We decided to visit Bangalore, Mumbai and New Delhi. Basically, there are more similarities than differences in the various cities. These large cities are describable as crowded, chaotic, dirty and stressful. Actually, you shouldn’t stay longer than 2 or 3 days. Delhi (especially South-Delhi) is much more developed though, compared to Bangalore and Mumbai. It has many touristy spots, like beautiful gardens, monuments and temples. The infrastructure, residencies and shopping areas look decent and better maintained.
For one reason or another, Mumbai remains the most fascinating city and deserves special attention since the contrast between rich and poor is immense. You can find enormous & modern shopping malls that meet Western standards, yet within walking distance of slums and sleeping / begging people on the streets. The huge amount of people living on the streets is the most common thing in the world here and remains difficult to watch for the ordinary tourist, but the wealthier locals are used to it and walk past it like it’s nothing. Mumbai is the New York of India; the city of dreams. Every year millions of people travel to the city to build a future which is not always easy. If you are from the lower class, without education or have no connections, you have small chances of getting anywhere. It is also supposed to be the place for Bollywood scenery since many film studios are located here with many stars living in the city as well, but it’s actually not present. You don’t hear much Bollywood music in shops, restaurants or hotels. Also clubbing or any other form of entertainment with Bollywood music is very hard to find; it’s because Mumbai is trying its best to be Western. I can imagine Mumbai being a big turn-off for budget travellers since it does not only have a lack of tourist spots but accommodation is also extremely high-priced, making it difficult to stay there for a long time.
We have a bit of a love-hate affaire with the cities. The constant honking, billions of people on the streets, the sellers/ beggars, dirt and filthy air can make you go crazy, but since there is always so much going on you will never get bored.
If you are a foodie, definitely go to the big cities. It’s a fact you will find India’s best food in the expensive, high-class, extra-flamboyant restaurants. Eating here is not only an experience for the stomach, you will be over-“serviced” with at least a couple of waiters only serving your table. Also for “Western style” clubbing you are in the right place in the big cities, especially Mumbai has a trend-setting club scene. And the malls, hate it or love it, these luxurious space-shuttles amidst the jungle of the slums of India can give you an escape of the overcrowded, chaotic, dirty and stressful India.
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