century, Bombay was the world's cotton trading center. It houses all the major film studios, including Bollywood.
UNESCO, for the preservation of historical and cultural sites, awarded the city with honorary awards.
Population
People of different nationalities come here. This is due to the lack of jobs in the regions. The largest economic capital is inhabited by people of different religions and cultures.
population
The population is increasing from year to year. According to the latest data, more than 17 million live here. This is the most densely populated place in the world. The population density is about 22 thousand per square kilometer.
There are more men, this is due to the fact that it is the representatives of the stronger sex who go to work from villages and villages to large industrial centers.
Official language
Marathi is recognized as the official language, but the majority of the population speaks Hindi. Also, residents use English, almost all residents know it.
Take an English phrase book on your trip, then there will be no problems with communication.
National composition
The majority are Indians. But since the population is constantly replenished, you can meet people of the most unexpected nationality. In addition, people get married, give birth to children and, sometimes, they themselves cannot answer who they are by nationality.
Religion
More than half of the inhabitants profess Hinduism. But with the arrival of the Portuguese, Christianity spread. So you can also meet Catholics. In addition, followers of Buddhism, Judaism and Islam live and the oldest mosque is located.
Economy
The industrial industry is well developed. Oil is processed, diamond and gold deposits are being developed. A nuclear power plant has been set up. Financial organizations are concentrated, including the Reserve Bank of India.
Along with rich, prosperous areas, slums have a life of their own. They are inhabited by the poor, artisans, those who came here for a better life.
You can clearly see how the poor are trying to survive.
World famous countries cooperate with Mumbai.
City government
Mumbai is the capital of Maharashtra, a state of India, which in turn is divided into two parts: the Suburb and the City. They are also part of the state as separate units.
All power is in the hands of the City Council. The Mayor is considered the head of the Council. But this is a formality. He doesn't decide anything. The Government of Maharashtra appoints the main responsible person - the commission agent. He rules in the policy, the Council obeys him. In each district (and there are 21 districts in total), an assistant commissioner is appointed, who monitors the order and reports on the state of affairs to the leadership.
Social and cultural life
The city leads a rich, cultural life, social programs are being developed that are designed to preserve the national heritage. People of different cultures and religions come. They all live peacefully in the same territory.
This is a metropolis where festivals and ethnic holidays are held. All nationalities participate in them, respect the cultural traditions of another nation.
Lots of cinemas, locals love to visit them. In addition to movies, it is famous for its exhibitions and galleries.
The public library was founded in the early 19th century. This is one of the oldest institutions of the cultural capital. It contains not only books and periodicals of past years, but also manuscripts of historical value.
Private and public schools are open. The poor strata of the population study in state educational institutions. The authorities are following this. Children are required to attend classes, child labor is not welcome.
Awarded by UNESCO for the preservation of national monuments almost in their original form.
Landmarks and architecture
The architecture is mainly represented by buildings of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. At that time, the British dominated, they also built up the policy. Two styles prevail: neo-gothic and neoclassical. They were typical for England. There are buildings built in purely Indian traditions of the 16th-18th centuries.
The center is an English fort, the formation of Bombay passed around it. It is a spacious, green area. The Fort houses government offices, banks, shops, offices, and educational institutions. The main attractions are concentrated in the Old Fort.
The areas following the Fort are densely built-up streets. The poor and visitors settle in them. There are buildings of different styles, there are even houses made of cardboard. The lower floors of residential buildings are occupied by benches. There are also many warehouses, docks.
Along with rich and prosperous neighborhoods, there are poor, narrow streets. Tourists are attracted by the fact that artisans work on the street. Travelers go to look at the process. There is also a cheerful, festive atmosphere. Family events are celebrated with neighbors, singing and dancing. You can get to one of these holidays during a walk.
Bollywood
Cinema is a favorite entertainment and spectacle. Bombay was famous for its movies, and Mumbai has a similar reputation.
The first film was released back in 1986, the policy is called the birthplace of Indian cinema. Bollywood is the largest film industry. It was created in the image of Hollywood. Bollywood recently celebrated its centenary. Films shot here are loved in many parts of the world. Singing plays an important role in films. With the help of music, the characters convey the feelings and emotions that engulf them during the action.
Bollywood opened to the public in 2011. This immediately increased the influx of travelers. Many people want to get here and see how the filming of their favorite films from childhood goes on. Viewers can even participate in the filming.
Excursions are organized in Bollywood, you can visit it on your own.
Traditional cuisine
Nobody will be left hungry. There are catering points everywhere, food vendors walk right down the street. The best restaurants are open in the Old Fort.
National cuisine is special, it is a combination of Asian and European cuisine. The coexistence of different nations and religions in one place could not but affect the food.
They don't cook pork or beef here. Animals are sacred, you have to make do with poultry or lamb.
Lots of different fruits. Bananas, juices are sold at every step very cheaply.
Of the local dishes, be sure to try:
- crispy pastries masalapapad;
- bhelpuri (fried rice porridge, noodles, corn with spices);
- chicken with curry sauce;
- pani puri (rice and potato pastry).
- Vegetarians will certainly appreciate the special sandwich - vada pav.
shopping
People come here for silk, jewelry, spices, incense and clothing. Products can be purchased in the markets:
- ChorBazaar;
- ZaveriBazaar;
Elephant Island has shops selling cheap souvenirs. Shops are also open in all areas.
Shopping centers include:
- Central Cottage Industries Emporium;
Products of all kinds are offered at affordable prices. Reviews of tourists say that you should bargain. Managed to bring down the price by almost half. It is recommended to go shopping in the morning. For the first buyers make a discount. In addition, goods in the market are not always cheaper. Before buying, find out how much the item costs in the store.
Entertainment
In addition to excursion programs and shopping, there are other entertainments.
lovers active rest go to Shivaji Park. Bicycles, roller skates, scooters are offered for rent. Picnic areas are provided. Nearby is the famous aquarium. Here you can swim with seals and dolphins.
lovers beach holiday must visit the coast. Tourists are offered a parachute flight, water equipment rental, you can just swim.
For new knowledge, go to the Nehru Center and Planetarium. These places are great for families with children.
The night metropolis is beautiful. It is full of discos and clubs for every taste. You don't have to look for clubs. Bright shop windows are visible throughout the district. Clubs and dance floors are open until the morning. Some nightclubs offer visitors to spend the evening playing roulette.
Transport
This is a great subway. It will appeal to Russian tourists, as the local metro is similar to Moscow. Branches are laid throughout the policy, and stops are equipped near the main attractions.
Taxi and rickshaw services are also available. Prices are moderate and depend on where the passenger needs to go.
Taxi drivers have a reputation for being scammers. You have to be careful and vigilant. The same goes for rickshaws. In addition, there are rickshaws only on the outskirts, in the center their activity is prohibited.
The ferry also works. Swimming to some of the sights. For example, to Elephant Island.
Best time to visit
To determine the time of your visit, think about why you are going there. Long walks to places of interest are best done in the period from late autumn to early spring. Then the heat will come, you won’t walk along the paved streets for a long time. But it is a great option for visiting museum sites and beaches.
In the rainy season, humidity is increased, it is stuffy, it rains. If you do not plan to walk around the metropolis, dedicate your trip to entertainment in closed establishments: visit the aquarium, shopping centers, religious sites.
Russian tourists will be more comfortable in the winter months. Cool weather will allow you to see historical monuments and enjoy national beauties.
Holiday prices
This trend has been very popular lately. Exotic, bright, with original traditions, rich culture attracts more and more tourists. Despite the popularity, the rest will become budgetary, if you take into account some features when traveling.
The most western, multinational and largest city of India, located on the coast of the Arabian Sea. It is often referred to as the "Gateway of India". Mumbai streets are filled with people from different cultures and wealth levels. It is a city of contrasts, where unheard-of abundance coexists with appalling poverty. Migrants, fascinated by the images of Bollywood, come to Mumbai from all over India, as well as from the countries of South Asia. Despite an incredible population density of 21,665 people per km², people keep coming to this "golden city" as Mumbai is a place where both dreams and nightmares can come true.
Video: Mumbai
Story
Once upon a time, this place was just a chain of swampy, malaria-infested islands inhabited by a few fishermen and peasants who extracted juice from palm trees. The first name in the Marathi language came from the name of the goddess Mumba, who was revered back in the days of the first inhabitants - koli. They lived on all seven islands that were part of the city from the 2nd century BC. BC. It is amazing, but true: the remains of this culture are still preserved along the coastline of the city.
The islands were ruled by Hindu dynasties from the 6th century until the Muslim Sultan of Gujarat seized the territories in the 14th century, and they were eventually transferred to Portugal in 1534. The only significant contribution of the Portuguese to the development of the territory was that they christened it " Bom Bahai" (Bom Bahai) before giving away the lands with the dowry of Catherine de Braganza when she married the English king Charles II (1661) . The British government took possession of the islands in 1665, but "leased" them to the East India Company three years later. (East India Company) for a ridiculous annual rent of £10.
Then the city was renamed Bombay and became a prosperous trading port. It developed so rapidly that after 20 years it became the main residence of the management of the East India Company, which moved to Bombay from the city of Surat. The construction of the Bombay fortress was completed in the 20s of the 18th century, and only 100 years later, according to an ambitious plan, this land was united with the islands and became the territory that we know today. Although the city developed significantly in the 19th century, it was still relatively isolated from its coastal zone until the British defeated the Marathas. (the population of Central India, who controlled most of the country's territories at different times), annexing part of western India to his possessions in 1818.
The walls of the fortress were dismantled in 1864: large-scale construction work began in the city, the main goal of which was to turn the city into a model of the colonial style. When Bombay became Britain's main cotton supplier during the American Civil War, the country's population increased and trade intensified as money "flowed" into the city.
An important fighter in the independence movement, Bombay became the city where the first Indian National Congress was held in 1885, and the campaign for the liberation of India was launched in 1942 by a frequent visitor to the city, Mahatma Gandhi. The city became the president's capital upon independence, but in 1960 Maharashtra and Gujarat were separated along linguistic lines - and Bombay became the capital of the state of Maharashtra.
Growth of regional pro-Marathek movement led by Shiv Sena (by a Hindu party; literally "Shivaji's army"), excited the multinational population of the city with active discrimination against Muslims and opponents of the Maharaja. The Shiv Sena won the city's municipal elections in 1985. Tensions in the city were rising and cosmopolitan Bombay was threatened when around 800 people died in riots following the destruction of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya in December 1992.
The riots were accompanied by dozens of bombings on March 12, 1993, which killed more than 300 people; these explosions caused damage to the Bombay Stock Exchange and the Air India building. July 2006: train explosion that killed over 200 people; in November 2008 - planned attacks on 10 city attractions that lasted three days (As a result, 173 people died)... all this suggests that tension is constantly present.
26/11, as the Mumbai attacks came to be known, was a wake-up call for the city. Security has now been stepped up at many prominent tourist sites, prominent hotels and important financial and government buildings. Entire streets were blocked off in some cases, becoming a makeshift cricket ground for numerous youths. But Mumbai continues to live, and its recalcitrant Marathi spirit is not broken, thanks to which life in the commercial center of India and the global financial "engine" is stabilized.
Mumbai today
Today, Mumbai is home to the most successful film company, one of the largest slums in Asia and the largest rainforest in the city. This city is the "financial aorta" of India, the center of fashion and the intersection of numerous religions. Among fantastic architecture and modern skyscrapers, busy streets with luxurious restaurants, urban bustle and suburban glamour, disorder and craziness, the playful and mesmerizing motives of raga, complex music played to the rhythm of desi drums, quietly sound.
Mumbai is also the capital of the state of Maharashtra, an island connected by bridges to the mainland. Sea docks located outside the city dominate the island's east coast. The commercial and cultural center of the city lies in the south of the claw-shaped island and is known as South Mumbai. The southern peninsula of Colaba is the traditional center where most of the attractions are concentrated, and directly north of Colaba is a business center called Fort (fort) where an old British fortress once stood. It is bordered to the west by a green area of several interconnected fenced grassed areas known as maidans. (pronounced "meydans").
Although the north is as important a part of the city as South Mumbai, it is often referred to as the "suburb" (Suburbs). Here, especially in the expensive suburbs of Bandra (Bandra) and Juhu (Juhu), are the airport and many of Mumbai's best restaurants, shops and nightlife.
The opening of the Bandra Worli Sea Canal in 2009 shortened the journey between the two areas from one hour to seven minutes, making these prestigious suburbs accessible to tourists.
Sometimes you can see how a luxury liner, gliding past a large stone triumphal arch, the Apollo boardwalk and the yacht club, moored at Ballard Pier. For the rest of the mortals - landing at the Chhatrapati Shivaji airport. The hustle and bustle of porters and rickshaws that once plunged the newcomer into has now been replaced by a new, modern kind of hustle and bustle. New skyscrapers pop up in Mumbai almost every month. It is India's largest and busiest industrial and commercial city, producing automobiles, textiles, chemicals, and nuclear energy. It is also a renaissance site for Indian art. But this enormous wealth is combined with the abject poverty embodied by women who wear bricks on their heads to build luxurious apartments. This is despite the fact that on the outskirts of the city is Asia's largest slum area.
For many, a visit to the cosmopolitan city of Mumbai means delicious cuisine, nightlife and shopping, but the city has much more to offer than just nightlife and shopping. Nowhere else in the world do so colorfully impressive gothic buildings, Victorian and Indo-Saracenic eras and artistic decoration merge with the remnants of the British colonial era and many years of European influence. Chhatrapati Shivaji Station (Victoria station), Supreme Court, University of Mumbai, Taj Mahal Palace Hotel (Taj Mahal Palace) and India Gate (India Gate) are among the most famous sights - small architectural gems give the overall architectural style an indescribable charm, to the delight of all visitors to the city.
Mumbai is a wonderful mixture of dreamers and workaholics, actors and gangsters, stray dogs and exotic birds, artists and servants, fishermen and crorepaths. (millionaires) and much more. The dilapidated architecture testifies to the fact that Mumbai once played a more important role in the world, which is reminded by a whole brick and lime museum. Only one thing is certain: this city on the world map will always be synonymous with creative chaos!
For everyone who came to Mumbai not on business, three, maximum four days should be enough to get a fairly complete picture of this exhausting city, so to speak. At the start of your stay, you may need advice on what to see in the city, which stretches for 20 km from north to south. Then contact the Indian Bureau of Tourism (India Tourism Office) located opposite Churchgate railway station (churchgate). Then start from the same place as King George V and Queen Mary did when they visited here in 1911, namely, from the headland at the end of the Apollo Quay. Today, the site is home to the world-famous Gateway of India. (Gateway of India), a monument that excites more with its symbolism than beauty (of course, depending on what you think of the splendor of the British Empire, for which it was established). In his The Ballad of East and West, Rudyard Kipling insisted that "these two would never meet," but the British did all they could for this, setting this triumphal arch, generally marked by a pronounced Romanesque style, four domes, characteristic of the architecture of Gujarat. This monument was unveiled in 1924. Twenty-four years later, the Somerset Light Infantry, the last British units to leave India, paraded through the India Gate.
Today, the arch is a favorite meeting place for local residents and those who like to watch what is happening around. Vendors of giant balls, photographers, beggars and barkers, along with Indian and foreign tourists, create the hubbub of the bazaar. Boats depart from the piers to the islands of Elephanta and Mandwa.
Facing the gate is an Indian equestrian statue of Shivaji. It was installed in 1961 in honor of this Maratha hero - a Hindu nationalist - a fighter against the oppression of the Great Moghuls.
Behind the statue is the Taj Mahal Hotel (Taj Mahal Hotel), built by a member of the Tatas family, an industrialist of Persian origin. It is said that this idea came to him when he was refused entry to Watson's, the best hotel in the city. From an architectural point of view, the hotel is a combination of Western and Eastern styles. You will smell the atmosphere of past romance when you settle into Sea Hall for a cup of tea.Apart from a memorial to the 31 people who died there, there is no trace of the devastation that took place here in November 2008, when Islamic terrorists targeted the hotel as one of the targets in an attack on the main tourist and business district of the city.
Raj District
Northwest of the Taj Mahal Hotel, on the stretch around Maidan, the heart of British Mumbai, the connoisseur can appreciate architecture that her admirers would call "eclectic" and her opponents "wacky."
The building of the old Secretariat is mainly attributed to the Venetian Gothic style; the university library - to French Gothic; the telegraph building - to the Romanesque style; the Supreme Court building and St. Thomas Cathedral - to the early English style. The architects were British, but the builders and decorators were Indian, and they are masters of adding details reminiscent of Rajput fortresses or Mughal palaces.
The influence of the national style is felt in the octagonal spire of the Rajabai clock tower on the university building (Rajabai Clocktower). It is decorated with 24 figures representing the castes of the former district of Bombay, of which it was the capital. In St. Thomas Cathedral, even ardent opponents of imperialism can be touched by some heart-rending epitaphs of those who died in the military or civil service for their country. For fans of the period of British rule in India, Victoria Station is a great example of Indian Gothic style. (Victoria Terminus). It used to be abbreviated as VT, but now as CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus). Imposing, opulent and always crowded, this building is considered the most extravagant example of Gothic in the city, the beating heart of its railway network and an example of colonial Indian architecture. As the historian Christopher London put it, "Victoria Station is to British power what the Taj Mahal is to the Mughal Empire." It is a combination of Victorian, Hindu and Islamic styles, with buttresses, domes, turrets, spiers and stained glass windows.
Opened on a jubilee day in 1857, it served both as the starting point for India's first railway and as a symbol of all that the British had thus far achieved in the Indian subcontinent; a symbol of their pride, power and seemingly limitless potential.
Northwest of Victoria Station is the bustling Crawford Market. (Crawford Market), which after independence became known as Mahatma Jyotiba Phule (Mahatma Jyotiba Phule). Behind the brick façade with gates, the friezes of which are decorated with bas-reliefs made by Kipling's father, the stalls retain their original arrangement: vegetables to the left; fruits and flowers - to the right; fish, lamb and poultry are straight ahead.
Uptown
Behind Crawford Market lies the heart of Mumbai, where Indians from all over the country compete in the bazaars with busy traders from the state of Maharashtra. (Mumbai is its capital). Among the colorful Hindu temples and mosques in the Muslim neighborhoods located nearby, Jain traders sell gold in the Zaveri Bazaar, and on other streets they sell silverware, brass, copper, leather, and lace.
Another famous landmark of the city is the Marine Drive embankment. (Marine Drive), which starts from Nariman Point and reaches the Malabar Hill residential area (Malabar Hill), skirting the Back Bay. A must see place is Chowpatty Beach, not because you can sunbathe and swim there, but because it is one of the most extensive places in Western India where you can watch people: fakirs walk on fire, sleep on nails, walk on ropes or bury their head in the sand; food vendors offer kulfi ice cream, as well as betel and belpuri, local spices.
Museums
Chhatrapati Shivaji Museum (Chatrapati Shivaji Museum)- formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum - located at the end of Mahatma Gandhi Road. It was built in 1871. The building includes elements of medieval Gujarati and Bijapur architecture, as well as urban architecture of Manchester. It contains a collection of miniatures and valuable sculptures of the 7th century. from the caves of Elephanta Island. At the adjacent Jahandir Art Gallery (Jehangir Art Gallery) works illustrating modern trends in Indian painting are presented.
Gallery visitorsBollywood
Mumbai is the glittering center of India's gigantic Hindi film industry. Starting with silent films exclusively with male actors (some dressed as women)- the epic picture of 1913 "Raja Harishchandra" - and the first sound film "Lama Aga" (1931) , now it produces over 1,000 films a year: more than Hollywood. Not surprising when you consider that Bollywood is supported by an audience of one-sixth of the world's population, plus significant Indian communities abroad.
Every part of India has its own regional film studios, but Bollywood continues to represent the nation in its most colorful form: lovers constantly singing and dancing, fighting for love and resisting the forces that try to tear them apart. Now pro-Hollywood thrillers and blockbusters on TV are vying for moviegoers' attention with the usual luscious, more family-oriented films.
Bollywood stars in India can achieve an almost god-like status, and star discussion has become a favorite pastime in Mumbai's institutions.
Studios sometimes invite Western actors (or use provocative outfits) to add a European twist to the film. This trend has developed so that 100,000 young actors went on strike in 2008 to protest the loss of jobs due to foreigners who work for less money.
If you're interested in this kind of adventure, just walk around Colaba, where studios recruit people to shoot the next day. Day of work 500 rupees. You will get lunch and something else to eat if the shooting starts early or ends late. Transport is usually 2nd class trains unless there are enough tourists to hire private transport. A shooting day can be quite long, in addition, heat and stress must be taken into account; not everyone is happy with this experience. Sometimes people complain about the lack of food and water, or dangerous situations and intimidation, and Western guest actors do not complain about this. Some find this experience fascinating. Before agreeing, always ask for the ID of the recruiter and listen to your intuition!
Mumbai: foodie paradise
In Mumbai, you can find culinary masterpieces not only from all over India, but from all over the world. You should not restrain yourself, because you should definitely try Parsi dhansak (meat with spices, lentils and rice), Gujarati or Kerala thali (a set of dishes from the series "eat as much as you like"), kebab from the Mughal cuisine, Goan and Mangalore seafood. And don't forget: if Bombay duck is listed on the menu, it's actually sun-dried and deep-fried bombil fish.
It is very important to visit the famous Mumbai beach and visit one of the bhelpuri located on Girga um Chowpatty, where you can enjoy the taste of crispy fried thin cakes with steamed rice, lentils, lemon juice, onion, herbs, red pepper and tamarind chutney. Other establishments offer rice dishes, samosas, pav bhaji (vegetables with spices and bread) and vada pav (heavy fried sandwich with lentils and spices)– so it is better to find time for everything.
mumbai festival
In January, the Mumbai Festival takes place, on this day stages are organized throughout the city, food is offered, dances take place. This festival shows off the cultural diversity in Mumbai in all its splendor.
Dharavi slums
Mumbai residents have mixed feelings about 2008 hit Slumdog Millionaire (in Hindi - "Slumdog Crorepati"). But the slums are part, many would say the backbone, of Mumbai's urban life. Surprisingly, 55% of Mumbai's population lives in slums, and one of the largest slum areas in Mumbai (and in Asia, for that matter) This is Dharavi. Initially, the territory inhabited by fishermen was only streams, swamps and islands. It became attractive to migrant workers from South Mumbai and beyond, and then the swamps began to be populated for natural and artificial reasons. The area now includes 1.75 km between Mumbai's two main railway lines and is home to over a million people.
A shot from the crime melodrama "Slumdog Millionaire", which conquered not only the people of India, but the whole world!
While it may look a bit chaotic, this city-within-a-city maze of dusty alleys and sewer streets is actually a cluster of adjoining communities. In some parts of Dharavi there is a mixed population: people from different parts of India and representatives of different professions who have built houses and tiny factories for themselves. Potters from Saurashtra live in one district, Muslim tanners in another; Uttar Pradesh embroiderers work side by side with blacksmiths, workers process plastics, and women dry pappadams in the hot sun. Some of these businesses, some 10,000 in total, sell goods for export, and Dhavari's annual turnover is no less than $665 million.
Life in the slums of Mumbai is no different if you take a closer look. Residents pay rent, most houses have kitchens and electricity, and building materials from corrugated iron to multi-story concrete structures. Many families have been living here for generations and some of the young residents of Dhavari even work in the offices. But often they decide to stay in the areas where they grew up.
Slum tourism is a controversial topic, so you'll have to decide for yourself. If you decide to visit the slums, Reality Tours & Travel can offer you an exciting journey, and a percentage of the profits goes back to Dhawari to create community centers and schools. Some tourists decide to visit this area of Mumbai on their own - this is normal, just do without a camera. Take the train from Churchgate station towards Mahim (12 rupees), exit on the west side, then cross the bridge to Dhavari.
In the slums of Dharavi, you can see the life of most of the inhabitants of Mumbai without embellishment
Legendary wadi (village) is the bastion of life in Mumbai as it was before the rise of skyscrapers. A Christian enclave of elegant two-story wooden mansions is located 500 meters northeast of Girguam Chowpatty, adjacent to the Indian and Muslim districts of Mumbai. These windy streets offer a view of the quiet quiet life, without cars and autorickshaws. The village is small in every sense, but these bewitching alleys can be admired for hours and, most amazingly, all this is a step away from the hustle and bustle of the real Mumbai.
To find the village, walk to the Church of St. Teresa (St Teresa's Church) on the corner of Jagannath Shankarsheth Marg (JS Marg) and RR Roy Marg (Charni Ra), and then turn your back on the church and walk along JS Marg until you dive into the second or third lane on the left.
Entertainment
The Daily Mid-Day Brief in English includes information on the top things to do in Mumbai. Newspapers and Time Out Mumbai list events and screenings, and www.nh7.in has live music ratings. Modern project Bombay Elektrik Projekt (www.bombayelektrik.com) organizes any kind of events, from DJs and poetry recitals to short film screenings.
It would be a crime not to go to the cinema in the capital of the Indian film industry. Unfortunately, Indian films are shown without English subtitles. The cinemas listed here show films in English and several Bollywood films.
The liveliest club nights (surprisingly) on Wednesday, as well as on Friday and Saturday, which are more familiar to us; entrance is usually paid. The clubs have a dress code, so don't go there in shorts and sandals. Resto lounges are trending in Mumbai as opposed to crowded nightclubs – high taxes on discos (which does not apply to lounges and restaurants) made people smarter.
Where to eat
In this gastronomic epicenter, a cornucopia of flavors from across India clashes with international trends. Colaba has most of the cheap eateries for tourists, while Forth and Churchgate have better quality restaurants. This trend continues as you move further north towards Mahalakshmi and the Central Suburbs, home to some of the most stunning, upscale and expensive restaurants in Mumbai.
For those who like to cook themselves, Colaba Market is open in Mumbai (Lala Nigam St). Fresh fruits and vegetables are sold here. Good selection of groceries at Saharkari Bhandar Supermarket (22022248; junction of Colaba, Colaba and Wodehouse Rd; 10.00-20.30) and Suryodaya (22040979; Veer Nariman Rd; 7.30-20.30); the second one is even better.
Alcohol
Mumbai is quite liquor friendly, which means there are plenty of places to sell alcohol, from garage-looking beer bars and killer lounges to cheeky, multi-level superclubs; but don't be surprised when you find on your bill 25% of the price - tax on alcoholic beverages.
shopping
Mumbai is the largest market in India, so it has the best shopping experience in the country.
Anything can be bought in the bustling bazaars north of the CST. Mumbai's main trading floors are Crawford Market , Mangalda Market (silk and clothes), Zaveri Bazaar (decorations), Bhuleshwar Market (fruits and vegetarian products) and Chor Bazaar (antiques and furniture). Dhabu St sells leather goods and Mutton St sells antiques, reproductions and cute knick-knacks. Crawford Market (Mahatma Phule Market)- this is the last outpost of British Bombay, beyond which the noise and cries of the central bazaars begin. Bas-reliefs of Father Rudyard Kipling (Rudyard Kipling), Lockwood Kipling (Lockwood Kipling), decorate buildings of Norman-Gothic architecture.
Immerse yourself in the bustling shopping of Fashion Street (Fashion Street)- the strip of shops along MG Rd, between Cross Maidan and Azad Maidan, or in Bangra on Linking Rd, near Waterfield Rd - hone your bargaining skills. There are many good designer shops at Kemp's Corner.
Plenty of state-owned malls in Mumbai sell handicrafts at the World Trade Center Arcade near Cuffe Parade. Small shops of rare items and antiques are located along Merewether Rd behind the Taj Mahal Palace. It is not cheap here, but the quality makes itself felt - it is an order of magnitude higher than in state shopping centers. If you like things from the colonial era, head to Chor Bazaar: the liveliest street is Mutton St, where you can find many antique shops (as well as a lot of inventive fakes, so be on your guard) and various junk.
Food vendors in Mumbai (Dabba Walla)
A small miracle of logistics - 5000 food deliveries or, as they are called, dabba-wallahs (dabba means food container; there are also tiffin-wallahs lunch delivery men) in Mumbai they tirelessly deliver hot lunches to office workers throughout the city.
Lunch boxes are picked up each time from homes and restaurants and delivered on heads, bikes and trains to a central marshalling yard. A complex system of numbers and colors (many deliveries are illiterate) indicates where to carry the lunch. They deliver over 200,000 meals daily - always on time, no matter what. (monsoon) rain or (scorching) Sun.
This system has been used for centuries and on average there is only one error per six million deliveries. No wonder the dabba wallas are extremely proud of their work.
Food vendors in MumbaiGreat Wall of Mumbai
This art initiative is somewhat reminiscent of the East Side Gallery in Berlin. (although Mumbai has not had 28 years of harassment and isolation). Wall Project (www.thewallproject.com) began with a few art and design graduates who decided to paint the walls of neighboring houses with local drawings and artistic graffiti. Soon this idea turned into a public project, due to which the walls of any houses on the outskirts of Bandra, from residential to hospitals, exploded with color drawings. The number of drawings began to increase like weeds and soon, dilapidated buildings and abandoned walls turned into a real museum of modern urban art. As of this writing, hundreds of artists (and just lovers) have already drawn more than 600 drawings, the longest strip of which started from Mahim station (West) on Tulsi Pipe Road (Senapati Bapat Marg) and along the Western Railway to Matunga Rd. It is called the Great Wall of Mumbai.
Anyone can post their drawing here as long as it doesn't have a literal sexual, political, religious, or commercial message. Get yourself some acrylic tempera - this is the best paint to use due to harsh weather conditions - and get creative!
Painting on the walls as part of the Wall Project in MumbaiTransport in Mumbai
To/from airports
International Airport:
A taxi pre-order kiosk is located near the international airport. Here you can hire a taxi at fixed prices to any part of the city; Colaba, Fort and Marine Drive are with/without air conditioning Rs 495/395, Bandra West Rs 310/260 and Juhu Rs 235/190. In addition, the service fee is 10 rupees and for each piece of luggage 10 rupees. You will be taken to Colaba in 45 minutes at night and 1.5-2 hours during the day. Tipping is not needed.
Auto rickshaws can be found near the arrivals terminal, but don't try to take them to the southern part of Mumbai: auto rickshaws can only take you to Mahim Creek. You can ride an auto rickshaw (about 40 rupees) to Andheri railway station and transfer to the commuter train (7 rupees, 45 minutes) to Churchgate station or CST. Such a trip makes sense only if you arrived during the day and not at rush hour (6.00-11.00) , and besides, even without heavy luggage.
Minibuses near the arrivals gate provide free transportation to the airport for domestic flights and to hotels in Juhu.
A taxi from south Mumbai to the international airport will cost 350-400 rupees if you bargain well; the official luggage fee is 10 rupees per piece. From midnight to 5 am - plus 25% of the cost. We really liked the old black and yellow taxis, but Meru also offers good air-conditioned and metered taxis (44224422; www.merucabs.com). The price is 20 rupees for the first km and 14 rupees for all subsequent (25% more expensive at night). The route is determined by GPS, so you will not be deceived!
Domestic airport:
Auto rickshaws and taxis are available near all domestic terminals. You can pre-order a car right next to the gate for arrivals. A taxi without/with air conditioning to Colaba or Fort costs 350/400 at any time of the day, plus 10 rupees for luggage. In Juhu - 150/200 rupees.
A cheaper alternative is an auto rickshaw from the airport to Vile Parle train station (20-30 rupees), and from here the train to Churchgate (7 rupees, 45 minutes). Don't even try to drive this way during rush hour (6-11 hours).
boat
In PNP (22885220) and Maldar Catamarans (22829695) there are regular boats to Mandwa island (one way 110 rupees). From here you can get to Murud-Janjir and other parts of the Konkan coast without having to get on the bus for a long time. Ticket offices are located at the Apollo Pier (Apollo Bunder; near Gateway to India).
Bus
Single decker and double decker buses in Mumbai are a good choice for traveling short distances. The price in south Mumbai is 3 rupees per stop; pay the conductor at the entrance. This service is provided by BEST. (www.bestundertaking.com), with a garage in Colaba (the site has the ability to search for bus routes around the city). To see south Mumbai cheaply, all you have to do is hop on a double-decker bus (e.g. bus 103). A day pass costs 25 rupees.
Car
Cars are usually rented for the day (maximum eight hours and 80 km). If you exceed the allowed limit, you will have to pay extra. Best price for a car with air conditioning, about 1000 rupees.
The agent at the tent ticket office at Apollo Jetty near the Gateway of India can arrange a Maruti with driver but no air conditioning for a half day tour for Rs 1,000 (you will have time to get to Mahalakshmi and Malabar Hill). Ordinary taxi drivers often agree to this price too.
Vintage cars on the streets of Mumbai
Metro
The Mumbai metro project, which cost US$ 8.17 billion, was never completed. The Colaba-Bandra-Airport line would be very useful for tourists, but it will take a few more years to complete it.
Motorbike
Allibhai Premji Tyrewalla (www.premjis.com; 205/207 Dr D Bhadkamkar Rd; 10.00-19.00 Mon-Sat) has been selling new and used motorcycles for nearly a hundred years, with a guaranteed return policy when you no longer need it. If you want to rent a bike for two or three weeks, you still have to pay full price for it. The company prefers long-term deals of two months or more. Either way, it's cheaper. Used Hero Honda Karizma 150cc cm or 225 cu. cm costs from 725,000 to 780,000, while it will be bought back from you for about 60% in three months (sometimes there are "enfields" with a large engine capacity). Smaller bike (100-180 cc) you can take from 725,000. The company can organize the shipment of a motorcycle abroad by sea (about 724,000 to UK).
Taxis and auto rickshaws
It seems that every second car in Mumbai is a yellow and black Premier taxi (Indian version of "Fiat" from the 1950s). The car is the most convenient way to get around the city, and in the southern part of Mumbai, drivers almost always correctly calculate the cost on the meter. There are auto rickshaws only on the northern outskirts of Mahim Creek.
Not all drivers know the names of city streets (especially new ones), so it's better to use some landmarks to explain where you want to go. Fares increased in 2010 and meter now starts at Rs 16 per day (Rs 20 after midnight) for the first 1.6 km and then 10 rupees per kilometer (Rs 12 after midnight). The minimum cost of an auto rickshaw is 11 rupees.
We won't point fingers, but Mumbaikar's taxis and autorickshaws can cash in on foreigners from time to time. Rickshaws and taxi drivers who use old meters may try to deceive you (fixed on the outside on the left). The cost of a taxi with an old meter will be about 16 times more than indicated. To prevent this from happening, print out a handy fare converter available from Mumbai Traffic Police (www.trafficpolicemumbai.org/Tariffcard_Auto_taxiJorm.htm)- that's the whole conversation (until next time).
Train
Mumbai has a good but overcrowded suburban train network.
There are three main lines, so it's pretty easy to figure it out. The most useful direction is from Churchgate north to Charni Rd stations (for transfer to Girgaum Chowpatty), Mumbai Central (for transfer to Dhobi Ghat), Vile Parle (for domestic flights), Andheri (for international flights) and Borivali (for Sanjay Gandhi National Park). Other suburban lines connect CST and Baikullu (for Veermata Jijabai Bhonsle Udyan, former Victoria Gardens), Dadar and Neral (for Matheran). Trains run from 4.00 to 1.00. Ticket price from Churchgate, 2nd/1st class 4/41 at Mumbai Central, 77/78 at Vile Parle or Andheri and 79/104 at Borivali.
Mumbai commuter trainsNeighborhood of Mumbai
Elephanta Island
From Mumbai you can take a pleasant boat trip to the temple caves of the 7th century. on Elephanta Island. A ferry departs from the Apollo embankment. Known as Gharapuri, the Holy City of Kings, the island was named Elephanta by Portuguese sailors. Although their muskets damaged many of the sculptures of the gods in the caves, enough of them survived to make a stop on the island. Carved into the rocky hills in the center of the island, the caves contain some of the finest examples of sculpture. ancient india, including the famous image of Trimurti, the three-headed Shiva, whose imposing profile has become almost as recognizable a symbol of India as the Taj Mahal.
Known as "Maheshmurti", the panel occupies the wall of one of the largest caves in the complex. Although there is some controversy regarding the date of this magnificent relief, scholars agree that this is an outstanding work of Indian sculpture: there is no other ancient statue in the entire Indian subcontinent that radiates a vivid feeling of such power and serenity. On both sides of it are impressive bas-reliefs depicting mythological scenes. The main entrance to the cave is guarded by a multi-armed deity of a frightening appearance. (dvarapala) A deer in Sanjay Gandhi Park comes to the boy every day for food
It's hard to believe that just 1.5 hours from the crowded metropolis is a 104 sq. km. (28866449; adult/child 30/15, two wheeler/four wheeler Rs 15/50; 7.30-18.00). Here, instead of the pollution and crowds of Mumbai, you will see vibrant flora, birds, butterflies and elusive leopards surrounded by forested mountains on the northern edge of the city. Urbanization and urban shacks are trying to squeeze into this wilderness, but thanks to the status of a national park, the forest remains green and quiet.
To escape for a day from mind-blowing Mumbai, you can choose the well-trodden trails to Shilonda Falls. (shilonda) and lakes Vihar and Tulsi (Vihar and Tulsi), safari in search of lions and tigers, as well as Kanheri caves (Kanheri) Best time to visit
October to March.
Special offers for hotels
Road to Mumbai and back
Airplane
Mumbai is the main international gateway to southern India and is also the busiest domestic airport. Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (Chhatrapa-ti Shivaji International Airport; domestic flights 26264000, international flights 26813000; www.csia.in), is located about 30 km from the city center. Since 2006, it has been modernized for the amount of $2 billion. At the time of writing, the airport had three internal (1A, 1B and 1C) and one international terminal (2A). The airport terminal from where domestic flights depart, known as Santa Cruz Airport, can be accessed via Vile Parle, while the international airport is four kilometers away on Andheri and is called Sahar by the locals. Both terminals have ATMs, currency exchange and tourist information booths. A free shuttle between airports runs every half hour; to get into it, you need to have a plane ticket. By 2014, the shiny new T2 terminal will be ready to serve both domestic and international flights, and Santa Cruz will become a cargo airport.
International airlines:
It is best to book a ticket through a travel agency or the Internet, because even in offices you are constantly redirected to call centers.
The following airlines have offices in Mumbai:
- Air India (27580777, airport 26156633; www.airindia.com; Air India building, corner of Marine Dr and Madame Kama Rd, Nariman Point; 9.15-18.30 Mon-Fri, to 17.15 Sat and Sun)
- cathay pacific (66572222, airport 66859002/3; www.cathaypacific.com; 2 Brady Gladys Plaza, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel; 9:30-18:30 Mon-Sat)
- Emirates Airlines (40974097; www.emirates.com; 3 Mittal Chambers, 228 Nariman Point; 9.00-17.30 Mon-Sat)
- El Al Airlines (66207400, Airport 66859425/6; www.elal.co.il; 7th floor, NKM International House, BM Chinai Marg, Nariman Point; 9.30-17.30 Mon-Fri, until 13.00 Sat)
- Qantas (61111818; www.qantas.com.au; 5th floor, Sunteck Centre, 37-40 Subhash Rd, Vile Parle; 9.00-13.15 and 14.30-17.30 Mon-Fri)
- Swiss (67137240; www.swiss.com; 3rd floor, Vashani Chambers, New Marine Ln, 9; 9.00-17.30 Mon-Sat)
- Thai Airways (61395599; www.thaiair.com; 2A Mittal Towers wing A, Nariman Point 9.30-17.30 Mon-Fri, til 4 Sat)
Domestic airlines:
- GoAir (call center 1800 222111, airport 26264/89; www.goair.in)
- Indian Airlines (22023031, call center 1800 1801407; www.indianairlines.nic.in; Air India building, corner of Marine Dr and Madame Kama Rd, Nariman Point)
- indigo (call center 18001803838; www.goindigo.in)
- Jet Airways (call center 39893333, airport 26266575; www.jetairways.com; Amarchand Mansion, Madame Kama Rd; 9.30-18.00 Mon-Fri, until 13.00 Sat)
- jetlite (call center 1800 225522; www.jetlite.com)
- Kingfisher/Kingfisher Red (call center 1800 2331310, airport 26262605; www.flykingfisher.com; Nirmal building, Marine Dr, Nariman Point; 9.00-19.00 Mon-Sat, 10.00-14.00 Sun)
Buses of private companies, as a rule, are more comfortable and it is easier to book a ticket for them, but they cost an order of magnitude more than public ones; Departure from Dr Anadrao Nair Rd near Mumbai Central Station. Prices popular destinations (e.g. Goa) in the high season increase to 75%. For departure times and current prices, please contact National CTC (23015652; Dr Anadrao Nair Rd; 7.00-22.00).
Goa and others southern cities it is more convenient to travel by Chandni Travels buses (22713901) that depart three times a day from Azad Maidan (Azad Maidan), south of the Metro cinema. Ticket agents are located near the departure point.
State buses long distance depart from Mumbai Central Bus Station (Mumbai Central bus terminal; 23074272/1524) close to Mumbai Central Railway Station. Buses run to the main cities of Maharashtra and neighboring states. They are cheaper and run more frequently than private buses, but the quality of services and the number of people can vary widely.
Train
There are three railway lines in Mumbai, with Central Railways and Western Railways offering the best service.
A ticket for any direction can be bought at any station, in the southern part of Mumbai or in the suburbs, where there are computerized ticket offices. At Central Railways (134) there are trains heading east, south and some trains heading north from CST. Pre-checkout (139; 8.00-20.00 Mon-Sat, until 14.00 Sun) located near the taxi rank on the CST. Ticket prices for foreigners (tourist-quota tickets; box 52) can be bought up to 90 days before travel, but they must be paid in foreign currency or rupees with a receipt from a bank or ATM. You can buy Indrail travel vouchers at box 52. You can buy tickets at regular prices with Visa or MasterCard at more convenient and faster ticket offices that accept credit cards (10 and 11) for an additional 30 rupees. Ticket refunds for Indians and foreigners are made at box 8.
Some Central Railways trains depart from Dadar Station (D)- a few stops north of CST or Churchgate / (Lokmanya Tilak; T) 16km north of CST.
To Western Railways (131,132) trains run north (including to Rajasthan and Delhi) from Mumbai Central station (Mumbai Central (MC); 23061763, 23073535), commonly referred to as Bombay Central (Bombay Central; TSA). Pre-checkout (8.00-20.00 Mon-Sat, until 14.00 Sun), located opposite Churchgate railway station, here you can buy a ticket for a quota for tourists (box 14). Same rules as on DXI (CST). Credit cards accepted in window number 6.
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01. In fact, this is the same city. According to one version ( Indian) the city was founded in 1507 under the name of Mumbai, in honor of the Hindu goddess Mumba Devi. And then the Portuguese came and renamed it Bombain, something like a good bay. When the Portuguese were replaced by the main local colonizers, the British, the name adapted into the sonorous Bombay. For some reason, only in 1995, the local authorities decided to return the historical (in their opinion) Name. And since then, officially Bombay is called Mumbai. But, the usual Bombay ( to the first syllable) is still in use among both citizens and travelers from all over the world.
02. Such a glorious view opens from the window of my hotel, where I got from the airport after about two hours of endless traffic jams ... 
03. I confess that of all the cities in India where I have visited, Mumbai is perhaps the most interesting. 
04. Well, actually the pronoun "most" is applicable to many adjectives relating to the description of Mumbai: The largest in India ( more than 22 million); The most business read rich); The most contrasting outright poverty and no less outright wealth side by side); India's most cosmopolitan city (here is a real clash of west and east, Europe and Asia)...
05. It is located on the coast of the Arabian Sea. 
06. So, somewhere beyond the horizon is Dubai...) By the way, it is from here that cheap consumer goods come to Dubai Creek. 
07. The main visiting card of Bombay, the royal gate to India (and from India) ...) The arch was founded in 1911 in honor of the visit of King George V, and through them the last British troops left India in 1948, after the country's independence was declared . 
08. I must admit that all the most interesting things in architecture were built during the period of English domination, approximately in the second half of the 19th-20th centuries. Here at the arch, there is a luxury hotel "Taj Mahal", built in 1903, and attacked by terrorists in 2008. 
09. Next to the historical, modern building built already in the era of Indian independence (approximately in the 70s of the XX century).
10. The place is very popular with citizens and numerous tourists. It is also popular with terrorists. There have been multiple attacks, including bloody attacks. Now the entrance to the territory is limited by the need to undergo a personal search procedure (however, very formal).
11. From here you can go to the remote island of Elephanta ( where there are many monkeys and caves, and there are no elephants at all).
12. Or take a ride along the coast on numerous pleasure trams. This is for those who have a lot of time. 
13. As for me, I chose a walk through the center of the historic city. 
14. There are many curious colonial buildings built in the spirit of English neoclassicism and neogothic. 
15. Of course, there is also something like constructivism. 
16. Green Mumbi, Clean Mumbai. Green Mumbai, Clean Mumbai. Both of these apply, perhaps, only to historical center cities, and then with a big stretch. 
17. Is it because of traffic jams? Perhaps they are truly fantastic. Moscow in the middle of the 2000s is resting ( seems to be better today)... In general, the ecology is the same! 
18. But there is a lot of greenery. 
19. For example, in the very center of the city, the so-called Oval Maidan is located, surrounded on all sides by pretty tropical vegetation, 
20. and very beautiful colonial buildings of the past. For example, the building of the Supreme Court of the State of Maharashtra. 
21. Or the beautiful Rajabai Clock Tower, which is part of the University of Mumbai. 
22. And actually the Oval Maidan - 
23. this is the current field for the mega cricket popular in India ( colonial echoes),
24. and football. 
25. Photo from the past. Oval Maidan in 1875. When tropical trees were small.
(photo from the Internet)
26. When the trees grew, beautiful historical buildings became barely visible ... Part of the campus of the University of Mumbai. 
27. Walking around the city, I was sincerely struck by the diversity of colonial architecture. Literally, every building is a masterpiece! 
28. What can not be said about local public transport. 
29. However, this is how else to look ...) 
30. And a little further, the legacy of independence?) 
31. I wonder what modern Indian cities would have looked like if India had not declared independence in 1947? 
32. It is clear that the question is a trick. But when you look at the colonial past and the relative present, the latter seems to be inferior to the former. 
33. St. Thomas Cathedral, 1718, by the way, 299 years! Anniversary next year. 
34. Inside, ceiling fans familiar to hot countries. Naturally, this is the Cathedral of the Anglican Church.
Mumb A th, or Mumb A and - a city in western India, located on the coast of the Arabian Sea, at the mouth of the Ulhas River (Ulhas). Until 1995, the city was called Bombay, and its current name - Mumbai - received in honor of one of the incarnations of the goddess Mother Earth Mumbadeva - Maha Amba Aiee, who is worshiped by the Marathas inhabiting the lands of Maharashtra.
Mumbai is the capital of the state of Maharashtra, it is the most populated city in India: the metropolis of Mumbai, together with satellite cities, is the fifth largest urban agglomeration in the world with a population of 28.8 million people. Mumbai is an administrative unit called the Municipal Corporation of Mumbai, which includes two districts (districts) of the state of Maharashtra: the city of Mumbai proper (603 km², 15,414,288 people in 2018) and the suburbs of Mumbai. Mumbai is divided into 23 urban areas.
Based: 1507
Square: 603 km 2
Population: 15 414 288 people (2018)
Currency: Indian rupee
Language: marathi
Off.site: http://www.mcgm.gov.in
Current time in Mumbai:
(UTC +5:30)
Compared to other cities in India, Mumbai has a high standard of living and high business activity with great employment opportunities. The city today is the largest port in western India.
How to get there
There are no direct flights connecting Russia and Mumbai, but, in part, there are a lot of connecting options, thanks to which you can fly to Mumbai from several cities in Russia. Below we list these options (in brackets - the cities of connections).
- Turkish Airlines (Istanbul): Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Kazan, Ufa, Rostov-on-Don, Sochi
- Lufthansa (Frankfurt am Main or Munich): Moscow, St. Petersburg, Nizhny Novgorod, Samara
- Emirates (Dubai): Moscow, St. Petersburg
- Qatar Airways (Doha): Moscow
- Etihad Airways (Abu Dhabi): Moscow
- Air France (Paris): Moscow, St. Petersburg
- Swiss (Zurich): Moscow, St. Petersburg
- KLM (Amsterdam): Moscow, St. Petersburg
- Virgin Atlantic and British Airways (London): Moscow
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