India's largest city is a thriving and lively place to explore. Famous for the Bollywood film industry and the financial centre of India.
The name of Bombay became Mumbai in 1995 when the local ruling party wanted the name to reflect the regions Maratha heritage. India's most populous city is the financial centre of India, with modern skyscrapers dominating the skyline. It is a busy and sprawling place, but offers much for the visitor to explore.
Mumbai is one of the oldest settlements in India, with human habitation here since the stone age. Since then there have been many influences, from Indian empires, a brief period of muslim rule from 1348 to 1391, Portuguese colonial rule from 1534 to 1661 and British rule all the way up to independence in 1947. Reflections of this fascinating mix of rulers can be seen throughout the city.
The most imposing monument is the Gateway to India, built by the British Raj in 1924. It was designed to be the first thing you would see when you arrive in Mumbai by boat. The city also has several other impressive colonial buildings including the High Court, the former Prince of Wales Museum and Victoria railway station. Haji Ali is a tomb and a mosque, built in 1431 by a local muslim merchant. There is also a wide range of shopping options, from local markets and bazaars to modern shopping centres.
Perhaps the most famous icon of Mumbai is the Bollywood Film industry. All the major film production companies are based here and their prolific output of Hindi movies makes this the largest city of film production in the world.
Apart from the monsoon period between June and September, Mumbai's climate is generally dry with the temperature staying at around 30 degrees centigrade.
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Choose your perfect holiday Mumbai (Bombay)
Find inspiration from our selection of itinerary suggestions, a great starting point for your next trip
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