101 Places to Visit in Mumbai

Yes, 101 Places to Visit!

Victoria Terminus or Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) Mumbai India

Peter Adams/Getty Images

 

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, going on a walking tour is a great way to explore the city. Many of Mumbai's attractions are in Colaba and the Fort districts.

Are 101 places too many? If you want to focus on the most popular ones, take a look at these top Mumbai attractions. Visit them on one of these fascinating Mumbai tours or, follow these comprehensive itineraries for 48 hours in Mumbai and one week in Mumbai.

01 of 09

Architectural Landmarks

Gateway of India

 Vatsal Shah / TripSavvy

Mumbai's architecture is an eclectic blend of Gothic, Victorian, Art Deco, Indo-Saracenic and contemporary styles. Much of it remains from the colonial era of the British Raj. Notably, Mumbai has the second largest collection of Art Deco buildings in the world, after Miami. They received UNESCO World Heritage status in 2018, as part of the Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai. Many of them can be seen lining Marine Drive in South Mumbai.

  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 Mahal 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 among 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 semicircle. 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, built to resemble a German castle, to see a trial for some real entertainment and visit the court museum.
  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. It's illuminated on special occasions.
  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.
02 of 09

Street Art, Art Galleries and Performance Halls

Prince of Wales building

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Mumbai has a thriving arts precinct, Kala Ghoda, with abundant art galleries. Yet there are also some lesser-known places that will appeal to your creative side. No Footprints offers an excellent For the Love of Art tour that's conducted by a leading art connoisseur and includes many significant smaller galleries (book at least 14 days in advance).

  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: Mumbai'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. Royal Opera House: India's only surviving opera house, opened in 1912 and was recently given a makeover. It hosts diverse performances.
  8. Town Hall Asiatic Society: A heritage building built in 1833, located deep in the Mumbai's historic Fort area. It houses the city's public library and has been beautifully restored.
  9. Prithvi Theater: An intimate theater auditorium, built in 1978, and dedicated to being a catalyst for theater in Mumbai.
  10. Great Wall of Mumbai Project: A community-based art project to brighten city walls with colorful graffiti. View it best at Tulsi Pipe Road (Senapati Bapat Marg), from Mahim to Dadar.
  11. Ranwar Village, Bandra: Has quirky street art created by artists from all over the world.
  12. Sakshi Gallery: India's largest private gallery, established with the aim of supporting young and upcoming artists.
  13. Gallery Chemould: Longstanding art gallery, formed in 1963. It's since hosted some of the grandest names in Indian art.
  14. Tarq: Its name means "discussion, abstract reasoning, logic and cause" in Sanskrit. This contemporary art gallery aims to distinguish itself from the rest by growing a conversation around art.
  15. Chatterjee & Lal: Remarkable because it hosts live performance art events. Promotes young, cutting edge artists.
  16. Tasveer: Unique in Mumbai because it focus on the photographic arts.
  17. Institute of Contemporary Indian Art: The largest grass root gallery in India, spread over three floors in the Kala Ghoda Arts Precinct. It exhibits contemporary paintings and sculptures by well known Indian artists. It's also possible to shop for art online here
03 of 09

Religious Landmarks

Two people dwarfed by the large cave sculptures in the elephanta caves

TripSavvy / Shraddha Gosavi

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. Mumba Devi Temple: The Mumba Devi Temple is dedicated to the goddess Mumba, whom the city of Mumbai was named after, and that's what makes this temple noteworthy. You can find it near Dagina Bazar on Mumbadevi Road
  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. Saint Thomas's Cathedral: This cathedral offers a peaceful respite in a busy part of the city and is renowned for its award-winning stained glass work. The first Anglican church in Mumbai, it dates back to 1718.
  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.
04 of 09

Restaurants, Street Food and Bars

Aer bar, Mumbai.
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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! For more suggestions, check out these top taprooms and brew pubs in Mumbai, top Mumbai hangouts with cheap beer, top Indian cuisine restaurants in Mumbai, and top Mumbai bars.

  1. Bademiya: Legendary roadside restaurant in Colaba, serving mouthwatering kebabs.
  2. Leopold Cafe: Relive the epic book "Shantaram" here.
  3. Mahesh Lunch Home: Started in 1977 and famous for seafood in Mumbai.
  4. Thirsty City 127: Mumbai's newest brewpub is super sexy and has craft cocktails as well.
  5. Aer Bar: Views across Mumbai from the 34th floor of the Four Seasons Hotel, Worli. Get there early for sunset happy hours.
  6. Flea Bazaar Cafe: Innovative new concept that brings young Indian food entrepreneurs together with live music and a community bar that has local brews and cocktails on tap.
  7. Ranade Road and Dadar Market: Popular with the local Maharashtrian community. Mumbai Magic conducts food tours of this area.
  8. Yazdani Bakery: This historic Iranian bakery in crowded Bora Bazaar precinct of the Fort district has an eccentric elderly proprietor and old-world charm. Go there for a fruit pie and tea.
Continue to 5 of 9 below.
05 of 09

Shopping Street and Markets

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Mumbai doesn't have as many markets as, say, Delhi. However, there are still plenty of places to spend your rupees. These top markets in Mumbai, top places to buy handicrafts in Mumbai, and top shopping malls in Mumbai have more details.

  1. Linking Road, Bandra: 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. The shopping center is near the intersections of Linking Road and Waterfield Road in Bandra West, Mumbai.
  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 Phoenix: Mumbai's premier mall just keeps growing! It includes a luxury retail precinct called the Palladium.
06 of 09

Beaches, Parks and Promenades

 Vatsal Shah / TripSavvy

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. 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. It's best known for its ancient Kanheri Buddhist caves.
07 of 09

Infrastructure Landmarks

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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. Bandra-Worli Sea Link: The 3.5-mile (5.6-kilometer) Bandra Worli Sealink, which crosses the Arabian Sea, is viewed as an engineering marvel.
  2. J.J. Flyover: This snake-like, 1.5-mile- (2.5-kilometer-) long bridge passes over one of the most congested areas of Mumbai. It reveals a gallery of life.
  3. Grant Road Sky Walk: A 2,100-foot (650-meter pedestrian walkway that will give you a voyeurs view of the city, as it passes right by apartment windows.
  4. 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.
  5. Mahalaxmi Racecourse: Rated as one of the best racecourses in Asia, the Mahalaxmi Racecourse was built in 1883. The grandstand is a heritage structure.
  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. Dadar Flower Market: Mumbai's largest wholesale flower market has over 700 stalls overflowing with blooms. It's a photographer's delight.
  8. Film City: Film City was built by the Maharashtra state government in 1978 to help the Bollywood film industry and provide facilities for it.
  9. Sewri Jetty: See hundreds of flamingos (seasonal) against a unique backdrop of ships and cargo carriers in various states of repair.
  10. Buffalo Tabelas: These huge cowsheds house around 50,000 buffaloes, which supply 750,000 liters of fresh milk to the city every day.
08 of 09

Children's Entertainment

Hanging garden, Mumbai.

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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 at the country's oldest aquarium, located on Marine Drive. The aquarium has undergone renovation and reopened in February, 2015. Its key attraction is a 12 foot long, 360 degree, acrylic glass tunnel for visitors to walk though. The aquarium has over 400 species of fish.
  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 and Water Kingdom: India's largest amusement park and Asia's largest theme water park. Can be visited in combination.
  9. Bombay Panjrapole: A cow shelter, deep in the bazaars of Bhuleshwar, in south Mumbai.
  10. Chhatrapathi Shivaj Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya: Has many exhibits of interest to kids, plus a new 6,000 square foot Children's Museum that's curated by children.
Continue to 9 of 9 below.
09 of 09

People and Culture

Fisherwoman in Mumbai.

Neil Emmerson / Getty Images

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

  1. Koli Fishing Community: The city's original inhabitants, the Koli fisher folk, have kept their traditional occupation and culture. See them and their colorful fishing boats early in the morning at Sassoon Dock in Colaba or visit the Koli fishing village in Worli.
  2. Dabbawallas: 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: 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.