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Probably the most fashionable destination in Mumbai, Marine Drive boasts Art Deco architecture, a wide, clean promenade and renowned sports stadiums. Here are some of our recommendations for things to see on and places to visit near Marine Drive.
In 2018, UNESCO granted the Art Deco tradition of Mumbai a World Heritage status. This encompasses (but is not restricted to) 35 original Art Deco buildings along Marine Drive. Built by wealthy Parsi families between the 1920s and 1940s, most of these are sea-facing apartments that still enjoy VIP status. Some have romantic English names such as Oceana, Green Fields and Fairlawn. Others include Soona Mahal, Kapur Mahal, Zaver Mahal and Keval Mahal, as well as the public buildings of Taraporevala Aquarium and Saifee Hospital. Viewed as a panorama from one end of Marine Drive to the other, they present a harmonious landscape of uniform height and stylish concrete facades, fronted by palm trees.
Parsi Gymkhana was founded in 1885 as a space for gentlemen to engage in sports. During World War II, this and the adjacent P.J. Hindu Gymkhana were occupied by British forces, who encouraged the latter to allow Parsi and Muslim members, who up until then had been strictly forbidden. The nearby Islam Gymkhana was until 1942 the headquarters of the Cricket Association of Bombay. Nowadays, it is the head office of the Maharashtra State Billiards Association. While these are now open to the public, access may be restricted to certain events or require temporary memberships. It is recommended to check the respective gymkhana website for specific access details and schedules. The nearby Police Gymkhana and Garware Club House remain strictly members-only.
One of the best places to visit near Marine Drive is Wankhede Stadium. An international ground for world class test matches, Wankhede Stadium has a seating capacity of 33,000, as well as 20 elevators, a modern cantilever roof for unrestricted spectator views and cutting-edge air circulation systems. The stadium hosts World Cup Cricket and T20 test matches. Wankhede Stadium is also the home ground of the Mumbai Indians team. The stadium is run by the Mumbai Cricket Association and is the headquarters for the Indian Premier League and the Board of Control for Cricket in India. For ticket information and event schedules, please visit the Mumbai Cricket Association website.
The promenade along Marine Drive is ideal for refreshing morning walks, relaxing evening strolls and even cycling. Guests at hotels near Marine Drive, such as The Oberoi, Mumbai, can step out directly onto the promenade and take in views of the Art Deco frontages on one side and Arabian Sea on the other, as well as Queen’s Necklace views of the sparkling lights after dark. From The Oberoi, Mumbai at the tip of Nariman Point to the other end of Marine Drive takes around 40 minutes on foot. The sunrise and sunset views are mesmerising. Please contact us should you wish to rent a bicycle during your stay.
One of the best places to visit near Marine Drive is Chowpatty Beach. A carnival for the senses during the day, Chowpatty Beach hosts snake charmers and camel rides, as well as fortune tellers and street food vendors selling everything from bhel puri and roasted peanuts to spicy raw mango, chai and lassi. Huge balloons of different designs fly in the sky over the beach, while below on the sand, people receive massages and children play on fairground rides. Please note that the water at Chowpatty Beach is not swimmable.
The National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) is located next to The Oberoi, Mumbai. With a modernist architectural design and grand marble staircase, the NCPA is a stunning venue for up to 700 musical and artistic performances every year. From Indian classical to European chamber music, modern jazz, Indian and international theatre and more. The NCPA promotes artistic innovation and is one of the foremost venues in India.
Enjoy easy access to Marine Drive and its attractions by staying at The Oberoi, Mumbai, and take your time to explore this exciting destination
