Mumbai’s most iconic destination, a cinematic location par excellence without which no Mumbai-based Bollywood movie is ever complete, the Marine Drive, also known as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road is a 3-km long, six lane road in southern Mumbai. Because it stretches north all along the coastline, it forms a nice natural bay. This C-shaped road connects the famous Nariman Point to Babulnath, and is located at the foot of the famous Malabar Hill. The locales, or Mumbaikars, take great pride in calling the Marine Drive as Sonapur. Mumbaikars hangout in large numbers just to stride along the gorgeous walkway, and witness the dazzling beauty of the sun set in the evening. The Marine Drive is also known as the ‘Queen’s necklace’ as the bright street lights, constructed like a string of pearls, throw an illusion of a necklace from an aerial view along the pathway of the road, when the moon shines alone at night.
Chowpatty Beach, which is popular for its meals and bazaars, is one of the oldest seafronts located on the northern end of the Marine Drive. You can find a mouth-watery range of snacks and fast-foods from Bhel Puri, Paav Bhaji to Vada Paav, etc from hundreds of stalls set up here daily. Walkeshwar, an affluent society of Mumbai, is located nearby the Marine Drive. The Marine Drive is the best pathway in the city for a casual evening stride.
The Nana-Nani Park is frequented mostly by senior citizens from the neighbourhood areas, who spend time contemplating the past. The Marine Drive forms a part of the famous skyline of the city as it houses important corporate offices and entertainment centres, while most Bollywood stars reside here. The mega five-star hotel Oberoi and other numerous restaurants dot this walkway. The Marine Drive is also the biggest viewing gallery of the world, hosting several events over the years including IAF Airshow, French Festival, Bombay Marathon, International Fleet Review, among others. There are also several open air galleries and make-shift promenade at the Nariman Point. The most recommended time to visit the place is during Ganesh Chathurthi, celebrated fervently by all Hindus.
