Marine Drive is a popular boulevard and tourist attraction in Mumbai that offers scenic views of the Arabian Sea and the city skyline. It is also known as the Queen’s Necklace, because of its C-shaped curve and the glittering lights that resemble a string of pearls at night.
Marine Drive is one of the most photographed places in India and the promenade stretches along the coastline, offering panoramic vistas of the sea, especially stunning during sunrise and sunset. Marine Drive is lined with impressive Art Deco buildings, happening nightlife and innumerable food joints to relish Mumbai's popular attraction.
History of Marine Drive
- Marine Drive resulted from a failed reclamation project initiated by the British Government in 1919 with the objective to connect Nariman Point with Malabar Hill through a promenade lined with office buildings, apartment blocks, and public squares.
- Due to flawed planning and engineering, only a small area was reclaimed from the sea, and 17 acres of land were used to construct the promenade, leaving the rest as open space for public use.
- Construction began in 1920 and was completed in 1924, named after Sir Hugh Hornby Fraser, the Governor of Bombay Presidency.
- It was later renamed Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road after India’s independence in 1947 but is still popularly known as Marine Drive.
- Over the next few decades, iconic Art Deco buildings designed by prominent architects such as G.B. Mhatre, D.N. Mirza, G.K. Mistry, and S.H. Godbole emerged along Marine Drive, becoming home to rich and famous personalities.
- In 2018, Marine Drive became part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai, comprising 94 buildings representing distinct architectural styles that emerged in Mumbai during the 19th and 20th centuries.
- Marine Drive is one of the largest concentrations of Art Deco buildings globally, showcasing the modernist movement's influence on urban planning and design in India.
Architecture of Marine Drive
- Marine Drive is a C-shaped boulevard featuring a six-lane concrete road along South Mumbai's natural bay with a wide pavement serving as a promenade for pedestrians and cyclist.
- Marine Drive's buildings and edifices exhibit the Art Deco architectural style. Art Deco is a modernist style originating from France in the 1920s, known for geometric shapes, streamlined forms, bright colors, and decorative motifs.
- They also bear distinctive names reflecting owners' personalities or aspirations, such as Ram Mahal Building (House of God), Kapur Mahal Building (House of Camphor), and Keval Mahal Building (House of Perfection).
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Things to Do at Marine Drive
Marine Drive is not only a place to see but also a place to do. There are plenty of activities that you can indulge in at Marine Drive to make your experience memorable and enjoyable.
Watch the sunset: One of the most popular things to do at Marine Drive is to witness the spectacular sunset over the Arabian Sea and admire the changing colors of the sky and water. You can sit on the promenade or the rocks and enjoy the view with your loved ones.
Cycle along the promenade: Marine Drive is also a good place to cycle along the promenade and enjoy the fresh air and scenery. You can rent a cycle from one of the vendors near Chowpatty Beach or bring your own.
Walk along the promenade: Take a leisurely stroll at Marine Drive along the 3.6 km long promenade that runs parallel to the road and feel the breeze on your face.
Eat street food: Marine Drive is also a great place to savor some delicious street food, especially at Chowpatty Beach, where you can find a variety of snacks, such as pav bhaji, bhelpuri, pani puri, kulfi, etc. You can also try some of the local delicacies, such as vada pav, misal pav, kanda bhaji, etc.
Enjoy the nightlife: Marine Drive is also a lively spot to enjoy the nightlife of Mumbai, with its illuminated lights resembling a string of pearls. Visit some of the nearby pubs and cafes that offer music, drinks, and entertainment.
Take a drive: Marine Drive is also an ideal place to take a drive along the six-lane road and enjoy the views of the sea and the city. You can also rent a bike or a car from local vendors and enjoy the beauty.
Food Near Marine Drive
Pizza By The Bay: (Approximately 0.5 km) Located right on Marine Drive, Pizza By The Bay offers stunning views of the sea along with a wide range of pizzas, pasta, and other Italian dishes.
Cost for Two: INR 1,500 - 2,000
Must-haves: Try their signature Wood Fired Pizza and Tiramisu.
Bayview Cafe: (Approximately 1 km) Perched atop a building near Marine Drive, Bayview Cafe offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea along with a menu featuring a mix of Indian and international cuisine.
Cost for Two: INR 1,200 - 1,500
Must-haves: Don't miss their Butter Garlic Prawns and Chocolate Mud Pie.
Café Mondegar: (Approximately 1.5 km) Known for its quirky decor and vibrant ambiance, Café Mondegar is a popular hangout serving up a variety of snacks, burgers, and Indian dishes.
Cost for Two: INR 800 - 1,000
Must-haves: Try their Chicken Tikka Sandwich and Chilled Beer.
Bademiya: (Approximately 2 km) Legendary late-night eatery, Bademiya is famous for its grilled kebabs and rolls, served streetside with a side of lively atmosphere.
Cost for Two: INR 800 - 1,200
Must-haves: Sample their Seekh Kebab Roll and Chicken Tikka.
Gokul Refreshment: (Approximately 1.5 km) A no-frills eatery popular among locals and visitors alike, Gokul Refreshment offers a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian Indian dishes at affordable prices.
Cost for Two: INR 500 - 700
Must-haves: Try their Butter Chicken and Garlic Naan.
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Nightlife In Marine Drive
Dine by the Sea at Sea Lounge at Taj Mahal Palace: Known for its elegant ambiance and stunning sea views, Sea Lounge offers a range of dining options from high tea to late-night snacks.
Visit a Rooftop Bar - AER at Four Seasons Hotel: Located on the 34th floor, AER offers panoramic views of the city skyline and the Arabian Sea, along with a wide selection of cocktails and spirits.
Experience the Street Food Scene at Girgaum Chowpatty: This iconic beachfront area is famous for its street food stalls offering a variety of local snacks and desserts.
Attend a Live Music Performance at Hard Rock Cafe Mumbai: Known for its live music performances by local bands and artists, Hard Rock Cafe offers a vibrant atmosphere and a wide range of drinks and snacks.
Take a Night Cruise on Mumbai Harbor Cruise: Experience the beauty of Marine Drive and the Mumbai skyline from the water on a night cruise along the Arabian Sea.
Join a Mumbai Night Tour: Explore the illuminated streets of Mumbai, including Marine Drive, with a guided walking tour that highlights the city's history and culture.
Accommodation Options Near Marine Drive
Hotel Marine Plaza: Located right on Marine Drive, Hotel Marine Plaza offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea. The hotel's rooftop terrace, where guests can enjoy a swim in the pool while overlooking the sea, is a major highlight.
Average Cost: INR 8,000 - 12,000 per night
Distance from Marine Drive: Approximately 0.5 km
Trident Nariman Point: Trident Nariman Point is known for its luxurious accommodations and impeccable service. The hotel's location near Marine Drive offers easy access to the promenade and its scenic views.
Average Cost: INR 10,000 - 15,000 per night
Distance from Marine Drive: Approximately 1 km
InterContinental Marine Drive Mumbai: With its stylish rooms and modern amenities, InterContinental Marine Drive Mumbai offers a luxurious stay experience. The hotel's rooftop restaurant, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, is a highlight.
Average Cost: INR 12,000 - 18,000 per night
Distance from Marine Drive: Approximately 0.5 km
The Oberoi Mumbai: The Oberoi Mumbai is renowned for its world-class hospitality and luxurious accommodations. The hotel's sea-facing rooms provide stunning views of the Arabian Sea, making it a perfect choice for a luxurious stay.
Average Cost: INR 15,000 - 25,000 per night
Distance from Marine Drive: Approximately 1 km
The Ambassador Mumbai: The Ambassador Mumbai is known for its old-world charm and elegant decor. The hotel's rooftop garden restaurant, offering panoramic views of the city skyline, is a highlight.
Average Cost: INR 5,000 - 8,000 per night
Distance from Marine Drive: Approximately 1 km
Shopping Near Marine Drive
Colaba Causeway: Colaba Causeway is a bustling street market with a wide range of shops and stalls selling everything from trendy clothes to traditional Indian artifacts.
Best Things to Buy: Jewelry, clothing, accessories, souvenirs, handicrafts
Fashion Street: Fashion Street is a popular shopping destination known for its affordable fashion finds. You can find a variety of trendy clothing and accessories here.
Best Things to Buy: Clothing, shoes, accessories
Crawford Market: Crawford Market is one of Mumbai's oldest markets, known for its vibrant atmosphere and wide range of products. It's a great place to shop for local produce and unique items.
Best Things to Buy: Spices, fruits, vegetables, household items, pets
Chor Bazaar: Chor Bazaar, also known as the "Thieves' Market," is a treasure trove of antiques and vintage items. It's a fascinating place to explore and shop for unique finds.
Best Things to Buy: Antiques, vintage items, electronics, furniture
Zaveri Bazaar: Zaveri Bazaar is Mumbai's renowned jewelry market, with a wide range of shops selling traditional and modern jewelry designs. It's a great place to buy quality jewelry at competitive prices.
Best Things to Buy: Jewelry, especially gold and silver
Places To Visit Near Marine Drive
Marine Drive is not only a scenic spot but also a hub of attractions that cater to different interests and preferences of visitors. Some of the main attractions along or near Marine Drive that you should not miss:
Chowpatty Beach: A famous beach at the northern end of Marine Drive where you can enjoy some of the best snacks,vibrant celebrations in the city, such as Ganesh Chaturthi and some fun activities, such as camel rides, horse rides, balloon shooting, etc. at Chowpatty Beach.
Taraporewala Aquarium: India’s oldest aquarium that houses a variety of marine and freshwater fish species as well as aquatic plants, coral reefs, and sea shells. You can see some exotic and rare fish, such as lionfish, clownfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, etc. at Taraporewala Aquarium.
Kamala Nehru Park: This public park located on Malabar Hill offers panoramic views of the city and features a giant shoe-shaped structure inspired by a nursery rhyme.
Hanging Gardens: Also known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens, these are terraced gardens situated on Malabar Hill that have animal-shaped hedges, flower beds, fountains, and a sunset point. Admire some beautiful flora and fauna at Hanging Gardens.
Babulnath Temple: An ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva that is located on a small hill near Chowpatty Beach and attracts devotees from all over the city.
Asiatic Society Library: This library and a cultural institution was founded in 1804 and is housed in a neoclassical building. It has a collection of over 1 lakh books, manuscripts, coins, maps, and paintings. You can access some of the rarest and oldest books in India at Asiatic Society Library.
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How to Reach Marine Drive
Marine Drive is easily accessible from various parts of Mumbai by using public or private transport.
By Train:
Nearest stations: Churchgate and Charni Road on the Western Line of Mumbai Suburban Railway.
Distance: 1 km from Churchgate, 2 km from Charni Road.
Fare: Taxi/auto rickshaw Rs. 20-30.
By Bus:
Board a bus passing through Marine Drive or get down at a nearby stop.
Bus numbers: 1, 3, 11, 40, 66, 80, 83, 86, 87, 88, 91, 92, 93, 94, 100, 103, 105, 106, 108, etc.
Fare: Rs. 10-20.
By Metro:
Nearest station: Girgaon Metro Station on Line 3 (Colaba-Bandra-SEEPZ) of Mumbai Metro,
Distance: About 2 km.
Fare: Rs. 40-60
Tips for Visiting Marine Drive
- Best time: Evening or night for sunset and lights; daytime for fewer crowds and cooler weather.
- Avoid: Monsoon season (June to September) due to flooding and safety concerns.
- Beware of touts and scammers selling fake or overpriced products/services.
- Preserve the environment: Do not litter or pollute the beach or sea.
