NORTH MUMBAI AND BEYOND
In the northern region of Mumbai lie the suburbs of Malad, Borivali, Kurla and Mulund, and the neighbouring areas of Navi Mumbai and Thane, which constitute one of the most populous urban regions in India. Apart from the residential areas and the new townships that predominantly feature here, there exist several tourist attractions such as Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Aarey Colony and Film City. Still in the process of having its true potential unlocked, North Mumbai is envisioned to become the epicentre of real-estate boom.
1. Mandapeshwar Caves
Laxman Mhatre Rd, Borivali West
Originally constructed as a Buddhist vihara between the 6th and 8th centuries, the Mandapeshwar Caves have borne witness to a history of religious conflict, having been converted first into a Shiva temple, and later into a chapel during the Portuguese invasion. Housed inside the main cave here is the Sanctum Sanatorium, which holds a lingam (phallic symbol associated with Shiva), a Ganesh idol, an image of Nandi, and an old shapely stone lamp with exquisite carvings.
2. Madh Island
Christian Wada, Madh
Situated in the northwestern corner of the city, Madh Island is populated by farming and fishing communities. It is laced with scenic mangroves, picturesque villages and a number of secluded beaches including Marve, Aksa and Erangal. The Madh fort located here was built by the Portuguese for use as a watchtower. It affords stunning views of the Marve creek. The ruins of the Portuguese-built St. Boventure Church in Erangal Village are worth a visit. Many Bollywood actors have holiday homes on the island, so there are opportunities for star-spotting.
3. Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagri
Goregaon East • 022 2840 1533/2849 7500 • Open 10am–11:15pm daily • www.filmcitymumbai.org
For a true flavour of Bollywood, a visit to Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagri, better known as Film City, is a must. Efforts have been made to preserve some of the iconic, unforgettable film sets here over the years. If lucky, you might be able to catch a television soap or reality show being filmed here. Although this place is open all year, it is best to visit some time during winter, so that you can enjoy a pleasant stroll or picnic under the sun.
4. Global Vipassana Pagoda, Gorai
Gorai Village, Borivali • 022 2845 1204 • Open 9am–7pm daily • www.globalpagoda.org
This pagoda provides an insight into the Buddhist lifestyle by encouraging mental, physical and spiritual well-being. A tour of the place involves a visit to the main pagoda, the bodhi tree, the Ashoka pillar, and also an anapana (form of meditation). The pagoda’s dome is the world’s largest hollow stone masonry structure, and holds relics of the Buddha.
5. Fort Bassein
Killa Rd, Police Colony, Vasai • Open 6am–6pm daily
Located in Vasai village and hence also known as Vasai fort, this fort once served as the Portuguese headquarters. It served as home to over 2,400 soldiers, 3,000 residents, and several nobles and artisans. Locals believe that the fort may be haunted by spirits. A few sources claim that its foundations were laid by Bahadur Shah, the Sultan of Gujarat. It was here that Peshwa Bajirao II signed the infamous Treaty of Bassein in 1802. The fort and the village are accessible via the Vasai Road Railway Station.
Fort Bassein ruins
6. Nerul Balaji Temple
Near Swami Naryan Temple, Nerul • Open 6am–8pm daily • www.balajinerul.com
Situated atop a hillock against a backdrop of lush, scenic hills, this temple in Nerul is built along the lines of the Sri Venkateshwara Swamy Vaari Temple at Tirupati. The main deity worshipped here is Lord Venkateshwara, also known as Balaji or Vishnu. It also houses shrines dedicated to other Hindu deities and mythological figures such as Ganapathy (Ganesh), Anjaneyar (Hanuman), Narasimhar and Padmavathy Thayar (Lakshmi). Though small, the temple offers an ideal getaway from the city crowds, and its divine atmosphere allows for quiet introspection and reflection.
7. Tungareshwar National Park
Tungareshwar Road, Usgaon • Open 7am–5pm daily
Located in Vasai East, approximately 60 km (37 miles) away from the heart of Mumbai, this national park and wildlife sanctuary is a nature lover’s paradise. One of Maharashtra’s finest bird-watching sites, it is home to over 100 species of resident and migratory birds. The Tungareshwar Temple here, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is an added attraction. Beautiful hiking trails snake through a vast expanse of refreshing greenery. During monsoon, the 663-m- (2175 ft-) high waterfall is a delight to watch.
8. Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Nestled within the city limits, this national park, with its rich flora and fauna, is ideal for picnics and weekend getaways. Take a safari through the forests or trek up the hills that surround them on a cool morning. You can visit the Butterfly Garden or inquire at the Nature Information Centre regarding rock-climbing facilities. The national park limits also include an expansive network of rock-cut Buddhist monuments known as the Kanheri Caves. The national park has stalls that offer light refreshments. There are also a few restaurants outside its boundaries where you can stop by for lunch.
A lioness at Sanjay Gandhi National Park
9. Essel World and Water Kingdom
Global Pagoda Rd, Gorai, Borivali West • Essel World: open 10am–7pm Mon–Fri, 10am–8pm Sat & Sun; www.esselworld.in • Water Kingdom: open 10am–7pm daily; www.waterkingdom.in
Essel World, and the neighbouring Water Kingdom, are popular theme parks synonymous with fun, owing to their thrilling dry and water rides. Visitors can do some ice skating at Essel World or get a fish pedicure at Water Kingdom. Shopping and eating options are also available.
10. D Y Patil Stadium
Nerul • www.dypatil.edu/sportsacademy
The eighth largest in India, the D Y Patil Stadium has a seating capacity of 55,000 and is a popular site for cricket and football tournaments held around the year. It also offers top-notch facilities for other sports including badminton and tennis, and has an Olympic-sized pool. A unique feature is the cantilevered roof, which eliminates the need for any support, thus providing spectators with an unobstructed view of the ground from any place within the stands. Often, the stadium also serves as a venue for live concerts.
Cricket pitch at D Y Patil Stadium
A DAY IN NORTH MUMBAI
MORNING
Start your day early and enjoy nature at its best at Sanjay Gandhi National Park, a hidden gem in the midst of a concrete jungle. Since the best time for heading on a safari is in the morning, and some sights close during lunch hours, it is best to ensure you're here well before lunch. Here, opt for a mini jungle safari in a closed jeep or a caged bus to catch a view of the majestic tigers and lions in their natural habitat, then visit the Gandhi Tekdi monument dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Before settling in for lunch at one of the numerous restaurants littered around the park, hike down the lush trail that leads towards the ancient Buddhist Kanheri Caves.
AFTERNOON
Take an auto-rickshaw to the famed Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagri, also known as Film City. Tours to Film City usually include a visit through the more iconic sets of Bollywood films that have been preserved. Alternatively, you can take a studio tour. These provide information on the evolution of Bollywood films through the years. There are plenty of restaurants nearby that you can visit for a relaxing dinner after a long day of wandering.
Bars & Cafés
1. Café Hydro
Esspee Tower, Dattapada Rd, Borivali East • 022 2969 0088 • Open noon–11pm daily
A trendy, aqua-themed restaurant with vibrant wall-sized fishtanks. It is particularly noted for its Asian delicacies.
2. Irish House
Inorbit Mall, New Link Rd, Malad West • 022 6691 9999 • Open noon–1am daily
Head to this deservedly popular bar for refreshing draught and craft beers accompanied by superb comfort food.
3. Rainforest Resto Bar
The Walk, Hiranadani Estate, Thane • 915 218 5329 • Open noon–1am daily
This charmingly decorated gastro pub with a rainforest theme is a great draw for its drinks and multi-cuisine menu.
4. British Brewing Company
Viviana Mall, Majiwada Thane • 022 3969 8190 • Open noon–12:30am daily
An ideal venue for a relaxing day out with friends or family. Be sure to try the hearty burgers and potent drinks.
5. Locco Eatery & Bar
Sector 15, CBD Belapur, Navi Mumbai • 787 505 0947 • Open noon–1am daily
Sip on cocktails and wine and dine on exquisite Lebanese dishes here.
Inviting decor at Locco Eatery & Bar
6. Hoppipola
Galleria Shopping Centre, Powai • 750 693 9315 • Open noon–1am daily
This café boasts a dance floor and lovely, affordable drinks that are easy on the wallet.
7. Vikhroli Social
Imagine Studio, Vikhroli • 704 590 4729 • Open 11am–1am daily
A trendy bar and eatery with a playful vibe, known for its hospitality and scrumptious dishes.
8. Chili’s American Grill & Bar
Ventura Building, Powai • 022 6741 9003 • Open noon–1:30am daily
Dine on authentic Tex-Mex cuisine complemented by great margaritas and desserts at this restaurant chain.
9. Crafters Tap House
Haiko Palace Mall, Powai • 022 3015 1675 • Open noon–1:30am daily
Drink some delicious craft beer and enjoy the live entertainment every evening at this delightful bar.
10. The Beer Café
Inorbit Mall, New Link Rd, Malad West • 022 4972 2843 • Open noon–1am daily
A welcoming venue devoted entirely to beer, this café has over 100 varieties on offer.
Places to Eat
1. Mirchi & Mime
Transocean House, Powai • 022 4141 5151 • Open 12:30–3:30pm & 6:30–11pm daily • ₹₹
Global and Indian dishes are served here by a warm and very helpful hearing and speech-impaired staff.
Mirchi & Mime’s quirky dining room
2. Sammy Sosa
Sector 15, CBD Belapur, Navi Mumbai • 022 3395 157 • Open noon–midnight daily • ₹₹
A Day of the Dead-themed eatery serving irresistible Mexican fare.
3. High Tide
The Resort, Marve • 022 6136 7777 • Open noon–3pm & 7–11:30pm daily • ₹₹₹
Take in the relaxed ambience and enjoy a delectable multi-cuisine buffet while taking in the spectacular view.
4. Indigo Delicatessen
Sentinel Building, Powai • 022 2494 5555 • Open noon–11:30pm daily • ₹₹
Marvelous sangrias, an all-day breakfast menu and terrific weekend brunches are the main attractions at this stylish deli with chic interiors.
5. Olive Bistro
Oberoi Mall, Goregaon East • 982 070 3331 • Open 11am–midnight daily • ₹₹
This joyously eccentric bistro is known for its experimental European dishes, and is perpetually buzzing with diners.
6. Prego
The Westin, Goregaon East • 022 3395 1588 • Open noon–midnight daily • ₹₹₹
A haven for lovers of rustic Italian flavours. The pizzas and tiramisu here are particularly worth a try.
7. Pangat
Gorai Rd, Borvali West • 022 3015 1032 • Open noon–3:30pm & 7–11:30 pm daily • ₹
Be sure to try seafood thalis (platters) at this spot popular for Konkan (India’s north-western coast) fare.
8. Mondo Fine Dine
New Link Rd, Kandarpada, Dahisar West • 720 801 6636 • Open 9am–11:45pm daily • ₹₹
An elegant eatery boasting a romantic mood and an eclectic, rotating menu.
9. 90ft Above
Borivali West • 022 2899 1900 • Open noon–3:30pm & 7pm–12:15am daily • ₹₹
Offering splendid views of the city, this rooftop restaurant with outdoor seating serves excellent vegetarian eats.
10. Fatty Bao
Sentinel Building, Powai • 022 6236 0729 • Open noon–3:30pm & 6pm–1am daily • ₹₹
A local favourite for authentic pan-Asian cuisine. The baos, dim sums and sushi are especially sumptuous.