Navi Mumbai (aka New Bombay) is a planned city established in the early 1970s to ease congestion in central Mumbai. Its 14 nodes (districts or townships) are an example of contemporary Indian urbanization. Discover slick business districts, stylish restaurants and upscale hotels alongside centuries-old temples. Enjoy recreational activities amid hilly countryside and along the shores of Thane Creek.
Dotted with parks and home to cool cafés, ice cream parlors and innovative Asian restaurants, Nerul is the “Queen of Navi Mumbai.” Have fun for all ages at Wonders Park, an amusement park with replicas of the New 7 Wonders of the World. DY Patil Sports Stadium attracts crowds for international cricket and professional soccer matches. Witness flamboyant Hindu rituals at Nerul Balaji Temple.
In Seawoods, the Seawoods Grand Central Mall is home to the outlets of popular fashion labels such as Calvin Klein and Levis. Go for early morning and evening strolls around Seawoods Lake.
Kharghar occupies a prime location between the verdant Kharghar Hills and Taloja Creek. Its centerpiece attraction is Central Park, a public garden with walking trails, a sculpture park and great city views. Tee off at Kharghar Valley Golf Course, observe Krishna worship at the ISCKON Kharghar and admire the Greek-style architecture of the landmark on the Utsav Chowk traffic circle. Follow trails into the hills to Kharghar Forest, Pandavkada Falls and other natural sights.
Explore more of the city’s natural side while walking in the Sagar Vihar waterfront park. Wildlife enthusiasts can book guided boat tours of Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary to spot thousands of flamingoes, gulls, herons and storks.
The fascinating Elephanta Island sits off the southwestern coastline of the city. Catch a boat here and tour the labyrinthine Elephanta Caves. Dating back to the 5th century, the rock-cut caves are a shrine to the Hindu god Shiva.
Trains and public buses connect Navi Mumbai with the main tourist areas of central Mumbai. Once in Navi Mumbai, it’s easy to travel between the districts via buses and auto-rickshaws.
