Central and Harbour Suburbs Travel Guide

A comprehensive tour guide for Central and Harbour Suburbs, including information on places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, safety, transportation options, nearby destinations, and more.


Central and Harbour Suburbs Travel Guide

Located in Mumbai, in North Konkan, in Maharashtra, in Western India, Central and Harbour Suburbs is an area that offers a wide range of attractions to travelers. From cultural and historical sites to natural vistas and adventurous activities, this region has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll learn about the best places to visit, the hiking/biking routes to take, where to stay, and much more.

Introduction to Central and Harbour Suburbs

Central and Harbour Suburbs is a region located in Mumbai, India, known for its cultural and historical places as well as its scenic outdoor views. This region is home to several suburbs, including Chembur, Ghatkopar, Vikhroli, and Mulund. The region is well-connected by buses, trains and by car.

List of Places to Visit in Central and Harbour Suburbs

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum: This museum showcases Mumbai’s cultural history through a collection of rare exhibits.
  2. Shivaji Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and history of the great Maratha warrior, Shivaji.
  3. St. Michael’s Church: This church is one of the oldest Catholic churches in Mumbai, dating back to the early 16th century.
  4. Sion Fort: Built in the 17th century, this fort served as a strategic point for the British East India Company.

Natural Attractions of Central and Harbour Suburbs: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Tulsi Lake: This lake is the second-largest lake in Mumbai and is surrounded by lush green hills.
  2. Sanjay Gandhi National Park: This park is home to several species of flora and fauna, and it is a popular spot for trekking and nature walks.
  3. Masunda Lake: This picturesque lake is a popular spot for boating and other water sports.
  4. Upvan Lake: Surrounded by hills and lush greenery, Upvan Lake is a great place to relax and enjoy the views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Central and Harbour Suburbs

  1. Yeoor Hills Trek: This trek takes you through the lush green forests of the Yeoor Hills and offers breathtaking views of the landscape.
  2. Sanjay Gandhi National Park Trek: This trek takes you through the beautiful wilderness of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some of the park’s resident wildlife.
  3. Powai Lake Cycling: This cycling route takes you around the Powai Lake, a beautiful artificial lake surrounded by hills and greenery.
  4. Gaimukh Trek: This trek takes you through the beautiful Gaimukh Village and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Best Things to Do in Central and Harbour Suburbs: Activities and Tours

  1. Explore the local markets and bazaars to get a taste of the local culture and cuisine.
  2. Take a heritage walk through the old town of Chembur to learn about Mumbai’s rich history and architecture.
  3. Visit the local beaches, such as Juhu Beach or Versova Beach, for some sun and sand.
  4. Take a day trip to the nearby Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Week-Long Itinerary for Central and Harbour Suburbs

Day Activities
1 Visit the Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum and explore Kamala Nehru Park
2 Take a heritage walk through the old town of Chembur and visit the Sion Fort
3 Trek to the beautiful Yeoor Hills
4 Visit the Sanjay Gandhi National Park and go for a nature walk
5 Explore the local markets and bazaars
6 Enjoy some time at the Masunda Lake and take a boat ride
7 Take a day trip to the nearby Elephanta Caves

Food and Drink Scene of Central and Harbour Suburbs

Must-try Dishes

  1. Vada Pav: a popular street food in Mumbai that consists of a potato fritter sandwiched between two slices of bread.
  2. Pani Puri: a popular snack made of crispy hollow balls filled with flavored water and stuffed with potatoes or chickpeas.
  3. Pav Bhaji: a spicy vegetable curry served with bread.
  4. Biryani: a flavorful rice dish that can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian.

Local Beverages

  1. Cutting Chai: a sweet and milky tea that’s served in small glasses.
  2. Kokum Sherbat: a refreshing drink made from the fruit of the kokum plant.
  3. Sol Kadi: a drink made from kokum fruit and coconut milk, it is a popular accompaniment to seafood meals.

Where to Stay in Central and Harbour Suburbs: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. The Lalit Mumbai: A luxury hotel that offers world-class amenities and services.
  2. Hotel Kohinoor Continental: A mid-range hotel that offers comfortable accommodation and good service.
  3. Backpacker Panda: A budget hostel that offers clean and comfortable accommodation at affordable prices.
  4. The Fern Residency: A boutique hotel that offers a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere.

What to Buy in Central and Harbour Suburbs: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Handicrafts and Artifacts: Check out the local markets for traditional handicrafts, such as pottery, textiles, and jewelry.
  2. Spices: Mumbai is known for its spices, so be sure to pick up some masala blends or garam masala to take home.
  3. Sarees: Mumbai is famous for its silk sarees, which are available in a variety of colors and designs.
  4. Leather Goods: Look for high-quality leather goods such as shoes, bags and belts.

Local Culture and Customs of Central and Harbour Suburbs

Central and Harbour Suburbs are a mix of several cultures and traditions. The people here are friendly and laid-back, and it is common to find small shops and roadside vendors serving delicious snacks and beverages. The local population is very diverse with people of different religions living and working together.

Best Time to Visit Central and Harbour Suburbs

The best time to visit Central and Harbour Suburbs is between the months of October to February. During this time, the weather is pleasant and there are several festivals and events that take place, such as Diwali, Holi and Christmas.

Do’s and Don’ts of Central and Harbour Suburbs

Do:

  1. Respect the local customs and traditions.
  2. Dress modestly when visiting religious places.
  3. Try the local cuisine and street food.

Don’t:

  1. Drink tap water, always opt for bottled water.
  2. Never disobey traffic signals.
  3. Avoid traveling alone at night in the more remote areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Central and Harbour Suburbs

Central and Harbour Suburbs are generally safe, but it’s always important to be cautious, especially when traveling alone or visiting on your own. Avoid flashing your valuables, and keep your belongings close to you at all times.

Health in Central and Harbour Suburbs

It’s important to be mindful of water and food hygiene when you’re traveling in India. Drink bottled water and avoid eating street food that may not have been prepared hygienically. It’s also a good idea to carry any necessary medications and get an up-to-date vaccination before traveling.

Getting to Central and Harbour Suburbs: Transportation Options and Logistics

Central and Harbour Suburbs is well-connected by buses, trains and by car. The nearest airport is the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, located about 12 km away from the center of Mumbai. The region is also served by several local trains and buses.

Airports Near Central and Harbour Suburbs

  1. Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport.
  2. Mumbai Domestic Airport.

Bus Stations Near Central and Harbour Suburbs

  1. Chembur Bus Station.
  2. Ghatkopar Bus Station.

Other Options

Taxis and auto-rickshaws are easily available in Central and Harbour Suburbs. It’s important to negotiate the fare before getting into the taxi or auto-rickshaw.

How to Get Around in Central and Harbour Suburbs

The best way to get around in Central and Harbour Suburbs is by local trains and buses. It’s important to keep your belongings close and be mindful of your surroundings, especially during peak hours. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also available but make sure to negotiate the fare before getting in.

Where to Go Next from Central and Harbour Suburbs: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Matheran: A hill station located about 50 km from Mumbai, known for its natural beauty and scenic views.
  2. Lonavala: A scenic hill station located about 80 km from Mumbai, famous for its waterfalls and scenic views.
  3. Alibaug: A coastal town located about 100 km from Mumbai, known for its pristine beaches and seafood.
  4. Nashik: A city located about 165 km from Mumbai, known for its wine production and ancient temples.

Conclusion

Central and Harbour Suburbs is a wonderful place to explore and experience Mumbai’s rich culture and history. The region offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be equipped with all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Central and Harbour Suburbs.

The Powai Lake The Powai Lake