Bandra, the heart of Mumbai suburbs is a cosmopolitan area and hosts a Christian population along with people of many other faiths. The native residents have a deep history of culture and traditions. There are several churches, crosses, bakeries, and quaint houses tucked inside gaothan villages that resemble the true spirit of the local community. The neighborhood is in its full glory in December with Christmas vibes and attractive decorations, cribs, Christmas trees, and lighting in Bandra.
Having grown-up here and as a resident of this area, I visit the hotspots every year as a ritual on my bicycle and capture the beauty of Christmas lighting in Bandra in this blog. This Year, I have recorded a video which will give you a glimpse of the magnificence and splendor of the queen of suburbs.
While I am not a professional guide, I can recommend to you the following six places that you can visit and enjoy the festival and the grandeur of Christmas lighting in Bandra.
St. Peters Church:
This church was built around 1938 and has a life-size marble statue of Christ. The church looks marvelous when the lights are on. It is attached to a school ‘St. Stanislaus High School’, one of the popular schools in Bandra. You can start your exploratory trip from this place and then walk a km to see the Christmas market on Hill Road for shopping.
St. Andrews Church:
Continue walking or cycling and you will arrive at St. Andrews Church. St. Andrews Church is estimated to be the oldest church in Bandra that was built by the Portuguese and its origin dates to 1575. There is also a cross from 1870’s in the building compound while a graveyard exists in the front of the Church. The Church building is captivating and visibly located at the junction and can’t be missed.
Ranwar Village:
Next to St. Andrews Church, a half a km away is the Ranwar village – a hidden gem. Most of the century-old-fashioned houses are decorated by the residents and are a treat for the eyes. It’s a narrow one-way lane so taking your car is not advisable. Just walk or slowly pedal on your bicycle and admire the serene beauty without disturbing the citizens.
Mount Mary Church:
Mount Mary Basilica is located on the top of the hill and was established in 1640. You can either walk up the stairs or pedal your way up. If you are not used to climbing steep hills on your standard bicycle, then an Ebike will certainly help. The interiors of the Church are mesmerizing, and you can make your offerings of candles and flowers from local stalls. Opposite to the Church building is another marvelous structure with a statue of Mother Mary. This is a silent neighborhood with a cold breeze from the Arabian sea. You are sure to form an emotional connection with this historic site.
Bandra Reclamation:
The annual light show called ‘Bandra Wonderland’ is one of the most visited spots in Bandra Reclamation. The recreation area is full of modern lights, dangling stars, artistic illumination all packed in one place. The place is very photogenic and gives you an international feel with its light’s fest. Keep your phones charged to record the best of views. (This place gets super crowded on weekend nights).
Carter Road:
From this year, the ‘Bandra Wonderland’ lights festival is also organized at Carter Road promenade. A larger-than-life Christmas Tree is installed at the venue with a moving display of creative lights. The place will leave you spellbound with its live performances in the evening with plenty of spots to take pictures. A row of pop-up food stalls at the venue will encourage you to indulge in local delicacies. And across the street, there are multiple options for food with cafes and eateries. This can be your last spot to conclude your Bandra tour with dinner.
Best explored on a Bicycle:
You can design your own tour or choose to select some of these places. However, most of these spots are crowded with celebrations in full swing. While a walking tour will be tiring if you wish to cover all these places in a single day, a bicycle will help you cover the distance swiftly without being part of the traffic and with less effort. Bringing your car will add to the traffic and noise and don’t expect to find parking space, you will only end up wasting your precious time and get frustrated by getting stuck in the traffic.
As residents, we invite you and appreciate that you have chosen Bandra to celebrate Christmas above all other destinations in the world and come to see the Christmas lighting in Bandra, we also request you to maintain silence, harmony, and help us to keep the area clean. Hence, for a seamless enjoyable experience, explore Bandra on your bicycle leaving behind no footprint. Finally, be alert and take care of your belongings and have a safe and memorable experience.
I hope you enjoy the Christmas lighting in Bandra with your family and loved ones. This blog is a small effort to give you a virtual tour of Bandra in case you are unable to visit personally.
I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Bonus Tips:
Bakeries: you can visit: J Hearsch & Co., A1 bakery, American Express bakery, German bakery, La Braco, Birdy’s, Brownie Point.
Café’s you can visit: Candies, Goodluck Restaurant, Salt Water Café, The Bagel Shop, The Bakers Dozen, Theobroma, Andora’s, Boojee café.
You might also like to read: BROMPTON – THE CXO GIFT OF THE SEASON!
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Author: Vijay Malhotra, Mumbai.
