Mumbai is lovingly called ‘Sapno ki Nagri’, meaning City of Dreams. Arguably the most famous and visited cities in India. Mumbai city has a place for everyone. Words can only do little justice to the emotion called Mumbai. It is the city that can only be felt by visiting. From top to bottom, one can find all facets of life in Mumbai. Mumbai welcomes visitors from all parts of the world throughout the year.
Mumbai is the seventh-most populous city of India and is a group of seven islands on the Arabian Sea. The city is home to three World Heritage sites and Bollywood. People from all over the country flock to this city aspiring for a new life or to embrace the magic of Bombay that they only had heard of. Tourists who compile the list of places to visit in Maharashtra never miss out on Mumbai.
Very well connected to all major cities of India via air, road and rail, Mumbai is visited by Indians and foreigners on an equal basis. The city is home to numerous tourist destinations and hence an itinerary is strongly recommended. In this article, find the places to visit in Mumbai that could make your trip easy.
Table of Content
10 BEST Places To Visit In Mumbai
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus
- Gateway of India
- Elephanta Caves
- Marine Drive
- Siddhi Vinayak Mandir
- Sanjay Gandhi National Park
- Bandra Worli Sea Link
- Juhu Beach
- Haji Ali
- Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus is probably the first result that would pop up after Googling ‘Mumbai’. This Victorian Gothic-styled historic train terminus stands tall as the pride and the face of Mumbai city. Constructed in 1887, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus was called Victoria Terminus until 1996. Shortly and popularly known as CST, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus is one of the busiest terminuses in the world.
It is a hub for both suburban and long-distance trains. The majestic structure is a combination of Italian Victorian Gothic and Indian architecture. CST houses 18 platforms and is crowded for the most part of the day. To enjoy the best view of this architectural wonder, step out, walk across the road and get lost in the incredible sight before you.
CST was also the site for the deadly 2008 terrorist attacks. The terminus honoured the victims by building a memorial at the terminus itself. Make sure CST is a part of your list that includes places to visit in Mumbai.
- Opening hours: 24 x 7
- Major Attractions: 2008 terrorist attack victims’ memorial, Victorian-Gothic style arches
- Ideal duration to explore: 30 minutes – 1 hour
Gateway of India
Overlooking the massive Arabian Sea stands pompously the Gateway of India. Representing Mumbai on global maps, this gigantic 85-feet structure was constructed in 1924. It is placed in such a way that one can see the grand Taj Mahal hotel right between the gigantic arch. The Gateway of India holds numerous historic values.
It was built to commemorate the arrival of George V, Emperor of India and his wife. Gateway of India is a popular tourist spot in Mumbai and boasts tourist visits around the year. The vicinity of this gigantic Basalt structure is often flooded with hawkers and tourists. The Gateway of India is a venue for Hanukkah (a Jewish festival) celebrations. It was also the spot for the 2003 terrorist attack.
- Opening hours: 24 x 7
- Major Attractions: Hanukkah celebrations
- Ideal duration to explore: 30 minutes – 1 hour
- Things to do: Evening walk, photography
Elephanta Caves
Travel 10 kilometres east of Mumbai to find a UNESCO World Heritage Site that goes by the name Elephanta Caves, Elephanta Caves are a bunch of cave temples dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Walk through this cave to find mesmerising rock carvings that narrate Hindu mythologies. The major attraction of the Elephanta Cave is the 20 feet Trimurti monolithic statue.
Though the cave is in its ruins, it is one of the most visited destinations in Mumbai. The caves and the sculptures are believed to be from the period between the 4th and 9th centuries. Situated on Elephanta Island, the caves nestle as two groups of rock-cut caves. The caves are numbered from 1 to 7, all depicting Hindu mythologies and religious beliefs.
- Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Major Attractions: 20 feet Trimurti monolithic statue
- Ideal duration to explore: 2-3 hours
- Things to do: Learn more about Hindu mythology and ancient India
Marine Drive
A stroll at Marine Drive is something that one really cannot miss while in Mumbai. The three-kilometre promenade by the Arabian Sea is certain to offer you the freshness and tranquillity that you have been seeking in this bustling city. Feel the calm air caressing your face, providing you with a momentary escape from the humidity around. Lined with palm trees and yellow street lamps, this place comes to life during the night.
Marine Drive is also called Queen’s Necklace due to its ‘C’ shape. Marine Drive is surrounded by lavish buildings and is a popular hangout place in the city. At the northern end of the promenade, one can find the famous Chowpatty Beach. It is a hub for street-food lovers. Marine Drive is also a romantic spot and it can be included in your list of places to visit in Mumbai for couples.
- Opening hours: 24 x 7
- Major Attractions: Well-lit night lamps, cityscape, sunset and sunrise
- Ideal duration to explore: 1-2 hours
- Things to do: Evening walk, photography, eat street food
Siddhi Vinayak Mandir
The Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Mandir, popularly known as Siddhivinayak Mandir is a famous temple located in Prabhadevi. Dedicated to Hindu god Ganesha, the temple houses a small mandap, wooden doors with carvings, and a gold plated dome under which sits the Ganesha idol.
The pristine white temple is a pilgrims’ hub and has carvings of Ashtavinayak (eight manifestations of Lord Ganesha) all over the shrine. Visit the Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Mandir during the evening to witness the sight that would form a memory of a lifetime. The temple exteriors are lit up with multiple colours that change periodically.
Due to religious and cultural significance, Siddhi Vinayak Temple is visited by tourists who are on the lookout for places to visit in Mumbai in one day. Siddhi Vinayak Mandir is often visited by Bollywood celebrities and renowned politicians.
- Opening hours: Monday from 5:30 AM to 9:50 PM; Tuesday from 3:15 AM to 12:30 AM; Wednesday to Sunday from 5:30 AM to 9:50 PM
- Major Attractions: Gold plated dome, colourfully lit exteriors
- Ideal duration to explore: 1-2 hours
- Things to do: Pray, celeb-spotting
Sanjay Gandhi National Park
In the suburban part of Mumbai city rests the massive piece of land that is called the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Spread over 87 square kilometres, Sanjay Gandhi National Park boasts over 2 million visitors every year. Rich in flora and fauna, this national park is also home to 2400-year-old Kanheri caves. Sanjay Gandhi National Park has got deep-rooted history in ancient India.
The Kanheri Caves within the national park was an important Buddhist learning centre between the 9th to 1st centuries BCE. The park is mostly hilly and houses two lakes. The park is said to be the lungs of the city as it purifies a major portion of the air pollution of the city. Countless varieties of plants and animals seek shelter within this massive national park.
It is one of the most visited national parks in Asia and offers tourists various activities like forest safari, lake boating, rock climbing among others. Visitors can enter the park for a nominal fee and even rent a bicycle to tour the park. Sanjay Gandhi National Park should ideally be a part of your places to visit in Mumbai during the day.
- Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Major Attractions: Kanheri Caves, Van Rani Mini Train
- Ideal duration to explore: 2-4 hours
- Things to do: Cycling, boating, wildlife safari, photography
Bandra Worli Sea Link
The Bandra-Worli Sea Link is an 8-lane wide, 5.6 kilometres long cable-stayed bridge that acts as the link between the Western Suburbs of Mumbai with South Mumbai. The bridge came as a relief for city commuters who had to endure the bottleneck north-southwestern corridor during peak hours. After being caught in red tape for about five years, a section of the bridge was open to the public in 2009. It became fully operational on 24th March 2010.
Take a car ride on this massive bridge while enjoying the view of the sea on either side and the posh Worli skyline. If you do not fancy a car ride then simply climb the Bandra Fort to experience the breathtaking view of the Sea Link. Bandra Worli Sea Link can also be seen from Bandra Bandstand Promenade. Make sure you catch the sunset while at this spot. It is one of the most visited attractions in Mumbai.
- Opening hours: 24 x 7
- Major Attractions: Massive viaducts and cable-stays
- Ideal duration to explore: 10-15 minutes
- Things to do: Car rides, photography
Juhu Beach
Juhu Beach is arguably the most famous tourist spot in Mumbai. The popular beach is a haven for shutterbugs and romantic couples. Situated in the affluent part of Mumbai, Juhu beach can be easily accessed from any part of the city. Stretched by the shores of the Arabian Sea, Juhu Beach welcomes tourists round the year. Along the lengthy stretch, one can find crowded as well as deserted spaces.
Similar to beaches in Goa, Juhu Beach boasts a large number of footfalls throughout the year. Take a barefooted walk on the soft sands while watching the sun dip into the horizon. Or enjoy the famous Gola – a delicious ice candy. Juhu Beach is also a popular site for the annual Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.
Devotees from all parts of the city visit Juhu Beach during this time to immerse Ganesh idols or to watch gigantic idols get immersed. Juhu Beach is surrounded by luxury apartments and is home to numerous Bollywood celebrities, giving it the name Beverly Hills of Bollywood.
- Opening hours: 24 x 7
- Major Attractions: Street-food
- Ideal duration to explore: 1-2 hours
- Things to do: Evening walk, photography, sunset view
Haji Ali
In South Mumbai, off the coast of Worli, one can behold the enchanting site of Haji Ali Dargah. An exemplary manifestation of Indo-Islamic architecture, the Haji Ali Dargah contains the tomb of Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, a Sufi saint and a merchant from Uzbekistan. The Dargah was constructed in 1431 on a small islet about half a kilometre away from the coast, in the middle of Worli Bay.
Visitors have to cross a causeway with sea on both sides. Because of the same, access to the Dargah is interrupted if the tides are violent. The imposing structure is mostly built of marble. There are separate praying rooms for men and women within the Dargah. Haji Ali is visited by everyone regardless of their religion and is one of the must-visit destinations in Mumbai.
- Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 05:30 AM to 10:00 PM
- Major Attractions: Marble pillars, causeway
- Ideal duration to explore: 1 hour
- Things to do: Pray, photography
Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount
In the upscale neighbourhood of Bandra, is located the famous Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount. Popularly known as Mount Mary Church, this church is a favourite destination among tourists and locals. The Bandra fest conducted over here in the month of September is one of the most renowned festivals in the country. During the Bandra Fest, the church welcomes thousands of visitors on a daily basis.
The basilica stands on a small hill overlooking the Arabian Sea. The statue of the Virgin Mary is a major attraction. Many devotees flock to this shrine to seek blessings and to get rid of their ailments. From a religious and tourist perspective, Mount Mary church is one of the most famous places in Mumbai.
- Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM; Monday to Sunday from 2:00 PM to 8:30 PM
- Major Attractions: The Bandra fest, statue of the Virgin Mary
- Ideal duration to explore: 30 minutes – 1 hour
- Things to do: Pray, attend renowned church fest
In conclusion, the magic of Mumbai is a magnet that would attract any traveller towards it. The cityscape, the nightlife, and too many places to explore make the commercial capital of India a place that cannot be missed.
While you shuffle through places to visit in Mumbai, this article could make your job easy.
F.A.Q
Why is Mumbai famous for tourism?
Mumbai is home to numerous cultural and natural heritage tourist spots. The city is also known for its nightlife.
Is Mumbai worth visiting?
– Yes. Mumbai is arguably the most famous city in India.
Is Mumbai safe for tourists?
– Mumbai is very safe for Indians. However, if you are a foreigner then you might want to beware of fraudsters or taxi scammers.