Welcome to Aapli Mumbai – The city that never sleeps

When in Mumbai, you run out of lists of where to begin and how to begin from. The city doesn’t have any end, it just is a running journey where every sight is a memory to store. So, how can one restrain themselves from coming to the city of dreams, lights, and hopes? 

The very first thing that you should be doing when in Mumbai is open the window of your car and let the wind flow by your face. That’s the best way you can live the liveliness of the city. Well, there are certainly more aspects to add to it. There are millions of other things that win your heart when here. And today we’re going to unveil those magical moments and places that will surely fire the inner traveller in you. So fasten up your seatbelt and enjoy a trip to Mumbai through our eyes. 

Amir is an entrepreneur from Kashmir who has set up a business of beautiful Kashmiri handricrafts: HAZARA ARTS. Along with the NEW JACQULINE HERITAGE in Srinagar that serves as a guide to the tourists of Kashmir. Before the disasters of covid struck out, Amir set out on a 5 day trip to Mumbai in 2019, accompanying his friend and brother. They departed from Kashmir and arrived in Mumbai late in the evening. They had no prior bookings and sort to find accommodation at the Gulf Hotel- Colaba. 

Day-1 of exploring Mumbai 

Amir along with his travel companions began exploring Mumbai from the very famous Gateway of India. They stayed around a bit clicking pictures, enjoying the busy spread of chit-chatting people and a decent burst of fast food aroma. Convincing themselves to take a leave from the spot seemed like a struggle. But as rightly said, the journey must go on and therefore they moved to other vibrant places like Taj Hotel, Exhibition halls and more.  

They further explored the suburbs of Mumbai like Andheri, Jogeshwari, and Goregaon. The exhibition ‘Trinity’ (Travel and Tourism India) they visited was in Goregaon that had audiences paying visits from multiple states of India. 

Day-2 

Starting off his second day in Bombay by exploring famous shopping markets and the heart of Mumbai i.e the local trains. They visited Mohammad Ali road and shopped for a variety of needed products at the most affordable rates. The market was super crowded and had a number of items to explore. They loved the vibe and energy of the local market. 

Go Local!

Moving further they decided to take a local train to reach their desired destination to experience the magic amongst the hustle of Mumbai. The trains were heavily crowded and rarely did Amir win any seats. They reached their destination hanging and relied on the supporters on the train. Although the trains were highly packed, Amir was all impressed by the warm welcome he received from the people around. 

He also took some time out to explore the buses in Mumbai and seemed to be quite fascinated as well. He was all in praise for the local audiences as he believes and has witnessed them going beyond their comfort zone to help newbies in the town. 

Day-3

Day 3 in Mumbai, Amir decided to paint it all with food and exciting aromas. He along with his fellow companions visited a number of celebrated places in Mumbai like Juhu Beach, Haji Ali, Carter Road, Versova and more. 

All these places are purely refreshing and worthwhile, Amir feels. While on his travels he was astonished by the number of dishes due to their signature taste. Refreshing juice centres at Hajiali, gola at Juhu beach, beautiful cafes at Carter road, Mannat in Bandra and what not was best explored. 

Next on the menu…

Apollo Lemon restaurant became one of the most favourite places for Amir and his friends to grab tasty breakfasts. With his continuous praise of the quality and taste delivered here, he suggests new travellers try the Kheema Pav that had flavors he still can’t get over. He believes it to be one of the best dishes to try when in Mumbai. While travelling to Mumbai Pune Highway he also grabbed some super quick fillings from a Dhaba that offered incredibly tasty and full of quality food items. 

Amir aimed to explore south Bombay and he successfully succeeded in doing so. On the last day, he was stroked with mixed feelings that surely compelled him to visit again. 

His personal views on travelling across Aamchi Mumbai have some points to make. He believes Mumbai is the safest place to travel and explore, irrespective of gender, age, or time. The people here are extremely helpful and work their best to help the travellers, which none of us can disagree with. Also, people looking for chilled and composed weather can visit Mumbai between December to January, which is what Amir suggests.

Outline of the journey

Places Travelled:- Gateway of India, Taj Hotel, Carter Road, Hajiali, Juhu Beach, Mohammad Ali Road, Exhibition, Andheri, Jogeshwari, Goregaon, Bandra, Colaba. 

Major Food Delights:-  Juices, Kheema Pav and Gola

Hotels Halted:-  Gulf Hotel, Apollo Lemon

Overall Estimated Budget:-  INR 10,000/- INR 12,000/- 

New places always give you stories to share. Stories that inspire, motivate and teach. So what are you waiting for? Get your bags packed and head off to the place you’ve always wanted to be. The world is waiting to be explored in your laps. Travel and tell your story. We’re all listening! We hope you enjoyed having the virtual Mumbai tour with us and our dear traveller.

So this was the ‘full of josh’ story of Amir exploring Mumbai. For more photos and videos, check out his Instagram page: @bethetravellers

And for more such unique and authentic stories stay tuned and follow us on our Instagram handle: @indiachalk

Let us know in the comment section below, your exciting travel experiences.