India is becoming an increasingly popular destination for Kazakhstani tourists, and with the launch of direct flights by Air Astana between Almaty and Mumbai, an increase in the number of travelers from Kazakhstan and neighboring countries to India is expected.
On April 20, 2025, in the year marking the twentieth anniversary of Air Astana’s partnership with India, the first flight departed from Almaty to Mumbai. Over the course of twenty years of cooperation with India, Air Astana has transported more than 1.2 million passengers between the two countries, so the launch of direct flights between Almaty and Mumbai became a logical result of the airline’s work.
Now, residents and guests of Almaty have the opportunity to fly to Mumbai three times a week aboard a comfortable Airbus A320. The flight time is approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes.
As of June 23, the frequency of flights has increased to four times a week.
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The launch of the direct route between Almaty and Mumbai is not accidental. Both cities are viewed not only as tourist destinations, but also as convenient tourist hubs. Despite the great distance between them, the two metropolises have much in common — they are economic and cultural centers, and their convenient locations allow transit tourists to make stopovers in these cities.
While Mumbai as a hub allows travel across South, West, and East India, Almaty may in the future become a convenient departure point for travelers from Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, China, and other countries in the region.
What might be of interest in Mumbai for Kazakhstani tourists?
India is said to either capture your heart at first sight or leave you completely indifferent. But it’s impossible to form your own opinion about this fascinating country without visiting it at least once. Let’s explore a few colorful and vibrant locations that are sure to leave a strong impression.
Mumbai is located in western India on the coast of the Arabian Sea. With a deep natural harbor, the city is the largest port on the west coast. Tourists can enjoy both walking and sea excursions here.
One of the most iconic landmarks is the Gateway of India, which seems to transport you back in time. This 26-meter basalt arch, carved in Indo-Saracenic style, is not just a cultural monument — it is a historic stage where revolutions unfolded and millions of human fates were decided.
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The construction of the Gateway, originally intended to welcome British monarchs, was delayed until 1924 due to the First World War.
This place attracts all sorts of people. You’ll find tourists with guides, joyful newlyweds, curious schoolchildren, and locals simply relaxing. Some chat, some watch the sunset, while others view historical films projected directly onto the Gateway itself.
Before visiting the Gateway, you should be aware of a few facts. The Gateway of India has been targeted by terrorists multiple times. In 2003, an explosion occurred in the parking area — an explosive device had been planted in a taxi. In November 2008, the Gateway became one of seven sites attacked by terrorists.
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Today, all visitors must undergo security checks before entering the square where the Gateway stands. The use of DSLR cameras and drones is prohibited on the premises. This is primarily due to safety concerns, as well as to protect the business of numerous local photographers offering their services at the landmark.
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For beautiful photos, it’s best to come at sunrise to avoid the tourist crowds or at sunset, when the Gateway is lit up and the majestic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel creates a picturesque backdrop.
Directly opposite the Gateway of India stands the famous Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. This isn’t just a luxurious hotel — it’s a historic landmark overlooking the Arabian Sea.
Opened in 1903 at the initiative of Indian industrialist and businessman Jamsetji Tata, the hotel became a symbol of Indian hospitality and elegance. It is said that Tata decided to build the grand hotel after being denied entry into an establishment reserved exclusively for Europeans — making the Taj Mahal Palace a place where Indian elites and European guests could meet as equals.
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For over a century, the Taj Mahal Palace has hosted kings, heads of state, celebrities, and business leaders, witnessing many historic events, including India’s struggle for independence.
In November 2008, the hotel was one of the targets of a coordinated series of terrorist attacks that shook Mumbai. The siege of the hotel lasted three days, during which dozens of guests and staff were killed, and the building itself suffered significant damage from explosions and fires.
Despite the tragedy, the Taj Mahal Palace continues to stand as a symbol of grandeur and resilience, reminding us of the importance of peace and security.
Tourists visit the hotel for guided tours or to take beautiful photos, but a few rules must be kept in mind.
Upon entry, everyone is subject to a security check, and DSLR cameras or video filming of the hotel interior are not allowed. The only exception is filming oneself in the luxurious surroundings of the now legendary hotel. These strict rules are due to enhanced security and to protect the privacy of guests.
Still, don’t let this discourage you — the visit itself is an experience. Join one of the daily guided tours or book a private one to learn the hotel’s fascinating history and hear about its famous guests. The hotel’s Palace Wing also houses the Taj Art Gallery, which hosts exhibitions of Indian artists and photographers.
After visiting the Taj Mahal Palace and strolling around the Gateway of India, you can board a ferry to Elephanta Island, located just 60 minutes away by sea. Here you can see ancient caves with Hindu temples carved into the rock.
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Upon arrival, the journey continues by a small open train that takes you to the famous 200 steps leading up to the caves. Along the path, both sides of the stairs are lined with souvenir stalls. If you plan to buy gifts for yourself or your loved ones, be sure to carry cash. Street vendors do not accept cards or online payments.
Despite the island’s name, there are no elephants there, but you’ll see plenty of monkeys. Be careful — the monkeys wait for a distracted tourist to snatch anything edible. You don’t need to worry about your valuables — they’re only interested in colorful snack wrappers and soda bottles.
Climbing the 200 steps brings you into the cool of the caves, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Between the 5th and 8th centuries, giant bas-reliefs were carved here.
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The main cave features the Trimurti relief — three faces of Shiva as creator, preserver, and destroyer — looking simultaneously into the past, present, and future. Every line, every fold of the stone garments seems to breathe. The air hums with silence and spiritual power. Elephanta is not just a tour, it’s meditation — a chance to slow down and touch eternity.
Strict rules apply on the island for both tourists and locals. Video recording is prohibited inside the caves, and photography is only allowed with mobile phones. Silence is required in the caves. The security guards are very friendly, often initiating conversations and helping visitors capture stunning photos from the best angles.
Each bas-relief is accompanied by an English-language description, allowing visitors to explore on their own, but local guides, of course, will share the legends and history in a more vivid and engaging way.
To fully experience the island, set aside at least half a day, including travel time. Take your time, admire the lush greenery and endless blue skies, find a quiet spot, and meditate in the cool of the caves.
You can continue your walking tour of the city after returning, but it’s best to dedicate a separate morning for this, when the gentle morning light allows you to appreciate Mumbai’s architecture in all its beauty.
Walking tours around the city
Tourists often begin their journey in Mumbai’s historic center. One of the most prominent architectural landmarks is the Rajabai Clock Tower, located on the campus of the University of Mumbai. At one time, it was the tallest building in the city. The 85-meter tower, designed in Venetian and Gothic styles, was built by Sir George Gilbert Scott, who modeled it after London’s Big Ben. Construction took nearly 10 years. According to history, the tower was partly funded by Premchand Roychand Jain, a wealthy man and founder of the Bombay Stock Exchange. His condition was to immortalize his mother Rajabai’s name in the tower’s title. There was a special reason for this: his mother was blind and, being a devout follower of Jainism, needed to eat dinner before sunset. The tower’s evening chime, legend says, served as a sort of clock for her.
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Mumbai’s historic center is rich in colonial architecture, characterized by a mix of styles — Gothic and Victorian blended with Indian culture, European influences like Roman arches and Dutch roofs, as well as Indo-Saracenic domes, spires, stained glass, and minarets. Interestingly, many buildings were designed by British architects who never visited India, managing the construction of such large projects remotely.
From the Rajabai Tower, you can easily walk to several of Mumbai’s landmarks. Depending on your route, you might pass by the High Court building, surrounded by a fence and guarded by armed security, yet still visible and photographable with its old arches, towers, and grand grounds. The area around the High Court is noticeably cleaner than other parts of Mumbai, and drivers usually yield to pedestrians at crossings. Still, this is no reason to lower your guard on Indian roads.
This district is great for beautiful photographs or to immerse yourself in the city’s business life. Black judicial robes and white shirts of office workers are part of the typical urban landscape. Among them, in the cool shade of the streets, you’ll find shoe shiners patiently waiting for customers. Surprisingly, this seemingly outdated profession is still very much in demand here.
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You’ll also find a large bookstore in the area with a wide range of English-language literature. Even if you don’t plan to buy books, the mezzanine-style building alone is worth a visit.
Next, we head to St. Thomas Cathedral — the first Anglican church in Mumbai. It proudly holds the title of the city’s first Anglican church, with its foundation laid back in the 17th century. For centuries, the cathedral served not only as a place of worship but also as a key spiritual center for the British community that settled in this region.
If the cathedral doors are open to visitors, be sure to seize the opportunity to immerse yourself in the past. The interior preserves silent witnesses of bygone eras — old tombstones and memorial plaques commemorating the names and deeds of those whose fates were closely tied to the early history of this port city.
Even if you're short on time or can’t go inside, the cathedral's exterior beauty won’t leave you indifferent. The architecture of St. Thomas combines two dominant styles: the soaring spires and pointed arches of strict Gothic and the symmetry and clarity of Neoclassicism. Even a fleeting glance at this church offers a connection to the city’s rich past.
Continuing your walk through the historic Fort area, you’ll reach the bustling Flora Fountain square. Created in the 19th century, this elegant architectural element pays tribute to the Roman goddess of flowers and spring — Flora. If you look closely at the fountain’s sculptural compositions, you’ll notice intricate details lovingly carved by the craftsmen of that time: graceful nymphs, playful cupids, and Flora herself scattering petals. In the morning sunlight, especially in the early hours, as the light glides over the white marble, the fountain reveals all its beauty — ideal for memorable photographs.
Early morning at Flora Fountain square has a special charm. The city is not yet shrouded in the midday haze, the air is fresh and cool, and you can fully enjoy the beauty of the fountain and surrounding architecture without the exhausting heat. At this time, you can see office workers rushing to their jobs, the first kiosks opening, and the square filling with a gentle morning hum.
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Not far from the magnificent Flora Fountain square, as a natural continuation of Fort’s historical narrative, lies the bustling Modi Street, rightly considered a true shopping paradise. Crossing the invisible boundary of the square, you immediately find yourself in a completely different atmosphere — loud, colorful, and full of temptation. Modi Street is a stream of shops, stalls, cafes, and restaurants, where everyone can find something to their taste.
On this relatively small stretch, tradition and modernity coexist in a remarkable way. Lining the sidewalks are shops offering a wide variety of goods. Fans of authentic Indian items will find exquisite hand-embroidered fabrics, traditional clothing like saris and kurtas, and all kinds of decor made by local artisans. The array of colors, patterns, and textures is dazzling — each item seems to carry a piece of India’s rich culture.
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A vital part of Modi Street’s charm is the numerous street vendors who lay out their simple goods right on the pavement. Don’t rush — enjoy every moment, browse through the goods, bargain with the sellers. Modi Street will leave you with unforgettable memories and become a vivid chapter of your journey through Mumbai.
The places mentioned are just a brief glimpse of the treasures Mumbai can offer even to a traveler with limited time. To dive into the rhythm of this multifaceted metropolis, to feel its pulse and touch its deep history — even one intense day can be enough.
Behavior rules and useful tips
India, like an ancient book, opens its pages before the traveler, luring them in with a kaleidoscope of colors, aromas, and philosophical depth. However, to make your acquaintance with this country a comfortable one, it’s important to follow a few simple rules.
Getting around Mumbai is an art in itself. Forget traffic rules and punctuality. Everything here flows according to its own laws. For Kazakhstanis, right-hand driving may feel unusual, so when crossing the street, get used to looking right first, and then left. Be especially cautious at pedestrian crossings — drivers don’t usually give way, and you’ll have to maneuver or wait for a clear moment.
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For long distances, locals and tourists use suburban trains. Check routes and payment methods in advance. You can also use taxis, auto rickshaws, or cycle rickshaws. Agree on the fare and route ahead of time to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Money matters in India have their nuances. Rupees will be your main companion, so exchange currency at trusted places and keep the receipts, or withdraw cash from an ATM at the hotel, paying a fee. Cash is the primary method of payment in many places. Bank cards are useful only in big stores and malls, so don’t rely on them everywhere. Be attentive when paying and receiving change.
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Diving into Indian culture requires sensitivity and respect. Modest clothing is your entry pass to temples and sacred sites, where you’ll be expected to remove your shoes. For women, covering shoulders is essential.
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Public displays of affection are discouraged, and cultural etiquette emphasizes the right hand — traditionally used for giving and receiving items. The left hand is considered unclean, so avoid using it when exchanging food or objects. Also, watch the direction of your shoes — pointing toes at someone is impolite. Locals tend to angle their feet away, especially when barefoot, as shoes and feet are seen as unclean.
Respect for elders here isn’t just a formality, but a deeply rooted tradition. And, of course, before photographing a random passerby, ask for their permission.
Health is a major concern when traveling in India. Only drink bottled water, and be cautious with food spots, especially in the first few days. India’s culinary journey is an explosion of flavors, but avoid street food. Choose a good restaurant or café instead.
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Don’t be afraid to try new dishes, but start slow and ask about the ingredients — especially if you’re not used to spicy food. The vegetarian cuisine here is rich and diverse, so there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget hygiene — wash your hands before eating and use sanitizer. It’s better to avoid filtered water and ice at food outlets.
Pack a basic first-aid kit — bring medicine for colds, stomach issues, and any regular prescriptions you need.
In the evening, use insect repellent. And most importantly, trust your instincts in unfamiliar situations.
But perhaps the most important lifehack for traveling in India is patience and a positive mindset. Be ready for delays, surprises, and apparent chaos. There’s a special harmony in this bustling mix of life that can only be felt with an open heart and mind. Be open to conversation — Indians are known for their hospitality. Enjoy every moment, every new aroma, every twist of fate.
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India is a country that leaves an indelible mark on the soul — if you let it. Enter this adventure with wisdom and an open heart, and India will generously reward you with its treasures.
