Mumbai - a city where history and modernization abide in perfect harmony

Mumbai is one of the largest and most commercialized cities in India. It is an old city with a long history, dating back to the time when in place of a large city Mumbai was a cluster of seven islands. It is a popular tourist destination in India with some amazing attractions and places to visit in Mumbai.

Mumbai, the capital of Indian state of Maharashtra, is one of the chief cities in the country. Always exhilarating, pulsating, and filled with people, it is the commerce capital of India and the main hub of industrialization in the country. Presently, it is perhaps the richest city in the country with a very modern lifestyle, and abundantly equipped with all aspects of modernization. However, it is also an old place with a historical legacy of its own that is envied by many. It is not abundant of historical sites and monuments like the nation's capital Delhi is, but there are certain monuments and historical structures unique to the place that put it on par from other historical cities in India. It is situated on the western coast of the country and overlooks Arabian Sea. Due to its large harbors, it soon became an important trade centre which was then followed by the city becoming the centre of education, administration, and others. An interesting fact about the place is that Portuguese gave it as dowry to British when Charles II of England married Catherine of Braganza. Also, the city was originally a cluster of seven islands separated by the waters of Arabian Sea.

The old monuments, delectable street food, epic amusement parks, hot and happening beaches, large museums and libraries, glamorous Bollywood, enviable vibe and true cosmopolitan nature, rich culture, and interesting places to visit in Mumbai - all contribute towards making one's Mumbai holiday a never-to-forget experience. Mumbai tourism is big, varied, and counts amongst the most significant parts of India tourism. If you are planning to visit the city shortly, two significant tourist attractions that you should not miss or skip include:

Gateway of India - It is perhaps the most recognized monument of the city. Standing 85 feet tall, it is the first thing that the visitors see when arriving to the place from sea. Its foundation was laid in 1911 in order to commemorate King George V and Queen Mary visiting the place. The architecture is simply stunning and counts amongst one of the most impressive structures ever built on Indian soil. Many tourists also use the place as the starting point of their tour of the city. Close to the monument is world-famous Taj Mahal Hotel, which is yet another major tourist attraction.

Global Vipassana Pagoda - It is a beautiful monastery, which was opened in the year 2009. Its architecture resembles to the architecture of Burmese monasteries. It is said that the pagoda is the largest structure with no pillars in the entire world; also, that there exist relics of Lord Buddha in the tomb. For those who are religious, the pagoda is highly revered and important. There is also a large hall with the capacity to hold 10,000 people at one time, where the spiritualists can meditate.

In addition to the above-mentioned, there are certain other wonderful places to visit. Siddhivinayak Temple, Colaba Causeway Market, Gandhi Market Mumbai, Marine Drive, Elephanta Island, Mount Mary's Church, National Centre of Performing Arts, Film City, Nariman Point, Haji Ali, Essel World, Juhu Beach, etc. are to name a few.

Author Bio: Sandeep is an experienced travel writer and enthusiast blogger. He has explored many known and less-known places in India in the last 10 years. He also writes about travel tips and guides tourists on modes of travel, such as train schedule for dausa to jodhpur train, delhi to indore train etc.