The marine drive is one of the best known aspects of Mumbai, the commercial capital of India. It is a circular stretch of road starting at Nariman Point and culminating at the Malabar Hills. The entire stretch measures about three kilometers. Marine Drive is officially known as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road, but it is seldom referred to with that name. It is counted as one of the tourist spots of Mumbai, and a large number of major tourist attractions are lined up around the stretch of this road. It is undoubtedly one of the major highlights of tourism in Mumbai.

The area around marine drive was earlier called Sonapur by the locals. Marine drive as is seen today is both a busy road as well as a very popular spot among tourists and residents of Mumbai alike for enjoying some moments facing the cool breeze of the Arabian Sea. A trip around Marine drive can start at either ends. Starting from the Nariman Point end, a tourist can get a magnificent view of the entire stretch of the C- shaped road right upto its end. The skyline of the city looks as breathtaking as the serene sea. Nariman point has a large number of important buildings that house many multi-national companies and other famous organizations. Huge boulders have been placed below the promenade to keep waves away. These boulders also give a distinctive look to the entire stretch of the marine drive.

As you proceed from Nariman Point, you will come across many important landmarks. The Wankhede Cricket Stadium, Marine aquarium, and the Choupatty (beach) are the most important among these. These are some of the best known tourist attractions in Mumbai. The aquarium is an interesting place where you can catch a glimpse of the marine life found in the region, as well as some amazing preserved specimen like the sea horse and the Quran Fish. The choupatty is a small beach located near the Malabar Hill side of the stretch. This place is very popular among the locals and is best known for the delicious Indian snacks called chaats sold by many shops here. It is also a famous spot for the immersion of Ganesha idols during the Ganesha Chaturthi which is the main festival of Mumbai. Many hotels, including some of the best known ones, are located along the marine drive.

The promenade of the marine drive is one of its main features. It continues uninterrupted throughout the entire stretch and from early morning till sunset, joggers, morning walkers, tourists, and people headed towards home can be seen enjoying themselves here. Watching the sun go down the horizon from the benches of the promenade is one of the favorite pastimes of the people who live or work nearby. After sunset, the entire stretch is lit up and it is this sight seen from the Malabar Hills that is known as �Queen�s necklace�.

If you visit Mumbai, you must set aside some time to visit and experience the marine drive along with all that it has to offer. A taxi drive around the entire stretch is an ideal way to feel the charm of this road.

Touristplacesinindia.com offers all inclusive online information about Marine Drive in Mumbai and other important tourist places in India.