Top 101 Must-See Attractions in Mumbai

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

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.

1. Gateway of India: An Indo-Saracenic monument welcoming visitors approaching Mumbai by boat, completed in 1920.
2. Taj Mahal Palace Hotel: Features Moorish, Oriental, and Florentine architecture, showcasing lavish interiors.
3. Royal Bombay Yacht Club: A Gothic architectural gem established in 1846 that resonates nostalgia.
4. Dhanraj Mahal: An Art Deco-style building built in the 1930s, once the palace of Raja Dhanrajgir.
5. Regal Cinema: The first Art Deco cinema in Mumbai, established during the 1930s cinema boom.
6. Maharashtra Police Headquarters: Converting the Royal Alfred Sailors Home into a headquarters in 1982.
7. Elphinstone College: Known for its stunning Gothic architecture among India’s finest Victorian structures.
8. Horniman Circle: Features a semicircular layout with impressive stately facades and gardens at the center.
9. Flora Fountain: A notable square bordered by colonial buildings, showcasing a beautifully ornate fountain created in 1864.
10. Bombay High Court: A Gothic-style building resembling a German castle; visitors can witness trials here.
11. University of Mumbai: Established in 1857, featuring Venetian Gothic architecture.
12. Rajabhai Clock Tower: A landmark modeled after London’s Big Ben, part of the University of Mumbai.
13. Mumbai Mint: Built in the 1920s, showcasing Grecian architectural elements.
14. Remains of Fort St. George: Named after a fort that once stood in the Fort district.
15. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus: A fusion of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture and traditional Indian design.
16. Dr Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum: The oldest museum in Mumbai, a fine example of Palladian Renaissance Revival design.
17. Khotachiwadi: Features charming Portuguese-style bungalows and a quaint church.
18. Antilia: The towering residence of Mukesh Ambani, reflecting wealth and grandeur.
19. Banganga Tank: An ancient water tank dating back to the Hindu Silhara dynasty.
20. Bombay Stock Exchange: A contemporary architectural landmark built in the late 1970s.

3. Street Art, Art Galleries, and Performance Halls

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.

1. National Gallery of Modern Art: Part of a chain of national art galleries in India.
2. Chhatrapathi Shivaj Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya: Known for its extensive art collection and beautiful architecture.
3. Jehangir Art Gallery: The city’s most famous art gallery, attracting local and international visitors.
4. Kala Ghoda Pavement Art: A showcase for budding artists along the gallery’s sidewalks.
5. David Sassoon Library & Reading Room: A historic library dating back to 1870.
6. National Center for Performing Arts: A premier national institution for the performing arts.
7. Royal Opera House: Recently renovated, hosting a mix of performances.
8. Town Hall Asiatic Society: A restored heritage building in Mumbai’s Fort area.
9. Prithvi Theater: A well-known venue for theater performances.
10. Great Wall of Mumbai Project: A community-driven initiative transforming city walls into vibrant murals.
11. Ranwar Village, Bandra: Featuring eclectic street art from global artists.
12. Sakshi Gallery: A platform for emerging artists with a diverse collection.
13. Gallery Chemould: Hosting iconic names in Indian art since 1963.
14. Tarq: An innovative contemporary gallery promoting discussions about art.
15. Chatterjee & Lal: Notable for live performance art events by cutting-edge artists.
16. Tasveer: Focuses on the photographic arts in Mumbai.
17. Institute of Contemporary Indian Art: An extensive gallery showcasing modern artworks, popular among Indian artists.

4. Religious Landmarks

Mumbai is home to a rich tapestry of religious landmarks. Here are some significant ones:

1. Mumba Devi Temple: A temple dedicated to the city’s namesake goddess, located in Mumbadevi Road.
2. Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue: Features stunning stained-glass windows and elegant pillars.
3. Holy Name Cathedral: Known for its frescoes and pipe organ, a gift from various Popes.
4. Afghan Church: A memorial for soldiers lost in the First Afghan War, designed in a Gothic style.
5. Saint Thomas’s Cathedral: Offers a serene atmosphere and boasts award-winning stained glass.
6. Babulnath Temple: An ancient temple devoted to Lord Shiva.
7. Babu Amichand Panalal Adishwarji Jain Temple: Notable for its ornate sculptures.
8. Shri Walkeshwar Temple: Linked to a legend involving Lord Rama.
9. Haji Ali: A mosque and tomb accessible only during low tide.
10. Mahalaxmi Temple: One of Mumbai’s oldest temples with a history dating back to 1782.
11. Siddhivinayak Temple: A popular temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh.
12. Mount Mary’s Basilica: Overlooks the ocean and features a 16th-century statue of Mother Mary.
13. ISKCON: Renowned for its beautiful marble temple and intricate artwork.
14. Global Pagoda: Houses the world’s largest stone dome free of supporting pillars.
15. Elephanta Caves: Contains rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, dating back to the 7th century.

5. Restaurants, Street Food, and Bars

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.

1. Bademiya: Known for its legendary kebabs and roadside charm.
2. Leopold Cafe: A historical café associated with the book “Shantaram”.
3. Mahesh Lunch Home: Renowned for its seafood, established in 1977.
4. Thirsty City 127: A modern brewpub boasting craft cocktails.
5. Aer Bar: Offers stunning views from the 34th floor of the Four Seasons Hotel.
6. Flea Bazaar Cafe: Innovative concept supporting local food entrepreneurs.
7. Ranade Road and Dadar Market: Known for its local Maharashtrian flavors; food tours are available.
8. Yazdani Bakery: Famed for its fruit pie and charming history.

6. Shopping Streets and Markets

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:

1. Linking Road, Bandra: Offers a mix of street stalls and branded shops, perfect for affordable purchases.
2. Colaba Causeway: A lively market experience filled with tourists and unique goods.
3. Fashion Street: Counts approximately 150 stalls showcasing fashionable items at affordable prices.
4. Chor Bazaar: Known as the “thieves market”, overflowing with eclectic finds.
5. Crawford Market: Dedicated to wholesale fruits, vegetables, and various goods.
6. Zaveri Bazaar/Bhuleshwar Market/Mangaldas Market: Recommended for purchasing gold and fabric.
7. Lamington Road: Famous for its electronics market, both new and old.
8. High Street Phoenix: A top-tier shopping mall with extensive retail options.

7. Beaches, Parks, and Promenades

For relaxation and leisure, join locals at these scenic spots throughout the city:

1. Marine Drive: A famous promenade ideal for catching the sea breeze.
2. Girgaum Chowpatty: Known for snack stalls and stunning sunsets over the Arabian Sea.
3. Shivaji Park: Mumbai’s largest park, perfect for people-watching.
4. Worli Seaface: A popular promenade for serene evening strolls.
5. Bandra Bandstand: A romantic spot with historical significance.
6. Carter Road: Home to a culinary strip boasting a vibrant atmosphere.
7. Juhu Beach: Bustles with local festivities and markets, especially on Sundays.
8. Sanjay Gandhi Borivali National Park: A protected forest featuring ancient Kanheri Caves.

8. Infrastructure Landmarks

Explore Mumbai’s intriguing infrastructure, which highlights the city’s engineering prowess:

1. Bandra-Worli Sea Link: A remarkable 3.5-mile bridge crossing the Arabian Sea.
2. J.J. Flyover: A uniquely designed bridge over a congested area of the city.
3. Grant Road Sky Walk: A pedestrian-friendly walkway offering views of Mumbai life.
4. Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat: An open-air laundry service showcasing a unique cultural practice.
5. Mahalaxmi Racecourse: Known as one of Asia’s finest horse racing venues, steeped in heritage.
6. Mumbai Local Train: A famous, bustling local transportation system.
7. Dadar Flower Market: Offering a vibrant setting with thousands of flowers on display.
8. Film City: Established to support the Bollywood film industry.
9. Sewri Jetty: Known for seasonal flamingos amidst picturesque backdrops.
10. Buffalo Tabelas: Housing thousands of buffaloes, providing fresh milk for the city.

9. Children’s Entertainment

Here are some entertaining spots to visit with children in Mumbai:

1. Nehru Science Center: The largest interactive science center in India.
2. Nehru Planetarium: Offers fascinating insights into astronomy.
3. Reserve Bank of India Monetary Museum: Exhibits the history of currency in India.
4. Ballard Bunder Gatehouse Navy Museum: Focused on Mumbai’s maritime history.
5. Taraporewala Aquarium: Home to a variety of marine life with a unique acrylic tunnel experience.
6. IMAX Adlabs Theater: Offers thrilling 3D movie experiences.
7. Hanging Garden & Kamala Nehru Park: Features climbing structures and lovely green spaces.
8. Essel World and Water Kingdom: India’s largest amusement park and theme water park, ideal for family visits.
9. Bombay Panjrapole: A cow sanctuary showcasing animal welfare.
10. Chhatrapathi Shivaj Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya: Features exhibits that will delight children, plus a new children’s museum.

10. People and Culture

Gain insights into Mumbai’s diverse cultures and communities:

1. Koli Fishing Community: The original inhabitants of Mumbai who embody traditional fishing practices.
2. Dabbawallas: Responsible for delivering around 200,000 lunch boxes across the city.
3. Mani Bhawan: This small museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi’s life and work.
4. FD Alpaiwalla Museum: Highlights Parsi culture and local history through artifacts.
5. Dharavi Slum: A vibrant community known for social dynamics and small-scale Industries.