Mumbai

Sitar shopping, getting chased by monkeys and a great meal.

19.03.2008 - 21.03.2008 30 °C

The train to Mumbai was really comfortable, but just a usual late! We headed to our slightly shabby hotel and had some sleep (well Mark struggled as it was really hot). Then the next morning we headed to try and buy a sitar. We
got send on a wild goose chase by our hotel, but some really nice men told us a good place go. Don't follow the Rough Guides advice, go to Vipi Road near the Opera House as there are several shops.

We bought from Haribhau Vishwanath where the service was great. The whole purchasing experience was an absolute pleasure. The owners were extremely nice who treated us to coconut juice straight from the nut while we waited for the Sitar to be correctly packaged. The price was really good too.

After buying the Sitar we headed to the Gateway to India and took a boat to Elephanta Island. We found it a bit of a let down, only one cave temple was impressive. I was also threatened by a monkey there an fell down a hole and hurt my knee. Not impressed. We spent more time travelling to and from the island than on it. It gave a nice view on our return.

After freshening up, we headed to Gaylord restaurant (one of the best in Mumbai) for a great meal, the last in India. The day after we were going home! The journey to the airport took about 1 hour, but there were some great last minute things to see on the way.