Things To Do In Mumbai

A visit to Mumbai’s iconic symbol, the Gateway of India is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Mumbai. Offering a glimpse of everyday life in Mumbai, the structure has stood the test of time and has almost become a part of this vibrant city. 

An impressive structure built in Indo Saracenic style, the monument was designed by Scottish architect George Wittet. Combining Hindu and Muslim elements, the hallway of Gateway of India can accommodate more than 600 people. If this is your first time in the city, a visit here will complete your Mumbai experience. While it’s thronged by visitors throughout the day, the best time to visit is during the evening. As the sun is setting, the monument takes on different hues and the sight is simply breathtaking. 

One of the most popular things to do in Mumbai for photographers, you’ll see several photographers capturing the beauty with the Arabian Sea in the backdrop. Crowded with food vendors, photographers offering instant snapshots, locals and tourists - the Gateway beautifully represents Mumbai’s vibe. If you visit during the weekends, be prepared to face a lot of rush. For visitors who are preparing their list of things to do in Mumbai, don’t forget to add a visit to Colaba Causeway with your Gateway of India visit. 

Cost: A trip to the Gateway of India in your things to do in Mumbai itinerary can cost you anywhere between Rs.50 to Rs.300 depending on your mode of transport. 

Elephanta Caves has become synonymous with Mumbai. For tourists, a visit to Mumbai is incomplete without including a tour of Elephanta Caves in things to do in Mumbai itinerary. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Elephanta Caves are located on Gharapuri Island. 

The rock-cut caves are remnants of what once was an exquisite masterpiece. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the caves date back to the 5th century. While the caves are an ideal tourist attraction for history lovers and photographers, everyone can visit for a memorable experience. 

One of the most popular things to do in Mumbai, the most exciting part of a trip to Elephanta Caves is that one needs to take a ferry from the Gateway of India. The first ferry leaves early in the morning at 9 am and the last one at 2 pm. Ensure that you plan your trip during this duration. 

There are two groups of caves whereby the first one is mostly known for Hindu art and architecture and the second one represents Buddhist elements. The former also has structures which are reminiscent of elements from the Shaiva Hindu sect. The highlights of the caves are definitely the three-headed Shiva, also known as Trimurti and Gangadhar. Gangadhar is a representation of River Ganga flowing on Earth with symbolic importance tracing back to Shiva and Pravati. 

If you are interested to know more about the art, history and architecture of the caves, we highly recommend the guided tour which takes place here.
Cost: The ferry ride between Gateway of India and Elephanta Caves will cost you anywhere between Rs.50 to Rs.150 per person.

A delight for art lovers and history buffs, a visit to Kala Ghoda precinct has become one of the most popular things to do in Mumbai. Located in Fort, the precinct starts from SP Mukherjee Chowk and ends at Mahatma Gandhi Road. 

A local haunt for budding artists and members of the theatre community, the precinct is home to numerous renowned art galleries, cafes and boutiques. If you want to experience the cultural side of Mumbai, there isn’t a better place to include in your things to do in Mumbai itinerary. 

Most travellers plan their things to do in Mumbai itinerary according to the duration of Kala Ghoda Festival which takes place in January. An enthralling art show, it offers art lovers and budding artists a memorable experience. Among the highlights in Kala Ghoda, one must include a visit to the National Gallery of Modern Art, Kala Ghoda Pavement Gallery, David Sassoon Library and Jehangir Art Gallery.

Cost: A trip to Kala Ghoda Precinct in your things to do in Mumbai itinerary will cost you anywhere between Rs.100 to Rs.250 depending on your mode of transport.

The National Gallery of Modern Art is one of the oldest structures here and also the most visited. After years of renovation, the gallery today stands stalls and is a vibrant complex which is home to artworks of numerous artists from all over the world.

The oldest artwork in the gallery is known to be 160 years old. The NGMA is also home to statues and mummies from Egypt which have served an important role in attracting art lovers. We recommend including this in your things to do in Mumbai itinerary if you are interested in art or history.

At the same time, a visit to Jehangir Art Gallery is also one of the most popular things to do in Mumbai. Known for several world-famous artworks, the most popular works here belong to M. F. Hussain and S. H. Raza. If you are an enthusiastic art lover or an appreciator of the good things in life, you must certainly head here for an enthralling tour. With more than 300 shows held every year in Jehangir Art Gallery, there is a good chance you’ll be able to admire some of the best artworks in the world.

Cost: A tour of Kala Ghoda Precinct can cost you anywhere between Rs.100 to Rs.1000

We have all seen numerous photographs of Mumbai where its most beautiful area shines bright. Marine Drive also known as Queen's Necklace is a long stretch of road which offers some of the best views of the sea. A visit here is one of the best things to do in Mumbai.

Visited by locals and travellers throughout the day, it can be called the unofficial city centre. During the evening, the area comes alive with college students, locals and tourists enjoying hot tea, bhel puri and of course, the mesmerising views.

One of the most popular things to do in Mumbai, we recommend planning a visit here in the evening just as the sun is setting. In fact, after a long day of sightseeing and shopping, a visit to Marine Drive will instantly rejuvenate you. If you want to spend time here late in the evening, we recommend keeping your phone charged since you'll not be able to resist the vibrant skies. Also, the police don't allow any visitors beyond 1 am so it's best to keep an eye on the time.

Cost: A visit to Marine Drive in Mumbai can cost you anywhere between Rs.100 to Rs.200 depending on what you include in your itinerary.

The list of the best things to do in Mumbai can't be complete without including a tour of local eating joints in the city. Popular across the country, Mumbai's vada pao and bhel puri are a must-try for all visitors. Whether you head to Chowpatty, Juhu beach or the juice centre across Haji Ali Dargah, you will not be disappointed.

Reasonable and delicious, the local food in Mumbai is a tourist attraction in its own right. In fact, most travellers believe that one can't experience Mumbai unless you have tried vada pao and anda burjee bun in Juhu beach or the bhel puri in Chowpatty. Most of these eating joints are open late into the night and that's the best thing about eating out in Mumbai. Besides these specialities, there are several small restaurants in Mumbai which have been satisfying hunger pangs for decades. 

We recommend including some of the most popular eating joints in your things to do in Mumbai itinerary. Our favourites are mawa samosa at Mervin's, keema pao at Gulshan-e-Iran and samosa chole at Guru Kripa. Most of these small restaurants are ideal for those who are travelling on a budget but more than that they offer one a glimpse into the food culture of the city. 

Cost: A meal at any of the street food joints in Mumbai can cost one anywhere between Rs. 100 to Rs.500.

Juhu beach is synonymous with Mumbai. No introduction of the city is complete without a mention of this gorgeous beach. Owing to the population and pollution, the beach had become unfavourable for a day out. However, considerable efforts have been made by the people and government to keep the area clean and ensure that it remains a retreat for nature lovers.

It's no surprise then that a visit to Juhu beach is one of the highlights on things to do in Mumbai itinerary. Ideal for children, friends and family, there isn't a single dull moment when you are in this gorgeous attraction. Dotted with numerous eating joints serving a plethora of local dishes, Juhu beach keeps both your stomach and soul happy. 

Do try the bhel puri, sev puri and burjee bun as well as refreshing flavoured gola. While evenings are definitely the best time to head here, we also recommend late afternoons. Just before the beach sees a rush of tourists, it's a haven for nature lovers. You can spend a few moments of peace simply admiring the views.

Cost: A trip to Juhu beach will cost visitors anywhere between Rs.100 to Rs.500.

Most shopping enthusiasts recommend the capital city of Delhi as one of the best shopping destinations in the world. While this is true, Mumbai isn't far behind. The beautiful city is home to numerous local shopping hubs and malls which offer everything including high-end brands.

For those who are in the mood for reasonable street shopping, visiting the local markets is definitely one of the best things to do in Mumbai. Among the most visited shopping streets in Mumbai, Colaba Causeway, Chor Bazaar, Kala Ghoda Pavement Gallery, Linking Road and Bandra are some of the best markets.

Offering everything from jewellery, apparel, shoes to home decor, artworks and stationery items, these are some of the best markets in Mumbai. A part of the best things to do in Mumbai itineraries, one can't get enough of the local markets here. For hunger pangs between enthralling shopping sprees, there are a number of restaurants and cafes here which offer travellers delicious snacks and refreshing beverages.

Cost: Shopping in local markets is one of the best things to do in Mumbai and will cost you anywhere between Rs.500 to Rs.2000.

One of the largest theme parks in India, Adlabs Imagica takes you right back to childhood. Definitely a big part of the best things to do in Mumbai, a visit here not only promises to be memorable but also gives one a break from daily life. Sprawled over a huge expanse of land, the amusement park has a dedicated water park which is a huge draw during summer. 

There are various sections in the park which are divided according to themes and depending on your interests, you can explore these entertainment areas. With recreational activities for people of all ages, Imagica promises to be a complete family destination. So if you are travelling with your family and are looking for an unforgettable experience, the park needs to be on your list of things to do in Mumbai. 

Exploring the park can take the whole day so we suggest not planning any other sightseeing tour on the same day. From motion theme parks, thrilling rides such as Deep Space, Dare 2 Drop and Scream Machine to water rides, snow slides, restaurants and clubs – the amusement park promises a bundle of unmissable experiences. 

There are regular discounts on tickets for Imagica and you can book through their website to avoid long queues. While weekends are the best time to include a visit here in your things to do in Mumbai itinerary, we recommend avoiding peak hours so you can enjoy the rides without waiting in line. 

Cost: A visit to Imagica in your things to do in Mumbai itinerary can cost you between Rs.600 to Rs.900 depending on the number of people you travel with.

One of the city’s most popular religious spots, a visit to Haji Ali Dargah is one of the most popular things to do in Mumbai. Dedicated to a wealthy merchant, the shrine of Haji Ali was built after the merchant sacrificed all worldly belongings for the pursuit of the higher truth. 

Located near Worli, the dargah is visited by people from all over the world and is considered one of the best things to do in Mumbai. Situated on an islet, one can visit the dargah only during low tide. In the evenings, the dargah is lit up in a thousand lights and is one of the most breathtaking sights you’ll see. 

While peace and serenity are one of the biggest reasons travellers visit, history-lovers must take note of the marvellous Indo-Islamic architectural style. Made of glass, the main hall of the dargah boasts of marble pillars which have intricate mirror work in different coloured mirror chips. Captivating and breathtaking, the glass chips are designed in a manner which spells out ninety-nine names of Allah. 

There are different prayer rooms for men and women and it’s suggested to follow the customs and obey rules when you come here to seek blessings. Outside Haji Ali Dargah, on the main road, is a juice centre which has been serving refreshing milkshakes for decades. We highly recommend taking a break and rejuvenating yourself for your next sightseeing tour. 

Cost: Including a visit to Haji Ali Dargah in things to do in Mumbai itineraries can cost travellers anywhere between Rs.100 to Rs.350.

The Siddhivinayak Temple is one of the most popular religious spots in the city and a visit here is one of the best things to do in Mumbai. Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, it was built in 1807. Seekers from all over the world visit this temple to seek blessings from the benevolent Hindu God.

So much so, that the temple is often in the news owing to constant celebrity visits. Visited by thousands of pilgrims every day, it's said that if one wishes for something here, it comes true, especially with respect to children. 

It's also said that the statue of the lord is self- manifested and is made of a single black stone. While the temple is always crowded, it sees a huge rush during evenings and weekends. For those planning a visit here in their things to do in Mumbai itinerary, we recommend visiting in the morning or early afternoon. There is no parking outside the temple so we recommend using public transport to make your way here.

Cost: Including a visit to Siddhivinayak Temple in things to do in Mumbai itineraries can cost travellers anywhere between Rs.50 to Rs. 150 depending on your mode of transport.

Chowpatty beach is one of the most famous and frequented beaches in Mumbai. The beach finds references in popular culture, with movies and TV shows. Located in Girgaum area along Marine Drive a visit here is definitely one of the best things to do in Mumbai. The beach is one of the most preferred destinations to chill, relax and have street food, for locals as well as tourists. 

The scene at Chowpatty can look chaotic at times, but it's fun nonetheless. With rides for children and lip-smacking snacks for adults, Chowpatty is the perfect place to forget about the day's stress. There are tons of local vendors lining the beach who sell everything from bhel puri, vada pav, paani puri, gola to omelette bun, paneer burjee, poha and butter bun.

The beach is crowded throughout the day, especially during the evenings. However, there is considerably less crowd during early mornings, and that's the best time to enjoy the beach. A walk on the beach can be a calming experience during mornings. Swimming should be avoided near the beach as the water is highly polluted.

Cost: A visit to Chowpatty beach in your things to do in Mumbai itinerary can cost you between Rs.150 to Rs.500 depending on what you include in your itinerary.

Mumbai has an affinity for surprising travellers when you least expect it. One such marvellous surprise is the Kanheri Caves in Mumbai. Some 5 odd kilometres inside Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Borivali, lies intricately carved caves dedicated to the teachings of Lord Buddha.

One of the best things to do in Mumbai, these caves were constructed sometime between 1st century BC to the 11th century AD. Kanheri Caves hold the distinction of being the maximum number of caves excavated from a single hill. 

The caves are lined with beautiful paintings and sculptures depicting Buddhist history and its influence in India. The basalt hill, on which the caves are carved, was earlier known as Kanhagiri or Krishnagiri. The multiple caves are connected through rock-cut steps, that make it easier to access and have prayer halls and massive pillars with ornate designs. During ancient times, these caves were used by Buddhist monks to meditate and study. 

One of the best things to do in Mumbai, a visit to the caves is a treat for nature lovers. With mesmerising views of green fields, streams and waterfalls, it’s a must-visit spot for sunset.

To reach Kanheri Caves one has a multitude of options from taking your own car or enjoying a bicycle ride inside the park. Since the caves are located inside a national park, travellers should be mindful of the wildlife and flora around them. The caves are closed on Mondays so avoid planning a trip in the starting of the week.

Cost: A visit to Kanheri Caves will cost you anywhere between Rs.200 to Rs.450 depending on your mode of transport. The fee to enter the caves is Rs.5 for Indians and Rs.100 for foreigners.

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