Mumbai is a city of stark contrasts, and its neighbourhoods reflect this diversity. From the upscale and glamorous streets of Bandra to the bustling markets of Crawford Market, each area has its own unique charm. Exploring the narrow lanes of Colaba or taking a leisurely stroll along Marine Drive’s picturesque promenade offers a glimpse into the soul of Mumbai.
Details of Mumbai Bandra
Bandra: Bandra is a suburb located in the western part of Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. Bandra is known as the “Queen of the Suburbs,” Bandra is a trendy and upscale neighbourhood with a mix of colonial architecture and modern buildings. It is home to a vibrant street culture, with numerous cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. Bandra Bandstand, also known as the “Promenade,” offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and is a favourite spot for locals to relax and enjoy the sunset.
The name “Bandra” is possibly derived from the Persian word for “port”. Around the 12th century, most of Konkan was under the rule of the Silhar dynasty, and the people of the Silhar dynasty ruled here. The majority of people in Bandra in Konkan are Kolis, whose main occupation is salt farming. and fishing. Before the English East India Company came and took over India, this area was under Portuguese control and was known as Portuguese Bombay. It was an area stretching from Damaun to Chaul.
Bandra is divided into two main divisions – West Bandra and East Bandra. West Bandra is home to affluent residential areas such as Pali Hill, Carter Road and Bandstand. These areas are known for their luxury, bungalows and residences. East Bandra is relatively more affordable and consists of residential complexes and commercial establishments. Bandra is famous for its shopping. Linking Road and Hill Road in Bandra are two popular shopping destinations known for their street markets, boutiques, fashion stores and accessories. The area also houses high-end fashion boutiques, designer stores and international brands. Bandra has several multiplex cinemas, theaters and live music venues that provide entertainment options for residents and visitors. Bandstand is a scenic promenade near the Arabian Sea. Which offers a breathtaking view of the sea and the iconic Bandra-Worli Sea Link. Bandstand is a popular place for locals in Bandra to take a leisurely stroll, jog or relax. The promenade is also known for its beautifully landscaped gardens, street food stalls and a statue of Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan.
Bandra has many important places of worship as people of all religions live there. Its famous Mount Mary Basilica, a Roman Catholic Church, attracts devotees of all faiths during the annual Bandra Fair. Bandra Masjid and St. Peter’s Church are major religious landmarks in the area. Bandra has a wide variety of restaurants, cafes and street food stalls. From local street food like vada pav, misal, kanda bhaji and pav bhaji to international cuisine, Bandra has options to suit every palate. The area is also known for its trendy cafes and fine dining restaurants that cater to discerning foodies in abundance. Another feature of the port is that Bandra is famous for its nightlife with many pubs, bars and nightclubs located there. It attracts a mix of locals, expats and celebrities, providing a lively atmosphere for party goers and music lovers alike.
Bandra is famous for its architectural beauty, with charming colonial bungalows lining its streets. Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow lanes and witness the wonderful blend of old-world charm and modern aesthetics. Bandra is also a haven for street art, with colorful murals adorning the walls, showcasing the neighborhood’s artistic spirit and creativity. Linking Road is an avid shopper’s paradise. This bustling street market is packed with options, from trendy fashion boutiques and accessory stores to bargain-friendly stalls selling clothing, footwear and accessories. Unleash your inner fashionista and shop to your heart’s content as you soak up the lively atmosphere of Linking Road. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city in a quiet area then definitely visit Pali Hill, a residential area dotted with beautiful bungalows, greenery and quaint cafes. Embrace the serenity of Pali Hill, enjoy a peaceful morning walk, sip a cup of aromatic coffee or practice yoga and meditation.