Monday, November 2, 2009

Places to Visit


Gateway of India:
The 26 meters high archway was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India in 1911. It has a main, large arch flanked by two smaller arches, at the top are four spires enclosing a small space with large balconieson either side. An Equestrain statue of chhatrapati Shivaji and statue of Swami Vivekananda have been installed here. There are plenty of launches and cruisers anchored in the sea near the archway, which carry tourists to the famous Elephants Caves. The famous Taj Mahal Hotel facing the Gateway of India is also a prominent landmark of Mumbai.
Elephanta Caves(9 Kms. – 11 nautical miles – by sea): The 7th century rock cut cave temples on Gharapuri or Elephanta island dedicated to Lord Shiva is a world Heritage Site of UNESCO. The Maheshmurti in the main cave is one of the most renowned and attractive sculptures. Here Shiva is shown in one single carving as the creatoe, protector, Destroyer of the Universe. Other dieties of Hindu trinity, Brahma and Vishnu are also shown in the panels along with Shiva. The island can be approached by launches abd cruises available at the Gateway of India.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus( Victoria Terminus): This first railhead of India is one of the largest and oldest train terminus of the east. Designed by F.W.Stevens in Gothic style, the modern terminus is one of the most magnificient railway stations of the world and was built over a ten year period from 1878-88 at a cost of Rs. 16,35,562. The station has an imposing dome surmounted by a figure symbolising progress. Recently, it has been listed as a world Heritage site by UNESCO.
Hutatma Chowk (Flora Fountain): The stone figure of Flora, the Roman Goddess of flowers is set at the junction of five busy streets. It is surrounded by fountains and host of mythological figures and was built in honour of Sir Bartle Frere, Governer of Bombay(1862-1867). There is also a martyr’s memorial in the same premises. Today the area around the square is a flourishing business centre of Mumbai.
High Court: The imposing white pinnacled building was built in 1878 and designed by Gen A . Fuller in English Gothic style. It is 169 metres long and the central structure soars upto 54.2 metres, surmounted by statues representing Justive and Mercy.
Rajabai Clock Tower: The 19th century clock tower at the university campus rises to a height of 79 metres and is the most conspicuous landmark of Mumbai.
Town Hall: This colonnaded building overlooking the Horniman circle houses the Asiatic Society Library.
Netagi Subhash Marg or Marine Drive: It is one of the most beautiful and popular promonades in the world. Reclaimed from the backbay, the drive starts from Nariman point Via Chowpatty Beach upto Malabar hill. Exhillarating view of the promenade can be enjoyed from the Malabar Hill, especially at night, when the string of lights on the curve shine like pearls and appears like a ‘Queen’s Necklace’.
Taraporewala Aquarium: It houses an exotic collection of marine and fresh water fish.

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