Best Historic Locations in Mumbai"

"Best Historic Locations in Mumbai"

Created by: Cityseeker

5 Locations Bookmarked

Khotachi Wadi "The Ancient Charm"

Khotachi Wadi may seem lost in the dusty by-lanes of Girgaum, but this charming, little village is considered a bastion of the Maharashtrian Hindus. Unperturbed by the hustle-bustle of the Mumbai metropolis, Khotachi Wadi rests amidst verdant orchards and quaint cottages. Rich in culture and tradition, the colonies at Khotachi Wadi are said to have been in existence since the early days of the 19th century, when the area fell under the jurisdiction of the East India Company. The village lights up during the days of the famous Khotachi Wadi Festival, that has the entire city of Mumbai flooding the village. The solitariness of Khotachi Wadi is unique and beautiful and is to be deeply felt!

+91 22 2414 3200 (Tourist Information) Khotachi Wadi, Mumbai

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus "Victorian Elegance & Grandeur"

One of the most exquisite colonial remains in the country is the Victoria Terminus in Bombay, rechristened as Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus in the year 1996. This brilliant exponent of grand Gothic architecture dates back to the year 1887, when it was constructed in honor of Queen Victoria on her golden jubilee year. C.S.T as is popularly called, is one of the busiest railway stations in India and serves as the headquarters of Central Railways. It is also the terminating stop on the Mumbai suburban railway line. But, C.S.T undoubtedly goes beyond its qualification as a major railway station. It is a historic landmark in itself that exudes a charm, reminiscent of the Victorian era. In the year 2004, C.S.T was declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO.

+91 22 2414 3200 (Tourist Information) Dr Dadabhai Naoroji Road, Mumbai

Elephanta Caves "Awe-inspiring Ancient Caves"

The continuous tradition of Buddhist rockcut dwellings and 'Chaityas' find their prime example in the magnificent rock cut caves of Elephanta. It was during the 6th Century CE that these splendid caves were carved from the rock face. These temples lie close to nine kilometers (6 miles) northeast from Apollo Bunder. They are one of Mumbai's most famous tourist by Ronakshah1990 attraction. Elephanta Islands, in earlier days was called Gharapuri, the fortress city. It was named as Elephanta by the Portuguese, after they saw a large stone elephant on its shore. All art in the caves is dealt in the Shaiva tradition, all related to Lord Shiva. The most famous is the impressive 'Trimurti' where God Shiva takes the form of Brahma, the Creator, Vishnu, the Preserver, and Maheshwar, the Destroyer.

+91 22 2414 3200 (Tourist Information) Elephanta Island, Mumbai Banganga "A Serene Experience"

The Banganga is a rectangular pool tank in the heart of Mumbai, with steps leading in from all sides. Though the tank is just half a kilometer away from the sea, it contains sweet water, the reason being the springs at the bottom of the tank supplies fresh water. The place is a popular spot among artists and others, who gather here because of the peaceful and by souravdas serene surroundings. A two-day Classical Music festival called the Banganga Festival is held here annually.

+91 22 2202 4482 Off Walkeshwar Road, Walkeshwar Temple Complex, Mumbai

Kanheri Caves "2nd Century Buddhist Caves"

Situated in what is now known as the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, the Kanheri caves were abode to the Buddhist monks in the 2nd Century. The complex is divided into several caves that are dispersed over a hilly area the temple and monasteries are situated here as well. These caves are unlike what one would find in the Elephanta caves nearby. Where they were ornamental, these are bare and minimalistic. But the still functional water harvesting systems with its old channels and cisterns, carved out in stone are testimony to the intricate and the genius construction. The central area of these caves has the dagoba, a Buddhist shrine, surrounded by mammoth pillars in a huge hall.

+91 22 2202 4482 Mandapeshwar Road, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Borivali East, Mumbai

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