Mumbai
Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is the largest city in India and the capital of the state of Maharashtra. It is located on the western coast of India, overlooking the Arabian Sea. Mumbai is a bustling metropolis that serves as the financial, commercial, and entertainment capital of the country.
Mumbai has a rich historical background. It was originally an archipelago of seven islands inhabited by fishing communities. The area came under Portuguese, then British rule before being ceded to the East India Company. Mumbai played a crucial role in India's struggle for independence and has been a hub of trade and commerce since colonial times.
Economic Hub: Mumbai is the economic powerhouse of India, housing the headquarters of numerous national and multinational corporations. It is the financial center of the country, with the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE) located in the city. Mumbai is a major contributor to India's GDP and attracts people from all over the country seeking employment opportunities.
Cultural Melting Pot: Mumbai is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and religions. It is home to people from all over India and has a cosmopolitan vibe. The city celebrates a variety of festivals, including Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, Eid, Christmas, and Navratri. Bollywood, the Hindi film industry, is also based in Mumbai and is a significant part of the city's cultural fabric.
Diverse Neighborhoods: Mumbai is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character. South Mumbai, also known as "Town," is home to historic colonial buildings, upscale neighborhoods, and prominent cultural institutions. The suburbs, including Bandra, Juhu, and Andheri, are residential and commercial hubs known for their shopping areas, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.
Best Time to Visit
Mumbai, the financial capital of India and the home of Bollywood, is a bustling, vibrant city that never seems to sleep. However, just like any other destination, there are optimal times to visit based on your interests, weather preferences, and local events.
Winter (Mid-November to February): This is generally considered the best time to visit Mumbai. The temperatures range from a cool 17°C (63°F) to a warm 31°C (88°F) during these months, which are much more comfortable than the typical heat and humidity of Mumbai. The skies are typically clear and the tourist crowd is manageable. This season also sees a variety of cultural and entertainment events such as the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, Mumbai Marathon, and many food festivals. Additionally, this is a great time to visit the nearby Ajanta and Ellora caves, or take wildlife safaris as the visibility is generally good.
Monsoon (June to September): Mumbai experiences a very intense monsoon season. It can rain continuously for days, often leading to traffic congestion and sometimes even flooding. However, the city gets a fresh, clean look, and the Western Ghats surrounding the city become lush green with numerous waterfalls. The monsoon season is a great time to visit for those who enjoy rains and nature. However, it may not be the best time for sightseeing within the city, as continuous rains can cause disruptions.
Summer (March to June): These are the hottest months in Mumbai, with temperatures sometimes going over 35°C (95°F). The city gets humid, making it a bit uncomfortable for sightseeing and other outdoor activities. However, the city is less crowded during this time, and if you can bear the heat, you might get good deals on accommodations. The Elephanta Festival, a celebration of classical Indian dance and music, typically takes place in March, so this could be a draw for those interested in Indian culture.
How to Get There
Mumbai, being a major metropolitan city in India, is well connected with the rest of the world and country by air, road, and rail. Here are some ways to reach Mumbai:
Air: Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport is one of the busiest in India and serves numerous international and domestic flights. It is well connected with major cities around the world, including New York, London, Dubai, Singapore, and more. Domestic airlines also connect Mumbai with all major and minor cities in India.
Train: Mumbai is well connected to the rest of India by an extensive network of trains managed by Indian Railways. The city has two main railway stations: Mumbai Central and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (previously known as Victoria Terminus), where trains from all over the country arrive.
Road: Mumbai has a well-structured network of roads and is connected to other parts of India via several National Highways. You can drive from nearby cities like Pune, Goa, Ahmedabad, etc., or take a bus. Various private and government bus services operate regular services to and from Mumbai.
Sea: For a more unconventional and leisurely approach, there are cruise services available to Mumbai. These are usually from nearby coastal regions. It's not a commonly used mode to reach the city, but it can be a unique experience.
How to get Around
Mumbai offers a variety of transportation options for getting around the city. Here are some of the most common ways:
Local Trains: The Mumbai Suburban Railway, colloquially called the "Local," is Mumbai's lifeblood, connecting far-flung suburbs to the city center. It's divided into three lines: Western, Central, and Harbour. While this is the fastest way to travel, trains can get extremely crowded during peak hours.
Buses: The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) buses serve the entire city and its outskirts. It's a relatively cheap mode of transport but can be slower due to traffic congestion.
Taxis: Black and yellow metered taxis are ubiquitous in Mumbai and provide convenient door-to-door service. Fares are regulated by the government and are calculated by the meter. It's customary to pay the exact amount shown on the meter.
Auto Rickshaws: These three-wheeled vehicles are a popular means of transportation in the suburbs of Mumbai. They are not allowed in the main city area, though. Like taxis, auto rickshaws have meters to calculate fares.
App-based Cabs: Services like Ola and Uber are widely available in Mumbai, offering another convenient way to get around the city. The fares are usually calculated based on distance and time, and they can be booked using a smartphone app.
Mumbai Metro: The Mumbai Metro is a rapid transit system that serves the city of Mumbai. It currently has two operational lines, Line 1 and Line 2, and a third line, Line 3, is under construction. Line 1 is 11.4 km long and runs from Ghatkopar to Versova. Line 2 is 12.4 km long and runs from Andheri East to Dahisar East. Line 3 is 33.5 km long and will run from Colaba to SEEPZ.
Mumbai Monorail: The Mumbai Monorail is a monorail system that serves the eastern part of the city. It is 19.5 km long and runs from Chembur to Wadala.
Ferries: For short trips across the bay or to nearby islands such as Elephanta Island, ferries are available from the Gateway of India.
Car Rentals: If you're comfortable driving in Mumbai's traffic, car rental services, both with and without a driver, are available.
Bicycles: In some parts of the city, especially the more touristy areas like Colaba and Bandra, bicycles can be rented for short trips.
Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Mumbai, India
Top 21 Attractions in Mumbai
Mumbai is packed with cultural, historical, and modern attractions. Here are some of the top attractions in Mumbai that you might consider visiting:
Gateway of India: This is one of Mumbai's most well-known landmarks. The structure was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai (then Bombay).
Marine Drive: Also known as the Queen's Necklace because of its shape and yellow streetlights, this C-shaped boulevard along the coast of the Arabian Sea is perfect for a relaxing evening stroll.
Colaba Causeway: This is a shopping paradise where you can buy everything from fashion accessories and clothes to antiques and home decor items.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (formerly the Prince of Wales Museum): This is one of the premier art and history museums in India, with collections ranging from ancient Indus Valley artifacts to more modern works.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus): This is a historic railway station and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its remarkable Victorian Gothic Revival architecture.
Elephanta Caves: Located on Elephanta Island in Mumbai Harbor, these caves house rock-cut temples dating back to the 5th century CE. The island is accessible by ferry from the Gateway of India.
Haji Ali Dargah: This is a mosque and tomb (dargah) located on an islet off the coast of Worli. It contains the tomb of the Muslim saint Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari and is a wonderful example of Indo-Islamic architecture.
Juhu Beach: This is one of the most famous and most visited beaches in Mumbai. It's a great place to try local street food, like Bhel Puri and Pani Puri.
Bandra-Worli Sea Link: This cable-stayed bridge is an architectural marvel that offers a mesmerizing view of the city and the sea, especially during the evening and night.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park: Known for its greenery, rich flora and fauna, and the ancient Kanheri Caves, this national park is a wonderful getaway within the city.
Siddhivinayak Temple: This is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is one of the most significant and frequented temples in Mumbai.
ISKCON Temple: A stunning marble complex dedicated to Lord Krishna, it's also a spiritual-cultural-educational hub that attracts devotees and tourists alike.
Bandra's Pali Hill and Carter Road: This neighborhood is famous for its hip vibe, with numerous boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, plus it's where many Bollywood stars live.
Film City: If you're a fan of Bollywood, don't miss the chance to tour Film City. Located in the suburb of Goregaon, it's a state-of-the-art film studio complex where you can potentially spot Indian film stars.
Bhau Daji Lad Museum: The oldest museum in Mumbai, it houses a fantastic collection of archaeological findings, maps, and photographs that portray Mumbai's history.
Asiatic Society of Mumbai: Home to over 100,000 books, of which 15,000 are classified as rare and valuable, it's a true paradise for book lovers.
Flora Fountain/ Hutatma Chowk: An ornamentally sculpted architectural heritage monument, it's a fusion of water, architecture, and sculpture, and depicts the Roman goddess Flora.
Global Vipassana Pagoda: A golden pagoda that serves as a monument of peace and harmony. This structure is known to house the world's largest stone dome built without any supporting pillars.
Jehangir Art Gallery: Located near the Gateway of India, it's one of the most prestigious venues in India where contemporary Indian artists have showcased their work.
Mahalaxmi Racecourse: A popular horse racing track in Mumbai where one can witness high profile races during the racing season. The architectural beauty of the grandstands is also worth noting.
Bandra Fort/ Castella de Aguada: Overlooking the sea bridge and offering stunning views of the sunset, it's a fantastic spot for photography.
Top 12 Activities to do in Mumbai
Mumbai offers a multitude of activities that cater to different interests. Here are some top activities you can engage in when visiting Mumbai:
Enjoy Street Food: Visit Juhu Beach or Chowpatty to try local street food like Pani Puri, Bhel Puri, Pav Bhaji, and Vada Pav. Also, don't miss the quintessential Mumbai cutting chai (tea).
Watch a Bollywood Film: As the hub of the Indian film industry, watching a Bollywood movie at a local theatre like Maratha Mandir or Gaiety Galaxy is a unique experience.
Experience Nightlife: Visit some of Mumbai's trendy clubs and bars in areas like Bandra and Lower Parel. Try places like Aer, Blue Frog, or Toto's Garage for an evening of music and dance.
Explore Markets: Shop at the bustling markets such as Colaba Causeway, Crawford Market, or Chor Bazaar, where you can buy anything from vintage items, jewelry, clothes, to fresh produce and spices.
Visit Art Galleries: Visit galleries such as the Jehangir Art Gallery or the National Gallery of Modern Art to see works from some of India's best artists.
Explore the Coastal Areas: Take a leisurely walk along Marine Drive or Bandstand Promenade and enjoy the sea breeze.
Attend a Live Performance: Visit the Prithvi Theatre in Juhu or the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Nariman Point to watch a play or a musical performance.
Ferry Ride to Elephanta Caves: Take a ferry from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island and explore the ancient caves.
Spiritual Visits: Pay a visit to the serene Haji Ali Dargah, Siddhivinayak Temple, or the beautiful ISKCON Temple.
Safari at Sanjay Gandhi National Park: Join a safari to spot some wildlife or explore the ancient Kanheri Caves within the park.
Cricket Match at Wankhede Stadium: If you're a sports fan and cricket is in season, try catching a match at the Wankhede Stadium. The atmosphere is electrifying!
Yoga and Meditation: Join a yoga or meditation class. Mumbai has several studios offering drop-in classes.
Best Shopping
Mumbai is a shopper's paradise, offering a mix of modern shopping malls, street markets, and boutique stores. Here are some of the best shopping spots in Mumbai:
Colaba Causeway Market: A popular street market offering a variety of goods, including clothing, jewelry, handbags, shoes, and home decor. It's also a great place to find traditional Indian items. Bargaining is part of the experience here.
Crawford Market: Officially known as Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Mandai, it's one of the city's oldest markets. Here, you can buy everything from fresh produce to pets, and from spices to souvenirs.
Fashion Street: As the name suggests, this street market is known for clothing. It offers a wide array of fashionable clothes at budget prices. Bargaining is a must!
Chor Bazaar (Thieves Market): It's one of the largest flea markets in India, and you can find vintage and antique items, including furniture, vinyl records, and rare knick-knacks.
Zaveri Bazaar: This is Mumbai's renowned gold market. You can find jewelry shops selling beautiful traditional Indian jewelry designs here.
Linking Road, Bandra: Known for its street stalls selling trendy clothes, footwear, and fashion accessories at reasonable prices. It's a mix of traditional and modern shopping.
Palladium Mall: Located in Lower Parel, it's one of the most luxurious shopping destinations in Mumbai. It houses both international and Indian designer brands.
High Street Phoenix Mall: Adjacent to Palladium Mall, it's one of the largest shopping malls in India. You'll find a mix of affordable and high-end shops here.
Lokhandwala Market, Andheri: This suburban market offers a wide variety of goods such as clothing, footwear, jewelry, and household items. There are also several bookstores.
Hill Road, Bandra: A famous street market offering trendy clothes, shoes, and accessories at bargain prices. You can also find a number of shops selling home decor items.
Kala Ghoda Art Plaza: Located in the art district of Mumbai, this area is known for its boutique stores offering handicrafts, artisanal goods, and unique artwork.
Remember, most street markets in Mumbai involve some level of bargaining. It's also a good idea to compare prices at a few stalls before making a purchase. Happy shopping!
Entertainment & Nightlife
Mumbai is often referred to as the city that never sleeps and with good reason. The city's nightlife and entertainment scene is vibrant and varied, offering something for everyone. Whether you're a party animal, a theatre enthusiast, a foodie, or just someone looking for a quiet place to unwind, Mumbai has you covered.
Nightclubs and Lounges: Mumbai is home to some of the country's most happening nightclubs and lounges. Places like Kitty Su, Aer, Hype, Trilogy, and Blue Frog are where the city's crème de la crème party. Enjoy DJ nights, live music, and dance floors that keep you grooving till the wee hours.
Live Music and Concerts: Several venues in the city host live music performances. The Quarter, Blue Frog, and Hard Rock Cafe are among the places where you can catch live bands and artists in action.
Theatre and Performances: Mumbai has a thriving theatre scene. Venues like Prithvi Theatre, National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), and the Royal Opera House regularly host plays, dance performances, and concerts. In addition to English and Hindi, you can also find performances in other regional languages.
Stand-Up Comedy: Stand-up comedy is increasingly popular in Mumbai. Comedy clubs like Canvas Laugh Club and The Habitat - Comedy and Music Cafe host performances by both seasoned and upcoming comedians.
Restaurants and Cafes: Mumbai's culinary scene is a mix of traditional and global cuisines. Many restaurants and cafes in areas like Colaba, Bandra, and Lower Parel not only serve great food but also stay open late into the night.
Beachside Promenades: If you're looking for a quieter night, take a walk along Marine Drive or the Bandstand Promenade. The sea breeze and city lights make for a peaceful and romantic atmosphere.
Late Night Street Food: Mumbai is famous for its street food, and many stalls stay open till late in the night. Whether it's the pav bhaji at Amar Juice Centre or the kebabs at Bademiya, there's a lot to satiate your late-night cravings.
Star Gazing: Nehru Planetarium organizes night sky observation sessions where you can observe stars, planets, and other celestial objects.
Bars and Pubs: If you're a fan of spirits and cocktails, Mumbai won't disappoint you. From high-end places like Aer, Asilo, and Dome where you can enjoy your drink with a view, to cozy and themed pubs like The Irish House, Monkey Bar, and Social, there's a multitude of options to choose from.
Local Cuisine
Mumbai's cuisine is as diverse as its people, reflecting influences from various regions of India due to the city's cosmopolitan nature. Here's a look at some of the must-try dishes in Mumbai:
Vada Pav: This popular street food item consists of a deep-fried potato dumpling (vada) served in a bread bun (pav), typically accompanied by chutneys and a green chili pepper. It's often referred to as Mumbai's version of a burger.
Pav Bhaji: A spicy blend of mashed vegetables cooked in a tomato gravy, served with buttered pav. It's widely available at street food stalls and restaurants.
Bhel Puri and Pani Puri: These are popular types of chaat, or Indian street food. Bhel puri is a mix of puffed rice, chutneys, sev (thin noodles made from chickpea flour), and more. Pani puri (also known as golgappa) consists of hollow, crisp puris filled with a mixture of flavored water, tamarind chutney, chaat masala, potato, and chickpeas.
Bombay Sandwich: A street food staple, this is a vegetarian sandwich filled with a variety of vegetables and often served toasted, accompanied by chutney.
Mumbai Tawa Pulao: A popular Mumbai street food of rice and vegetables sautéed together with pav bhaji masala and other spices.
Ragda Pattice: A popular snack, it consists of a potato patty (pattice) topped with dried white peas curry (ragda) and garnished with chutneys, chopped onions, coriander, and sev.
Frankie: Inspired by the wraps and rolls of the Middle East, a Frankie is a popular and cheap street food item in Mumbai. It's a wrap filled with a choice of meat or vegetables, onions, and mayonnaise, rolled in an egg-coated flour tortilla.
Samosa: A deep-fried pastry filled with spiced potatoes, onions, peas, lentils, or sometimes meat. Samosas are often served with mint and tamarind chutneys.
Bombay Duck (Bombil Fry): Despite the name, this isn't duck but a type of fish that's often served fried with a spicy green chutney. It's a popular dish in Mumbai's seafood-serving establishments.
Modak: A sweet dumpling popular during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi, it's typically filled with a mixture of grated coconut and jaggery, and can be steamed or fried.
Parsi Cuisine: As Mumbai is home to a sizeable Parsi community, dishes like Dhansak (a lamb, lentil and vegetable curry), Patra Ni Macchi (fish steamed in a banana leaf), and Berry Pulao are worth trying in iconic eateries like Britannia & Co.
Street Food in Mumbai
Mumbai is renowned for its street food, and there are several areas in the city that are particularly famous for their offerings. Here are a few you might want to check out:
Juhu Beach: Apart from being one of the most popular beaches in Mumbai, Juhu Beach is also a street food paradise. Stalls here offer a variety of snacks like Pani Puri, Bhel Puri, Pav Bhaji, and the quintessential Mumbai Vada Pav. Don't miss out on the delicious falooda and gola (Indian version of shaved ice) for dessert.
Girgaum Chowpatty: Another beach known for its street food, you can find similar snacks as Juhu Beach here, with the addition of the iconic kulfi (a traditional Indian ice cream).
Mohammed Ali Road: This area is a must-visit, especially during the month of Ramadan. You can find a variety of non-vegetarian delicacies like kebabs, biryani, and sweet treats like Malpua and Phirni.
Khau Galli (Street of Food): There are several Khau Gallis across Mumbai, but the ones at Ghatkopar and Churchgate are particularly well-known. These lanes are lined with stalls serving a range of delicious snacks from dosas to sandwiches to Chinese food.
Street food near CST station: The area around the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus is bustling with food stalls that serve delicious snacks round the clock. You can find everything from sandwiches to South Indian fare to juices and smoothies here.
Dadar's Khodadad Circle: Known for the famous Aaswad restaurant which serves the award-winning Misal Pav, this area also has a lot of street food stalls that serve Mumbai classics like Vada Pav and Pav Bhaji.
Nariman Point: If you're around this area, you can find food trucks and vendors serving a variety of snacks and quick bites, including rolls, Chinese food, and even gourmet offerings in the evening.
Remember, street food is generally safe to eat, but to ensure you have a good experience, always opt for stalls that appear clean, are busy (which means food turnover is likely high), and where the food is cooked fresh and served hot.
Accommodations
Choosing where to stay in Mumbai depends on your preferences and what you plan to do during your visit. The city is large, and different neighborhoods offer various advantages. Here are a few areas you might want to consider:
South Mumbai (Colaba, Fort, Marine Drive): This area is home to many of Mumbai's major tourist attractions, including the Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST), and the museums and galleries of Kala Ghoda. Accommodation options here range from luxury hotels like the Taj Mahal Palace and Tower and the Oberoi to budget guesthouses.
Bandra: Known as the "Queen of the Suburbs," Bandra is a trendy, cosmopolitan area with a vibrant nightlife. It's famous for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options, and is home to many Bollywood celebrities. Accommodations here range from high-end hotels to more affordable guesthouses and Airbnb options.
Juhu: An upscale coastal neighborhood, Juhu is famous for its beach. The area is home to several luxury hotels, including the JW Marriott, and offers easy access to both South Mumbai and the suburbs. Juhu also has several high-end restaurants and shopping options.
Andheri: This is a convenient area to stay in if you'll be visiting the various film and TV studios in Mumbai, as it's close to the entertainment hub of the city. It's also near the airport and has a wide range of accommodations, from budget to luxury.
Powai: Located near the international airport, Powai is a modern, upscale residential area. It's home to the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, and is centered around the beautiful Powai Lake. The area features several high-end hotels, including the Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel.
Lower Parel: Once a mill district, Lower Parel has been transformed into a corporate hub with luxury malls, upscale restaurants, and nightlife spots. It's centrally located and houses luxury hotels like the St. Regis and ITC Grand Central.
