Thane is the nearest city to Mumbai in Maharashtra's northwestern area. Thane has developed into one of India's most ideally balanced urban cities, with its natural beauty on the one side and tremendous industrial growth on the other. Thane, regarded as the 'city of lakes' because of its seven lakes, is one of the few towns in India that displays its rich multicultural background in practically every way possible. Thane, often known as the "Elder Sister of Mumbai," has long been the main supply of water for the city. Despite being a Mumbai suburb, Thane currently has a population of 1.2 million people scattered over a 147-kilometer region.
Thane contributes to people's cultural exchange by selling snacks and delicacies from other cities and organising a range of festivities ranging from Holi to Janmashthami. Apart from its close ties to the environment, Thane has demonstrated a high level of cosmopolitanism in respect of industry and economic growth, earning it a reputation as one of the most productive towns.
History of Thane—You've arrived at a portal to the past
Thane's history may be dated all the way back to the Middle Ages, as evidenced by the imposing Thane Fort. Furthermore, a handful of copper plates and slabs from the time period have been discovered at the site. One of these slabs, recovered from the fort's remains, dates from 1078 AD. It is said to be a land given from Tagara's king, Arikesara Devaraja. What's more intriguing is that this slab contains knowledge about residents of Sri Sthanaka, a city in India.
The city was administered by a Muslim administration, according to Friar Jodarnus, who toured Thane between 1321 and 1324 AD. He sketched out a detailed picture of Nestorian Christians, noting the execution of four Christian friars in the area about 200 years before the Portuguese arrived. Even the illustrious Ibn Batuta and Abul Feda visited this location, giving it the name 'Kukin Tana.'
The city is known for being a bustling port that carried a fabric known as 'Tanasi' to the Gulfs. Thane was described as Tana Mayambul by Duarte Barbose, a well-known voyager. The British took control of the city in 1774, capturing Thana Fort, Fort Versova, Salsette Island, and finally the island fort of Karanja.
One state, many cultures..
Although Thane's culture is heavily impacted by Mumbai's cosmopolitan style, it successfully preserves its traditional past. Lavani is the most famous dance form here, but other classical dance genres such as Bharatnatyam, Kathak, and Odissi, as well as modern dances such as Ballet, are also prevalent. When it comes to festivities, Thane, like the rest of Maharashtra, celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi with zeal and zeal. In addition, Holi, Diwali, Gudhi Padwa, Durga Puja, Janmashtami, Navratri, Dahi Handi, and Shivaji Jayanti are all enjoyed with zeal. The hallmark delicacies of Thane include Vada Pao and Pav Bhaji, which are popular across India. Thane's folk art and craft are another example of the city's rich cultural past.
Thane visitor's guide
Visitors should make a trip to Thane during Ganesh Chaturthi, which lasts four days and is performed with much pomp. It is also necessary for visitors to taste local snacks like bhajjis and other Konkani delights. Visitors are often advised to eat at tiny, local eateries rather than multicuisine restaurants since they are more genuine. However, visitors should postpone visiting Thane during the monsoon season to prevent unfavourable weather conditions. Traveling by auto rickshaw should also be avoided because they are known for deceiving visitors and robbing them of their money.
Things to do at Thane
- Mahuli Fort— A Tempting Adventure: The Mahila Fort is a splendid Mughal structure. The fort is located near the Asan hain station in Thane and is a fantastic adventure spot to explore. The fort is accessible via a short hike, but the entire experience is bizarre. The fort also happens to be located at Thane's highest point, affording breathtaking views of the city.
- Yeoor Hills— Ascend High: The Yeoor Hills, located near Upvan Lake, provide a dreamlike experience. A place full of lush verdant forest surrounds the hills, with delightful chattering of birds around the pond. Trekking up the hill is a revitalising and enthralling experience. The entire wonderful experience in the midst of nature will be remembered for a long time. On your trip to Thane, explore one of the most daring things to do.
- Barvi Dam—Test out Adventure Camping: Badlapur at Barvi Dam offers a superb city camping experience. The location offers an unbelievable variety of sports and team adventure activities in which one can participate. If you're travelling with a small group of buddies, this is the place to go. Indoor and outdoor activities are available, and visitors can spend the entire day here. It's also a popular hangout for corporate teams.
- Sudhagad Fort— Return To The Past: This historic fort, around 10 kilometres from Pali town, is one of Thane's most famous medieval forts. The fort, which is situated on a hilltop, is a backpacker's delight. The fort at the summit offers incomparable wonderful views over the city and valley underneath. The fort is thought to have been constructed in the second century AD.
- Shop to your heart's content: One of the most popular things to do in Thane for shoppers is to visit the famous malls and spend all of your money. R-Mall 2, Lake City Mall, High Street Mall, and Korum Mall are among Thane's best retail malls. Zara, Shoppers Stop, Hypercity, Home centre, Marks & Spencer, and other brands may be found in these malls. When you've finished your shopping and are hungry, you may eat a wonderful meal at one of the mall's many food establishments.
- Kelva Beach— Go for a Walk: Thane, the city of lakes, has a plethora of beautiful beaches of various types and sizes. Kelva Beach in Thane is one of the largest beaches in Maharashtra, not just in Thane. Walking along this 7-kilometer-long beach is an unforgettable pleasure in Thane. This is one of Thane's most visited tourist attractions. There are several magnificent visitors alongside the coastline - Sheetla Devi temple and Kelva fort are two such spots.
Places to visit
- Masunda Talao: Thane is blessed to some of the most picturesque lakes in the country, with Masunda Talao being one of them. It is one of Thane's largest lakes and an excellent site to explore at night. Spending the night alongside this lovely lake, which offers a variety of recreational activities such as boating, swimming, and water scooters, is also a must-do for all visitors.
- Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary, which covers an area of 320 square kilometres, is home to uncommon vegetation and fauna. There are approximately 200 types of birds in this area, which is home to various vulnerable species of animals. Travellers who wish to be connected to nature can find suitable lodging in one of the lodges and resorts around Thane that provide the greatest services.
- Jai Vilas Palace: The Jai Vilas Palace should undoubtedly be on your travel list. This mansion, also referred to as Raj Bari, was constructed by the tribal monarch "Yashvanrao Mukane." The palace is surrounded on all sides by lush green trees, which add to its architectural beauty. While the palace is lovely on the inside, you should not skip out on exploring it.
- Essel World: The city is known for its adventure and is home to the country's largest Essel World, which is also one of the top locations to visit in Thane. Essel World boasts thrilling land and water rides that keep visitors entertained and enthralled. Tourists may plan and devote an entire day at Essel World, where people of all ages are sure to enjoy a lot of joy and entertainment.
- Thane Creek: Thane Creek is a well-known natural tourist attraction in Thane that is popular but underutilised. So, pay a visit to Thane Creek and go birdwatching. Thane Creek is a must-see for bird watchers, as it is habitat to a variety of migrating bird species. Birds such as Avocets, Grey Heron, Egrets, Sandpipers, and Whimblers can be seen.
- Naneghat Hills: The Naneghat hills are a renowned tourist destination and one of the top monsoon destinations around Thane. These hills, which are located at an elevation of 838 metres above sea level, are notable for their mountain pass that runs from Ghatmatha to the Konkan region. Inscriptions engraved in Brahmi language on stone can be discovered in the caves located in these hills, and visitors can make it to the top of the hills by trekking or by road.
How to reach?
- By Bus: Thane has a single central bus station with connections to all major cities in India as well as neighbouring areas. Various private organisations in the city also provide bus services to destinations such as Vadodara, Surat, Bharuch, Ahmedabad, and Anand, to name a few. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation provides public transportation (MSRTC).
- By Air: Thane does not have its own airport, although it is widely obtainable from Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Airport. The airport is well accessible to all significant Indian cities, as well as several key foreign locations throughout the world, including Goa, Mumbai, Surat, Ahmedabad, Nagpur, and Pune.
- By Rail: Thane is easily accessible by rail from anywhere in the country. It's worth noting that the Thane Railway Station was the final stop for Asia's first commuter train. It is the bustling station on the Mumbai suburban railway system. Thane has local trains to all of India's main cities, and it is regarded as the most convenient form of transportation.
