Girgaum Chowpatty
Girgaum Chowpatty- Chaupati beach in Mumbai
Among the sea beaches, the Girgaum Chowpatty is one such place that is known for idol immersing, especially Ganesha idols. Mumbai is a place where lord Ganesha is admired all over the city and worshipped by almost all the people. The Hindu deity, Ganesha son of Shiv Parbati is an all-time favorite of the Marathi. Hence, a large number of people are gathered along the beach after worshipping, to immerse Ganesh idols of various sizes. The beach adjoins the well-known Marine drive and is located in the area of Gurgaon. The beach runs along the Arabian Sea and is noted for celebrating Ganesh Visarjan.
Every year ‘Ramlila’ is performed on the stage in Chaupati and the effigy of Ravana (regarded as the deity of negative energies) is burnt on the day of Dussehra. The beach hosts many vendors selling mouth-watering fast food like pav bhaji, panipuri, bhelpuri, patties, etc.
Essential Information
Here is some essential information about Girgaum Chowpatty, Mumbai, India:
- Location: Girgaum Chowpatty is located in the heart of Mumbai, India, on the coast of the Arabian Sea.
- Getting there: Girgaum Chowpatty is easily accessible by taxi or local transportation, such as the Mumbai metro.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Girgaum Chowpatty is from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for beach activities.
- Things to bring: Visitors should bring sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and a hat or sunglasses. They may also want to bring a camera to capture the scenic views.
- Facilities: Girgaum Chowpatty has basic facilities, such as public restrooms and street food stalls. Visitors should be aware that the beach can get crowded, especially during holidays and weekends.
- Safety: Visitors should be aware of the high-tide warning signs and avoid swimming in the sea during high tide. They should also take precautions to protect their belongings and exercise caution when walking along the promenade and in crowded areas.
History of the Girgaum Chowpatty
Girgaum Chowpatty is a famous beach in Mumbai, India. It is situated in the Girgaum neighborhood and is known for its sandy shores, street food stalls, and cultural events. The beach has a long history and has been a popular spot for locals and tourists for many years. It was originally a fishing village and was used as a landing spot for Portuguese ships during the 16th century. Over the years, the area developed into a bustling hub of activity and was a popular destination for recreational activities, such as picnicking and swimming. Today, Girgaum Chowpatty continues to be a major attraction in Mumbai, attracting visitors from all over the world to enjoy its food, cultural events, and scenic views.
Reaching there
The nearest railway station is definitely Churchgate station. Once you get down at the Churchgate you need to catch a local train that goes to Charni Road. The beach is located at walking distance from Charni road. Taxis, cabs, autos as well as buses are available to take to the beach from anywhere in the city.
When to visit Girgaum Chowpatty
October to March is the best time to visit the beach due to its favorable weather. At this time you can visit the beach at any time of the day which you cannot do in the summer season because the heat raises high in the summer months. At the time of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, the beach displays totally a different view. Crowds and possessions engage the shore which might be a presenting sight for your idle eyes. The festival is celebrated in the month of September every year. If you want to have a sight of these celebrations then arrive there at this time.
Activities and sightings
- During the terror attacks of 26/11, there were ten terrorists, and nine were killed in near Colaba and the Fort region. The one left was caught alive by Tukaram Omble, the statue of that was installed near the beach
- The oldest institute of Mumbai known as Wilson College is situated at the opposite side of the beach. Mani Bhawan, a nearby museum which is dedicated to Gandhi ji is located at a distance of 1 km from the spot. Other nearby places is Taraporewala Aquarium which is 2 km away and Banganga (3km) from the beach.
- In the morning the beach remains calm. At that time people are found jogging and walking around. Sunrise watching is not possible as it is on the west. Because of this evening remains more crowded that the morning. Activities like dancing monkey, snake charmers, vendors, and fortune tellers start their business among the crowd.
Trivia
- The word Chowpatti includes ‘chau’ which means four and ‘patti’ means water channels. Four channels of water were found escaping into the sea, now locals call the place by this name.
- The building of the Chowpatty area (from Chowpatti to marine drive) is said as Art Deco region due to the curved design in balconies (twirl and wave-like structure). After Miami, it is the second biggest district where Art Deco has been used.
- An Indian scholar, Shivkar Bapuji Talpade is believed to fly on an unmanned plane in the year 1895. It was rumored that he flew from this Chowpatti Beach on which the film Hawaizaada (2015) was released.
Apart from all these beautiful things, there is one thing that we must be aware of. Do not stay inside the water of Girgaum Chowpatty for a long time or swim in the sea. The water is polluted at a high level due to the disposal of raw sewage, open defecation, and storm drain. Moreover, due to some oil slicks, the beach sand has started turning black since 2016. Other than these polluting agents, the place would have been heaven. However, the beach is greatly enjoyed by local people and tourists, who love to watch the mesmerizing sunset, watch the children playing with the sand, eat street-side delicacies, and watch the waves playing with the shore.
Tourist Places Near Girgaum Chowpatty
Marine Drive:
Marine Drive is a popular promenade in Mumbai, India, located near Girgaum Chowpatty. The drive offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and Mumbai’s skyline, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can walk or drive along the promenade and enjoy the sea breeze, relax on benches, or take in the views from nearby cafes and restaurants.
Haji Ali Dargah:
Haji Ali Dargah is a mosque and tomb located on an island in the Arabian Sea, accessible via a causeway. The dargah is a popular tourist attraction and pilgrimage site, attracting thousands of visitors every year. The mosque is known for its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere, making it a popular spot for meditation and reflection.
Kamla Nehru Park:
Kamla Nehru Park is a scenic park located near Girgaum Chowpatty in Mumbai. The park offers panoramic views of the city and the Arabian Sea, making it a popular spot for picnics and recreation. Visitors can relax on benches, enjoy the greenery, and watch the sun set over the sea. The park also has a popular children’s section with a variety of play structures and activities.
Chor Bazaar:
Chor Bazaar is a popular market in Mumbai, India, known for its antique shops, street food stalls, and vintage items. The market is located near Girgaum Chowpatty and attracts tourists and locals alike. Visitors can explore the stalls and shops, bargaining for unique finds and tasty street food. The market is a vibrant and bustling hub of activity, reflecting the diverse and bustling energy of Mumbai itself.
Juhu Beach:
Juhu Beach is a popular beach located in the suburbs of Mumbai, India. The beach is known for its scenic views, street food stalls, and lively atmosphere, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can relax on the sand, swim in the sea, or enjoy a variety of street food and snacks. The beach is also a popular spot for cultural events, such as concerts and festivals.
Gateway of India:
Gateway of India is a famous monument located in Mumbai, India. It serves as a gateway to the city and is a popular tourist attraction. The Gateway was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai in 1911. The monument is an architectural masterpiece, featuring intricate carvings and designs. Visitors can take a boat tour from the Gateway to nearby islands, or simply relax and take in the views from the promenade.
Elephanta Caves:
The Elephanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage site located on an island in Mumbai Harbor. The caves feature rock-cut temples and sculptures, showcasing the ancient Hindu religious beliefs and practices of the region. Visitors can explore the caves, marveling at the intricate carvings and the peaceful atmosphere. The caves are accessible via a ferry ride from Mumbai and offer breathtaking views of the harbor and the Arabian Sea.
Things To Do at Girgaum Chowpatty
There are many things to do at Girgaum Chowpatty, Mumbai, India:
- Visit the beach: Girgaum Chowpatty is known for its sandy shores and scenic views, making it a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.
- Try street food: The beach is surrounded by street food stalls offering a variety of delicious and traditional Indian snacks and meals.
- Attend cultural events: Girgaum Chowpatty is a popular spot for cultural events, such as religious festivals and concerts.
- People-watch: The beach is a hub of activity and a great place to observe the vibrant and bustling energy of Mumbai.
- Enjoy a sunset: The beach offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, making it a popular spot to watch the sun set over the water.
- Walk along the promenade: Girgaum Chowpatty is surrounded by a promenade, offering scenic views of the beach and the Arabian Sea.
- Play games: The beach is a popular spot for games and recreation, such as cricket and soccer.
- Take a horse-drawn carriage ride: Visitors can take a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride along the beach and the surrounding promenade.
- Attend a religious ceremony: The beach is a popular spot for religious ceremonies, such as Hindu aartis and prayers.
