It would sound very clichéd to call Mumbai the New York of India, but that is what describes this city of dreams the best. It depicts the place that is always up and about, a city with a spirit of gold and a determination to never say die, even in the wake of terrorist attacks and natural calamities.
Capital of the State of Maharashtra, Mumbai boasts of a population of about 100 million. There is an extensive network of flights from Mumbai’s Sahar (International) and Santa Cruz (Domestic) airports. International and domestic flights connect it to almost all major cities. Trains are available from all major stations of India. The Intra city trains are the fastest and the best way of commuting through the city. Bus services both inter and intra city are equally efficient.
The ideal time to visit this city is between the months of October and February when this coastal city is free from humidity and the sultry climate of summer and also the excessive downpour during the monsoons.
Mumbaikars represent the true spirit of India as this city is a crucible of people from different religions, caste and communities. Representative of the “never say die” spirit, these people are full of life and vigour. This however doesn’t mean that religion holds no place in the life of the people of Mumbai. The Siddhivinayak Temple stands testimony to the devout nature of the people of this city who are essentially Hindus. Marathi is the official language of the region. However, the intermingling of people from all corners of the country has ensured the recognition of numerous other languages.
Food is the highlight of this city. Chaupati beach offers one a wide variety of street food ranging from bhelpuri (puffed rice mixed with onions, chillies and sauces), panipuri (puffed puris filled with sprouts and potatoes), vada pav (a deep fried cutlet made of potatoes in a round shaped bread) and paw bhaji (vegetables eaten with round shaped bread). Desserts of this place include...