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Mumbai is a vibrant fascinating city in India, and was formerly known as Bombay. It has an incredibly interesting history, which is relevant to its contemporary cultural. It also has thriving arts scene and is one of India’s primary tourist destinations. There are many beautiful landmarks that are part of Mumbai’s scenic dynamics and also representative of its cultural heritage. Tourists staying in one of the 5 star Mumbai hotels often plan to visit the premiere city icons such as the Haji Ali Daragh. Situated on an islet off the coast of southern Mumbai, it is easily one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

This famous mosque and dargah was built in 1431 and was done so in the memory of a great Muslim preacher Syed Peer Haji Shah Bukhari. He was a significant historical figure and is known for having traveled the world before settling in what is now Mumbai. There are many legends surrounding Bukhari and one of them involves his finding a woman who was crying on the road. The poor woman was holding and empty vessel and when Bukhari inquired about her situation she said that her husband was going to be extremely upset with her because she had dropped the vessel and spilled the oil it contained. Bukhari asked the woman to take him to the spot where she spilt the oil and the woman complied. He dug his finger into the ground in that spot and suddenly oil gushed to the surface. The woman was overjoyed, she filled her vessel, thanked Bukhari and went home.

his story continues and becomes part of philosophical consideration of this great teacher. It has been said that he later had dreams about this event, and in them he realized that his actions had hurt the mother earth. He became extremely remorseful and was filled with regret. This led to his becoming ill and eventual death. Bukhari asked as his final wish that his coffin be taken to the Arabian Sea and deposited into it. His followers complied, and after drifting for many days, it finally came to rest on the tiny islet that is where the mosque now lies. It is an extremely popular pilgrimage site and as many as 40,000 worshipers come to the shrine on Thursdays and Fridays.

Mumbai has the same reputation in India as Manhattan has in New York, both of these cities seem to never sleep. In Mumbai there are so many options for entertainment that travelers are often overwhelmed with their number of choices. As in NYC, the people of Mumbai have hectic and busy lifestyles. Their busy lives do not put a damper on their hunger for nightlife however, and perhaps just serve to increase the need for the fun and the atmosphere one enjoys when one is where one wants to be, and not where one needs to be. It’s no surprise that there are many pubs, restaurants and hotels. Mumbai, India attracts tourists as well, visitors with the knowledge of what the city has to offer.

There are many rock concerts, symphony performances and music festivals throughout the year. As well as film festivals, which highlight the documentaries and the regional film makers as well as those internationally well known, as this is Bollywood after all. Live theater is thriving here as well, starting years ago with the Privthi Theater, and gives local actors and talent the venues to perform and further perfect their craft. And just as with the film industry, the theater festivals occur here year round, much as in the U.S. cities of New York, Chicago and Los Angeles. There are museums for those so culturally inclined with some of the most extensive collections of Indian art and sculpture in the region.

The Mahalakshmi Horse Track is also a popular for of entertainment. Many of the rich and famous of India, and around the world attend the races, and the club at the track is considered to be one of the most elite in Mumbai. The races run from November through February, with the much awaited for Derby occurring on the 1st Sunday of that last month of the season, February. It is a black tie event, and an extravagant and exhilarating evening in the city. The track also houses one of the most gourmet restaurants of Dubai, Gallops. The cuisine varies from western to traditional and is filled day and night. The options for a fun time in this city are, indeed, endless.

A month after the terrorist attacks in Mumbai, the city is beginning to rebound. This largest city in India has had a turbulent history of bombings, riots, and previous terrorist attacks and it has always bounced back. There is no reason to doubt it will do so this time.

Visitors will continue to be attracted to this flourishing center of commerce, finance, film, and culture. Markets and bazaars offer terrific treasures to shoppers. Incredible food continues to be created in restaurants, cafes, and street stalls. Mumbai’s five star hotels will always provide luxurious retreats from the bustle and noise of the city. Bollywood will keep churning out films and tv shows to entertain and amuse audiences around the world.

Tourists will find many interesting attractions to visit in Mumbai. Museums and galleries attract art and history lovers. There are numerous palaces, mosques, and other architecturally stunning buildings to see. Those wanting a reprieve from the concrete jungle of modern Mumbai can relax in one of the city’s many gardens, parks and zoos, including a national park that exists within the city’s borders. They can also take advantage of Mumbai’s beaches to catch some sun and ocean views.

Don’t forget to visit the Gateway of India. Another popular destination is the Elephanta Caves. Mumbai is home to a variety of sporting venues and events that draw sports fans to the city throughout the year. This is also where you’ll find the largest water park in all of Asia to cool off from hot, humid summers.