Mumbai, India

Mumbai, previously known as Bombay, is the capital city of the Indian state of Maharashtra and the financial, commercial, and entertainment hub of India. Its history can be traced back to ancient times, but here is a brief overview of some key events and periods in the city‘s history:

1. Ancient history: The region where Mumbai is located was inhabited since the Stone Age, with evidence of human settlements dating back to 250 BC. The area was ruled by various Hindu dynasties, including the Mauryas, Satavahanas, and Rashtrakutas.

2. Arrival of the Portuguese: In 1534, the Portuguese took control of the region and established a trading outpost, calling it “Bom Bahia“ (meaning “Good Bay“). They built forts and churches, and the area became an important trading center.

3. British rule: In 1661, the British East India Company acquired the region as part of the dowry of Catherine of Braganza when she married King Charles II of England. The British renamed it Bombay and developed it into a major port and trading center. They built infrastructure, including railways, roads, and educational institutions, which led to rapid growth and urbanization.

4. Independence movement: During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Bombay emerged as a center for the Indian independence movement. Several prominent leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi, used the city as a base for their activities, and the city played a crucial role in India‘s struggle for independence from British rule.

5. Post-independence: After India gained independence in 1947, Bombay became the capital of the newly formed state of Bombay. The city continued to grow and prosper, attracting migrants from across the country. In 1960, the state of Bombay was split into two states – Maharashtra and Gujarat – with Bombay becoming the capital of Maharashtra.

6. Name change and modern history: In 1995, the city was officially renamed Mumbai, reflecting its original name derived from the local goddess Mumba Devi. Today, Mumbai is a global city and a major center for finance, commerce, and entertainment, facing challenges such as population growth, traffic congestion, and environmental issues.

1. **Gateway of India**: A historic arch-monument built during the 20th century in Mumbai. – **Cost**: Free. – **Hours of operation**: Open 24 hours. – **Address**: Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001, India. – **Phone number**: +91 22 2204 4040. 

**Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS)**: A museum showcasing Indian history, art, and culture. – **Cost**: INR 85 for Indians, INR 500 for foreigners. – **Hours of operation**: 10:15 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays). – **Address**: 159–161, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400023, India. – **Phone number**: +91 22 2284 4484. – **Website**: https://www.csmvs.in/

3. **Marine Drive**: A picturesque promenade along the Arabian Sea, perfect for a leisurely stroll. – **Cost**: Free. – **Hours of operation**: Open 24 hours. – **Address**: Marine Drive, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400020, India.

4. **Elephanta Caves**: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient rock-cut temples and caves. – **Cost**: INR 40 for Indians, INR 600 for foreigners. – **Hours of operation**: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays). – **Address**: Gharapuri, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400094, India. – **Phone number**: +91 22 2204 4040. 

5. **Haji Ali Dargah**: A famous mosque and tomb situated on an islet off the coast of Mumbai. – **Cost**: Free. – **Hours of operation**: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM. – **Address**: Dargah Rd, Haji Ali, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400026, India. – **Phone number**: +91 22 2352 9082. – **Website**: http://www.hajialidargah.in/

6. **Siddhivinayak Temple**: A renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. – **Cost**: Free. – **Hours of operation**: 5:30 AM – 10:00 PM. – **Address**: SK Bole Marg, Prabhadevi, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400028, India. – **Phone number**: +91 22 2422 4438. – **Website**: http://www.siddhivinayak.org/.

7. **Juhu Beach**: A popular beach in Mumbai, known for its lively atmosphere and street food stalls. – **Cost**: Free. – **Hours of operation**: Open 24 hours. – **Address**: Juhu Beach, Juhu Tara Road, Juhu, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400049, India. 

8. **Bandra-Worli Sea Link**: A cable-stayed bridge that offers panoramic views of the city and the sea. – **Cost**: INR 70 (t for cars). – **Hours of operation**: Open 24 hours. – **Address**: Bandra-Worli Sea Link, Mahim Bay, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. – **Phone number**: +91 22 2493 0345. 

9. **Sanjay Gandhi National Park**: A large protected area with rich biodiversity, ancient caves, and a toy train. – **Cost**: INR 58 for adults, INR 31 for children. – **Hours of operation**: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM. – **Address**: Western Express Hwy, Borivali East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400066, India. – **Phone number**: +91 22 2886 0362. 

10. **ISKCON Temple**: A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, with serene surroundings and spiritual programs. – **Cost**: Free. – **Hours of operation**: 4:30 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:15 PM – 9:00 PM. – **Address**: Hare Krishna Land, Juhu Church Road, Juhu, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400049, India. – **Phone number**: +91 22 2620 6860. – **Website**: https://www.iskconmumbai.com/

**Elephanta Caves**  About an hour from Mumbai city center by ferry. 500 rupees. 10am-5:30pm (closed on Tuesday) . Elephanta Island, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400104. 022 2267 8759. https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/244/

**Alibag**  Two hours from Mumbai by bus or car. Travel fare in bus 500 rupees, taxi 1500-2500 rupees. Day trip or weekend gateway town with ancient forts, beaches and the Arabian Sea.  Alibag, Raigad district, Maharashtra 401102. 

 **Suburban Rail** . rs 30-105 per ticket. https://wr.indianrailways.gov.in

**Metro** . rs 10-40 per ticket. https://www.reliancemumbaimetro.com/

**Buses**  rs 5-35 per ticket. https://www.nmmc.gov.in/nmmt

**Taxis/Rideshare**  varies per km. Hail in street or from taxi stand.

**Ferries** rs 10-200 per ticket. https://moovitapp.com/index/en/public_transit-lines-Mumbai-3732-888265

**Auto Rickshaws**  rs 13-15 per km. 

There have been a number of reports of women being assaulted on public transportation. Practice awareness and caution when traveling, especially as a solo female. Try to stay in a group or consider alternate transporation such as a taxi.

The major airports near Mumbai are: 

**Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport** CTS Media Fills Infrastructure Road, Off SG Highway, Panvel, near Mumbai, India.  +91-22-61583355.

**Domestic Terminal** CTS Media Fills Infrastructure Road, Off SG Highway, Panvel, near Mumbai, India

**International Terminal** CTS Media Fills Infrastructure Road, Off SG Highway, Panvel, near Mumbai, India

**Transportation Options**:

Taxi: 24 hours, 40 mins from city center, ₹550-750. Recommended. 

Auto Rickshaw: 24 hours, 60 mins. Recommended.

Bus: 5 am– midnight, 90 mins from city center, ₹40-60. Travel with caution:  There have been reports of women being harrassed on buses and trains in India. 

The currency used in Mumbai, India is the Indian Rupee (₹).

 Indian Rupee paper notes are in the denominations:

• ₹500

• ₹1000

• ₹2000

• ₹5000

• ₹10000

• ₹20000

 Indian Rupee coins are:

• ₹1

• ₹2

• ₹5

• ₹10

Mumbai has a tropical monsoon climate. Some key facts about Mumbai‘s climate:

• Mumbai has a hot and humid weather for most of the year. Summers are very hot and humid with average highs of around 95 F or 35 C and high humidity.

• Mumbai receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon season from June to September. Parts of Mumbai can receive over 200 inches of rain in these months. The monsoon causes frequent floods and landslides in the city.

• Winters are warm and somewhat pleasant with average highs of 77 F or 25 C and lows of 66 F or 19 C.

• The cooler months from December to February are the most popular tourist season in Mumbai.

• Mumbai‘s proximity to the sea keeps the temperatures milder compared to other inland cities. But the humidity remains high throughout the year.