One of the very few national parks in the world inside the limits of a major city, Borivali National Park covers 104 square kilometres of pristine jungle in the north of Mumbai. The park is home to 251 species of birds and 40 species of mammals, including deer and leopards. In the centre of the park are the Kanheri Caves, hollowed out by Buddhist monks in the 1st century AD.

A 40-minute boat ride across the harbour from the Gateway of India, Elephanta Island is famous for its ornately carved temples, hewn into a rocky escarpment in the 6th century. Although damaged, the carvings are still impressive. The central statue of Trimurti ­ Shiva as the creator, preserver and destroyer of the universe ­ is particularly dramatic. The temples are reached via a stone stairway from the ferry jetty, lined with vendors selling religious souvenirs. Ferry service is restricted during the monsoon.

The most famous monument in Mumbai, the Gateway of India was built in 1924 to commemorate the state visit of King George V. The gateway is a striking blend of Hindu, Mughal and European Gothic architectural styles, with Mumbai harbour as a picturesque backdrop. Since Independence, the site has been reclaimed by locals as a place to promenade, picnic and pose for photographs. Boats to Elephanta Island leave from nearby.

Reached by a winding causeway that vanishes below the waves at high tide, this historic shrine commemorates Haji Ali, the Muslim saint whose body allegedly washed up on the shores of Back Bay in the 19th century. The causeway is lined with hawkers selling religious paraphernalia, and beggars seeking alms from pilgrims. Non-Muslims are welcome to enter the Dargah, which rings with devotional music, but photography is prohibited.

The main train station in downtown Mumbai, Victoria Terminus is a riot of carvings, gargoyles, arches, buttresses, domes and statues. 'Mughal Gothic' would probably be the best way to describe the fusion of European and Eastern architectural styles. Constructed by Frederick Stevens in 1887, this is one of the most photographed buildings in India. 'VT' is still a functioning railway station ­ tens of thousands of commuters funnel through the doorways every day during the morning and evening rush hour.