Mumbai, India -- National Geographic's Ultimate City Guides

People cool off at popular Chowpatty Beach, with the Nariman Point business district in the distance.

Photograph by Sam Hollenshead/Polaris

Home to the razzle-dazzle world of Bollywood—India’s answer to Hollywood—rambunctious Mumbai (Bombay) is an utterly mind-bending assault on all the senses. A veritable melting pot of religions, customs, and culinary traditions, this is India’s economic powerhouse and its most cosmopolitan metropolis. Said to have more millionaires per square mile than Manhattan, Mumbai also has the dubious distinction of housing Asia’s largest slum. Indeed, the “City of Dreams,” as it’s affectionately dubbed, is a city of sharp contrasts: business tycoons drive past scantily clad street urchins; swanky bars overlook rickety chai stalls, and women wrapped in chiffon saris shop alongside college girls flaunting the latest Western designer wear. Yes, if there’s a city that stirs the soul and fires the imagination like no other, it’s Mumbai.

Mumbai Photos and Quiz

Related Features

Photo Gallery: Modern Mumbai

Venture into India's bustling metropolis that ranks as the nation's most populous.
Mumbai Must-Dos

Our experts recommend the top attractions in and around Mumbai—with advice on how to get the most out of your visit.
48 Hours: Mumbai Guide

Tradition and trendiness meet in this bustling Indian city.
Photo Gallery: Indian Wedding

Henna, horses, and brilliantly colored brides—see photos from the Travler magazine feature "My Big Fat Indian Wedding."