The Best Monsoon Locations In Mumbai
Monsoon season is officially here, and the heavy downpours have drenched us all, rescuing us from the scorching heat and endless sweat of the summer. Rain only makes Mumbai more gorgeous as it washes the city anew. Let’s explore some of the best places you can visit in Mumbai to relish this monsoon season.
Marine Drive
The heart and soul of Mumbai – Marine Drive is at its best during monsoons. Take a stroll lazily down the three-kilometer scenic path, or sit down to have some ‘me time’ gazing at the beautiful Arabian Sea. You are in for some sprays if you visit Marine Drive during high tide, as the waves rise high and onto the road. The fresh breeze along the ‘Queen’s Necklace’ with a hot cup of Mumbai’s cutting chai is romance you don’t want to miss!
Bandra Bandstand
In the ‘Queen of Suburbs’ is the reconstructed Bandstand Promenade with a vast view of the Arabian Sea. Climb a little higher on the fort to get a breathtaking view of the sea and the city. This is quite a place to visit with the sea on one side and the homes of some of Bollywood’s biggies on the other! Don’t forget to take a look at the ‘Walk of Stars’ while you are here.
The Gateway of India
This architectural beauty of Mumbai stands tall in all its glory as the rain gushes over it. This heritage structure doesn’t fail to mesmerize you during any time of the year; however, with the feisty waves splashing over during high tide, this place offers a whole new experience altogether. A walk around the place while you treat yourself to some tangy snacks from the street vendors or sip a cup of steaming coffee in one the cafés nearby makes for an ideal monsoon evening in Mumbai.
Haji Ali
Sitting right out in the ocean and connected to land by a narrow pathway, this is both a mosque and a tomb. The monsoon submerges the narrow strip of land connecting it to the mainland – giving an impression of a floating structure in the ocean. You can enjoy the waves lapping at your feet during the low tides.
Worli Sea Face
You cannot escape the ferocious waves at high tide if you are standing anywhere near the promenade – get ready to be soaked! With a stunning backdrop of the Haji Ali Dargah, Bandra Fort and the Bandra-Worli Sea Link – this is a view out of an artist’s canvas! Take a walk down the promenade or drive down the sea link – this makes for a beautiful monsoon evening in Mumbai.
Juhu Beach
‘Salt in the air and sand in my hair’ – welcome to Juhu! Experience the best of Mumbai street food while you spend a lazy evening on Juhu Beach. From chaat stalls to Mumbai’s favorite pav bhaji, this is the place to be if you have a craving for some delicious food while you get wet in the rain.
Manori Creek
It is a pleasant village by the creek with a beautiful beach, reminding you of Goan beaches! This is a quiet little corner of Mumbai, away from the hustle and bustle. It can take about an hour’s drive to reach this destination, but even the journey is worthwhile as you gradually witness the transition from concrete skyscrapers to muddy village huts amidst lush green land.
Powai Lake
This is an artificial lake in a northern suburb of the city, nestled in ample lush greenery with diverse flora and fauna. You could opt for a boat ride in the scenic lake or enjoy a walk. Visiting the Powai Lake Garden isn’t a bad idea as well if you would like to relish in some snacks and hot cuppas.
Monsoon season is definitely a time when the beautiful city of Mumbai comes to life. There is an altogether novel and endearing charm to the city during the rain as the sea waves surge in high tide, and the downpours wash the city anew! When in Mumbai during the monsoon – enjoy to the fullest.