Mumbai is a metropolis on the western coast of India, the center of the country. Due to its rapid development, it is an increasingly popular global city.
The city often referred to as „The City of Dreams”, Mumbai is the most dynamic settlement on the Indian subcontinent. The area that once consisted of seven islands is now defined by both modern architecture and remnants of the colonial past, while also being home to Bollywood.
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Mumbai attractions
Gateway of India
Mumbai’s most recognizable symbol and one of its most iconic structures towers over the seafront.
The monumental basalt arch, built in 1924, was erected to honor Indian soldiers who served in the British Empire and lost their lives in the First World War. The 26-meter high structure with its impressive presence and Indo-Saracenic style offers a stunning sight against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea. A staircase leads to the top of the structure, from where there is a magnificent view of the sea and the city.
The Gateway of India, as it is called in English, also has historical significance: it was the last place from which British troops departed in 1948 after India gained independence. Today, the square around the structure is a bustling meeting place where local vendors, street performers, and tourists mingle.
Taj Mahal Palace
The iconic luxury hotel stands right next to the famous Gateway of India on the shores of the Arabian Sea.
It opened its doors in 1903, founded by Indian businessman and industrial magnate Jamsetji Tata. It was India’s first luxury hotel, featuring electricity, elevators, and American-style room comfort from the very beginning. It soon became a favorite accommodation for British aristocrats, maharajas, political leaders, and celebrities.
The building combines Muslim, Hindu, Venetian, and Gothic stylistic elements. The hotel’s interior features numerous valuable artworks, antique furniture, and hand-woven carpets. Over the past decades, the Taj Mahal Palace has hosted famous personalities such as Barack Obama, Jacqueline Kennedy, and Indira Gandhi.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Railway Station
The railway station in the heart of Mumbai is a blend of Victorian Gothic and traditional Indian architecture.
Opened in 1887 and originally known as Victoria Terminus, the station is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and serves more than three million passengers daily. The richly decorated facade, stone-carved lions, monkeys and exotic birds, as well as the massive dome, all evoke the architectural masterpieces of the colonial era.
The station was designed by the famous Indian architect F. W. Stevens, and its construction took more than ten years. At night, when the building is illuminated, it offers a particularly picturesque sight.
Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount
The neo-Gothic church towering in the Bandra district is one of Mumbai’s most important Catholic pilgrimage sites.
The imposing basilica that stands on the site of the original chapel built around 1640 houses a 16th-century statue of the Virgin Mary, which is believed to have miraculous powers. The interior of the church is impressive: colored glass windows, an intricately carved pulpit and altar, and a carefully crafted wooden ceiling welcome visitors. The basilica becomes a particularly popular destination in September, when thousands arrive during the Feast of the Nativity of Mary to participate in the colorful procession.
The church stands on a hill offering a beautiful view of the Arabian Sea. The staircase leading to the main entrance is made of black basalt stone, and it’s common to see believers climbing it on their knees in fulfillment of vows.
Shree Siddhivinayak Temple
One of Mumbai’s most sacred Hindu temples is dedicated to the deity Ganesha, who symbolizes wisdom and prosperity.
In the central sanctuary of the temple, there is a beautiful Ganesha statue carved from black stone, which devotees know as Navasacha Ganapati, meaning „the god who fulfills wishes”. The walls of the sanctuary are richly decorated with carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. The temple’s gilded dome is recognizable from afar.
On Tuesdays, particularly large crowds make pilgrimage here, as this is Ganesha’s sacred day. Believers queue to make offerings and receive blessings. The bell in the temple’s forecourt, which visitors often ring, is famous far and wide.
Mahalakshmi Temple
The temple located on the shores of the Arabian Sea is a structure dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu deity of wealth and fortune.
Built in 1831, the sanctuary is one of Mumbai’s oldest and most important religious sites. The temple is home to three main deities: Mahalakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, Mahakali, the goddess of time and death, and Mahasaraswati, the goddess of knowledge and arts. The architectural style of the sanctuary is typically South Indian, with extremely detailed sculptures and carvings.
During the Navaratri (nine nights) festival, the temple is particularly vibrant, decorated with colorful garlands of flowers and lights, while devotees celebrate with dance and song. Visitors often bring coconuts and flower garlands as offerings.
Marine Drive
One of Mumbai’s most iconic seafront promenades embraces Back Bay in a C-shape.
The four-kilometer-long, palm-lined road is a venue for the city’s bustling life during the day. Along the promenade stand art deco style buildings that represent the city’s rich architectural heritage.
In the evening, when the lights along the promenade are turned on, the sight has earned the nickname „Queen’s Necklace”. Chowpatty Beach at the end of the promenade is a popular place to relax.
Elephanta Caves
The UNESCO World Heritage Site located on Elephant Island is an impressive rock-cut cave system created between the 5th and 8th centuries CE.
The island can be reached by ferry from Mumbai’s harbor, and the journey itself is an experience, offering a wonderful view of the city. The central part of the main cave is dominated by a monumental, 6-meter-high Trimurti statue depicting Lord Shiva in three different aspects: as creator, preserver, and destroyer. The sculptures and reliefs found in the caves represent the pinnacle of Hindu art and depict mythological scenes related to Lord Shiva in detail.
The cool interior of the caves contrasts with the tropical heat outside and has special acoustics. On the return journey, it’s worth choosing the late afternoon ferry to enjoy the sunset with Mumbai’s skyline in the background.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Spanning more than 100 square kilometers in the northern part of the city, this green area is Mumbai’s „lung” and a wonderful refuge of urban jungle.
It is one of India’s most unique national parks, located within the boundaries of the metropolis. The park is home to rich wildlife: leopards, macaques, monitor lizards, and more than 250 bird species live here. The area is also famous for its ancient Buddhist monuments: the Kanheri Caves encompass more than 100 rock-cut sanctuaries and stupas. These were created between the 1st and 10th centuries CE and were once the dwelling place of Buddhist monks.
Numerous active recreational opportunities are available to visitors: hiking trails, bicycle rental, and a small railway that transports passengers to the interior of the park. The lion and tiger reserve serves as a separate attraction.
Haji Ali Dargah
The white marble tomb and mosque surrounded by seawater is one of Mumbai’s most unique religious sites.
Built in the 15th century, the complex preserves the memory of Sufi saint Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, who originated from Uzbekistan and died while on pilgrimage to Mecca. According to legend, his coffin was thrown into the sea, which eventually washed ashore near Mumbai. A narrow, 500-meter-long causeway leads to the tomb, which can only be approached at low tide, so during high tide, the complex rises from the sea like an island.
The Indo-Islamic architectural style of the tomb is impressive: the white dome, colorful glass windows, and intricate carvings are all masterpieces of Muslim art. In the main sanctuary is the tomb of Haji Ali, surrounded by silver grilles and always decorated with fresh flowers, sandalwood, and fragrances. The dargah is open to everyone regardless of religious affiliation and is particularly popular on Thursday and Friday evenings when qawwali musicians perform traditional Sufi songs.
Dhobi Ghat
The world’s largest open-air laundry is a unique attraction.
In the facility near Mahalaxmi railway station, more than 5,000 dhobis (washermen) work day by day, washing clothes from the city’s hotels, hospitals, and local households. In the huge, open space, hundreds of concrete vats are lined up, in which workers manually rub and slap clothes, then hang them on stretched ropes to dry, creating an impressive, colorful sight.
Dhobi Ghat has been operating for more than 140 years and still applies traditional methods in the modern age. The dhobis use an ingenious marking system to keep track of each owner’s clothes among the thousands of pieces. From the viewpoint above the facility, visitors can observe this special place from a safe distance.
Colaba Causeway
One of Mumbai’s most vibrant shopping and dining streets is located in the southern part of the city, in the Colaba district.
This one-kilometer-long street is a favorite meeting point for tourists and locals, where everything can be found from cheap jewelry and textiles to books and traditional handicrafts. Bargaining is an essential part of the shopping experience here, and visitors can often achieve significant discounts if they negotiate properly.
There are numerous famous restaurants and cafes on the street, including the legendary Leopold Café, which has been operating for more than 150 years and is featured in Gregory David Roberts’ bestseller Shantaram. The Colaba market at the end of the Causeway is particularly vibrant on weekends.
Chor Bazaar
The site known as the „Thieves’ Market” is one of Mumbai’s oldest and most chaotic bazaars, where almost everything can be found.
Legend has it that the market’s name originated from it once being a place to sell stolen goods, although today it comprises legally operating shops. In the labyrinthine streets of the bazaar, everything from old-fashioned furniture to antiques, auto parts, and electronics to rare collector’s items can be found. Mutton Street is particularly famous for its antiques, colonial relics, and art deco pieces.
The market is most lively on Fridays, when special goods are offered due to the Muslim weekly holiday. There are also numerous small restaurants in the area where visitors can taste the specialties of the local Muslim cuisine, such as the famous nihari (slow-cooked lamb) or biryani (spiced rice dish).
Juhu Beach
One of Mumbai’s most popular and trendy beaches, located in the western part of the city on the shores of the Arabian Sea.
This six-kilometer-long sandy beach is a favorite relaxation spot not only for tourists but also for local residents. Film City and the homes of many Bollywood stars are located near the beach, so it’s not uncommon for visitors to stumble upon a film shooting.
Girgaon Chowpatty
The urban beach at the southern end of Marine Drive is one of Mumbai’s iconic recreational spots.
Although less suitable for swimming due to water quality, it is visited by masses of locals and tourists, especially at sunset and during festivals. The beach is not just a place to relax but also a significant cultural space: it hosts the closing ceremony of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, when thousands of Ganesh statues are immersed in the sea. Visitors can witness traditional bhajan (religious songs) performances and other cultural events.
One of the main attractions of the beach is the countless street food vendors offering Mumbai’s most delicious street foods. This is where you can taste the best pani puris (filled crispy balls with spicy water), ragda pattice (potato patties with chickpea curry), and kulfi falooda (traditional Indian ice cream).
Best musuems in Mumbai
Mani Bhavan Gandhi Museum
The museum in the heart of Mumbai was once Mahatma Gandhi’s residence when he stayed in the city between 1917 and 1934.
The two-story building, standing on a quiet street, now operates as a memorial museum, commemorating an important period of the independence movement. Gandhi’s room has been preserved in its original state, with his simple bed, writing desk, and personal belongings. The museum has a rich collection: photographs, documents, letters, and copies of Gandhi’s manuscripts showcase his life and work.
One of the most interesting exhibition elements is a series of dioramas that tells the story of important stages in Gandhi’s life through 28 scenes. The museum’s library houses more than 50,000 volumes dealing with Gandhi’s thoughts, the independence movement, and the philosophy of peaceful resistance.
All information can be found here!
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
The institution formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum is one of Mumbai’s most significant art and historical collections.
The museum building, opened in 1922, was built in the Indo-Saracenic style, combining elements of Indian and Moorish architecture. The massive dome, jalousie windows, and open verandas form a harmonious unity. The museum houses more than 50,000 artifacts covering the fields of Indian art, archaeology, and natural history, including sculptures, paintings, manuscripts, and rare coins.
The collection is particularly rich in miniature paintings from the Mughal era, as well as Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu sculpture. A well-maintained garden surrounds the building.
All information can be found here!
Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum
Mumbai’s oldest museum showcases the city’s history and cultural heritage in a Victorian setting.
The building of the museum, founded in 1872, is in the neoclassical style, which was carefully restored in 2008, returning it to its original splendor. The colored glass windows, ornate marble floor, and wrought iron gallery reflect the beauty of 19th-century architecture. The museum consists of three main parts: the Indian applied arts section, the section showcasing Mumbai’s history, and the archaeological collection.
Among the exhibitions, particularly interesting are the old photographs and maps that show how Mumbai has changed over the centuries from a fishing village consisting of seven small islands into a metropolis. The pride of the museum is the diorama collection, which depicts various aspects of Indian society through lifelike miniature scenes.
All information can be found here!
Mumbai weather: when is the best time to travel here?
Mumbai has a tropical climate, markedly defined by the monsoon season. The city’s weather is characterized by high humidity and warm temperatures for most of the year.
Summer season (March-May):
Summer in Mumbai is hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging between 28-38°C. Due to high humidity, the perceived temperature can often be higher than the actual temperature. During this period, when walking on the city’s crowded streets, it’s advisable to wear light, airy clothing and stay constantly hydrated. Towards the end of summer, in May, cyclone forecasts are common, although they rarely directly hit Mumbai.
Monsoon season (June-September):
The monsoon, which begins in June, brings a radical change to the city’s life. The southwest monsoon from the Arabian Sea results in heavy, often days-long rainfall. The average annual precipitation is around 2000 mm, a significant portion of which falls during this period. The temperature is somewhat lower, ranging between 24-30°C, but high humidity remains characteristic. Floods and traffic disruptions are common during this time.
Autumn season (October-November):
Autumn is a pleasant transitional period in Mumbai, when the rains gradually subside, but the temperature has not yet risen to summer levels. The average temperature is around 24-32°C, with gradually decreasing humidity. The city celebrates the Diwali (festival of lights) and Navratri festivals during this period, which adds a special touch to a visit.
Winter season (December-February):
Mumbai’s winter is mild and dry, with average temperatures ranging between 17-30°C. This season offers the most pleasant weather for exploring the city. The cooler, less humid air is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Mornings and evenings can be pleasantly cool, so it’s advisable to bring a light jacket or scarf during this time.
Best time to travel:
The most ideal time to visit Mumbai is the winter season (December-February) and the end of the autumn season (November), when the weather is pleasant, precipitation is minimal, and the city hosts numerous cultural events. It’s advisable to avoid the monsoon season, when heavy rainfall can significantly hinder transportation and limit sightseeing.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mumbai
Mumbai uses Indian Standard Time (IST, UTC+5:30) and does not observe daylight saving time.
The official languages of India are Hindi and English, but the local language in Mumbai is Marathi. In tourist centers, hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls, English is widely understood, so travelers can generally manage easily with it.
The official currency is the Indian rupee (INR). Major stores, hotels, and restaurants accept bank cards and mobile payments, but in markets, smaller eateries, and shops, it’s worth carrying cash for smaller expenses. Here is a currency converter calculator.
Mumbai’s international airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM). You can get to downtown by taxi, pre-bookable app-based services (e.g., Uber, Ola), and airport bus services. Taxi is the most convenient option, while bus is the cheapest solution.
Due to the city’s enormous size and traffic, locals often use the famous suburban railway (Mumbai Suburban Railway), but it can be crowded. For tourists, more convenient choices are taxi, Uber or Ola, as well as the metro, which is continuously expanding and provides fast transportation.
Mumbai is considered one of India’s safest major cities, especially in areas visited by tourists, such as Colaba, Marine Drive, or Bandra. However, it’s worth being cautious in crowded places due to pickpocketing, and avoiding lesser-known suburbs at night.
Colaba is popular among tourists, as it houses the Gateway of India and numerous restaurants, shops, and hotels. Bandra and Juhu attract visitors with their seaside atmosphere and vibrant nightlife. The southern districts are generally safer and closer to major attractions.
In Indian culture, respecting religious sites is important: in temples, it’s advisable to dress modestly and remove shoes before entering. Handshakes are common, but not always customary between men and women. You can bargain in markets, but always politely.
Gateway of India – The city’s iconic gateway on the Arabian Sea shore.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus – Beautiful Victorian-style railway station, UNESCO World Heritage site.
Marine Drive – Promenade along the ocean shore, especially magical at sunset.
Elephanta Island cave temples – Ancient Hindu shrines, a short boat ride from Mumbai.
Haji Ali Dargah – Famous mosque and shrine built on the sea.
Vada Pav – Spicy potato sandwich, the Indian „hamburger”.
Pav Bhaji – Vegetable curry with buttered rolls.
Bhel Puri – Crispy rice flake salad with sweet-sour sauce.
Bombay Duck Fry – Local fish, fried until crispy.
Chai – The spiced milk tea is unmissable in India.
Mumbai’s tap water is not recommended for direct consumption by tourists. It’s advisable to buy bottled water, which is easily available in every shop and restaurant. Be cautious with street food: it’s better to buy from vendors with high turnover, ensuring the food is fresh. Before consuming raw vegetables and fruits, it’s recommended to wash them thoroughly or peel them.