Heritage sites in Mumbai

by Puja Sharma Content Writer

Mumbai has a rich and complicated history. The Maximum City is home to many heritage sites. It is dotted with historic buildings that are known for their cultural significance and architectural brilliance. The heart of the city contains some of the planet’s grandest colonial-era architecture.

Take a trip down the city’s past, and discover the stories behind these iconic sights:

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus

One of the city’s most extravagant Gothic buildings, the imposing Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is always overflowing with people. It is an amalgamation of Victorian, Islamic and Hindu styles, and looks like a structure composed by Dali, with its multitude of domes, turrets, buttresses, spires, and stained glass. It was designed by Frederick Stevens, and was completed 34 years after the first train left the station, in 1887. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus has earned the status of a Unesco World Heritage Site.

Taj Mahal Palace and Tower

One of the most famous landmarks of Mumbai, the Taj Mahal Palace is India’s second-most photographed monument. Built by the famous Parsi industrialist JN Tata in 1903, it has an interesting origin story. After JN Tata was refused entry by the nearby European hotels on account of being a ‘native’, he decided to build a stunning hotel, incorporated with a magical blend of Islamic and Renaissance styles. Much more than being just an iconic hotel, the Taj Mahal Palace has an intrinsic link with the nation. It was one of the first hotels in India to provide employment to women, have electricity, and housed freedom fighters at no charge during the struggle for independence. If you're looking for luxury accommodation in Mumbai, look no further. It is also home to some of the best fine-dining restaurants in Mumbai.

Iskcon Temple

While it is located in the sedate suburbs, one can witness intense and celebratory worship in the Iskcon Temple. The compound of the temple seems to gain a life of its own during the time of prayer. The worshippers whip themselves into a frenzy of devotion and joy. The prayers are accompanied by kirtan dancing and drumbeats, along with the crashing hand cymbals. The Iskcon Juhu also plays a major role in the Hare Krishna story, as the founder AC Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada spent extended periods of time at the temple.

Gateway of India

The Gateway of India was built to commemorate the royal visit of King George V in 1911, but wasn't finished until 1924. From the tip of the Apollo Bunder, the daunting arch of colonial coup faces the breathtaking Mumbai Harbour. Built using the Islamic styles of 16th-century Gujarat, it was used to parade the last British regiment, before India gained independence.

Even though Mumbai is known to be amongst the fastest developing cities in the country, the people embrace the city’s history and heritage. Whether you're a history buff or just want to soak in the local culture of Mumbai, you will be spoilt for choice.