Bandra West is often referred to as the “Queen of the Suburbs” in Mumbai. The lure of international influences and liberal attitudes has drawn droves of celebrities, models, musicians, hipsters, and ex-pats to this multi-faceted neighborhood. In turn, a steady stream of stylish new restaurants, bars, and boutiques has opened to cater to their cosmopolitan lifestyle. Bandra West incorporates both the neighborhood’s history and current trends.
An ideal walking tour for those who want to Explore Bandra’s Portuguese past – from forts and churches to Indo-Portuguese Catholic villages – along with glimpses of history from other periods as well.
St. Andrew’s Church is one of the oldest churches in Mumbai. It was originally built by Portuguese Jesuits in 1575. It stands on the seashore of the Bandra suburb of Mumbai and was the only church there till the first quarter of the 17th century.
Ranwar is the original of the 24 pakhadis, or villages, that made up Bandra. When the Britishers took Bombay away from the Portuguese in 1661, they did not obtain control immediately.
Unlike its fortunate brother Ranwar, this village is a far cry from the development or the artsy scene Bandra is famous for. Although it is in the vicinity of Bandstand with its posh bungalows and high-rise buildings, this village is unkempt and uncared for. The few original inhabitants of Bandra or Mumbai in general, the Koli community (Chimbaikars) can be still found here.
You will make your own way to the meeting points
• For Group Tour travelers have to come to our meeting point at the St. Andrew's Church Bandra • Time 10 am & 5 pm