There are a lot of tourist places in Mumbai, but often what gets overlooked is how rich the city is in cultural heritage. Mostly when people think of Mumbai, they think about skyscrapers and a bustling city where life is fast. They think of overcrowded trains and beaches and the exquisite Marathi cuisine.
But among these tourist places in Mumbai, there are hidden a lot of monuments from the past that are seldom talked of now. They belong to a different era and those that appreciate the culture and heritage of the city are the few that have heard of these. Let’s take a look at some of these places
Five Lesser known cultural heritage spots in Mumbai
Pandavkada Falls
Hidden in the vicinity of the city is one of the most majestic tourist places in Mumbai. At some point in history, the rocks wielded against water, and the falls were formed. Falling straight through a cliff and down into the floor shattering the boulders to rocks and then to pebbles. The water is cold and embodies monsoon itself.
Pandavkada falls have served the Buddhists and the people in the Khargar hills for centuries before people re-discovered them. During the monsoon season, it is one of those places that will take your breath away. Slowly gaining the reputation of a low-key hangout. The sheer majesty of the view they provide cannot be missed.
Colaba Causeway
The most iconic places that have existed in Mumbai that can sum up its diverse culture successfully are few. One of them is the Colaba Causeway- one square. An old shopping complex, open market, and street shopping hotspot for tourists and locals alike. The footpath is where the most rea displays of life can be experienced.
You’re most likely going to see some showmanship here. For ages, the sellers and vendors in the causeway have been overenthusiastically drawing customers in. Over the top displays and highly competitive pricing also makes this place fun to get some souvenirs. Although rarely mentioned, the historical significance of this market can’t be ignored.
Bassein Fort
Simply saying Mumbai has a lot of forts is an understatement. Whatever direction you choose to walk in there seem to be some remnants of the old days. Back when the imperial rule of the British Empire was paramount, questioned only by the Portuguese. But one of the forts that are much less talked about and seemingly ignored is the Vasai or Bassein Fort.
Preserved by the Archeological Survey of India for its historical and architectural significance. It was actually built by the Portuguese. Recently there have been plenty of reports of paranormal activities. Although the reports themselves are questionable, they’ve done a service to the fort- bringing it back on the map.
Sassoon Docks
You’d think that a dock is the last tourist place right? Most people didn’t really go to the docks unless they’re boarding a ship, ferry, or cruise. Well, Sassoon Docks are a special case in that regard. Yeah, they’re a little underground in terms of their popularity but they hold a special historical significance.
The docks are the oldest publicly open docks in the history of Mumbai. In operation since the 19th century, 1875 to be exact. These docks have seen better days but if you set foot in there for a moment you’ll be greeted with a broad view of the fishing market and village of Mumbai. The fishermen were the first settlers of Mumbai.
Sion Fort
Just like the Portuguese Vasai Fort, Sion is yet another forgotten relic of imperial architecture. This fort was built by the British and served as an insignia of their power over the land and its inhabitants. Being much lesser known compared to its counterparts the place is relatively tranquil and quiet.
One lonesome cannon stands in the fort interiors, reminiscent of the old days of the British rule. It has managed to preserve that one cannon although its walls are in ruins and it isn’t much of a fort anymore. If you do visit the place and manage to scale its heights- you’ll be blessed with the greatest panoramic views of the Mumbai Expanse that can’t be rivaled by any other palace of the time.