Many of us known Marine Drive as the 'Queen's Necklace', but the locals still prefer to call it as Sonapur. However, there is a good reason why it has been named as the Queen's Necklace if you visit Marine Drive, Mumbai in the evening, the streetlight creates a pearl-like appearance. The yellow lights from the cars make it look like jewelry. If you want to experience such a lovely sight, you can trek to the Malabar Hills and get a panoramic view of the city, Marine Drive and the Arabian Sea. Speaking of the name, Marine Drive’s official name is Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road, but whatever it is called, this C shaped road is one of the most beloved attractions for many youngsters and tourists. At any time of the day, you’ll find people from across the country stroll along the 3-kilometer stretch road connecting Nariman Point to Babul Nath.
Many reasons make Marine Drive so popular and some of the reasons are because of the view. It is also listed under the heritage sites of Mumbai because of its 19th century Neo-Gothic architecture and the 20th century Art Deco Style architecture. You may also notice Marine Drive offers a Miami vibe with palm fringes, distant skyscraper view, and the vast Arabian Sea. Here is another great reason to visit Marine Drive. Since winters are an ideal time to visit Mumbai, it becomes even better with Republic Day celebrations on the 26th of January. Republic Day parade takes place in the Marine Drive which is further conducted at Shivaji Park. Surrounding the drive is the Tetrapod, an inverted funnel-shaped structure. They were built to protect the promenade from strong waves, they help absorb the kinetic energy thus helps avoid erosion.
How to Reach -
There are many entry points to Marine Drive but the recommended one is from the Nariman Point. It is closer to the Gateway of India, the Taj Mahal Hotel and 3 kilometers from Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Station (CST). But if you want to enjoy an evening stroll after soaking in the Chowpatty Beach, better start your trail from here. It is approx. 23 kilometers from the airport and the same distance from the CST. There are many cafes to unwind in Marine Drive after walking.
Best Time to Visit -
The ideal time to visit Marine Drive is during winters from November to February. If you are visiting during January, make sure to attend the Republic Day parade. It happens in Marine Drive before proceeding towards Shivaji Park. During winters, walking in the drive is even more pleasant and soothing. When the night falls, the sky turns pink making you want to linger in Marine Drive for longer. Many people come to soak in the beauty of the drive during the evening and hear the sea waves gushing against the rocks.
Marine Drive Timings– 24 hours for public
Marine Drive Entry Fees- Nil
