101 Places to Visit in Mumbai

Wondering what to do in Mumbai? Here's a list of 101 places to visit -- yes, 101 places! No matter what your interest, you're sure to find something that appeals. If you want someone to guide you, taking a Mumbai walking tour is a great way to explore the city. Many of Mumbai's attractions are in Colaba and the Fort district.

20 Places to Visit in Mumbai -- Architecture

Getty Images/Thomas Brown

Mumbai architecture is an eclectic blend of Gothic, Victorian, Art Deco, Indo-Saracenic and contemporary architectural styles. Much of it remains from the colonial era of the British Raj.

1. Gateway of India
   Designed to be the first thing that visitors see when approaching Mumbai by boat, the looming Gateway was completed in 1920. Its architecture is Indo-Saracenic, combining Islamic and Hindu styles.
2. Taj Palace Hotel
   An unsurpassed architectural marvel that brings together Moorish, Oriental and Florentine styles. Its structure is striking, with many chandeliers, archways, domes, and turrets.
3. Royal Bombay Yacht Club
   Founded in 1846, the Royal Bombay Yacht Club has Gothic style architecture and is steeped in nostalgia.
4. Dhanraj Mahal
   Dhanraj Mahal is an Art Deco style building. Built in the 1930s, it was the former palace of the Raja Dhanrajgir of Hyderabad,
5. Regal Cinema
   The first of Mumbai's Art Deco style cinemas, the Regal Cinema was built during the cinema boom of the 1930s.
6. Maharashtra Police Headquarters (Sailors' Home)
   The Maharashtra Police Headquarters moved into what was known as the Royal Alfred Sailors Home, constructed in 1876, in 1982.
7. Elphinstone College
   The Elphinstone College building is amongst the finest Victorian structures in India, with breathtaking Gothic architecture.
8. Horniman Circle
   Horniman Circle dates back to 1860, and is made up of a strong sweep of stately building facades, laid out in a semi-circle. The Horniman Circle Gardens is at the center of it.
9. Flora Fountain (Hutatma Chowk)
   The Hutatma Chowk square is bordered by buildings constructed during the British Raj. In the middle of it, the ornate Flora Fountain was created in 1864.
10. Bombay High Court
    Go inside the Gothic style Bombay High Court and see a trial for some real entertainment!
11. University of Mumbai
    Established in 1857, the University of Mumbai was one of the first three universities in India. Its architecture is Venetian Gothic inspired.
12. Rajabhai Clock Tower
    Officially part of Mumbai University but best observed from Oval Maidan, the 260 foot high Rajabai Clock Tower was modeled on Big Ben in London.
13. Mumbai Mint
    The Mumbai Mint was built in the 1920s, along with the Town Hall, and has similar architecture with pillars and Grecian porticoes.
14. Remains of Fort St. George
    Those unfamiliar with Mumbai's history may wonder why the Fort district is referred to as such. It got its name from a fort that used to exist there.
15. Chhatrapati Shivaj Terminus (Victoria Terminus) Train Station
    The piece de resistance of the Raj era, the Chhatrapati Shivaj Terminus is a fusion of influences from Victorian Italianate Gothic Revival architecture and traditional Indian architecture.
16. Dr Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum
    The oldest museum in Mumbai, the Dr Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum is extraordinary example of Palladian Renaissance Revival design.
17. Khotachiwadi
    The narrow winding lanes of Khotachiwadi village are home to old Portuguese-style bungalows and a tiny church.
18. Antilia (home of businessman Mukesh Ambani)
    What kind of home does one of the richest men in India have? Take a look at the towering residence of businessman Mukesh Ambani, chairman of Reliance Industries.
19. Banganga Tank
    An ancient water tank that's one of the oldest surviving structures in Mumbai. It dates back to 1127 AD, to the time of the Hindu Silhara dynasty.
20. Bombay Stock Exchange
    A prominent example of contemporary architecture in Mumbai, the current Bombay Stock Exchange building was constructed during the late 1970s.

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15 Places to Visit in Mumbai -- Arts

Sharell Cook

Mumbai has a thriving arts precinct with abundant art galleries, yet there are also some lesser known places that will appeal to your creative side.

1. National Gallery of Modern Art
   One of a string of national art galleries in India.
2. Chhatrapathi Shivaj Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (Prince of Wales Museum)
   Art is one of the three main sections of this museum, which is also known for its elaborate architecture.
3. Jehangir Art Gallery
   Mumabi's most famous art gallery and tourist attraction. Managed by the Bombay Art Society.
4. Kala Ghoda Pavement Art
   The leafy pavement on either side of the Jehangir Art Gallery is lined with the artwork of promising young artists.
5. David Sassoon Library & Reading Room
   Built in 1870, it houses one of the oldest living Library and Reading rooms in use in Mumbai.
6. National Center for Performing Arts
   India's only national center for performing arts and cultural institution.
7. Town Hall Asiatic Society
   A heritage building, located deep in the Mumbai's historic Fort area, that houses the city's public library.
8. Prithvi Theater
   An intimate theater auditorium, built in 1978, and dedicated to being a catalyst for theater in Mumbai.
9. Great Wall of Mumbai Project
   Brightening walls with colorful graffiti. View it best at Tulsi Pipe Road (Senapati Bapat Marg), from Mahim to Dadar.
10. Sakshi Gallery
    India's largest private gallery, established with the aim of supporting young and upcoming artists.
11. Gallery Chemould
    Longstanding art gallery, formed in 1963. It's since hosted some of the grandest names in Indian art.
12. India Fine Art Gallery
    An affordable art dealer located in the Film Center Building. Works can also be purchased from the online gallery.
13. Tao Art Gallery
    A simple minimalist space that showcases famous Indian contemporary artwork, located in Worli.
14. Chatterjee & Lal
    Remarkable because it hosts live performance art events. Promotes young, cutting edge artists.
15. The Art Loft
    A unique space in Bandra where you can explore your artistic side. Regular events are held.

15 Places to Visit in Mumbai -- Religious

www.flickr.com user Wm Jas.

Mumbai is home to people of all religions -- mandirs (temples), mosques, churches, and even synagogues all exist together. These are some of the most well known ones.

1. Mumbadevi Temple
   The Mumbadevi Temple is dedicated to the goddess Mumba, whom the city of Mumbai was named after, and that's what makes this temple noteworthy.
2. Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue
   This soothing light blue colored building has a charming interior, resplendent with pillars, chandeliers, and stained glass windows.
3. Holy Name Cathedral
   The opulent Catholic Holy Name Cathedral is renowned for its delicate frescoes, pipe organ, a gifts from various Popes including the huge bell that hangs outside the church.
4. Afghan Church
   The Presbyterian Afghan Church was built by the British in memory of the thousands of soldiers who lost their lives in the First Afghan War from 1835-43.
5. St. Thomas's Cathedral
   St. Thomas's Cathedral offers a peaceful respite in a busy part of the city. The first Anglican church in Mumbai, it dates back to 1718. It's renowned for its award winning stained glass work.
6. Babulnath Temple
   This ancient temple, devoted to Lord Shiva in the form of a Babul tree, sits 1,000 feet above sea level.
7. Babu Amichand Panalal Adishwarji Jain Temple
   Jain temples are usually the most elaborate ones in India, and this one is no exception. Built in 1904, it's adorned with ornate sculptures and paintings.
8. Shri Walkeshwar Temple
   Legend has it that Lord Rama paused at the spot where the temple was built when heading to Sri Lanka to try and get his wife Sita back from demon Ravana, who kidnapped her.
9. Haji Ali
   Both a mosque and a tomb, Haji Ali is situated in the middle of the ocean and is only accessible during low tide from a narrow, 500 yard long walkway.
10. Mahalaxmi Temple
    One of the oldest temples in Mumbai, Mahalaxmi Temple was built in 1782. Take the long flight of steps up to it from the Arabian Sea.
11. Siddhivinayak Temple
    Have a wish that you want granted? Visit this famous temple, devoted to Lord Ganesh.
12. Mount Mary's Basilica
    As the name suggests, Mount Mary's Basilica sits atop a small hill overlooking the ocean. Its current semi-Gothic style building is around 100 years old, although the statue of the mother Mary dates back to the 16th century.
13. ISKCON
    The complex's marble temple is apparently one of India's most beautiful Krishna temples. Its walls are adorned with delightful murals and sculptures.
14. Global Pagoda
    The magnificent golden Buddhist Global Pagoda is the world's largest stone dome built without any supporting pillars.
15. Elephanta Caves
    While the Elephanta Caves are more tourist attraction than religious place, they contain an important historical rock-cut temple dedicated to Lord Shiva that dates back to the 7th century.

10 Places to Visit in Mumbai -- Eating and Drinking

Amar Singh

Whether you're craving street food or seafood, you'll find plenty of cuisine to tantalize your taste buds in Mumbai. Or simply enjoy some chai (tea), or a cocktail with a panoramic view of the city!

1. Bademiyan
   Much loved roadside restaurant in Colaba, serving mouthwatering kebabs.
2. Leopolds Cafe
   Relive the epic book Shantaram here.
3. Indigo
   One of Mumbai's most fabulous fine dining restaurants with real charm. The Sunday Brunch is outstanding.
4. Mahesh Lunch Home
   Started in 1977 and famous for seafood in Mumbai.
5. Mohamad Ali Road
   This kilometer stretch of road in south Mumbai, packed with food stalls, is best experienced during Ramadan when it comes alive for feasting every night.
6. Mohanlal S Mithaiwala
   One of the largest Indian sweet shops in the city. Find it at 271/273, Sheikh Memon Street Zaveri Bazar, Kalbadevi.
7. Tea Center
   Established in 1953 by the Tea Board of India to promote tea, it has a nostalgic colonial feel.
8. Aer Bar
   Views across Mumbai from the 34th floor of the Four Seasons Hotel, Worli.
9. Peshwari ITC
   Make this renowned restaurant at the ITC Marartha your last stop before you catch your flight, for a taste of India’s North West Frontier cuisine.
10. Khau Galli
    If you don't feel like braving street food at Mumbai's Khau Galli (food lane, near Churchgate station), head to Khau Galli restaurant, which serves all the favorites in an authentic and hygienic manner.

10 Places to Visit in Mumbai -- Shopping

Peter Adams/Getty Images.

Mumbai doesn't have as many markets as, say, Delhi. However, there are still plenty of places to spend your rupees.

1. Linking Road
   A fusion of modern and traditional, and East meets West, where streets stalls contrast with brand name name shops. Great for cheap shoes, bags, and accessories.
2. Colaba Causeway
   The everyday carnival that is the Colaba Causeway market is a shopping experience like no other in Mumbai. Geared especially towards tourists.
3. Fashion Street
   Fashion Street is literally just that -- a street lined with fashion! There are around 150 inexpensive stalls there.
4. Chor Bazaar
   Navigate your way through crowded streets and crumbling buildings, and you'll find Chor Bazaar, nestled in the heart of Muslim Mumbai. Its name means "thieves market". There are all kinds of weird and wonderful items there.
5. Crawford Market
   This old-style market, housed in an historic colonial building, specializes in wholesale fruit and vegetables, pets, and imported electronics.
6. Zaveri Bazaar/Bhuleshwar Market/Mangaldas Market
   Buy gold and cloth at these markets, just north of Crawford Market.
7. Lamington Road
   Find the cheapest electronic goods, both old and new, in Mumbai here. Near Grant Road station.
8. High Street Pheonix
   Mumbai's premier mall just keeps growing! It includes a luxury retail precinct called the Palladium.
9. The Bombay Store
   Trendy Indian home decor items.
10. Kitab Khana
    Relax and read in this wonderfully ambient bookstore in Fort.

9 Places to Visit in Mumbai -- Relaxation/Hangout

Getty Images/Andrea Pistolesi

If you're feeling in the mood for relaxation, join the residents of Mumbai at these beaches, parks and promenades across the city.

1. Marine Drive
   Marine Drive is possibly Mumbai's best known road. Its feature is a seaside promenade where people flock to catch the evening breeze.
2. Girgaum Chowpatty
   Located at the northern end of Marine Drive, this beach is famous for its snack stalls and sunset over Malabar Hill.
3. Shivaji Park
   Shivaji Park is the largest park in Mumbai and the perfect place for people watching!
4. Worli Seaface
   Worli Seaface is another of Mumbai's renowned promenades where people like to go for walks and sit in the evenings.
5. Bandra Bandstand
   Bandra Bandstand got its name from the old glory days of bandstand culture, when different bands used to provide entertainment by playing there. These days, it's a popular lover's point.
6. Carter Road
   North of Bandra Bandstand, you'll find Carter Road promenade. Its culinary strip attracts the cafe crowd.
7. Juhu Beach on Sunday
   On Sunday afternoons, Juhu beach becomes carnival-like with everything from market stalls to monkeys.
8. Powai Lake
   Go bird watching and crocodile spotting at man-made Powai Lake. It also has a two kilometer long paved jogging track/walkway, musical fountain, and children's play area.
9. Sanjay Gandhi Borivali National Park
   Sanjay Gandhi National Park is the only protected forest to be located within the limits of a city in India.

9 Places to Visit in Mumbai -- Infrastructure

Sharell Cook.

Mumbai's infrastructure ranges from the most modern bridges to the most manual open air laundry. Discover what keeps Mumbai functioning by visiting these places.

1. J.J. Flyover
   This snake-like, 2.5 kilometer long bridge passes over one of the most congested areas of Mumbai. It reveals a gallery of life.
2. Grant Road Sky Walk
   A 650 meter pedestrian walkway that will give you a voyeurs view of the city, as it passes right by apartment windows.
3. Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat
   Dirty laundry from all over Mumbai is brought to this massive open air laundry and painstakingly hand washed in seemingly endless rows of concrete troughs.
4. Mahalakshmi Racecourse
   Rated as one of the best racecourses in Asia, the Mahalaxmi Racecourse was built in 1883. The grandstand is a heritage structure.
5. Bandra-Worli Sea Link
   The 5.6 kilometer Bandra Worli Sealink, which crosses the Arabian Sea, is viewed as an engineering marvel.
6. Mumbai Local Train
   You've probably seen infamous photos of crowded Indian trains with passengers hanging out the doors and sitting on the roof -- that's the Mumbai local!
7. Film City
   Film City was built by the Maharastra state government in 1978 to help the Bollywood film industry and provide facilities for it.
8. Sewri Jetty
   See hundreds of flamingos against a unique backdrop of ships and cargo carriers in various states of repair.
9. Buffalo Tabelas
   These huge cowsheds house around 50,000 buffaloes, which supply 750,000 liters of fresh milk to the city every day.

8 Places to Visit in Mumbai -- Children's Entertainment

Sharell Cook

Spending time in Mumbai with children? These places will keep them entertained.

1. Nehru Science Center
   India's largest interactive science center has eight acres of science park, and more than 50 hands-on science exhibits.
2. Nehru Planetarium
   Learn about the stars and the wonders of the universe.
3. Reserve Bank of India Monetary Museum
   Presents history and exhibits of coins, notes, and financial instruments of ancient and contemporary India.
4. Ballard Bunder Gatehouse Navy Museum
   A 1920s heritage building, now dedicated to Mumbai's illustrious maritime history, located at Ballard Estate in the old Fort area of Mumbai.
5. Taraporewala Aquarium
   Discover marine life in Mumbai.
6. IMAX Adlabs Theater
   This domed theater will delight the kids with a large screen 3D movie experience. Located in Wadala.
7. Hanging Garden & Kamala Nehru Park
   Children will love the topiary animals and giant shoe, which they can climb up to the top of. The park was recently given a makeover.
8. Essel World
   India's largest amusement park.
9. Water Kingdom
   Asia's largest theme water park. Can be visited in combination with Essel World.
10. Bombay Natural History Society
    Offers nature trails and camps that are perfect for experiencing the great outdoors!

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5 Places to Visit in Mumbai -- People and Culture

www.flickr.com user lecercle.

Get an understanding of the people and communities that make up Mumbai by visiting these places.

1. Koli Fishing Village
   The city's original inhabitants, the Koli fisher folk, have kept their traditional occupation and culture. See them and their colorful fishing boats at Cuffe Parade, and also unloading and selling fish at Ferry Warf.
2. Dhabawallas
   These thousands of men are responsible for transporting and delivering around 200,000 lunch boxes of freshly cooked food to the city's office workers every day.
3. Mani Bhawan
   Mahatma Gandhi's small home in Mumbai is now a museum dedicated to remembering his life and work.
4. FD Alpaiwalla Museum
   A community museum that showcases the Parsi religion and culture. It's full of local history and has a diverse collection of artifacts. Khareghat Memorial Hall, Khareghat Colony, NS Patkar Marg, Kemps Corner, Mumbai.
5. Dharavi Slum Tour
   Get a different perspective of Dharavi Slum, as a close knit community full of thriving small scale industry. Prepare to be surprised because this not standard poverty tourism.