Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus
The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus is not just a UNESCO World Heritage site, but also the country’s most famous railway station and Mumbai’s most iconic landmark. Designed by British architect Frederick William Stevens, construction on this grand structure began in 1878 and was completed ten years later. The impressive building is a display of striking High Victorian Gothic and Indian architectural styles, featuring turrets, pointed arches and a high central dome, atop which stands a gigantic female figure, holding a torch pointing upwards in her right hand and a spoked wheel in the other.
Kanheri Caves
Kanheri caves are located in the Sanjay Gandhi National Park in the northern parts of Mumbai and are believed to have inscriptions from 1st century BCE to 10th century BCE. They contain Buddhist sculptures and carvings that can make one marvel at the artists of those times who created these beautiful masterpieces on hard rocks. The name Kanheri originates from the Sanskrit word ‘Krishnagiri’, which means black mountain.
Asiatic Library
This is a 200 year old town hall that houses the Asiatic Society of Bombay. It is now classified as a heritage structure and has Roman and Greek architecture with a portico that has eight Doric columns. It has a flight of 30 steps that lead to the town hall and a wrought iron divided Regency staircase that leads to the vestibule. It is located in South Mumbai and has been featured in many Bollywood movies to portray courtrooms.
Haji Ali Dargah
Located on an isle about 500 meters off the coast of Worli, this majestic mosque and dargah (tomb) of the Mughal style dates back to 1431. The architectural marvel was created in memory of a wealthy Muslim merchant, Sayyed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, hailing from present-day Uzbekistan. Bukhari is said to have given up all of his worldly possessions to make a pilgrimage to Mecca, and to have then traveled around the world to finally settle in present-day Mumbai. Featuring stunning white domes and minarets, the structure is connected to the mainland by a narrow pathway which only appears during low tide.
Gateway of India
This historical landmark of Mumbai is one of the most popular places in the city for tourists and has become the symbol of the city over the years. Built nearly 100 years back to commemorate the landing of King George V in India, this landmark served literally as the gateway of India for viceroys and governors of Mumbai. This popular landmark stands tall and has stood the test of time and is hence the one of the best historical places to visit in Mumbai.