Being a Mumbaikar, I know one day is never enough to take this city in. 24 hours isn’t nearly enough time to explore all the highlights of this intoxicating city. But here’s an attempt to make your one day in Mumbai as memorable as possible by commemorating some amazing tourist spots you can’t afford to miss and just fun places in general you need to visit. Mind you each of these listed below are different from the other, offering to take you on a wild ride, keeping your budget in mind. Everyone needs an occasional break from their usual schedule, and as much as Mumbaikars absolutely love their busy life, they also love their retreats. So forget about the grind for a while and head out for a one day trip near Mumbai.
- Walk around the Gateway of India Pass through the security check on the Northern end to enter the complex. As you enter the complex, you will be greeted by the massive yellow basalt and reinforced concrete arched gates. The complex is bustling with locals and tourists alike. Walk around the monument, look into Mumbai’s deep harbour and look the ever-growing collection of yachts. Turn around and enjoy the majestic beauty of the TajMahal Hotel. There will be many vendors selling souvenirs and light snacks.This of course, is the logical place from where to begin your tour. After all, you’re following in the footsteps of royalty! The English King George V landed in India in 1911 at this very spot, and the citizens of Bombay pooled money and ideas to build this grand memorial to him. After Indian independence, the last British soldiers departed through this arch. But the most important thing about the Gateway is not the arch at all, but the sea beyond it. It was this deep and safe harbour that first attracted the Portuguese, who called it “Bom Bahia” – Good Bay (that’s where the city’s name comes from).
- Elephanta is situated close to the Gateway of India in South Mumbai and it takes only a ferry ride (less than an hour ride) to get to this island that houses marvelous cave temples built between the 5th to 8th centuries. The island got its name from the Portuguese who found a massive rock cut elephant statue at the entrance of the island. The stone elephant is now placed in the Victoria gardens in Mumbai. There are three rock cut cave temples on the island, the largest being the Shiva temple. It has a large statue of Mehsamurthi, or Lord Shiva with three heads and around the cave you can spot many other statues of Shiva and his incarnations. Similar one day picnic spots near Mumbai: Ajanta and Ellora cave temples.
- Drive down to the Sula Vineyard and don’t forget to take a detour to the Vaitarna dam. Driving on the expressway is simply blissful and it normally would take 3 hours to reach Sula, minus any stops. Wine tasting and grape stomping are both worth travelling the distance from Mumbai. Sula Vineyards also host an annual wine festival called the Sula Fest, making it perfect place for one day picnic spots near Mumbai.
- Take a drive through the historical Fort District. Walk around Horniman Circle and see Colonial architecture at its best. There are several things to see, but I recommend you don’t miss the following:
–Victoria Terminus – A magnificent building. Don’t miss the Indian peacock motifs, or the logo of the GIPR (the Great Indian Peninsular Railway).
–The Asiatic Library and Town Hall – This is the historical place from where, after the Sepoy Mutiny in 1857, the proclamation of India reverting to the Crown was read out.
- There are many street markets to choose from in South Mumbai (also lovingly called SoBo), and Colaba Causeway which is overrun with a crazy riot of local colour. So popular that multi national brands like McDonalds have opened up here, welcoming a steady inflow of foreign customers every day. Attracted by the colourful jewellery, scarves and all things antique and ‘rare’, there is no doubt that once you enter the pretty lanes of the markets, a good three hours will pass by you.
- Vasai fort, an Old Portuguese fort, is different than many other you will find dotting Maharashtra, in terms of its architecture and also in terms of the vibe it gives you. A lot of college students love to come here and shoot for short films and also just to chill in the area because of its calm and graceful structure. It can get dangerous at night, so only a one day trip from Mumbai is advised. Similar one day picnic spots near Mumbai:Sinhagad fort, Lohagad fort, MurudJanjira.
- The Karnala bird sanctuary is a favorite among trekkers as a one day picnic spot near Mumbai and Pune. It is also frequently visited by families looking for a peaceful picnic spot. It is close by to Panvel, the home base for many vacationers. The sanctuary is home to more than 150 bird species and it is interesting to sit quietly and spot the different bird calls.
- Pawna Lake is an artificial lake which came into existence due to the creation of the Pawna dam. It’s slowly emerging as a major picnic spot and becoming a popular destination for one day trips from Mumbai. Nestled in the peaceful confines of the Sahyadri range, the picturesque views of the dam and the lake are a visual treat for the visitors, and even more for nature lovers and enthusiasts. It’s an ideal camping destination and one can also engage in several water sports activities such as parasailing and boating.
- A favourite among adults and kids alike, Essel World is one of the best places near Mumbai for a one day trip where you can have the ultimate fun experience. Along with Water Kingdom, it’s considered to be India’s Best Amusement and Water Park, and is flocked by thousands of people every day. With rides such as roller coasters and themed rides, you’re definitely in for the time of your life! There’s also a skating rink and a bowling alley which has been a huge hit among the visitors. You don’t leave this theme park without having had the time of your life.
- While on the subject of amusement parks, AdlabsImagica, a quite recent park which opened up in 2013, has managed to grab #1 position in the list of most popular amusement parks of Mumbai. And for good reason. Located in Khopoli along the Mumbai-Pune expressway, it is home to India’s biggest floor-less roller coaster and has several fun & exciting rides for people of all ages. Apart from the usual rides, there are several restaurants and shopping places as well. It is an entire package of a good one day picnic loaded with fun rides, good food and some shopping along the way.
- And how can one not mention Marine Drive? If you were to ask for my opinion, this is the one place you just CANNOT miss when you have a day roaming around Mumbai. The breezy boardwalk is a favourite among friends huddling up talking their hearts out, photographers clicking away at the vast sea and the sunset that reflects on it creating the dreamiest sight, many a couples sneaking in glances against the picturesque setting of the sea and just people walking alone taking in the calm and peaceful environment. You may also stumble upon a film shoot as NarimanPoint is quite the popular spot for filming. The moon shaped Marine Drive is also called The Queen’s Necklace because of how it looks at night. Marine Drive is what dreams are made of. And you get to be a part of this peaceful retreat among the hustle and bustle of Mumbai.
I still stand by my view that you can’t take in Mumbai in one day. But do make use of the one day you have to travel to the highlights of the city that never sleeps. You will be able to capture the real essence of what this city has to offer and so much more. This is Mumbai and it doesn’t disappoint.
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