Known as the busiest city of India, the metropolis of Mumbai, initially, was a cluster of islands. However, eventually, it took the form of Mumbai that we are seeing today through numerous reclamation projects. If you go to these islands now, you will find a completely different set of experiences in each of these than the mainland has to offer. Travelers often flock to these Mumbai islands to spend their vacation in a luxurious manner. And if you too want to savor the old world charm of these places, then make sure to go through this list of the best islands in Mumbai.
6 Most Popular Mumbai Islands
Here is what you need to know about the importance, essence, and history of Mumbai’s 6 glorious islands before you go ahead and plan a trip.
1. Isle of Bombay
The long stretch between the town of Dongri and the Malabar Hills was previously known as the Isle of Bombay. Formerly used as a hub of the British marina because of its strategic positioning in the Arabic Sea, the isle currently houses numerous historical places and landmarks. Among these, the Banganga Tank, the Hanging Garden, and the Waklakeshwar temple are some of the notable names. Besides visiting these places, you can also go on a shopping date with your girlfriend or wife. This place is especially popular for regale boutiques, which you can buy as souvenirs.
Places to visit: Hanging Garden, Waklakeshwar temple
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2. Mazagaon
The name of the Mazagaon Island was derived from the term Matsya Gram, which, in English, means the Fishing Village. Mainly inhabited by the Portuguese fishermen during the 16th century, the island of Mazagaon is one of the most popular harbor ports in India. Located on the northern side of the metropolis of Mumbai, Mazagaon still holds various traces of the Portuguese culture. If you are visiting here for the first time and want to relish the age-old Portuguese essence, then make sure to visit the Our Lady of Rosery’s Church here.
Apart from Portuguese architectural pieces, this part of Mumbai also houses numerous other things, such as the Chinese Temple and Mausoleum of Mazagaon. If you are coming here for the first time, then the Mausoleum of Mazagaon is must-visit for you as it has an uncanny resemblance to the Taj Mahal.
Places to visit: Our Lady of Rosery’s Church, Chinese Temple
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3. Colaba And Old Woman’s Island
Located on the southern side of the city of Mumbai, the Colaba and Old Woman’s Island is considered to be the most beautiful among the seven islands of Mumbai. Like the Mazagaon islet, this one, too, was the home of fishermen in the 16th century. During that time, the isle was known as the island of Kolis. However, after the Portuguese people took over this islet, they changed its name to Candil Island.
This part of Mumbai is mainly known for housing some of the best and most famous hotels in India. Among them, the Taj Mahal Hotel Palace is one of the most notable names. Apart from these, you can also spend your time here by roaming around some of the other attractions of this section. However, if you really want to enjoy your time around here, then make sure to check out the night bars of this place.
Places to visit: Sea-facing lounges for dinner, nightclubs and bars
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4. Worli Island
Known for being extremely famous among the history-aficionados, the place where the Worli Island was situated before, houses a lot of famous architectural structures. Among these, the Heritage Fort is known to be a highlight of the region. Apart from the historic places, this section of the city of Mumbai is also quite famous among the tourists because of showcasing one of the most elegant skylines in India. In terms of luxuriousness and lavishness too, this part of the metropolis is known to be the best among the 7 islands of Mumbai.
As mentioned before, the most highlighting part of this section of Mumbai is its skyline. So, if you are traveling here for the first time, then make sure to savor the heavenly essence of the sunset through the Worli skyline. The wonderful view of the Arabian Sea is yet another thing that is a must-watch for all the tourists.
Places to visit: Heritage Fort
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5. Mahim Island
Situated towards the North-east side of Worli, the island of Mahim was known to be the capital of Mumbai in the 13th century, when it was under the rule of Raja Bhimdev. However, during the 14th century, the Sultan of Gujarat captured this island from Raja Bhimdev and made numerous mosques and dargahs here. Among these, the Makhdoom Ali Mahimi shrine is known to be the most popular among the tourists.
Apart from these architectural beauties, this place is also famous for yet another thing, which is the Mahim Causeway. This prolonged route connects this part of Mumbai with the isle of Salsette.
Places to visit: Makhdoom Ali Mahimi, St. Michael’s Church
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6. Parel
Among all the seven Mumbai islands, Parel is known to be the oldest and the earliest isle. However, it has come a long way since its inception. Now, it has transformed into one of the most thriving commercial and residential hubs of India. Like the other islands of Mumbai, this one, too, is known to be quite popular among the tourists because of housing numerous architectural beauties. Among this, the colossal Gateway of India is considered to be one of the most notable names as it attracts thousands of tourists throughout the year.
Apart from this, you can also come here for visiting one of the most iconic temples of Lord Ganapati, Lal Baug Cha Raja. This section of Mumbai is also quite popular among the tourists because of its local cuisines. Therefore, if you are a certified foodie, then you will surely fall in love with this place.
Places to visit: Gateway of India, Lal Baug Cha Raja temple
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So, these are the 6 famous Mumbai islands that you must visit while during your holiday in Mumbai. Other than offering a deep insight into Mumbai’s culture as well as letting you revel in absolute luxury, these peaceful islands in Mumbai will also provide a refreshing break from the crowded and noisy suburbs of Mumbai.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Mumbai Islands
What are the names of the islands of Mumbai?
The city of Mumbai is known to be formed seven most prominent islands. Here are the names of them.
1. Isle of Bombay
2. Worli
3. Parel
4. Old Woman’s Island
5. Mazagaon
6. Colaba
7. Mahim
Are the islands of Mumbai safe for travelers?
Yes, like the islands of Mumbai have become a part of the mainland, they are known to be quite safe and secure for traveling. But make you take basic precautions like keeping an eye on your belongings at all times and keeping all essential documents in the hotel room.
Which time of the year is not right for visiting Mumbai?
During the season of summer, the weather of the city of Mumbai stays quite hot and humid. Therefore, you can avoid this time of the year and go between October to December instead.
How many days do you need to visit all the islands of Mumbai properly?
If you want to visit all of them, then you would at least have to stay there for at least seven days.
Which one is the oldest island of Mumbai?
Parel is known to be the oldest of the islands in Mumbai.
What are the best souvenirs to take home from Mumbai islands?
There are numerous things that you can take from these islands in Mumbai, like jewelry, art pieces, and miniatures of the Gateway of India.
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