We took the Jet Airways flight Delhi – Mumbay 9W302 (09.35 – 11.30 Hr). At arrival we were picked-up by a car of TCI and driven to the Gordon House hotel in South Mumbai, conveniently located near the “Gateway to India”. The hotel was nice and comfortable, while rooms were equipped with TV, VCD, water cooker, safe etc. All the latest fashion and news magazines were available in the room. Lunch we took in one of the restaurants of the hotel “All Stix Fry” and we choose for their specialty “the hot wok”. After a nap we left for “the gateway to India” and shipped in for a harbour “cruise” at the rate of 30 INR/Pax. Afterwards we did some shopping in Colaba area and took a beer at the Leopold Café. This 100-year-old café is a Mumbai landmark and popular among foreigners (Colaba causeway) Continental, Indian and Chinese food is on their menu and fresh juice of all kinds was available. Walking around in this part of the city is fun, although beggars disturb you quite a lot. The next day we visited the Elephanta caves. We skipped the city tour and went for food and a nap. In the evening we took a beer at Café Mondegar located a few meters from the hotel. This café is also very popular among tourists. The next day early morning we set off for the airport for our flight to Goa.
WHAT TO SEE
GATEWAY OF INDIA
An exaggerated colonial marker conceived following the visit of King George V in 1911. The yellow basalt arch of triumph, derived from the Muslim styles of 16th century Gujarat is located at the tip of Apollo Bunder. The gateway is now more like a disused back door as it became redundant after the British left and passenger liner services to Bombay dried up. It became although a popular emblem of the city.
ELEPHANTA CAVES
The beautifully sculptured rock-cut temples on Elephanta Island are 9 Km north-east of Apollo Bunder. They are thought to have been created between 45O and 750, when the island was known as Gharapuri, the Fortress City. The Portuguese renamed it Elephanta because of a large stone elephant near the shore. This statue collapsed in 1814 and the British removed the remaining pieces to the Victoria gardens where it was reassembled and still stands today. Unfortunately the Portuguese did considerable damage to the sculptures. The caves are reached by a stairway lined with handicraft and drink stalls. The caves are closed on Monday. Normal boats costs 60 INR return and more luxury boats costs 80 INR (including free guide at the entrance). Boats leave every half-hour from 0900 until 1430. The last boat leaves Elephanta at 1730. The ride through the harbour takes a good hour. An alternative is the catamaran which leaves at Apollo Bunder at 1030 and returns at 1400 (fare is 90 INR one way).
HOTEL
THE GORDON HOUSE
5 Battery Street
Apollo Bunder, Colaba
Mumbai 400039
Tel: +91-22/2871122
Fax: +91-22/2872026
www.ghhotel.com
Comments: stylish hotel with a modern look.
TRAVEL OPERATOR
NEW DELHI TCI