The beaches in Mumbai are not made for swimming. The waters are not especially clean and the tides are quite strong. Instead people go to the beaches to ocean watch while enjoying each other's company and a variety of snacks sold by beachside vendors. The Girgaum (also called Girgaon) Chowpatty Beach is probably the most well-known beach in the city. It was one of Mumbai's first beaches and is widely used by Hindu devotees during the Ganesh Chaturthi, where they submerge statues of the deity, Ganapati, in the waters. It is also the site of another important ceremony- Ramlila. During this celebration a likeness of Ravan is constructed on the beach and is burnt after ten days.
The Girgaum Chowpatty Beach is popular among joggers and many teenagers come here to play football and cricket. There are a number of street hawkers selling food such as, ragda patties, panipuri, pav bhaji and bhelpuri. For those who have never tried out these Indian snacks, the beach provides a terrific starting point. Tourists in Mumbai should try to visit the beach which can provide a pleasant evening out.
