A kaleidoscope of colours, languages, festivals and cultures, Mumbai, (frequently still referred to as Bombay), is the capital of the Indian state of Maharashtra and the Financial and Commercial Capital of India, contributing to nearly 70% of India’s capital trading and investments. One of the most populous urban regions in the world, Mumbai's name was derived from the Hindu Goddess Mumbadevi and was originally a conglomeration of seven islands on the Konkan coastline. Always on the move and bustling with people, chaotic streets, thriving bazaars, roadside eateries and eclectic street shopping, it is the city that never sleeps!

A city of stars, Mumbai is famed for its Bollywood glitz and glamour, producing the largest number of movies in the world. With its magnificent educational facilities such as The Indian Institute of Technology or the Seth G.S. Medical College, people from all cultures, religions and economic backgrounds flock to this dynamic city to make it big, which is often why Mumbai is also known as the 'City of Dreams'. Marathi is its official language, although English and Hindi are widely spoken and understood.

Mumbai's vibrant multi-ethnic culture is a blend of festivals, food, dance, music and theatre. The city offers a cosmopolitan and diverse lifestyle with a variety of entertainment and nightlife options available in abundance, comparable to any other world capitals. Mumbai's fast paced life makes fast food like Pau Bhaji, Samosas, Bhel Puri, Kulfi a favourite of the locals. The city presents architectural styles that combine modern designs and centuries-old Gothic influences, which makes it an amalgamation of scenic views and striking architecture.

Best time to visit:
The best time to visit the city for exploring its various tourist attractions is from October to April. Although Mumbai looks beautiful when it rains over the city, it is best to avoid travelling in the monsoon season.

Top five places to see:

Gateway of India – The Gateway of India is an impressive monument constructed to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to the city in December 1911. Built as a mammoth arch at a mighty height of 26 meters, it has an inner width of 15 meters and its presence is symbolic to the city.

Elephanta Caves – These rock-cut caves, which are declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are said to be dating back to the 9th and 13th Century AD. They are famous for its ancient sculptures and a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Boat ride facilities are available to carry tourists to the historic Elephanta Island.

Marine Drive and Chowpatty Beach – Marine Drive, also termed as the Queen’s Necklace, is one of the most scenic stretches amidst the concrete jungle of Mumbai and is the crowning glory of the city. The picturesque Chowpatty Beach with its pastel sands and eateries is the best place to enjoy the Sun set over the Arabian Sea.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park – The Park, enriched with varieties of flora and fauna, attracts tourists all through the year. The 2,400 year old Kanheri caves, carved out of rocky mounts lie within this park. Serene, dense green forests and the abundance of wild life including lions, tigers, leopards, deers and more, make this National Park unique. Tourist can go around the Park in a toy train ride and view the wild animals in their natural habitat.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya – The erstwhile Prince of Wales Museum, this is one of Mumbai's finest examples of Victorian architecture. It houses treasures, artefacts, paintings and sculpture from many periods covering India's history, including the Indus Valley Civilization.