Mumbai (Marathi: ®¬, IPA:/'mumb@i/ help·info), formerly known as Bombay, is the capital of the state of Maharashtra, the most populous city of India, and by some measures the most populous city in the world with an estimated population of about 13 million (as of 2006).^ Mumbai is located on Salsette Island, off the west coast of Maharashtra. Along with its neighbouring suburbs, it forms the world's sixth most populous metropolitan area with a population of about 25 million. The metro population is expected to be ranked 4th in the world by 2015 due to an annual growth rate of 2.2% (Demographia.com). The city has a deep natural harbour and the port handles over half of India's passenger traffic and a significant amount of cargo.^

There is a lot to see in Mumbai, but the typical "tourist" sights are concentrated in .

Medieval wonders

By Indian standards, Mumbai is a young city and much of the land comprising the city did not exist till it was claimed from the sea over three centuries. It is therefore, a pleasant surprise to find rock cut caves such as the Elephanta, Kanheri and Mahakali caves within city limits.

Colonial buildings

The British built a magnificent city within the walls of Fort St. George. Some fine examples of the Gothic revival, Neo-classical style and Indo-Saracenic style are seen within this area. Worth seeing are the Gateway of India, the CST terminus, the Police headquarters or generally take a stroll around

Museums and Galleries

Some of the most famous museums and art galleries in India are found here. The Kala Ghoda area in South Mumbai teems with them, particularly the Prince of Wales Museum, and the National Gallery of Modern Art. Once again, most of them are concentrated in South Mumbai

Beaches

Mumbai has a few, including one in the downtown area. But they aren't that great and the water off Mumbai's coast is not clean. The relatively better ones are in the area.

Zoos, parks and gardens

Mumbai has a justified reputation as a concrete jungle, but there are some nice pockets of greenery within the city. It is also one of the rare metropolises to have an entire national park inside(Borivali national park). You will not visit Mumbai for them, but if you are already here, they make a nice escape from the din and bustle.

The city zoo (Veermata Jijabai Udyan) is located in Byculla and is a colonial relic which is surprisingly well-preserved. The animals may look rather emaciated but the sheer diversity of trees on this lush zoo is worth a trip.

Some city parks are very well-maintained and combine history as well. The "Hanging Gardens" on Malabar Hill offers stunning vistas of the Marine Drive. A gigantic shoe with steps is for the kids to play. Right across is an urban park mainly for walkers but sometimes one is surprised by a band playing!

Further in South Mumbai, the Mumbai Port Trust Garden, is another hidden gem. This is set off a small side street off the Colaba Causeway 2-3 kms south of the main section. Once again, lovely views of the port, the naval yards and sunset.

In central Mumbai, there are a set of five gardens called, well, Five Gardens. Mainly used by walkers in the morning, it is a mess in the evenings. But the gardens encircle some historic, art deco residences.

Markets and crowds

Mumbai is probably worth visiting just for its street markets, the hustle of vendors and the madness of the crowds.

Modern buildings and malls

Once the British left, the zeal to wipe away the traces of colonial rule was, unfortunately, not matched by the enthusiasm to build a new city that matched the grandeur of the British-era buildings. Now, while the shabbiness of the socialist era is thankfully being replaced by architecture with an eye on aesthetics, the new malls, multiplexes and office buildings that are coming up are indistinguishable from those anywhere else in the world. Still, they are worth a look, especially if you want to have a look at India's success story. Inorbit Mall which is the Best Mall of India is located in Malad - Mumbai a must watch place.

Religious places

Mumbai has temples, mosques, churches, Parsi Agiaries and even a few synagogues reflecting the diversity of backgrounds of its citizens. While these are naturally of interest if you are a believer, some, like the Portuguese church at Dadar are worth visiting just for their unique architecture.

Itineraries

- your guide to spending two days in the city.