1. Overview
Wondering what to do in Mumbai? Here’s a comprehensive list of activities and landmarks you can explore in this vibrant city.
2. Architectural Landmarks
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Mumbai’s architecture is an eclectic blend of Gothic, Victorian, Art Deco, Indo-Saracenic, and contemporary styles, most prominently from the colonial era of the British Raj. Notably, Mumbai has the second-largest collection of Art Deco buildings worldwide, after Miami. These buildings received UNESCO World Heritage status in 2018.
- Gateway of India: An Indo-Saracenic monument welcoming visitors approaching Mumbai by boat, completed in 1920.
- Taj Mahal Palace Hotel: Features Moorish, Oriental, and Florentine architecture, showcasing lavish interiors.
- Royal Bombay Yacht Club: A Gothic architectural gem established in 1846 that resonates nostalgia.
- Dhanraj Mahal: An Art Deco-style building built in the 1930s, once the palace of Raja Dhanrajgir.
- Regal Cinema: The first Art Deco cinema in Mumbai, established during the 1930s cinema boom.
- Maharashtra Police Headquarters: Converting the Royal Alfred Sailors Home into a headquarters in 1982.
- Elphinstone College: Known for its stunning Gothic architecture among India’s finest Victorian structures.
- Horniman Circle: Features a semicircular layout with impressive stately facades and gardens at the center.
- Flora Fountain: A notable square bordered by colonial buildings, showcasing a beautifully ornate fountain created in 1864.
- Bombay High Court: A Gothic-style building resembling a German castle; visitors can witness trials here.
- University of Mumbai: Established in 1857, featuring Venetian Gothic architecture.
- Rajabhai Clock Tower: A landmark modeled after London’s Big Ben, part of the University of Mumbai.
- Mumbai Mint: Built in the 1920s, showcasing Grecian architectural elements.
- Remains of Fort St. George: Named after a fort that once stood in the Fort district.
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus: A fusion of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture and traditional Indian design.
- Dr Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum: The oldest museum in Mumbai, a fine example of Palladian Renaissance Revival design.
- Khotachiwadi: Features charming Portuguese-style bungalows and a quaint church.
- Antilia: The towering residence of Mukesh Ambani, reflecting wealth and grandeur.
- Banganga Tank: An ancient water tank dating back to the Hindu Silhara dynasty.
- Bombay Stock Exchange: A contemporary architectural landmark built in the late 1970s.
3. Street Art, Art Galleries, and Performance Halls
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Mumbai boasts a vibrant arts scene, particularly in the Kala Ghoda area, which is home to various art galleries as well as unique art collections. For a deeper dive, consider tours like No Footprints’ For the Love of Art.
- National Gallery of Modern Art: Part of a chain of national art galleries in India.
- Chhatrapathi Shivaj Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya: Known for its extensive art collection and beautiful architecture.
- Jehangir Art Gallery: The city’s most famous art gallery, attracting local and international visitors.
- Kala Ghoda Pavement Art: A showcase for budding artists along the gallery’s sidewalks.
- David Sassoon Library & Reading Room: A historic library dating back to 1870.
- National Center for Performing Arts: A premier national institution for the performing arts.
- Royal Opera House: Recently renovated, hosting a mix of performances.
- Town Hall Asiatic Society: A restored heritage building in Mumbai’s Fort area.
- Prithvi Theater: A well-known venue for theater performances.
- Great Wall of Mumbai Project: A community-driven initiative transforming city walls into vibrant murals.
- Ranwar Village, Bandra: Featuring eclectic street art from global artists.
- Sakshi Gallery: A platform for emerging artists with a diverse collection.
- Gallery Chemould: Hosting iconic names in Indian art since 1963.
- Tarq: An innovative contemporary gallery promoting discussions about art.
- Chatterjee & Lal: Notable for live performance art events by cutting-edge artists.
- Tasveer: Focuses on the photographic arts in Mumbai.
- Institute of Contemporary Indian Art: An extensive gallery showcasing modern artworks, popular among Indian artists.
4. Religious Landmarks
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Mumbai is home to a rich tapestry of religious landmarks. Here are some significant ones:
- Mumba Devi Temple: A temple dedicated to the city’s namesake goddess, located in Mumbadevi Road.
- Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue: Features stunning stained-glass windows and elegant pillars.
- Holy Name Cathedral: Known for its frescoes and pipe organ, a gift from various Popes.
- Afghan Church: A memorial for soldiers lost in the First Afghan War, designed in a Gothic style.
- Saint Thomas’s Cathedral: Offers a serene atmosphere and boasts award-winning stained glass.
- Babulnath Temple: An ancient temple devoted to Lord Shiva.
- Babu Amichand Panalal Adishwarji Jain Temple: Notable for its ornate sculptures.
- Shri Walkeshwar Temple: Linked to a legend involving Lord Rama.
- Haji Ali: A mosque and tomb accessible only during low tide.
- Mahalaxmi Temple: One of Mumbai’s oldest temples with a history dating back to 1782.
- Siddhivinayak Temple: A popular temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh.
- Mount Mary’s Basilica: Overlooks the ocean and features a 16th-century statue of Mother Mary.
- ISKCON: Renowned for its beautiful marble temple and intricate artwork.
- Global Pagoda: Houses the world’s largest stone dome free of supporting pillars.
- Elephanta Caves: Contains rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, dating back to the 7th century.
5. Restaurants, Street Food, and Bars
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Mumbai offers a vibrant food scene, from street food delicacies to upscale restaurants. Expect both traditional chai and trendy cocktails while enjoying panoramic views of the city.
- Bademiya: Known for its legendary kebabs and roadside charm.
- Leopold Cafe: A historical café associated with the book “Shantaram”.
- Mahesh Lunch Home: Renowned for its seafood, established in 1977.
- Thirsty City 127: A modern brewpub boasting craft cocktails.
- Aer Bar: Offers stunning views from the 34th floor of the Four Seasons Hotel.
- Flea Bazaar Cafe: Innovative concept supporting local food entrepreneurs.
- Ranade Road and Dadar Market: Known for its local Maharashtrian flavors; food tours are available.
- Yazdani Bakery: Famed for its fruit pie and charming history.
6. Shopping Streets and Markets
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Although Mumbai may not have as many markets as Delhi, it’s still famous for shopping and cultural experiences. Here’s an overview of main shopping areas:
- Linking Road, Bandra: Offers a mix of street stalls and branded shops, perfect for affordable purchases.
- Colaba Causeway: A lively market experience filled with tourists and unique goods.
- Fashion Street: Counts approximately 150 stalls showcasing fashionable items at affordable prices.
- Chor Bazaar: Known as the “thieves market”, overflowing with eclectic finds.
- Crawford Market: Dedicated to wholesale fruits, vegetables, and various goods.
- Zaveri Bazaar/Bhuleshwar Market/Mangaldas Market: Recommended for purchasing gold and fabric.
- Lamington Road: Famous for its electronics market, both new and old.
- High Street Phoenix: A top-tier shopping mall with extensive retail options.
7. Beaches, Parks, and Promenades
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For relaxation and leisure, join locals at these scenic spots throughout the city:
- Marine Drive: A famous promenade ideal for catching the sea breeze.
- Girgaum Chowpatty: Known for snack stalls and stunning sunsets over the Arabian Sea.
- Shivaji Park: Mumbai’s largest park, perfect for people-watching.
- Worli Seaface: A popular promenade for serene evening strolls.
- Bandra Bandstand: A romantic spot with historical significance.
- Carter Road: Home to a culinary strip boasting a vibrant atmosphere.
- Juhu Beach: Bustles with local festivities and markets, especially on Sundays.
- Sanjay Gandhi Borivali National Park: A protected forest featuring ancient Kanheri Caves.
8. Infrastructure Landmarks
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Explore Mumbai’s intriguing infrastructure, which highlights the city’s engineering prowess:
- Bandra-Worli Sea Link: A remarkable 3.5-mile bridge crossing the Arabian Sea.
- J.J. Flyover: A uniquely designed bridge over a congested area of the city.
- Grant Road Sky Walk: A pedestrian-friendly walkway offering views of Mumbai life.
- Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat: An open-air laundry service showcasing a unique cultural practice.
- Mahalaxmi Racecourse: Known as one of Asia’s finest horse racing venues, steeped in heritage.
- Mumbai Local Train: A famous, bustling local transportation system.
- Dadar Flower Market: Offering a vibrant setting with thousands of flowers on display.
- Film City: Established to support the Bollywood film industry.
- Sewri Jetty: Known for seasonal flamingos amidst picturesque backdrops.
- Buffalo Tabelas: Housing thousands of buffaloes, providing fresh milk for the city.
9. Children’s Entertainment
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Here are some entertaining spots to visit with children in Mumbai:
- Nehru Science Center: The largest interactive science center in India.
- Nehru Planetarium: Offers fascinating insights into astronomy.
- Reserve Bank of India Monetary Museum: Exhibits the history of currency in India.
- Ballard Bunder Gatehouse Navy Museum: Focused on Mumbai’s maritime history.
- Taraporewala Aquarium: Home to a variety of marine life with a unique acrylic tunnel experience.
- IMAX Adlabs Theater: Offers thrilling 3D movie experiences.
- Hanging Garden & Kamala Nehru Park: Features climbing structures and lovely green spaces.
- Essel World and Water Kingdom: India’s largest amusement park and theme water park, ideal for family visits.
- Bombay Panjrapole: A cow sanctuary showcasing animal welfare.
- Chhatrapathi Shivaj Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya: Features exhibits that will delight children, plus a new children’s museum.
10. People and Culture
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Gain insights into Mumbai’s diverse cultures and communities:
- Koli Fishing Community: The original inhabitants of Mumbai who embody traditional fishing practices.
- Dabbawallas: Responsible for delivering around 200,000 lunch boxes across the city.
- Mani Bhawan: This small museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi’s life and work.
- FD Alpaiwalla Museum: Highlights Parsi culture and local history through artifacts.
- Dharavi Slum: A vibrant community known for social dynamics and small-scale Industries.