Mumbai Travel Guide – things to do and tips for your visit in India

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From slums, skyscrapers, cozy bazaars and temples to a busy business center, green neighborhoods and fancy rooftops. Mumbai is not only India’s largest city but also a city of enormous contrasts, where all these worlds coexist peacefully. Mumbai is a cosmopolitan metropolis where you can enjoy yourself for days and experience all sides. In this travel guide you will read more about Mumbai in India and why you definitely want to visit this city, including tips for things to do, tours, restaurants, transportation and hotels. Hopefully you’ll get as excited as I am about this incredible place.

Mumbai versus Bombay

Despite my limited knowledge of India, Mumbai is a city that has always been fascinating to me. Was it the name? The Bollywood industry? The grandeur of the city? I have no explanation for it, except that this city had been high on my bucketlist for a long time and I couldn’t wait to visit. But let’s start at the beginning. Mumbai versus Bombay, what is exactly the story? When I was a little girl learning geography, I learned about Bombay. Bombay comes from Bom Bahia, the name the Portuguese gave the city in the 16th century. It wasn’t until 1996 that the city was called Mumbai, named after goddess Mumba Devi, also the patron saint of the Kolis, the original inhabitants of the region.

Welcome to Mumbai

Mumbai consisted of seven separate islands, but after reclamation it became one place, connected to the mainland by bridges. With over 12.5 million people and 23 million people in the metropolis, Mumbai is India’s largest city and the country’s business center. Also being called the city of dreams, everyone comes here to make their dreams come true. Mumbai has a lot to offer. Yet Mumbai is not a city of highlights but a city that you want to experience. Discover the metropolis Mumbai in my India travel guide with tips for sights, things to do, activities, restaurants and hotels.

Discover tips and things to do in this Mumbai India Travel Guide

Oval Maidan

Oval Maidan is a large open field, surrounded by palm trees in the Colaba neighborhood. It is particularly popular for cricket. And when you look around, you feel more like you are walking around in London, than in India. The park is surrounded by a clock tower resembling the Big Ben and other stately British-colonial Victorian-style buildings. Also make sure to look for the art deco style buildings that are located around the park.

Visit Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat – unique things to do in Mumbai

Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat is definitely one of the most extraordinary things to do that Mumbai in India has to offer. Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat means place where people wash and dry clothes and that is exactly what has been happening here for 125 years. It is the largest open-air laundry in the world where hotels, laundromats, caterers, stores and restaurants have their products washed. More than 7,000 dhobi work here 18 to 20 hours a day, some still in the traditional way by hand and others with washing machines and dryers. Dhobi Ghat is located next to Mahalaxmi train station. From the bridge you have the best view to take pictures.

Mumbai Travel Guide tips: Do you want to visit Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat and other things to do in Mumbai India with a local guide? You can can find an overview of tours here.

Colaba

Colaba is located in the south of Mumbai and is a nice place to stay during your visit to Mumbai. The district has a long seaside boulevard and a number of interesting sights and things to do, including as the Gateway of India and the iconic The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel Mumbai, known for its fancy tea lounge with sea views. The Colaba Causeway is the central street of the district with old cafes, trendy restaurants and small shops. Don’t forget to have a drink at the authentic Cafe Mondegar, with murals by the Indian cartoonist Mario Miranda.

Kala Ghoda

Kala Ghoda is a small neighborhood around the Kala Ghoda statue (which is a horse). It is the kind of place that immediately makes me happy: Small streets with stores by Indian designers including FabIndia and Nicobar, coffee shops with cakes like Knead and good restaurants including Burma Burma and Americano. Nothing like walking around, discovering new places and enjoying the vibe.

Gateway of India – iconic things to do in Mumbai

One of the most iconic things to do and landmarks in Mumbai, is the Gateway of India. This 26-meter-high triumphal arch was built in the early 20^th century in honor of the visit of King George V and Queen Mary from England. Because the monument stands directly on the Arabian Sea, this was the direct gateway to India for ships. People from all over the country come here to take a picture and socialize with each other. Unfortunately, the Gateway of India was completely under construction during my visit to Mumbai, but just walking around and taking in the local life is already worth a visit.

Mumbai Travel Guide tips: Do you want to visit Mumbai in India and its many things to do with a local guide? You can can find an overview of tours here.

Victoria Terminus – photo tips Mumbai

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, or Victoria Terminus is one of the things to do in Mumbai that you definitely want to include in your itinerary, because it is beautiful. This huge train station was built in the 19^th century by a British architect in Victorian style with neo-Gothic and Indian elements. Therefore, upon seeing it, you will not immediately think that this is a train station, through which millions of people travel daily.

Food and history tour – culinary things to do in Mumbai India

The Fort Bombay district is known as the business center of the city. You will find interesting Victorian-style buildings and sights such as the Royal Asiatic Library and St. Thomas Cathedral, Mumbai’s oldest church.

In this district it is interesting to take a food and history tour via India Someday (have a look at the bottom of this article how you can travel to India with a discount with India Someday). Along the way, you’ll learn about the history of the neighborhood as you stop at various places to sample local snacks and delicacies. We went out with Viveka and were introduced to South Indian dishes such as Dosa, Medu Vada, Podi Idli and local sugar cane drinks. And of course the Vada pav, or Bombay burger, could not be missed. This favorite snack of Mumbaikers is a potato sandwich with chutneys and chili pepper and surprisingly tasty.

Mumbai Travel Guide tips: Do you want to go on a street food tour in Mumbai India? You’ll find an interesting tour here.

Bandra West

Another nice neighborhood in Mumbai is Bandra West with trendy cafes, art galleries, street art and special architecture. It is also the residential area of ​​the big Bollywood stars and creative professionals. You will find sights such as the iconic Bandra-Worli Sea Link bridge, the Bandra Fort, or Castella de Aguada – a fort built by the Portuguese -, and the Bandra bungalows, beautiful colonial houses. The most popular streets for shopping with numerous large and small shops are Hill Road and Linking Road. The popular Juhu beach is also nearby

Want to discover the hidden gems of Bandra West? You’ll find an interesting tour here.

Go on a local train ride

Every day, 8 million people use public transportation in Mumbai India. And as a tourist you cannot stay behind. A ride on a local train or metro is quite an experience. Especially during rush hour, you don’t know what you are experiencing. Do you think this is too much? Then find a moment outside rush hours. Even then there is always something to see and observe. There are three directions: The western, central and harbor train.

Visit a Slum

We often have a negative perspective of a slum and these areas are mostly seen as problematic or dangerous in the Western world. Yet 40 percent of the population in Mumbai, India, lives in a slum. Dharavi is one of the largest slums in Mumbai with approximately 1 million inhabitants and is known for its incredible yearly production and manufacturing. This district alone is responsible for a turnover of 1 billion per year. There is work in the recycling industry, leather production, textiles, but there are also many tech startups. There are schools, doctors, temples, markets and businesses in Dharavi. People go to work and live their daily lives, just like anywhere else in the world.

One of activities that should not be missed in this list of things to do in Mumbai is the Dharavi slum tour. This visit is not intended to go and look at people in miserable circumstances, but rather to create more understanding and respect for other living conditions and to break down stereotypes associated with slums. It is a unique experience to walk through the small alleys and tiny houses. Some situations will certainly be moving, but the guides, who often come from the neighborhood themselves, know how to provide background and put things into perspective.

Mumbai Travel Guide tips: Do you want to go on a slum tour in Dharavi? You can book a great tour here. Want to read more about a slum tour in India? In the next article you can read more about my experiences in New Delhi and what to consider when booking a slum tour.

Meet Bollywood

When you think of Mumbai, you may also think of Bollywood. Mumbai is the largest film city in the world, producing even more films annually than Hollywood. Bollywood actors are heroes and great role models for locals. If you are in Mumbai, a visit to a movie theater should not be missed. The movies are in Hindi but it is mainly the drama, action, singing and dancing that you come for. Do you want to experience even more Bollywood? Then book a tour to one of the Bollywood studios where you get a behind-the-scenes look and attend a live performance. You’ll also drive through Bollywood afterwards, past the stars’ homes. Something I find incredibly dull and touristy in Hollywood, I find quite an experience in Mumbai. Do you also want to discover Bollywood? Check out a tour here.

Mumbai tips: One of the cities oldest cinemas is Regal Cinema, which regularly hosts Bollywood screenings.

Fine dining experiences in Mumbai – tips

Once you search for Mumbai in the list of Asia’s Best Restaurants you will get many options. Mumbai is internationally known for its fine dining. And where in Europe you pay a fortune for a culinary tasting experience, here you are almost ashamed for the amount you pay after an evening with a 10-course dinner. Two fine dining restaurants I checked out and definitely recommend are Masque and Ekaa.

Masque

At Masque you have to reserve a table, days and sometimes weeks in advance. The setting is stylish and chic and the ten-course menu introduces you to different flavors from India. It is nice that at some point you are invited to the kitchen for a special course and introduction to the kitchen staff. You will receive a photo as a souvenir.

Ekaa

Ekaa Mumbai was the restaurant that completely surprised me. In a modern setting, you are taken during a 10-course journey through different kingdoms around the world. Think of Thailand, Mexico, China and Scandinavia. And everything is about diverse flavors and textures. With each dish you’ll get a card, providing explanation and inspiration about the dish you are being served.

Cultural things to do and museums Mumbai – 4 tips

Prince of Wales museum

One of the cultural things to do and museums not to be missed when in Mumbai is the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, which is surrounded by flowers and tall palm trees. Quite a mouthful but fortunately it is popularly known as the Prince of Wales museum. It was built in honor of a visit by the Prince of Wales in the early 20^th century. In this museum you will be tarveling through India and the rest of Asia and be able to admire the collections. From Tibetan art, Mogul and Rajput statues to Chinese porcelain and terracotta figurines: The museum contains more than 50,000 objects. Of course, you cannot observe them all but it is recommended to allow enough time for your visit. Regularly there are interesting temporary exhibitions.

Modern art

I love to walk into a museum or exhibition of modern art when abroad. In Mumbai, I visited the Jehangir Art Gallery, right behind the Prince of Wales museum. You’ll find several exhibitions, some more beautiful and better than others. Either way, it gives a good impression of the modern art world in India, as it only works with Indian artists. Besides that, admission is free. Opposite is the Gallery of Modern Art, for more cultural things to do and inspiration in Mumbai.

The Gandhi Museum

The Gandhi Museum, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi during his visits to Mumbai, is now a museum dedicated to his life and fight for freedom and justice. You will find interesting exhibits that highlight the life and ideas of Gandhi, as well as his influence on the Indian independence movement. There are photographs, books and personal objects that illustrate his philosophies of nonviolence and civil disobedience. Lectures and events regularly take place in the library.

Elephanta Island

Elephanta Island is one of the sights and things to do that can be visited by taking a short boat ride from the Gateway of India in Mumbai. The island is known for its green surroundings and caves with sculptures dating from the 5th to 8th centuries. Dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, the Elephanta Caves are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their extraordinary sculptures and reliefs depicting important scenes from Hindu mythology.

Mumbai Travel Guide tips: Do you want to visit Elephanta Island and the caves? You can book a tour here.

The bazaars and things to do in Mumbai – 5 tips

In Mumbai there are countless markets, bazaars, gathering places of stalls and small stores. Many markets revolve around a special product such as gold, textiles, household goods, wedding or party supplies or just a mix. Be sure to take at least part of a day to explore the markets. After all, in central Mumbai you can easily walk from bazaar to bazaar. Here are my tips for markets in Mumbai.

The best way to visit the markets is with a local, so you experience the real Mumbai. We went out with Yashashri from India Someday wich was a great experience. At the bottom of this article you can read how you can travel with India Someday at a discount.

Crawford market

Crawford market is one of Mumbai’s most famous markets. Household items, vegetables, fruits, herbs, jewelry, clothing and pets: You will find everything in this market hall. Don’t forget to take a look at the sculpture at the fountain in the middle of the market and the facade at the entrance. These were created by John Lockwood Kipling, the father of Jungle Book author Rudyard Kipling, who grew up in Mumbai.

Zaveri Bazaar

In India, gold plays an important role. Every special occasion is a reason to buy gold. At the Zaveri Bazaar you will find countless small stores that sell gold and silver, and it is crowded. It is said that there is even gold to be found on the streets. At the end of the day, you often see people walkiing around with a broom.

The Chor Bazaar

Chor Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest second-hand markets in India, located a few kilometers away from Crawford Market in Mumbai. Chor Bazaar literally means thieves’ market. It used to be the place where you could buy back your stolen things, but nowadays the market is all about vintage and antiques, making you find special treasures.

Magaldas Bazaar

The Mangaldas Market is all about textiles. The range of colors and fabrics from this wholesaler attracts people from all around the country, who are looking for the most beautiful materials. Nice to walk around

Bhuleshwar Bazaar

Are you getting married in Mumbai? Then chances are you’ll end up at Bhuleshwar market. This bazaar offers an incredible amount of stores with traditional wedding outfits for both men and women, wedding cards, ornaments, and decorations that you didn’t know existed.

Mumbai Travel Guide tips: Looking for a market tour in Mumbai? You can find a tour here.

Mumba Devi temple – sacred things to do in Mumbai India

Hindu temple Mumba Devi is an important place in Mumbai. In fact, Mumbai was named after Hindu goddess Mumba, who is honored in this temple. Countless people gather here with incense, flowers, sweets and powder. The temple also houses smaller temples of Ganesh and Hanuma. Keep in mind that you have to leave yous shoes at the entrance and photography is prohibited.

Sassoon docks

This is one of the oldest ports in Mumbai and known for its daily fish market. In fact, it is the largest fish market in Mumbai. And in cases like this, I regret not being a morning person. Because obviously you want to be here early in the morning. I myself had to miss this place, but hopefully someone will make it up for me.

Marine Drive

Marine Drive is Mumbai’s 8-kilometer-long boulevard. Here you overlook the Arabian Sea and Mumbai’s countless skyscrapers. It really reminded me a bit of Panama City. Marive Drive is always bustling with families, young couples and groups of friends. Especially at the end of the day, when the sun goes down, it is a popular gathering place for Mumbaikers. Because of its shape and numerous lights at night, the promenade is also called the Queens Necklace.

The beaches

Did you know that Mumbai has beaches? And even several. The question is whether you actually want to take a dip in the sea here because of the pollution. But the beaches are big and city beaches remain special. Especially in India, where really all kinds of things are going on. Make sure to take a look at Chowpatty Beach or Juhu Beach.

A cowshed – sacred things to do in Mumbai India

When you tour India, you quickly learn that cows play an important role in society. Cows are sacred and have to live in freedom as much as possible. Consequently, you find them everywhere: In groups on the highway, resting on a main street or roaming the streets of a city on their own. In Mumbai, however, this is different. In the middle of the Bhuleshwar neighborhood is a cowshed, run by the Mumbai Panjrapole Trust, which collects abandoned cows and cares for them. Normally, you probably don’t pay too much attention to this, but this 170-year-old cowshed exudes something special on all sides.

At the entrance you will not only find only Hindu god Krishna, the guardian of the cows, but there are numerous guards around the complex. The cows are fed grass and provide milk for the nearby temples. You pay an entrance fee to enter the grounds and feed the cows. Photography is strictly prohibited. As soon as you have your camera in sight alone, a guard is already next to you. 

Mini Travel Guide + tips Mumbai India

Tours in Mumbai India

Looking for more tips and things to do in Mumbai in India? This is an overview.

Hotel tips in Mumbai

Mumbai in India offers numerous accommodations in different price ranges. One of the popular areas to stay in is Colaba. Discover my tips and recommendations for hotels in Mumbai in this travel guide.

Abode Boutique hotel

Abode Bombay Boutique hotel is one of the finest boutique hotels in the Colaba district of Mumbai. Because it is small-scale, you immediately feel at home here. The rooms are stylishly decorated and in the common areas you can open your laptop or sit down with a book. On the first floor there is a small coffee room with, what is said to be the best coffee in town. Moreover, you are within walking distance of attractions and things to do such as Gateway of India, museums, hip restaurants, shops and stylish bars in Mumbai.

Oberoi Mumbai

Are you looking for a luxury stay? Then book a room at The Oberoi, located at Nariman Point. The rooms are spacious, the swimming pools enormous and the service is top notch.

Looking for more hotels in Mumbai India? This is an overview with hotels.

Restaurant tips Mumbai India

In Mumbai you can go for amazing dinners and fancy drinks. Many neighborhood offer nice restaurants, local eateries and hip cocktail and rooftop bars. Discover my restaurant recommendations and tips in this Mumbai travel guide.

• Neuma and Table, in Colaba, are both wonderful places for wine and a stylish dinner. Neuma also includes a lovely garden.
• For culinary experiences, book a tasting menu at Ekaa or Masque.
• Ever thought about Burmese cuisine? At Burma Burma your taste buds will be stimulated for sure.
• For the very best cocktails, go to Slink & Bardot.
• Aer rooftop bar is located in the Four Seasons Mumbai and offers beautiful views over the Arabian Sea.
• Knead is the perfect place for coffee, tea and cakes.
• Woodstock Inn is a hip pub in Colaba with cocktails and special beers.
• It is always busy at Cafe Mondegar. You will also find murals by the Indian cartoonist Mario Miranda here.
• The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel is known for its luxurious high tea with a sea view.

How to get around in Mumbai India

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport Mumbai is about an hour’s drive from Colaba district. From Mumbai you can fly to different destinations in India. You can easily compare and book airline tickets via Skyscanner. Looking for private transport to and from Mumbai? In my viator shop you will find different options. The best way to get around in Mumbai is by taxi or Uber.

Travel insurance

Looking for a travel insurance for your trip to India? World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance, with coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world.

Travel to India with a discount

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More about India

Did you enjoy reading this Mumbai Travel Guide with tips for things to do in India? Let me take you on a journey along the most beautiful destinations in India. In the next articles you will find my India travel guides with lots of inspiration and tips.

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