Monday, April 15, 2019

Mumbai: Backpacker Panda Colaba


LOCATION:
Walton Road, Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai

FESTIVAL:
Banganga Festival (January)
Gudi Padwa Festival (April)
Ganesh Chaturthi (August/September)
Diwali (October/November)

FEES(as of April 2019 in Thai Baht and Indian Rupees)
Plane Fare from Bangkok to Mumbai roundtrip (est. THB 12,200.00)
Taxi from Mumbai Airport to Colaba (est. INR 800.00)
Room rates
     Double Private room (est. INR 2,500.00)
     Dorm Room Single Bed (est. INR 700.00)

OTHER PLACES TO VISIT:
Gateway of India
Colaba Market
The Taj Mahal Hotel
National Gallery of Modern Art
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
Cathedral of the Holy Name
Colaba Causeway
Sagar Upvan Garden
Rajabai Clock Tower
Kala Ghoda
Mani Bhavan
Chowpatty Beach
Flora Fountain
Leopold Cafe
Horniman Circle Gardens
David Sassoon Library
Ballard Estate


On my fourth day in Mumbai, my beau brought me to a different part of the city - an area called Colaba which in the 16th century was previously called Candil. 

In this portion of Mumbai, diverse century-old architectural gems are scattered in the different corners of Colaba. Although known to have been under the Portuguese rule, the British had been credited for the architectural development in the area in the 17th century. 

I highly suggest you stay in this portion of Mumbai for at least 5 days. Savor on the abundant culinary choices from the hundreds of bistros, cafes, restaurants, and food joints. Experience the vibrant Colaba in the evening and walk around the old magnificent buildings until your feet hurt. Feast your eyes on the varieties of items being sold in many spots of this locale. 

To witness all these, my dearest Madhav took me to stay in BACKPACKER PANDA COLABA, a touristy and artsy hostel hoisted at the center of this portion of Mumbai. 






A backpacker would be happy to see how this hostel was designed. What was really interesting was their old elevator which I've never tried in my entire life (so far!).


They also had this area where you can place your large luggages while waiting for check-in or check out time.

The building is composed of 5 floors and a rooftop with a great view.

They offer a dormitory and or a private room depending on the tourist's preference.



In one area of the 4th floor, a shared sitting lounge caters to all the transient travelers who chose to stay with Backpacker Panda Colaba. On the opposite corner, is a counter which offers delectable snack choices. In another portion is a steel-made loft accessible for everyone. This smart design, which has a bookshelf with interesting books and board games, is a dandy amenity for a hostel standard.













There he is. The sole reason of my trip.

1 comment: