Category Archives: Travel

Shirdi Sai Baba, situated in the Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra, a miniature town named Shirdi signifies harmony, simplicity, and make you feel the spirituality. Shirdi and Sai Baba are just the same or you can say synonym of each other. Every festival, every occasion, or event happening at this place, orbits around Sai Baba. So, via Pune to Shirdi taxi services, visit the divine place to feel the best.

This is that beautiful place where Sai Baba spent his life and spends almost all his life to serve humanity; His birthplace is unknown, and this was the place where he finally took his last breath; On October 15, 1918, he passed away. His body has been enshrined in Shird only, at the complex of the temple.

The original name of Sai Baba is still under the wraps, but seemingly ‘Sai’ was the name given to him on his arrival to Shirdi when he was there to attend some wedding.

The priest of a local temple acknowledged him as a Muslim Pietist and hailed his name saying, ‘Ya Sai!’, which means ‘Welcome Sai!’. In the 19th Century, the Shirdi Sai Baba Evolution began. His aura and dignity began to extend to Mumbai, and afterward, throughout India.

His praiseworthy efforts helped in bringing Hindu and Muslim people coming together and made sure they surely live in harmony, today also. A huge number of people believed that he’s the incarnation of Lord Krishna, whilst some believe that he’s Lord Dattatreya’s incarnation.

A number of devotees considered that he was a Satguru, a Qutub, or the enlightened Sufi Pir. So many people had their presence to Shirdi and to see him as they believed that he has the capability of performing miracles and magic.

It has been ages since pilgrims or tourists have been visiting the holy place every year from Mumbai To Shirdi. Shirdi has that unmatched ambiance which attracts devotees from all around India. People visit Shrine of Sai Baba to have his blessings.

Best Time to Visit Shirdi Sai

The place is all vibrant and shakes up amazingly during 3 main Indian festivals namely, Ramnavami, Vijayadashmi or Dussehra, and Gurupurnima. The enticing atmosphere because of the pilgrims and the adornment of the temple is surely something that can’t is worth and can be missed especially during these auspicious times.

If you wish to enjoy the pleasant scenery, then head this place during winter which is the ideal time to visit this place. The environment is shinier, lighter, happier, amusable, fun-loving, and brighter during Monsoon.

Usually, at night, the temperature scales down, thus, making the surroundings more pleasant and cozy. And between October and March, it’s the best time to visit Shirdi.

If you want to avoid the long queues, then summer months are the best and you can have your spiritual time at the temple.

Also, if you don’t like the crowd, seemingly on Fridays, by the time between 12:00 -1:00 p.m and between 7:00-8:00 p.m- In these time durations, there’s a little less rush. Moreover, from 3.30 – 4:00 p.m, is also the best time to enter the temple.

On Thursdays, the devotees the Sai Baba fill the shrine in abundance. And if you visit the shrine on Thursday, be ready for an immense crowd present there. Also, there’s a ceremony of a cavalcade of slippers and chariot of Sai Baba at 9.15 p.m.

Important Things to Know

●  People visiting this place should be aware of the pickpockets.
●  Cameras and Mobile Phones are prohibited inside the temple.
●  Beware, some people will ask money from you, claiming that they are the descendants (heir)       of Sai Baba.

The temple is comprised of many different areas, having various entrance gates which completely depends on whether you just want to roam around the temple complex and have blessings of Sai Baba from far off or you want the entrance to the Samadhi Temple (where the body of Sai Baba is enshrined).

In the morning aarti, at Samadi Temple, the timing is 5.30 a.m, followed by a Holy Bath of Sai Baba. From 7 a.m darshan is allowed, other than the aarti timings.

At noon, half an hour aarti is there and the other one at sunset at around 6 – 6.30 p.m. and lastly the night aarti at 10 p.m and finally, the temple is closed after that.

Darshan Tip: Purchase Online Admission Passes to Save Time

If you hate waiting and are ready to pay a little extra then it’s possible to book aarti and VIP darshan online. The cost of Darshan is INR 200 and INR 600 for Kakada aarti or morning aarti; INR 400 for the afternoon, sunset, and night aarti.

Getting to Shirdi

Shirdi has occupied its position approximately 300 Kms from Mumbai, and from Nashik, Maharashtra, it’s about 122 Kms. The place is popularly reached from the Mumbai destination. If you prefer to travel by bus, then it takes around 7-8 hours to reach Shirdi. Also, you can hire Mumbai to Shirdi taxi while it takes 6-12 hours if you’re traveling by train. There are 2 trains that run overnight which will directly make you reach Shirdi.

If from any other corner of India, you want to visit Shirdi, you do have the option of flight as a new airport in Shirdi was inaugurated on October 1, 2017. It’s the closest airport present at Aurangabad which is at a distance of 2 hours.

Presently, a subsidiary Air India flight, Alliance Air, daily operates Shirdi Flights right from Mumbai and Hyderabad at following schedules:

1. At 3.20 p.m, departure of Flight 9I-653 from Mumbai and the arrival time is 4.05 p.m on             Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
2. On Mon’s, Tues’, Thurs’, and Sat’s, the departure of flight 9I-654 is from Shirdi airport at 4.30 PM and arrives Mumbai by the time, 5.15 p.m.
3. At 8:30 a.m, there’s the departure of Flight 9I-653 from Mumbai and has the arrival at Shirdi airport at 9.15 a.m on weekdays of Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
4. On Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, there’s the departure of flight 9I-654 from Shirdi airport at 9.45 a.m. and has the arrival in Mumbai when the clock strikes 11.05 a.m.
5. At 2.40 p.m, from Hyderabad, departure of Flight 9I-869 is there and at 4.25 p.m., there’s arrival of the flight every day.
6. At 4.45 p.m, there’s the departure of Flight 9I-869 from Shirdi and arrival at 6.30 p.m. every day in Hyderabad.

From Surat, Gujarat to Shirdi, Ventura Airconnect functions flights that are non-scheduled. Also, from October 2018, Delhi to Shirdi flights via SpiceJet was expected to start.

And the closest railway station is, Sainagar Shirdi (SNSI). From the station, you can hire a taxi to reach the Shirdi Sai Baba.

Also, people from Pune, near to Mumbai, can hire a taxi from Pune to Shirdi or via Pune Mumbai taxi services, just make your weekend a fabulous one by visiting the holy place.

After the messy, hot summer, monsoon is when you can open up to several beautiful excursions and explore the most interesting phases of nature. It is the time when you would certainly reach out to some of the most beautiful locations and cherish the tranquility they hold. Moving away from the prevailing routines and finding life outside the home would be the best idea. There are many amazing monsoon places near Mumbai that could be visited for best experiences.

Best Monsoon Trips near Mumbai

Undeniably, you would be seeking trips that bring you the most enjoyable moments and let you relax. Reaching out to some beautiful destinations will be the best escapes from traffic jams and flooded streets. While there may numerous places to explore, the ones mentioned-below will let you have some better options for the same.

1.Matheran

If you were in search of calm and quite monsoon getaway then this may be a perfect selection. With seductive views of the Sahyadri mountain range and no vehicle rule, Matheran would certainly be one of the best natural excursions. Situated at an altitude of 2,625 feet, Matheran is a popular hill station in Maharashtra. The lushly set surroundings will let you leave the city chaos far behind and relax. Visit the Panorama point and catch up with the explicit 360-degree views of the Western Ghats.

You may plan to visit Pune to Matheran by cab, contacting the best car rentals near you. A visit here may bring you a lot more than you would expect. There is a total of 36 viewpoints here that will let you reach out to the most serene places and sophisticated views of nature. It may be one of the most untouched areas near Mumbai, holding on to its undisturbed beauty. Also, it is believed to be a pollution-free estate with no vehicle allowed in here.

2.Alibaug

Presenting some of the best aspects of the Konkan coast a drive to Alibaug would be a great decision for a perfect monsoon getaway. Situated about 110 kilometers away from Mumbai, this quaint little town allures well settled sandy beaches, forts and unpolluted surroundings with plenty of freshness to respire. If you’ve known the Konkan lifestyle, be ready to spend your time accordingly here. The place will bring you enough of beach sides and boat rides.

Along with natural elegance, this place is known to be rich with historical events. While the place is generally famous for its beaches, monsoons may be perfect to explore the Korlai Fort, situated a few kilometers away from Alibaug. You may spend time exploring the fort ruins belonging to the Marathas and the Portuguese. There are also a few easy trekking trails that could be taken up. You may swim down to explore the sea and do whatever that actually relaxes you.

3.Madh Fort

Often seen in various Indian TV series, the Madh Island Fort could be a great visit during monsoon. Overlooking the Arabian Sea to its west, the place will take you along some absolute tranquil views around. Situated close to the Aska Beach in Northern Mumbai, this 17th-century fort is also known as the Versova fort. The fort is long, narrow and possesses a seven-sided polygonal structure. Although its exteriors are intact, it’s known to be dilapidated internally.

The Madh Island is generally known to be inhabited by Kohlis, Marathis, and the East Indian Roman Catholics. This Island is famous for techno rave parties and could be a great place for travelers seeking escape from bustling city life. The fort here is also an important attraction, holding on to several stories and mysteries.

4.Maratha Mandir

While you’re not in a mood to go too far from Mumbai, this one could be an interesting place to reach. Cinema halls cannot be kept away from the Bollywood city Mumbai. Maratha Mandir could be one of the best places to watch over theatre history in India. You are likely to catch up with several probable insights into the film industry.

Maratha Mandir is known to be the oldest theatre in Mumbai. It is popular for having created a record with the screening of the Bollywood movie “Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge” for 1009 weeks since its release in 1995. It is considered to be one of the most reputed theatres in Bollywood. This theatre is a well-recognized landmark in the city, and it takes just a few minutes of walk from the Mumbai Central Railway Station to reach here.

5.Carter Road, Bandra

Stretched over to about 1.25 kilometers, this walkway along the Arabian Sea had been a popular hangout place for locals. Most of them arrive here for morning and evening walks. Amidst the pleasant monsoon environment, this place will let you witness some absolutely tranquil views of the Arabian Sea. You may choose to reach here to embrace a few strokes of fresh air.  This place is usually bustling with people, especially on weekends.

Often popular for rich homes, Bandra could certainly be one of the best places for monsoon dreaming. Do not miss checking out the Bandstand Promenade and the Walk of Stars with handprints of the most popular Bollywood stars.  A visit here would be really refreshing and bring you a perfect break from a stressful routine. You can also visit the parks that are situated around.

6.Marine Drive

One of the most popular aspects of Mumbai, a drive along the Arabian Sea here would let you spend some of the best carefree moments. This could be one of the best places to make the most of monsoons in Mumbai. The Marine Drive area had been one of the most common places for the urban population to reach and spend some time with no work pressure. Nights here are often crowded with the working class who arrive here to look for relaxation.

Often referred to as the Queen’s Necklace because of the sparkling lights set in rows. There is usually a crowd of visitors strolling along the promenade. You may either plan to plank yourself down or stare at the Arabian Sea. Get sprayed with the waves as high tides hit the shore. The waves often rise up to the roads and make it all even mesmerizing. There are many other entertaining aspects that could let you have a great time.

7.Gateway of India

There could hardly be any mention of Mumbai without mentioning the Gateway of India. You may savor upon some luscious snacks from the street vendors here. The perfect weather will already keep up things well in place to let you breathe in peace. Even, this port is hit with some feisty waves during high tides. The Gateway of India also connects to several historical events at the place.

Built in the Indo-Sarcenic style, this structure is known to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai.  Overlooking the popular Hotel Taj, you may enjoy capturing some sophisticated views from around. There are several other restaurants that could be visited for amazing views and tasty food.

8.Juhu Beach

It could never be a bad idea to savor some sizzling hot dishes, walking along the beachside in rain. While the beach had been popular for the interesting activities it boasts, the food sellers flocked right at the entrance would take up more of attraction. This may not be something really unique, but you can always make these moments count. The vibrant sea waves will enthrall you to soak in the pleasure spread all over in the environment. Apart from monsoons, early morning and evening visits here would be great.

Crowds at Juhu are absolutely common, therefore be prepared to search your own comfortable space and make the best of your time. Juhu is one of the most visited beaches in India. Also, it had been a popular shooting spot and has been portrayed in various movie scenes too. Local delicacies and street food however, take up a greater stake. It is one of the perfect places to relax after a long tedious day.

9.Manori Creek

When you wish to take up a few brisk walks and witness some relieving views around, you could surely plan a visit here. This place will certainly give you the Goa-like backdrops alluring the reminiscent beach side. Overall these years, Manori Creek has been through a great transformation in the lifestyles and human civilization. You may watch over that most of mud settlements have turned into concrete buildings. It could be a perfect place to escape bustling, busy lives and routines.

You may take up cruise rides and make things more interesting in your own ways. There are several other popular destinations near Manoris Beach including the Essel world. I Hope you enjoy these most attractive places in Mumbai. You may easily find a ferry to reach wherever you wish. It could certainly be considered as one of the best monsoon places near Mumbai.

Moving out to new places could be the most probable idea to make monsoons mesmerizing. While traveling within or near Mumbai these places could serve as appreciable monsoon getaways.

Among all numerous places to travel, Mumbai would always be considered one of the most jovial and lively picks. There are an amazing charm and pulsating vibe that spreads like a miracle all through the city. There are absolutely beautiful places near Mumbai and within the city which present perfect explorations for you. You may encounter fun and the liveliest experiences amidst the busy commercial capital of India.

Apart from the modern city elements, there are various other attractions that could let you view life from a different perspective. The sizzling hot historical ambiances, chilled with the breeze from the Arabian Sea; hold on to various street food hotspots, legendary art museums, amusement parks and many more.

You may also escape into some mesmerizing quaint little hill stations and make the best of your time. Wherever you reach you would find yourself surrounded by the cultural highlights of the most fantasized city. It’s quite imperative to first know well about the places to explore if you’re visiting Mumbai for the first time.

Exploring the city

Road trips are always the best and most suitable ways to explore and travel across places. Mumbai could be reached and the various attractions could be explored well around via cabs. You may be available with various cab bookings based on your requirements whether it’s about reaching Mumbai or traveling within the city.

You may surely be available with various other means to travel and reach your destinations. However, nothing could really be as comforting and affordable cabs. Therefore, when you’re planning to visit Mumbai, it would be suggestible to look for appropriate cab bookings and get it all done at ease. Consult your agent for tours and travels in Mumbai and plan perfect trips.

Top Tourist Places in Mumbai

When you have a lot to see and do, it gets quite difficult to make out what exactly needs to be prioritized. It is always a great decision to be ready with a list of places that acquire the topmost priorities among all. Mumbai had never been short of tourist attractions. You will always be available with numerous splendid experiences to live and cherish

1.Gateway of India

India holds on to numerous historical monuments showcasing various events from the past spectacularly. This 85-foot structure is set amazingly overlooking the Arabian Sea. It looks very stunning when it gets lighted up in the evening. This beautifully laid structure is standing erect against the dazzling waterfront creating a mesmerizing place for people to visit and cherish some jovial moments. Built in 1924, this structure represents a mix of Indian and Islamic architecture. This attraction is the most prominent and could never be missed when you’re traveling through Mumbai.

2.Haji Ali

Apart from the sea and skyscrapers, there are also various places with religious significances that could be visited in Mumbai. Situated amidst the Arabian Sea, about 500 yards away from the shoreline, this is the tomb of the then famous Muslim Saint Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari.

Along with being a prominent place of worship for people, the structure of the tomb is also recognized for its intricate Indo-Islamic architecture. You can watch over the beautiful architecture and then savor upon the delectable flavors available at the food spots nearby.  This place is a major stop on the Western Line of Mumbai Local which makes it very easily accessible to people.

3.Juhu Beach

Beaches and Seashore are of course the essence of Mumbai. Juhu Beach is, however, the most recognized place to reach. It is also the place for elite celebrity homes and well-known film personalities, making it an eminent tourist destination. Along with the refreshing sea waves and breeze, the beach is also known well for lip-smacking dishes offered on the stalls here. There are also horse and donkey rides and other amusements available to let visitors enjoy to the fullest. Visiting here could get you some peaceful time in the fast-paced city.

4.Marine Drive

Often popular as the Queen’s Necklace, this is a 4-kilometer long promenade. It looks spectacular when set lit at night. It is when it resembles the necklace of a Queen and derives its name. It is one of the most visited places by tourists and localities during the evenings. It’s worth taking a walk and breathing in the fresh air along with some spectacular city views overlooking the Arabian Sea. There are several street food and tea stalls where you may savor some delicious flavors.

 

5.Chowpatty Beach

Situated on the northern end of the Marine drive the Chowpatty Beach is the South Bombay equivalent of Juhu Beach.  This is one of the most recognized places dazzling with vendors bringing on all probably stuff that could let you spend your time comfortably getting highly entertained. There are also several miniature rides for amusement, making it a good place to be visited with family. However, it is often a regular visit for love-struck couples. Moreover, it could be a good place to feel relaxed and entertained.

6.The Bombay High Court

While high courts have been a different point of interest in different cities around the world and India, the Bombay high court also holds on to its explicit charm over all these years. It is known to be the oldest and the most distinguished among all high courts in the country. This one is a beautifully laid tall building, standing erect with its secrets and historical events for over 150 years. Its Gothic style architecture is the most notable element about it. Undeniably there’s a lot about it to soak in and admire.

7.Chor Bazaar-Thieves’ Market

This market in Mumbai came into being due to the stolen goods that were sold here. The place actually lived up to its name. The market is however known well for antique goods and vintage items. Even if you’re not here for shopping, you would surely appreciate a stroll around here within the market and visiting the GolDeoul, the round Shiva Temple. You may also come across several different sects of communities like the Kolis (the original fishing community) and the Bohras (a minority Shia Muslim community). The chor bazaar is one of the unique places to reach in Mumbai.

8.Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat

Situated in the Mahalaxmi area of Mumbai, this is the place where the entire city’s laundry gets hand-washed painstakingly by hard working laundrymen. This dhobi ghat was known to be formed in 1890, catering to the needs of a large population of English and Parsi communities living in Mumbai. There are seemingly endless rows of concrete troughs fitted with stones where clothes could be washed. This however also makes it one of the most quirky places in Mumbai.

9.Film City, Goregaon

Films and the film city are probably the major reason for Mumbai being popular to this extent. This is a multitude of well-equipped studios with artificial lakes, gardens, mountains, and whatnot. The film city absolutely dreams world for visitors that takes them across elements they could’ve only imagined. Situated on the outskirts of Goregaon near the Borivali National Park, the film city was built by Dada Saheb Phalke with the support of V Shantaram.  Dating back to the 20^th century, the film city could be a great experience for you.

10.Siddhivinayak Temple

Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, this temple is a testament of architecture and beauty. Devotees from various parts of Mumbai and India, arrive here to convey their prayers. Built in 1801, this temple is extremely popular and is often visited by different Bollywood celebrities and also the other Mumbai population. Of course, it is one of the most recognized tourist destinations and attractive one day picnic  places in Mumbai, holding on to its extreme lure.

11.Nehru Planetarium

Founded in the year 1977, the Nehru Planetarium is one of the most interesting places to be visited by space enthusiasts and kids who’re excited about astronomy. Located in Worli, this dome-shaped building is a treasure of knowledge about space and aeronautics. There are 14 art galleries; the movie auditorium, gas concert and the cultural center are some recognizable attractions here. Also, the 9 cubicles are a great attraction here where one can know their weight on 9 different planets.

12.Adlabs Imagica Theme Park

It is one of the most preferable picnic spots for localities. In facts, most of the tourists arriving Mumbai include this into their bucket list. Started off in 2013, there are many interesting star rides here which contribute to prime attractions. There are also five different theme based restaurants that offer lip-smacking dishes to savor. It is a package full of entertainment that could be visited and cherished as the best spent time.

13.Essel World

Established in 1986, this is the most popular amusement park in Mumbai which is the best visited with children and family. Situated on Gorai Island, this amusement park has various fun-filled and thrilling activities to be pursued and enjoyed. There are also, numerous rides and water-based games that children and adults could enjoy. When seeking interesting activities for an entire day, this is a good place to reach in Mumbai.

The list of attractive places in Mumbai is however longer than the one mentioned above. You may plan your trips appropriately based on your taste of traveling and the escapes you had been seeking.