Marine Drive, officially called Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road, is a 3.6-kilometer-long boulevard in South Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. It is shaped like an inverted 'C', stretching along the coast, overlooking the Arabian Sea. Often referred to as the Queen's Necklace because of its street lights that create an illusion of a string of pearls forming a necklace when viewed at night from an elevated point, Marine Drive has been an iconic symbol of Mumbai and a popular tourist attraction for decades.
The history of tourism at Marine Drive can be traced back to the early 20th century when it was constructed during the British Raj. The promenade was conceived as part of the larger Back Bay Reclamation project and was completed in 1920. Its Art Deco style buildings, designed in the 1930s and 1940s, are now recognized as part of the world’s largest concentration of Art Deco buildings after Miami.
In the post-independence era, Marine Drive continued to flourish as a cultural hub and a sightseeing spot representing the ethos of Mumbai. From the 1950s to the present day, it has been a favorite location for both Bollywood films and a recreational space for residents and tourists alike.
The major attractions of Marine Drive include its breathtaking sunset views, the adjacent Girgaum Chowpatty beach, where visitors can indulge in local snacks like 'bhelpuri' and 'pav bhaji', and the occasional festivals and events. The promenade is also surrounded by various landmarks, including the Wankhede Stadium, the Taraporewala Aquarium, and a host of Art Deco buildings that contribute to Mumbai’s architectural heritage.
In recent times, responsible tourism and sustainability have become central to the tourism trends in the area. Efforts are being made to maintain the cleanliness of the promenade and beach, and to ensure that the public space is accessible and enjoyable for all. Additionally, heritage walks and tours focusing on the architecture and history of Marine Drive and the surrounding precincts have gained popularity among tourists seeking immersive cultural experiences.
With the addition of the Coastal Road Project expected to be completed in the near future, there is an anticipation of enhanced connectivity and further development in tourism infrastructure around Marine Drive. This initiative aims to ease traffic congestion and provide a scenic coastal drive experience, potentially introducing a new aspect to the already rich tourist experience at Marine Drive.
Moreover, the yearly Mumbai Festival, which utilizes Marine Drive as a venue for events and installations, has helped to reinvigorate interest in local arts, culture, and cuisine, aligning with the global trend of experiential travel.
Marine Drive is also facing challenges like coastal erosion, pollution, and the need for preservation of its heritage structures. There have been concerted conservation efforts, supported by government bodies and local groups, to maintain the natural beauty and historical significance of this area. The Art Deco buildings along Marine Drive were added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2018, under the ensemble of the Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai, spotlighting the importance of preserving this landmark for future generations.
Marine Drive continues to be a jewel in Mumbai's crown, attracting tourists from around the globe and offering a scenic perspective of the bustling city life juxtaposed with the serene vastness of the Arabian Sea. Amidst the latest trends and growing awareness of sustainable tourism, Marine Drive Mumbai retains its historic charm and continues to evolve as a beloved public space for both leisure and learning.
