Virar is the name of a northern suburb of Mumbai. Virar is a part of Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation of Thane district in the Indian state of Maharashtra. Virar is the last stop on the western railway line in Mumbai. It is ninety minutes away from Churchgate railway station on this railway line. An outpost of Mumbai, Virar is linked to the mainland by electric train since the 1920’s.

In the census of 2001 in India, Virar had a population of 118,945. Males constitute 54% of the population and 46% women. Virar has an average literacy rate of 78%, which happens to be higher than the national average of 59.5%; male literacy is 81%, and female literacy is 74%. In Virar, 13% of the population is under 6 years of age.

Over time Virar became a cosmopolitan suburb with a population of about 70% speaking Marathi with a balance blend of other communities. The neighborhood is fully developed with all the banking and residential infrastructure to accommodate the growing population. 70% of the population is below 30 years and essentially the result of migration from mainland Mumbai to this part of the city due to rising land costs. Virar’s growth is yet to reach its potential as the quadrupling of the railway line between Borivali and Virar has just taken place in 2007.

Virar has a magnificent beach, located about 6 km off Arnala. Many devotees offer their prayers to their beloved god - Jivdani Mata whose temple, Jivdani is located atop a hill (with about 1375 steps). This hill offers a very picturesque view of Virar and its vicinity. There are several houses, warehouses and hotels on the beach which ensure a comfortable day stay. Govinda, Bollywood star and former Member of Parliament is also from Virar.