Travel Guides: All Countries / Asia / India / Mumbai
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| | | Bombay mixing |  | Why go on holiday to Mumbai?
For those looking for a taste of India, you can't go wrong with a bit of Bombay mix. In an already vibrant, sometimes hectic country, Mumbai registers at the extreme end of the spectrum, but it's perfect for those who like a bit of spice. It's the financial powerhouse of India, the centre of the country's prolific film industry and its nightlife is unrivalled.
But the city also attracts extreme poverty and the constant attention of beggars can be too much for some first time visitors. If however, you can develop your own way of dealing with this, Mumbai offers the chance to sample the sub-continent in all its hustling and bustling glory. You'll either like it or loathe it – but either way, the city is unforgettable.
How much will it cost?
Although India is extremely cheap, prices are, on average slightly higher in Mumbai. But a stay in one of the city's many cheap hotels (based on two people sharing) can still cost as little as £5 per room per night. Mid-range hotels charge from £15 per room per night.
If you fancy splashing out a bit - alright, a lot - then you can't do much better than to stay in the Taj Mahal Hotel, directly opposite the Gateway to India. A wealthy Indian businessman built it, supposedly after he was turned away from a European hotel for being a native. The cheapest doubles start at around £92 per room per night.
If you don't fancy staying at the Taj Mahal, it's worth a visit simply for a look around or even for a drink in one of the hotel's many bars.
You can find non-direct, return flights to Mumbai from as little as £355.
When should I go?
The best time to visit Mumbai is in the drier, cooler months between September and April.
Who's it for?
First and foremost, despite its beaches, Mumbai is for city-lovers. It's very spread out as cities go, but the sheer size of the population can leave you feeling overwhelmed.
If you enjoy your street life and nightlife, then there are endless bazaars and clubs to explore. Just remember to stay alert and avoid walking the streets after dark.
Most visitors include Mumbai as part of a multi-centre tour of India's key tourists sights such as Agra, Delhi and Jaipur. This is a good idea, as Mumbai provides only a taste of what the country has to offer. There is enough culture and history for you to fill an entire week, but if time is short, make sure you spend at least two days here.
What are the must-sees?
In the Colaba area, the Gateway to India is definitely worth a visit. It was built in 1911 in preparation for the arrival of George VI.
It's also the place to jump on a boat bound for Elephanta Island, 9km to the northeast and site of a gigantic three-headed Shiva, carved out of the rock-face
For a spot of Victorian architecture pay a visit to Bombay University and High Court. Gilbert Scott designed the university as well as St Pancras station and you can see the similarity.
A nice place to stroll is Malabar Hill, where Mumbai's more exclusive residents live and Kamala Nehru Park offers great views of the city.
Finally for something a little different, visit Mani Bhavan, the house where Gandhi always stayed on his visits to Mumbai. It's a beautiful building and his bedroom has been kept as it would have been when he was in residence.
What will I spend?
Your pound will go a long way no matter where you are in India. As a rough guide, a decent meal of rice, curry and naan will cost around £1.50 and a large kingfisher beer will set you back about 70p.
Any special events?
Hanuman Jayanti sees loud and brash processions fill the streets in April of every year, as Indians pay homage to Sri Hanuman, a devoted worker of Lord Rama.
On September 18, it's the elephant-headed Ganesh's turn to be worshipped. Widely revered as the god of wisdom, this festival lasts for seven to 10 days. The culmination of celebrations is the last day, when Ganesh idols of many different sizes are taken to and immersed in, the sea.
Dussehra, in October of every year, celebrates the victory of Rama over the demon-king Ravana. As well as the bonfires lit by locals in their back yards, images of Ravana are burnt on huge fires, lit in public areas such as Chowpatty Beach and Shivaji Park. While the festival is enormous fun, take care as many fireworks are set off with no particular regard for safety.
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