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Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road popularly known as Marine Drive is a three-kilometer-long ‘C’ shaped promenade along the South Mumbai coast. Marine Drive starts from the Southern end of Nariman Point and continues till the beautiful Chow patty beach. It gives a clear view of the Arabian Sea, which is undoubtedly the best place for peace lovers. The fantastic view of sunset and sunrise is far beyond explanation.
Marine Drive is also called the ‘Queen’s Necklace’ because of its ‘C’ shape and the golden street lights which look like pearls. Visiting Marine Drive after the sunset can give you a fantastic look when the street lights start glowing. It looks like a beautiful necklace. The lights glow in a perfect arc shape all along the coast. This is also a perfect place for late-night drives and walks. You will see many ‘chaiwallah’ and vendors selling ‘sutta‘ all the time on the Marine Drive. The view of Mumbai Skyline, the starry sky along with the sounds of strong sea waves, makes Marine Drive a very romantic place of the city of Mumbai.
HISTORY OF MARINE DRIVE
Since the 1920s, Marine Drive has always been considered a prestigious locality. In the early years, traditional Parses houses and buildings covered most of its parts. But after 1960, most of the old houses and buildings had been replaced, and this site is a famous spot for Bollywood celebrities. Some of the most luxurious hotels of Mumbai like The Hotel Oberoi, Hotel Marine Plaza, and the Trident are also located here. Mansions of many prominent celebrities and industrialists are located along the Marine Drive.
It is also said that one of the biggest Bollywood stars, Amitabh Bachchan slept on a bench on Marine Drive during his initial days in Mumbai. Many famous films like CID, Muqaddar ka Sikandar, and Wake Up Sid had been shooted here.
WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU VISIT MARINE DRIVE
There are many things that you can enjoy when you visit Marine Drive. You must experience these things once in your lifetime.
Watch the evening sunset. It’s beautiful. Go for a long drive during the night time on the ‘Queen’s necklace’. Talk with a stranger while having bhel on the drive. Go for jogging, waking up early in the morning. You don’t even need music because the musical sound of waves of the sea creates an excellent environment. You can enjoy evening walks when the street lights are on. Annual Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon also performed there, and You can take part in it.
You can also visit the Art Deco buildings that are located along Marine Drive. Treat yourself with some of the famous and unique delicious street food, especially the Vada Pao. Fill up your camera with as many photographs as you can because this is a very photogenic place.
Also Read: Marina Beach
COST AND TIMING
Marine Drive is open all the time. You at least require 3 – 4 hours to enjoy the drive. There is no entrance fee. It is free of cost.
WHY ALL LOVE MARINE DRIVE
People lead a fast-paced life in Mumbai. Marine Drive provides them with peace and calmness. The Mumbai monsoons become more special because of its view from the Marine Drive during rains. During the time of high tides, you can expect splashes of water hitting your face when strong waves hit the shores below! People love to walk on Marine Drive during the morning and evening hours. This is a favourite hangout spot for college students. Marine Drive has also been an inspiration for many poets, artists, writers, musicians, photographers, and moviemakers.
HOW TO REACH?
Marine Drive is an essential landmark in Mumbai. It is straightforward to reach there. You can visit Marine drive by reaching any of the two railway stations – Marine Lines or Church gate. After reaching any of these two stations, you have to walk for 5 minutes to reach the majestic Marine Drive. You can also hire a cab to reach there. If you are driving, you will get many places for parking along the boulevard. Some buses are also there which goes via Marine Drive.
TRAVELER TIPS
Marine Drive is a public place that is open for all. So we must keep it clean. Do not litter the place. Don’t jump over the walls searching for a better view. It can lead to severe accidents. Be aware of weather conditions. Don’t visit it during heavy rains or stormy weather. You should carry shades for yourself to protect yourself from the bright sun during the summer days. Don’t forget to carry your camera as it is a perfect spot for clicking some awesome pics!
Conclusion
In short, It is the best place for you to relax from the high- paced city life. It is a beautiful place for you to hang around. So if you visit Mumbai, never forget to explore this beautiful place.
