Discover striking landmarks, sea views, street food and a lively beach on Marine Drive. This waterfront road stretches for about 2.8 miles (4.5 kilometers) from Nariman Point to the foot of Malabar Hill. It’s popular with everyone from courting couples to families and joggers, who come in search of a respite from the chaotic city life. Marine Drive bears the nickname Queen’s Necklace, a reference to the streetlights that shine at night and resemble a pearl necklace.
A major highlight of Marine Drive is its curving pedestrian-only promenade, which is ideal to explore on foot. Start from Nariman Point, a financial district at the promenade’s southern end. As you walk, enjoy the views of Back Bay and the Arabian Sea. Admire the fading grandeur of old art deco buildings, many of which date back to the 1920s and 1930s.
Sports fans might want to make a quick detour to peek inside the Wankhede Stadium. This is one of India’s international cricket arenas, with a capacity for over 30,000 fans. Alternatively, spot an array of exotic fish at the Taraporewala Aquarium.
Take a moment to sit on the seawall, feel the cool breeze in your face and watch waves crash gently upon the shore. Purchase snacks and refreshments from the street vendors offering chai tea, coffee and hot peanuts.
The northern end of the promenade converges with Girgaun Chowpatty (Chowpatty Beach), one of the city’s most animated beaches. Peaceful during the day, after sunset it becomes an open-air carnival of fairground rides, street performers and delicious food. Sample traditional Indian fare such as the famous bhel puri, a spicy mix of rice, vegetables noodles and tamarind sauce.
Situated on Mumbai’s Back Bay, Marine Drive is easily accessible from the city’s popular tourist areas. Churchgate, Marine Lines and Charni Road Railway train stations are all less than a 5-minute walk from the promenade. It’s about a 1-hour non-stop walk from end to end. Marine Drive is busiest in the evening, when locals escape from work and come to enjoy the sunsets and fresh air.
