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BOMBAY

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Prince Of Wales Museum - Another structure to commemorate the visit of King George V. The building is build in Indio Sarcenic style and is set in an well laid ornamented garden. The central hall boasts of a huge dome which is believed to be inspired by the Golgumbaz. The museum was opened in 1923 and has an impressive collection of artifacts from Elephanta island, Jogeshwari Caves, Terracotta Figurines from the Indus valley, Ivory carvings, statues, a large collection of miniatures and a gloomy portrait of Abrahim Lincoln. The museum is divided into three sections art, archaeology and natural history. Taraporewala Aquarium - This aquarium was opened in 1951 and has a very interesting collection of marine and fresh water specimens. The aquarium was constructed at a cost of eight lakh and has shell & shell craft and fishery byproducts on display. A pipeline brings water from the sea directly for the marine species. Chattrapati Shivaji Terminus - One of the most imposing buildings in Mumbai, it was from Chattrapati Shivaji Terminus that the first train rolled out towards Thane. The Terminus carries the Gothic architectural style and is largest building designed by F.W Stevens. A large statue of queen Victoria is kept at the entrance of the terminus. The main structure is surmounted by a statue of progress. The clock on tower is 3.19m in diameter. carvings of peacocks, gargoyles, monkeys, elephants and British lions are mixed up among the buttresses, domes, turrets, spires and stained glass windows. The terminus looks more like a cathedral than a terminus. National Gallery of Modern Art - The national gallery of Modern art in Mumbai exhibits lots of modern Indian art which are of a very high quality. The showcase includes a collection of some very interesting pieces of art. National Gallery is the revamped version of Sir Cowasji Jehangir Public hall. Near the National Gallery is the Jehangir art gallery which is the venue for exhibitions to many artists and on various occasions. The place also organises exhibitions for touring exhibits.

Haji Ali Mosque - This mosque is located in the causeway protruding into the Arabian sea. The white mosque is the  tomb of Saint Haji Ali. Haji Ali was a wealthy Muslim who renounced the world and proceeded to Mecca. It is said that he died in Mecca and the casket miraculously drifted and  came to the spot where the mosque is built toady. The mosque can only be approached during low tide. The mosque is surrounded by   refreshment stalls and other  kinds of shops which take away the sombre of the place. The rocks behind the mosque is a good place to catch sea breezes. Juhu - Juhu again is a beach which is not for sunbathing or swimming. The beach is lined by

Bungalows and high rise  apartments which have now become part of the land scape.Close by the Juhu beach is the Versova Beach which is the  largest home for the Koli fishermen. Juhu beach is a crowded place with animal rides, balloons, acrobats, monkeys and cricket being played on the beach itself. The beaches at Gangatiphule, Murud-Janjira and Manori are other famous sandy idylls in Maharashtra. Kalbadevi - North of the Crawford market is a predominantly Muslim area which is dotted by Chawls (dwelling clusters). Without a visit to the busy bazaars of Kalbadevi no visit to Mumbai is complete. This place is very crowded unlike the south Mumbai. Near Kalbadevi is the Jama Masjid and the Mumbadevi temple dedicated to the patron God of Mumbai's original inhabitants. It is one of the best places to wander aimlessly untill you are tired. Nehru Planetarium - Eight km from the center of the city is located a center which tells about the universe. the Nehru planetarium is engaged in recreating image of the sky as seen from any where on the Earth any time. It unfolds the mysteries of the cosmos. They also screening regular film shows on the outer space which are of particular interest for children. Clos by is the Nehru Science center which is a science park and permanent exhibits on intricacies of life. The antique models of Railway engines, aeroplanes, tramcar and steam lorry are very exciting to see. EXCURSIONS: Matheran :This place was discovered in 1850 and due to its greenery & shade it was immediately taken as the nearest hill station from Mumbai. Matheran is sightly above the plains so it is cool and provides respite from the heat of Mumbai. Lonavla : Lonavla and Khandala are two hill resorts in near Mumbai. These twin places are just 106 kms from the rat race of Mumbai. In recent years the heavy floe of weekenders and conference groups from Mumbai has changed the Demogarphy of the Area dramatically.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park : Previously known as the Borivali National Park, this protected forest area is on the Northern outskirts of Mumbai. The place was used by the Buddhists to build Chaityas  and Viharas. The Lion Safari is an attraction for the visitor. The small population of animals which include few tigers and Panthers are under severe threat of extinction due to urban  encroachment. Bassein : This was the fortified city build by Portuguese which separates greater Mumbai from Indian mainland. This city was at its architectural best in 1534 with one cathedral, five convents and 13 churches. In 1739 the city was lost to Marathas. Today only the ruins of a glorious past remains to be seen .

Elephanta Island : The antiquity of Elephanta caves is said to be  of third century. This place was the capital of powerful coastal  kingdom and the excavation of the caves from the 6th century adds to the glory of the kingdom. Later the Portuguese took possession of the island and as they first found a monolith elephant the island was named Elephanta.

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