Tour Mumbai and Goa – A Tour of History, Culture and the Beaches

Diving Deep into the Soul of Mumbai – The City That Never Sleeps

Mumbai, India is the financial and entertainment capital of a country with over 1.4 billion (14000 million) people. Mumbai visit is not just about visiting popular landmarks; it’s about being a part of the rhythm of a city that never sleeps. Start your tour at the famous Gateway of India, a grand arched structure that was constructed during the time of British rule across from the Arabian Sea. Travelers can then take a short ferry trip to the Elephanta Caves, UNESCO World Heritage listed site with ancient rock carved sculptures dedicated to Lord Shiva. Strolling through these corridors we can feel the artistry and spiritual fervor of the past age.

Those with an interest in colonial history should visit South Mumbai, which offers a vivid snapshot of the city’s architectural heritage. Walk along Marine Drive, also known as the Queen’s Necklace, to see the sunset reflect off of art deco buildings — a Unesco World Heritage-recognized urban ensemble. The nearby Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, formerly Victoria Terminus, is another Victorian Gothic splendor that serves as a reminder of the city’s cosmopolitan history. Such as the Portuguese rule, which left an indelible mark.” The Portuguese presence is faint though still noticeable today (if less so than in Goa) in the old villages of Mahim and Bandra, where ancient churches, narrow winding lanes and even Lebanese bakeries are reminders that for long stretches of this coast’s history they ruled parts of it.

Then there’s Mumbai`s cultural fabric, which no visit to the city is complete without uncovering. Colaba Market is a haven for shopaholics hunting around for souvenirs, jewelry and street fashion. And the city’s diverse cuisine, from fiery vada pav to polished seafood restaurants on its coast, is a reflection of that melting pot of communities that call Mumbai their home. For some serious divine intervention, check out Siddhivinayak Temple or the tranquil Haji Ali Dargah to see how in this pulsating metropolis, faith knows no religious boundaries.

Travelers can also take a behind-the-scenes look at how India’s biggest film industry works on a Bollywood studio tour. As the night begins to settle, Mumbai lights up — rooftop bars, live music spots and night markets move with locals mingling cozily with travelers against a backdrop of life.
A well-crafted itinerary for the city of dreams is one that combines all these experiences and make you understand the pulse of the city in your own sweet time. With Art of Travel India Holidays, your Mumbai tour package may every day be customized with sightseeing, cultural walks and tasting local food that lets you experience the real soul of India’s most happening city.

Goa – Sun, Sand, and the Portuguese Legacy
Following Mumbai’s urban bustle, the adventure goes on to Goa, India’s favorite beach getaway. World-renowned for its golden sands, swaying palms and languid vibe, Goa gives travelers a very different beat: the sound of relaxation, heritage and coastal flavor. Best known for beaches and parties, Goa also has a rich historical heritage of over four centuries of Portuguese rule. Its influence is everywhere you look on this tiny group of islands, in its architecture, food and even the way that people live.

Begin your Goa tour in Old Goa, the capital of Portuguese India and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, splendid churches such as the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which encases the remains of St. Francis Xavier and Se Cathedral with its majestic façade will take you back to the 16th century. The baroque altars, intricate carvings and sacred art reflect on the grandeur of the Portuguese empire. Winding through the cobbled lanes, visitors come upon whitewashed chapels, colorful villas with red-tiled roofs and vibrant courtyards brimming with bougainvillea — calling to mind Southern Europe but firmly grounded in Indian earth.

For the adventure enthusiasts, Goa also has a variety of water sports; you can do parasailing and jet skiing on Calangute and Baga Beach, or paddle into the tranquility of the Chapora River with kayaking. The Dudhsagar Waterfalls on the Goa and Karnataka border, emerge in full glory during monsoons, as the water droplets turns into stream of milk while flowing through dense forest area. Those who love nature can have a tour of the exotic birds and standout greenery at Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, while culture enthusiasts can travel to the traditional Goan villages, with fado music, local festivals and spice plantations.

Goan nights are a celebration of life — beach-side shacks turn out perfectly grilled fresh seafood and the sound of crashing waves meets the buzz of live music in the air. Those who enjoy handicrafts, jewelry and souvenir shopping that say something of Goa’s bohemian spirit will hit the jackpot at Arpora’s Saturday Night Market and Anjuna Flea Market. For a peaceful experience, go to South Goa where beaches such as Palolem and Colva provide quiet yoga retreats and boutique resorts surrounded by coconut groves.

But, what makes Goa really magical is the perfect marriage of it’s Indian heart and Portuguese soul. The European influence is clear not only from the architecture but from Goan cuisine — plates like vindaloo, sorpotel, bebinca seamlessly integrate local spices with Iberian flavors. If you’re a traveler participating in an Art of Travel India Holidays goa tour, you now actually have the option to experience both sides of that coin—visiting centuries-old cathedrals and sunning on beaches under tropical skies by noon.

Heritage walks in Panjim’s Fontainhas Latin Quarter, sunset cruises on the Mandovi River — Goa is made for taking it slow and savoring life. The Art of Travel India Holidays family designs tailor-made Goa holiday packages that range from historical sightseeing to beach rumpus and wellness to cultural experiences. Whether you are following in the footsteps of Portuguese discoverers or simply soaking up the beach scene, Goa provides a trip that will excite travelers and relax souls.

A Mumbai Goa combined tour is one of the most enriching travel experiences in India — a beautiful blend of history, culture and cuisine as well as spirituality. Mumbai shows the country’s hustle and bustle modern side along with some reminders of British colonial rule, while Goa serves as an idyllic escape teeming with Portuguese history and nature. Together, they offer a tale of India’s diversity and resilience.

At Art of Travel India Holidays, we provide an itinerary diversely crafted including excursions to Mumbai travel spots, Goa beach vacations travelled through out the cultural insight, local food tours and an insight into our royal heritage. Whether you are visiting for the first time or a regular visitor, this tour will leave an indelible impression and connect you with more of India than you expected.