Marine Drive is a scenic road that runs along the coast of Mumbai, India. It is also known as the Queen’s Necklace because of the way it looks at night, with the street lights forming a sparkling curve. Marine Drive is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, who enjoy walking, jogging, cycling or relaxing on the promenade.
The best time to visit Marine Drive is during the cooler months from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and the breeze is refreshing.
To get to Marine Drive, you can take a taxi, a bus, a train or a metro. The nearest railway stations are Churchgate and Marine Lines on the Western Line. The nearest metro station is Grant Road on Line 3. You can also use online apps like Uber or Ola to book a ride.
There are many tours that include Marine Drive in their itinerary, such as city tours, heritage walks, cultural tours and photography tours. You can also book a private tour with a local guide who can show you around and tell you more about the history and culture of Mumbai. Some tours also offer boat rides or cruises along the coast.
There are many things to see and do near Marine Drive, such as:
- Visit the iconic Gateway of India, a monument built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911.
- Explore the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (formerly Prince of Wales Museum), which houses a collection of art, history and natural history exhibits.
- Admire the Gothic architecture of the Rajabai Clock Tower and the University of Mumbai buildings.
- Enjoy a performance at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), which hosts various cultural events and shows.
- Shop for souvenirs, books, clothes and more at Colaba Causeway, a bustling street market.
- Relax at Girgaum Chowpatty, a sandy beach where you can enjoy street food, camel rides and games.
Some tips and prohibitions for visiting Marine Drive are:
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as you may have to walk a lot.
- Carry a water bottle and sunscreen, as it can get hot and sunny during the day.
- Avoid littering or spitting on the road or the promenade, as it is considered rude and unhygienic.
- Respect the privacy and safety of other visitors and locals, and do not take photos or videos without their consent.
- Do not swim or enter the water, as it can be dangerous and polluted.
- Do not drink alcohol or smoke in public places, as it is illegal and punishable by law.
