Marine Drive- Mumbai's Iconic Promenade by the Sea

January

12.6 - 35.2 °C

February

13.9 - 36.8 °C

March

17.1 - 38.6 °C

April

21 - 37.2 °C

May

24.5 - 35.7 °C

June

23.2 - 35.4 °C

July

23.4 - 32.6 °C

August

23.4 - 31.8 °C

September

23 - 33.5 °C

October

20.3 - 36.4 °C

November

17.8 - 36 °C

December

14.3 - 35.2 °C

Major Airports :

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM), Mumbai

Nearest Railway Station :

Mumbai Central Railway Station (MMCT)

'The Queen’s Necklace'

Situated in South Mumbai, Marine Drive stretches along a 3.6-kilometre-long C-shaped boulevard, offering a stunning panoramic view of the Arabian Sea. Known affectionately as the Queen’s Necklace, this promenade lights up in the evening to resemble a string of pearls from an elevated position, creating a breathtaking sight against the backdrop of the bustling city. Marine Drive is not just a scenic location but a pulsating part of Mumbai, the vibrant 'City of Dreams', where thousands chase their aspirations.

Marine Drive encapsulates the essence of Mumbai, offering both a haven of peace and a window to the city’s dynamic rhythm. Whether you seek solitude or the communal joy of shared experiences, Marine Drive warmly welcomes all, embodying the spirit of the city it adorns.

A storied past

Marine Drive is a by-product of the Backbay reclamation project first proposed in 1860 and revisited in the 1920s. This ambitious plan aimed to connect Nariman Point to Malabar Hill, but wars and flawed strategies led to its partial abandonment. Of the envisioned 1500 acres, only 440 acres were reclaimed. The military appropriated 235 acres, and the remaining 17 acres became what we now know as Marine Drive.

A symphony of sights and sounds

Marine Drive's allure is magnified by its ability to combine urban vibrancy with tranquil natural beauty. The promenade is lined with palm trees and art deco buildings, reflecting the architectural style of the 1920s and 1930s. Locals and tourists alike are drawn to this spot for its peaceful environment, where they can sit back, relax, and enjoy the soothing sound of waves crashing against the rocks, all while gazing at Mumbai’s impressive skyline.

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Timings

Opening time - Sunrise

Closing time - Sunset

Living the Marine Drive experience

A visit to Marine Drive offers various activities. Morning brings joggers and morning walkers enjoying the fresh sea breeze, while evenings see families and friends gather to watch the sunset. The promenade is also a cultural hub, hosting events like the Mumbai Marathon, which sees participants running along this scenic stretch.

Tetrapod defence

An interesting aspect of Marine Drive's design includes the tetrapods along the shoreline. These four-legged concrete structures are strategically placed to protect the sea line and the promenade from destructive waves. When waves hit these tetrapods, they absorb much of the energy, effectively keeping the powerful sea at bay.

Discoveries around the drive

Beyond the promenade, Marine Drive is surrounded by attractions that offer a deeper glimpse into the city’s soul. Chowpatty Beach to the north is famed for its street food, while a short drive to the south leads to the cultural and historical landmarks of Nariman Point, the Gateway of India, and the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel.