Mumbai, a city that was given as a dowry to the British

Summary: Mumbai is the commercial capital of the nation, and also is the capital city of Maharashtra. It is one of the most highlighted cities in India, and is bestowed with the best of past and present. It is a compact version of the country, and simply worth a visit. Head to the city to explore it for real and for accommodations choose from the best hotels in Mumbai.

Body: Mumbai is the capital of Maharashtra state. It is an old yet a modern city that earned the commercial and administrative significance several centuries ago. It is one of the oldest cities in India, was ruled by the Marathas, Portuguese, and the British; and is one of the richest cities in India. The city is often referred as the "Commercial capital of India" as is the leading city with the largest and frequent flow of capital. The city itself records of 6.16 percentage of the country's total GDP. The city probably houses the most number of companies, large and small firms, banks, etc. in any given city in India. The year 2009 saw the city being recognized as the Alpha World City. Besides, it is the city that houses maximum number of millionaires and billionaires in India.

Meanwhile, before the city gained its glamour and glitz, the erstwhile records of the city state that the place was actually a cluster of seven islands that were occupied by small fishermen colonies. The Portuguese were the first Europeans to land in the region, as they saw the geographical significance of the region's natural harbour in the International Sea Trade Route. They came in 1534-35 and ruled the region for more than a century. It was in the year 1961, when the region was offered to the British by the Portuguese as dowry when Princess Catherine de Braganza of Portugal married the King Charles II of England. It were the British who took the task of reclaiming the area between the islands and forming a major port in the region. They named the project Hornby Vellard Project, which got completed in 1845 with the formation of Mumbai and a major port at its coast.

Following the independence of India, the city was incorporated in the Bombay state. However, soon the city's emerged as the chief centre of Samyukta Maharashtra movement, which demanded the formation of a new Martahi state. The year 1960 then saw the formation of the new state Maharashtra and Mumbai being its capital. However, note that at that time the city was known with its former name Bombay. It was only in 1996 when the city was renamed to Mumbai.

Meanwhile, Mumbai has always remained one of the prime centers of tourism. The city is the compact mix of people, tradition, art, culture, cuisine, and hospitality. Bestowed by a glorious history the city combines the best of the past and its vibrant cosmopolitan present. The city is a perfect holidaying spot that stores something for every traveller of its, no matter what their travel interests and itineraries are. From old Victorian buildings and structures to some of the most beautiful beaches and the modern marvels, there is a mass of rewarding tourist attractions. Besides, the popular hotels in Mumbai further complement one's trip of the city, and make his stay content and relaxing.

Touring the city in complete will require a lifetime, still some of the most popular places to visit in the city include: Gateway of India, Elephanta Caves, Girgaum Chowpatty, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Esselworld, Haji Ali Dargah, Siddhivinayak Temple, Babulnath, Global Vipassana Pagoda, Kanheri Caves, Mumba Devi Temple, Bombay High Court, Jehangir Art Gallery, Taraporewala Aquarium, Mount Mary Church, Malad, Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Aksa Beach, and Cathedral of the Holy Name, etc. Meanwhile, the good thing is that there are a number of good budget hotels in Mumbai that are located in the vicinity to the prime tourist attractions. These hotels are the ideal options for lodging as they are located close to the tourist sites and also offer content accommodations.