18 Best places to visit in Mumbai
Welcome to Mumbai, the city that never sleeps and always surprises! Dive into a whirlwind of colours, flavours, and experiences as you explore the beating heart of India’s cultural and economic landscape. From the majestic Gateway of India to the serene shores of Juhu Beach, Mumbai beckons with its vibrant energy, rich history, and endless possibilities. Get ready to be captivated by the sights, sounds, and tastes of this dynamic metropolis, where every corner tells a story and every moment is an adventure waiting to unfold. Get set to embark on an unforgettable journey through the best of Mumbai’s attractions and discover why it’s truly the city of dreams!
Which are the top places to visit in Mumbai?
Mumbai, India’s bustling metropolis, offers a diverse array of attractions for visitors. Here are some of the most famous places in Mumbai which you can visit with your friends and family.
1. Gateway of India
The Gateway of India is a prominent monument in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. It was built during the British Raj era in the early 20th century to commemorate the landing of King George V and Queen Mary at Apollo Bunder (now Mumbai) during their visit to India in 1911.
The Gateway of India, blending Indo-Saracenic and Muslim architecture, stands as a historic symbol overlooking Mumbai’s waterfront.
- Best Time to Visit – Throughout the year
- Entry Fee – Free of cost
- Operational Hours – Open throughout the day
- Things to Do – Indulge in local delicacies while soaking in the sea breeze, and don’t miss a glimpse of the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel.
- How to Reach – Government buses are available, you can visit via private vehicles. You can rent a vehicle.
2. Elephanta Caves
The Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcase ancient rock-cut cave temples dedicated to Lord Shiva on Elephanta Island in Mumbai Harbor. Elephanta Caves are located near to Gateway of India, you can take a ferry ride to reach Elephanta Caves its about 30-40 minutes away via ferry trip.
- Best Time to Visit – November to February
- Entry Fee – ₹ 10 for Indians, ₹ 250 for foreigners, ₹ 150 for a round trip ferry ride
- Operational Hours – Every day of the week except Monday
- Things to Do – Explore the ecstatic artworks and sculptures in the caves.
- How to Reach – Government buses are available, you can visit via private vehicles. You can rent a vehicle, Ferry ride.
3. Marine Drive
Marine Drive is one of the Best places to visit in Mumbai, Marine Drive, also known as the Queen’s Necklace, is a picturesque promenade along the Arabian Sea in South Mumbai, offering stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere for visitors and locals alike. Main attraction of Marine Drive is its side walk.
- Best Time to Visit – March and October
- Entry Fee – Free of cost
- Operational Hours – Open all days
- Things to Do – View the sunset, have street food at Chowpatty
- How to Reach – Government buses are available, you can visit via private vehicles. You can rent a vehicle.
4. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) (Victoria Terminus)
Victoria Terminus, now known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), is a historic railway station in Mumbai, India. It is an architectural marvel, blending Victorian Gothic Revival and traditional Indian architectural styles, and serves as a major transportation hub connecting Mumbai with various parts of India. UNESCO designated this place as a World Heritage Site in 2004.
While serving as a hub for train arrivals and departures, the structure’s magnificent architecture never fails to inspire awe.
- Best Time to Visit – Throughout the year
- Entry Fees – Free of cost
- Operational Hours – Open all days
- Things to Do – Don’t miss out on exploring Kitab Mahal for book purchases and a visit to the historic St. Thomas Cathedral in Mumbai.
- How to Reach – Government buses are available, you can visit via private vehicles. You can rent a vehicle.
5. Haji Ali Shrine
Perched on a small islet off Mumbai’s coastline, the Haji Ali Shrine holds deep significance as an Islamic pilgrimage destination honouring the revered Muslim saint, Haji Ali. Its striking white dome and towering minarets symbolize a place of spiritual reverence and draw visitors from all walks of life seeking solace, blessings, and meaningful connections. Rising 85 feet tall, this revered structure occupies a plot of land spanning 4,500 square meters.
- Best Time to Visit – March and October
- Entry Fees – Free of cost
- Operational Hours – Open all days
- Things to Do – Every Friday, visitors have the opportunity to participate in a qawwali session and offer their respects at the Shrine.
- How to Reach – Via water and road
6. Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is one of the Best places to visit in Mumbai, draws approximately 2 million visitors annually, making it a top choice for exploration and nature enthusiasts.
Its diverse flora and fauna, along with the ancient Kanheri Caves dating back 2400 years, make it a preferred destination for many.
- Best Time to Visit – September to March
- Entry Fees – There are charges for different activities but no entry fees as such
- Opening Timings – Open every day from 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM
- Things to Do – Experience a tiger and lion safari, stroll through nature, enjoy boating, delve into the Kanheri Caves, explore Buddhist Viharas, visit the Trimurti temple, and hop aboard the vanrani narrow gauge train for a complete adventure at Sanjay Gandhi National Park.
- How to Reach – Government buses are available, you can visit via private vehicles. You can rent a vehicle.
7. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum, is a prestigious institution showcasing a vast collection of art, artifacts, and archaeological exhibits, celebrating India’s rich heritage and history. The museum contains more than 50,000 plus artifacts and organized according to sections dedicated to art, archaeology, and natural history.
- Best Time to Visit – Throughout the year
- Entry Fees – ₹ 20 for children, ₹ 85 for Indians, ₹ 500 for foreigners
- Opening Timings – Open every day from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Things to Do – Engage in museum exploration, join gallery events, and participate in art and craft activities.
- How to Reach – Government buses are available, you can visit via private vehicles. You can rent a vehicle.
8. Markets of Mumbai
Mumbai’s markets are a melting pot of culture and commerce, where you can immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of street vendors at the iconic Dadar Flower Market, haggle for spices and textiles at the vibrant Crawford Market, or stroll through the upscale shops and boutiques lining the fashionable streets of Bandra.
Mumbai is a shopping paradise, especially for its flea markets and fashion-focused street stores. Colaba Causeway, Hill Road, Linking Road, and Fashion Street are great spots for fashion finds at reasonable prices.
- Best Time to Visit – All year round, the best time to shop would be late afternoons and evenings
- Entry Fees – Free of cost
- Operational Hours – Every day from 11:00 AM to 7:30 PM
- Things to Do – Explore nearby cafes, shopping
- How to Reach – Government buses are available, you can visit via private vehicles. You can rent a vehicle.
9. Global Vipassana Pagoda
The Global Vipassana Pagoda, located in Mumbai’s Gorai area, is a majestic monument inaugurated in 2009, dedicated to the practice of Vipassana meditation. It serves as a serene retreat for meditation enthusiasts and visitors seeking tranquillity amidst lush surroundings. The talks here help explain Vipassana and Lord Buddha’s teachings in a clear way.
- Best Time to Visit – All year round, preferably early morning or late afternoon
- Entry Fees – Free of cost
- Operational Hours – Daily from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM
- Things to Do – Explore wall decorations, watch videos, check out books and souvenirs, see the Buddha Statue, and meditate.
- How to Reach – Government buses are available, you can visit via private vehicles. You can rent a vehicle.
10. Siddhivinayak Temple
The Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha, attracting devotees from far and wide. Its idol, believed to be self-manifested, and serene ambiance make it a popular destination for seeking blessings. Devotees visit especially during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi.
The Shri Ganesha image, roughly 2.5 feet tall and carved from a single black stone, is kept in a small sanctum within the temple.
- Best Time to Visit – June to December
- Entry Fees – Free of cost
- Operational Hours – Every day from 12:30 PM to 7:20 PM
- Things to Do – Seek blessings of Lord Ganesha
- How to Reach – Government buses are available, you can visit via private vehicles. You can rent a vehicle.
11. Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount
The Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount, also known as Mount Mary Church, is a historic Roman Catholic church in Mumbai, India, renowned for its Gothic and Romanesque architecture. It hosts the annual Bandra Fair in September, attracting devotees seeking blessings from the statue of Mother Mary believed to possess miraculous powers. Perched on a hillock overlooking the Arabian Sea, the church offers stunning views and is a popular pilgrimage and tourist destination.
The Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount, locally known as Mount Mary Church, stands as a remarkable example of its kind, situated atop a hillock 262 feet above sea level.
- Best Time to Visit – Throughout the year
- Entry Fees – Free of cost
- Operational Hours – Every day from 8:00 AM to 8:30 PM
- Things to Do – Explore the lively Bandra Fair, join the feast honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary, and attend the mass for a meaningful visit.
- How to Reach – Government buses are available, you can visit via private vehicles. You can rent a vehicle.
12. Flora Fountain
Flora Fountain, situated at Hutatma Chowk in South Mumbai, is a prominent heritage structure built in the 19th century. It serves as a significant landmark and gathering point in the city, surrounded by majestic colonial-era buildings including the Central Telegraph Office, Bombay High Court, and the Gateway of India. If you visit Flora Fountain, make sure to go in the evening to see the fountain beautifully illuminated.
- Best Time to Visit – Throughout the year
- Entry Fees – Free of cost
- Operational Hours – Open all day, every day of the week
- Things to Do – Explore the Hutatma Chowk, take part in a heritage walk around Mumbai
- How to Reach – Via water and road
13. Dr Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum
The Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum, Mumbai’s oldest museum, was established in 1855. Housed in a Victorian-era building in Byculla, it showcases the city’s cultural heritage through a diverse collection of artifacts and hosts educational programs and cultural events.
- Best Time to Visit – Throughout the year
- Entry Fee – ₹ 10 for Indians, ₹ 100 for foreigners
- Operational Hours – Open on Thursdays to Tuesdays from 10 AM- 6 PM
- Things to Do – Take part in art, culture and drama shows, participate in the exhibitions
- How to Reach – Via water and road
14. Fort Bassein
Fort Bassein, also known as Vasai Fort, is a historic Portuguese fort near Mumbai, featuring a blend of Portuguese and Indian architecture. It is a popular tourist destination, offering glimpses into colonial history and hosting cultural events. This grand structure, now in a state of ruin, played a significant role in various conflicts, including the Anglo-Maratha War.
- Best Time to Visit – July to January
- Entry Fees – Free of cost
- Operational Hours – Open every day; however, visitors are not allowed in the evening
- Things to Do – Explore the fort by hiking, visit the temple and church
- How to Reach – Government buses are available, you can visit via private vehicles. You can rent a vehicle.
15. Juhu Beach
Juhu Beach in Mumbai, India, is famous for its beautiful views and lively atmosphere. Visitors can walk along the shore, eat tasty street food, and enjoy the beach’s energetic vibe. Juhu Beach is among Maharashtra’s finest beaches and is home to the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust, which not only serves as a reptile zoo but also conducts research in herpetology and strives to conserve species.
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Open Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Except Monday)
Ideal Vacation Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Things to Do: Learn about crocodiles, and see them in their natural habitat
How to Reach: Government buses are available, you can visit via private vehicles. You can rent a vehicle.
16. Snow Kingdom
Snow Kingdom is an indoor snow park located in R City Mall, Mumbai, offering visitors a unique experience of playing in real snow regardless of the city’s warm climate. With activities like snowball fights and tubing, the park maintains a constant temperature of around -10°C to -15°C, providing a thrilling winter experience year-round.
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Open Hours: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, seven days a week.
Ideal Vacation Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Things to Do: Experience snowball fights, tubing, sledding, and more at Snow Kingdom, an indoor snow park in Mumbai.
How to Reach: Government buses are available, you can visit via private vehicles. You can rent a vehicle.
17. KidZania Mumbai
KidZania Mumbai, located in R City Mall, offers children aged 4 to 16 an immersive role-playing experience with over 100 real-world professions to explore. Children earn and spend KidZos currency while learning essential life skills in a safe and supervised environment.
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Open Hours: 9:AM to 6:00 PM, seven days a week.
Ideal Vacation Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Things to Do: Experience over 100 real-world professions through immersive role-playing activities at KidZania Mumbai.
How to Reach: KidZania Mumbai in R City Mall, Ghatkopar, is easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transportation, with nearby metro and bus stations.
18. Bandra-Worli Sea Link
The Bandra-Worli Sea Link is a 5.6-kilometer cable-stayed bridge in Mumbai, connecting Bandra and Worli. Opened in 2009, it offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and reduces travel time between the two areas, serving as an iconic symbol of Mumbai’s modern infrastructure.
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Open Hours: Open all day, every day of the week
Ideal Vacation Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Things to Do: Experience the breathtaking views and architectural marvel of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link while taking a scenic drive across the Arabian Sea in Mumbai.
How to Reach: You can reach the Bandra-Worli Sea Link in Mumbai by car, taxi, or public transportation.
Conclusion
Mumbai is a city that captivates and inspires with its rich tapestry of culture, history, and modernity. From the iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus to the bustling markets and serene beaches, Mumbai offers a diverse array of experiences for every traveller. Whether you’re exploring its historic monuments, indulging in its mouthwatering street food, or immersing yourself in its vibrant culture, Mumbai never fails to leave a lasting impression. So, pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey through the streets of Mumbai, where every moment is an adventure waiting to be discovered. Welcome to Mumbai, the city of dreams, where the magic of India comes alive in every corner!
Which are the best tourist places to visit in Pune?
Pune is one of the best tourist attractions in Maharashtra which has more than 15 forts around Pune and also have many historical places in Pune as well.
We have picked some of the best tourist attraction places for you. Kindly make sure to check below destinations if you are visiting Pune.