Reuters Business Traveller

Mumbai – Overview

If India is a land of extremes, then Mumbai, the country’s largest city and financial capital, is its microcosm. Both manic and enigmatic, its ancient temples sit amid urban slums, and images of movie stars plaster signposts fronting buttressed colonial structures. With nearly 17 million people in this multicultural metropolis, a landmass formed by seven long-filled-in islands, Mumbai may appear overloaded, brash and chaotic ­– but this is a city that knows how to captivate, and it doesn’t take long to discover there is plenty of fun to be had.

Explore colonial Colaba and its monumental archway, the 1924-built Gateway to India; browse in upmarket boutiques at Kemps Corner; spectate at Oval Maidan, home to the city’s ubiquitous cricket games and find respite along romantic-sunset-spot Marine Drive. When night falls, head to Insomnia at grand-old-dame Taj Mahal Palace & Tower for some Bollywood-star spotting. However you choose to experience Mumbai, one thing is for certain: it will leave a lasting impression.

Money: Rupee (Rs)

Money should be changed at banks or currency exchanges at hotels. The latter are often faster than the former. ATMs are easy to find. The currency exchange form should be retained if you wish to change back rupees upon departure.