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Exploring Mumbai in a day is somewhat ambitious. However, if it has to be done then some of the most popular elements of Mumbai should feature in the tour. Read on for a one day itinerary spanning sightseeing, food, and shopping.
Mumbai thrives on dynamism and thoroughly justifies its title of “Finance Capital of India”. While commerce sure makes for the city’s DNA; everything is not just all about business here. In fact, there are few other cities in India that can match Mumbai’s colourful spirit. Many of the ones, who call this place home, may rave and rant about life here but will never leave the city. With a plethora of potent tourist magnets, Mumbai also easily endears itself to visitors. If you have booked flight tickets for Mumbai but won’t be there for long, you may want to consider a whirlwind one day tour of the city.
Here’s how to go about it.
Start the Day in Bandra
Start your day by exploring Ranwar and Chapel Street. Slowly discover the area’s centuries’ old history marked by old colonial homes bravely withstanding the ravages of time. Head towards Jogger’s Park and experience the joy of joining scores of other joggers on this seaside jogging track. After working up a lot of sweat and appetite, treat yourself to a hearty meal of pancakes, bacon, and eggs at Salt Water Café near Lilavati Hospital Junction.
Check out Major Landmarks in the Late Morning and Afternoon
Feel the overwhelming pulse of life at Dharavi Slum, immortalized by Danny Boyle’s flick “Slumdog Millionaire”. Known to be amongst the world’s largest slums, the inhabitants of the place call it “Land of Opportunity”. Try to snack on the fiery vada pao sold at Dadar outside Kirti College. Now, take a quick detour to Washermen’s Colony situated adjacent to Mahalaxmi train station. Head to the white-marbled Haji Ali Shrine for your share of blessings! The shrine is built on a small island and is accessed by a walkway. During high tide, the walkway gets submerged and one is deluded into believing that the shrine is floating.
Have Lunch in the Fort Area and spend the Rest of the Afternoon here
After all this sightseeing, hunger pangs are bound to set in. Well, a satiating lunch of authentic Iranian and Parsi fares await you at Britannia, Sprott Road. Tuck into mouth-watering preparations of dhansak (curry), berry pulao (rice), patra ni macchi (steamed fish), and Sali boti (meat). Wash it down with pallonjis (a fizzy raspberry drink). Another lovely option for lunch is Café Ideal. After lunch, check out the historic colonial era buildings and shops dotting the Fort Area. Top it all up by visiting the Jehangir Art Gallery at the Kala Ghoda Enclave.
Now, for the Evening and Night
It would be evening by the time you step out of Jehangir Art Gallery. Recharge yourself with a cup of coffee at the famed Kala Ghoda Café. Now, take a taxi to the upscale Colaba area and splurge on the goodies at the Colaba Shopping Street. As long as you are here, make sure to visit Leopold’s Café. While the vibe and food is exhilarating, the place has also earned its place in history after the crazy terrorist attack of 2008. Finally, call it a day by catching a drink at “Dome”, the rooftop restaurant of Intercontinental Hotel. You will get mind blowing views of “Marine Drive” from here.