Mumbai was formerly known as Bombay and has had some very colorful things said about it. There is the most unique mix of prosperity and poverty throughout the city. There is as much mayhem as order and yet it all works together in a way only possible in Mumbai.

Mumbai is the financial center for India where glimmering sky scrapers overshadow the slums. It may take some getting over the culture shock, but once that is done, one can appreciate the inner beauty of Mumbai. The ancient old crafts and arts that are sold by some of the poor are just as exciting as some of the marvelous paintings found in some of the upscale galleries. There are also some very interesting bazaars to be a part of. And, in some of the most hectic parts of the city, it is not uncommon to see someone meditating and finding their center. It is the cultural diversity which helps create what is Mumbai.

Sanjay Ghandi National Park is a place to be sure to visit. All of the crowds, noise and traffic magically disappear once inside this park which is home to a variety of birds as well as wild leopards. There is also a lion and tiger safari that runs every 30 minutes or so. If Elephants are more exciting; Elephanta Island sits right in the Mumbai Harbor. There actually aren’t any elephants, but guests are able to enjoy some of the most beautiful cave temple carvings ever created. The caves were created in a maze and the carvings can be found throughout. It was called Elephant Island because there used to be a huge stone statue which is long since gone. The wonders to be beheld in this magnificent cavern along with the wondrous shrines make it a trip worth taking, even without the elephants.

Mumbai is truly a place like no other. There is no doubt that many, many visitors have kept with them memories that will not soon fade of this part of India. Lodging may seem very unfamiliar to people coming from the US or the UK. There are Hotels and Hostels so be sure of what is being booked as the two accommodations are different in many ways. Hotels are more expensive but offer more amenities. A two star hotel will run about $40, a three star; $80 and a 4 star will be about $120. Hostels vary in price but guests do not normally have the privacy that is had with a hotel. Some people, however, prefer to stay in hostels. However, tickets to Mumbai are fairly priced.

Airfare to Mumbai is very reasonable and a visit to Mumbai will certainly be an adventure like none other. It is a society that seems to work despite the side by side mixture of poverty and plentiful. For whatever reason, it works for them and visitors enjoy seeing the diversity in culture as well as the interesting sights that can be seen in Mumbai. Explore Mumbai and the outlying regions for a trip that will not be soon forgotten.