Hello, I’m Kishan from Delhi, studying engineering. Every year after the semester ends, my tight-knit group of friends and I go on a memorable trip. This year, we chose to explore Mumbai. We had a whole week to pack with excitement, and we knew it would be an unforgettable adventure.
Route from Delhi to Mumbai
We began our journey on a train from Delhi to Mumbai. We chose the comfortable third AC class, and it cost us about Rs. 2,500 per person for the 12-hour ride. I’ve always loved trains, so it was an exciting start to our adventure. As we got closer to Mumbai, our excitement grew. We couldn’t wait to experience the city’s vibes, culture, and especially its street food.
Accommodation in Mumbai
We stayed at the Hotel Golden Palace, which was comfy and convenient, costing us around Rs. 1,000 a day. It was a nice place to relax after our busy days of exploring.
Must-visit places in Mumbai
- Bandra: Our first stop was Kalyan, and from there, we headed straight to the heart of the city, Bandra. Bandra welcomed us with its lively streets and so much to do. We spent our days wandering around, trying out delicious street food like vada pav, momos, and bhelpuri. The street vendors had really mastered their recipes, and the flavours were amazing, bursting in our mouths.
- Mannat: A big moment for us was seeing Mannat, Shahrukh Khan’s famous house. It’s a symbol of dreams and ambition, which Mumbai is all about. Looking at it, we couldn’t help but reflect on the amazing journey that brought us there.
- Mount Mary Church: Our next stop was the peaceful Mount Mary Church. In the city’s chaos, this place offered a peaceful retreat. The architecture was beautiful, and once inside, the cool and quiet atmosphere gave us a break from the city noise. It was a moment of quiet reflection and peace, and it reminded us of the city’s rich history and its blend of diverse cultures.
- Mariyam Drive Beach: The following day, we saw Mariyam Drive Beach, a hidden gem where we enjoyed some peaceful time by the sea. The soft sand and the gentle waves made it so picturesque. We stayed to watch the sunset, painting the sky in beautiful pinks and oranges. It was a moment we’ll always remember.
- Lalbaugcha Raja: Next up was the much-awaited trip to Lalbaugcha Raja, the biggest Ganpati idol in Mumbai. The crowd was huge, and we waited for about 12 hours just to catch a glimpse of the magnificent deity. It was a deeply moving and exciting experience. The idol itself was a work of art, decorated with beautiful jewellery and garlands. The devotion and enthusiasm of the worshippers filled the air, creating a truly powerful atmosphere.
- Mumbai Zoo: We kept exploring and went to the Mumbai Zoo at Chowpatty, a green haven in the city. Seeing the lush greenery and all the different animals was amazing. We were in awe of the tigers, the elephants, and the cheeky monkeys. It reminded us how crucial it is to protect our natural world.
- Fashion Street: Going to Fashion Street felt like a fun treasure hunt. It’s just like Sarojini Nagar in Delhi, with lots of affordable clothes to choose from. We couldn’t help but buy some trendy Mumbai-style outfits. The colours and designs really showed off the city’s lively vibe and the mix of modern and traditional fashion.
A hidden gem of Mumbai
And you can’t miss seeing the famous Taj Hotel and the Gateway of India when you’re in Mumbai. These landmarks are full of history and grandeur. The Taj Hotel’s design tells the story of Mumbai’s colonial past and its rich history. Standing by the Gateway of India, looking out at the Arabian Sea, we were mesmerised by the sea breeze, the boats, and the mix of cultures all around us. These landmarks show just how important Mumbai’s history is and why it’s such a special place.
For our trip back to Delhi, we decided on a flight, costing us around Rs. 4,500 each. It was a convenient way to wrap up our adventure.
Best Time for Exploring Mumbai
The ideal time to visit Mumbai is from September to February during the winter season. The weather is just right for exploring the city and seeing the sights without getting too hot or too cold. It’s perfect for wandering around and uncovering all the wonders Mumbai has to offer.
Essential things to carry:
- Make sure to bring an umbrella because Mumbai’s weather can change suddenly.
- It’s also good to have some cash and a power bank in case you need them.
- Dress comfortably for exploring this lively city.
Tips for Travellers
- For anyone travelling to Mumbai, be ready for the busy crowds on the local trains.
- Keep an eye on your stuff to stay safe, as pickpocketing can happen.
- Seats on the trains can be hard to find because they’re usually packed, so try to get one early or be prepared to stand.
- The fares are usually around Rs. 40 to Rs. 50, which is pretty cheap for getting around the city.
Our time in Mumbai was full of excitement and unforgettable moments, creating memories we’ll cherish forever. It was all about exploring the vibrant city of Mumbai, bonding with friends, and being captivated by its beauty. Mumbai’s charm was undeniable, and its story became a part of ours forever.
