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History & Evolution
The original name of the city –Bombay came from the Portuguese phrase ‘bom bahia’ (‘good bay’) where the name Mumbai is ascribed to the local goddess, Mumba devi. The history of the city goes back to the Stone Age and it was rediscovered by the Portuguese and British traders. Once a cluster of seven islands inhabited by fishermen, Mumbai was later presented to King Charles II in 1661 as dowry when he married the Portuguese Princess Catherine de Braganza.

Providing an easy sea route to western countries The islands were acquired by the English East India Company because they provided an easy sea route to western countries. Mumbai became the first city of India to have Railways and soon became the world's chief cotton trading market, resulting in a drastic boom in its economy. Further, the opening of the Suez Canal transformed the city into one of the largest seaports on the Arabian Sea. After India’s Independence in 1947, Mumbai was made the capital of Maharashtra though it was initially a part of Gujrat State.

Site-Seeing
Besides being a major metropolis of India and business travelers’ top choice, Mumbai surely is tourist delight too. Age old caves, forts, monuments and famous archeological sites makes it a visitor's paradise. Being one of the most diverse cities, it does not leave any one yearning for more. With a long list of alluring places to explore, it would be hard to limit its beauty in words. But the city turns wild in the rainy season when the roads are water logged and sea is on high. Adding to the list are the places in the vicinity of the city ranging from small hill-stations to beautiful beaches. These backing neighbors provide an easy and quick stray from the busy and crowded city.

Gateway of India:
It is the most striking and famous monument of Mumbai and was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India in 1911. Designed in Indo-Arabian style, the gate also serves as the departing point for ferries plying to Elephanta Island and other beaches across the port. Beautiful view of the Taj Mahal Hotel from the Gate is a treat to the eye.

Location: Apollo Bunder

Marine Drive and Chowpatty Beach:
Lit with street lamps, giving a dramatic diamond necklace like look at night, Marine Drive is often referred to as ‘The Queen’s Necklace’. The drive/street run along the beach with the Chowpatty area situated somewhat in the middle.

Chowpatty Beach is a famous beach of Mumbai. It is a crowded place.

Location: Marine Drive Road

Juhu Beach:
This suburban beach is an another favorite of Mumbai residents. Like Marine Drive's Chowpatty, Juhu 'Chowpatty' is also vendor's delight with countless open-air food counters. It is a wonderful place to bring kids, as it serves as an amusement park, play ground and beach all at the same time with camel-riding being an another unusual but popular sport. Juhu beach is studded with many five star hotels all around it, offering a splendid view of the coast. The locality is also famous for residing most of the ‘Bollywood’ celeberities.

Location: Juhu

Haji Ali Shrine:
At the end of a long pathway surrounded by seawater is this striking white shrine of a Muslim Saint, Haji Ali who was drowned here some 500 years ago on his pilgrimage to Mecca. The dargah was then built on the spot in 1431.

The shrine is full of colored-mirror mosaics from inside where thousands of worshipers pray over the casket, which is covered with beautiful flower garlands. The shrine can be accessed only at low tide.

Location: Worli

Elephanta Caves:
Located on an island, around 10 km away from Mumbai, this ‘City of Caves’ houses the 5th century rock-cut temples that are famous for their art, historical and scenic content. Designated now as a World Heritage Site, the caves were found and named by Portuguese after the statue of an elephant was found near the landing area of the island. The temples are said to be dedicated to Lord Shiva with several magnificent sculpted panels, most arresting of them being of ‘Maheshamurti’ representing the three-headed god as the creator, preserver and destroyer.

Location: Elephanta Island