Mumbai Tourist Activities

Top Mumbai Tourist Activities & Places to visit

Mumbai is a vibrant and bustling city that is full of tourist activities. From exploring its rich history and culture to enjoying its beautiful beaches and bustling markets, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the top tourist activities to do in Mumbai.

10 Places to visit in Mumbai

Gateway of India:

The Gateway of India is a famous landmark in Mumbai that attracts tourists from all over the world. Built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary, the structure is a beautiful blend of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Visitors can take a boat ride from here to explore the nearby Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Marine Drive:

Marine Drive is a long stretch of road that runs along the Arabian Sea, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the city skyline. Also known as the Queen’s Necklace, the area is popular with joggers, walkers and couples looking for a romantic stroll. It’s a great spot to watch the sunset and take in the sights and sounds of the city.

Elephanta Caves:

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Elephanta Caves are a group of rock-cut temples dating back to the 5th century. Located on Elephanta Island, just a short boat ride from Mumbai, the caves are known for their intricate carvings and sculptures depicting Hindu gods and goddesses. Visitors can explore the various caves and learn about their history and significance.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus:

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, also known as Victoria Terminus, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most impressive examples of Victorian Gothic architecture in India. Built in 1887, the station serves as the headquarters of the Central Railway and is a major transportation hub in Mumbai. Visitors can admire the stunning architecture and learn about the history of the railways in India.

Juhu Beach:

Juhu Beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful sunsets. Visitors can take a stroll along the beach, try some street food or watch the locals play cricket. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy the laid-back vibe of Mumbai.

Crawford Market:

Crawford Market is a bustling shopping district in Mumbai, known for its vibrant atmosphere and wide range of goods. Visitors can browse through the various stalls and shops selling everything from fresh produce to clothing and electronics. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs and experience the local culture.

Siddhivinayak Temple:

The Siddhivinayak Temple is a popular Hindu temple in Mumbai, dedicated to the elephant-headed god Ganesha. Visitors can take part in the daily puja (prayer) and seek the blessings of the deity. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

Haji Ali Dargah:

The Haji Ali Dargah is a famous Islamic shrine in Mumbai, located on a small island off the coast of Worli. Visitors can take a walk along the causeway to reach the shrine and admire the beautiful architecture. The dargah is a popular spot for devotees and visitors seeking peace and blessings.

Film City:

Film City is a major film studio complex in Mumbai, known for producing some of the biggest Bollywood films. Visitors can take a guided tour of the studios and learn about the process of filmmaking. It’s a great place to experience the glitz and glamour of the Indian film industry.

Nehru Planetarium:

The Nehru Planetarium is a popular attraction in Mumbai, known for its interactive exhibits and educational programs. Visitors can learn about astronomy and space exploration through various exhibits, shows and workshops. It’s a great place to inspire young minds and nurture a love for science.

Adventure Activities

Mumbai may be known for its bustling city life, but it also offers a variety of adventurous activities for thrill-seekers. Here are some of the top adventure activities in Mumbai:

Paragliding:

Paragliding is an exhilarating experience that offers stunning views of the city and the sea. Visitors can take a tandem paragliding ride with a trained instructor from Kamshet, a popular spot for paragliding located just a few hours from Mumbai.

Scuba Diving:

Scuba diving is a popular activity in Mumbai, with several diving spots along the coast. Visitors can explore the underwater world and see a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, corals, and sea turtles.

Skydiving:

Skydiving is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers an adrenaline rush like no other. Visitors can take a tandem skydiving jump from a height of 10,000 feet, enjoying breathtaking views of the city and the sea.

Bungee Jumping:

Bungee jumping is a thrilling activity that involves jumping from a height while attached to a bungee cord. Visitors can try bungee jumping from a height of 150 feet at Della Adventure Park, located just a few hours from Mumbai.

Rock Climbing:

Rock climbing is a popular activity for adventure enthusiasts, and Mumbai offers several spots for rock climbing, including the Sanjay Gandhi National Park and Kanheri Caves.

Kayaking:

Kayaking is a fun way to explore the city’s waterways and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Visitors can take a guided kayaking tour of the backwaters of Mumbai, spotting a variety of bird species and wildlife along the way.

ATV Rides:

ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) rides are a fun way to explore the rugged terrain of the city’s outskirts. Visitors can take a guided ATV tour of the hills and valleys near Mumbai, enjoying the scenic views and the thrill of riding on rough terrain.

Water Sports:

Mumbai offers a variety of water sports, including jet skiing, water skiing, wakeboarding, and banana boat rides. Visitors can enjoy these activities at several beaches and water sports centers along the coast.

Overall, Mumbai offers a wide range of adventurous activities that cater to all levels of skill and experience. Whether you’re a first-time adventurer or a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone in this bustling city.

Foodie Tour

Mumbai is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of delicious and diverse cuisine. Here are some of the top foodie experiences to try on a tour of Mumbai:

1. Street Food: Mumbai is famous for its street food, which offers a variety of flavors and textures. Visitors can try popular street foods like vada pav (potato fritter sandwich), pav bhaji (vegetable curry with buttered bread), bhel puri (puffed rice snack), and sev puri (crispy flatbread topped with chutney and sev).
2. Seafood: Mumbai is located on the coast, making seafood a popular cuisine in the city. Visitors can try fresh seafood dishes like fish curry, prawn fry, crab masala, and tandoori pomfret at popular seafood restaurants like Gajalee, Trishna, and Mahesh Lunch Home.
3. Irani Cafe: Mumbai’s Irani cafes offer a unique culinary experience, with a blend of Iranian and Indian flavors. Visitors can try signature dishes like bun maska (buttered bread), keema pav (minced meat sandwich), and brun maska chai (bread, butter, and tea) at popular Irani cafes like Kyani and Co., Britannia and Co., and Cafe Military.
4. Vegetarian Food: Mumbai has a large population of vegetarians, making vegetarian food a popular cuisine in the city. Visitors can try vegetarian dishes like paneer tikka, palak paneer, aloo gobi, and dal makhani at popular vegetarian restaurants like Swati Snacks, Rajdhani Thali, and Pancham Puriwala.
5. Desserts: Mumbai offers a variety of delicious desserts, from traditional Indian sweets to international desserts. Visitors can try desserts like rabdi, gulab jamun, kulfi, and falooda at popular sweet shops like K.Rustom’s Ice Cream, Badshah Cold Drink House, and Bachelorr’s.
6. Fine Dining: Mumbai also offers a range of fine dining experiences, with several Michelin-starred and celebrity chef restaurants in the city. Visitors can try gourmet dishes like lobster thermidor, wagyu beef, and caviar at popular fine dining restaurants like The Table, Masque, and Wasabi by Morimoto.

Overall, a foodie tour of Mumbai offers a wide range of culinary experiences, from street food to fine dining, and everything in between. With so many delicious options to try, visitors are sure to leave Mumbai with a satisfied stomach and a newfound appreciation for Indian cuisine.

Dharavi Tour

Dharavi is one of the largest slums in Asia, located in the heart of Mumbai. Despite its reputation as a poverty-stricken area, Dharavi is a hub of small-scale industry, with thousands of businesses and over a million people living and working in the area. A tour of Dharavi offers a unique glimpse into the lives and livelihoods of the people who call this area home. Here are some of the top experiences to have on a Dharavi tour:

1. Walking Tour: A walking tour of Dharavi is the best way to explore the narrow lanes and alleys of the slum. Visitors can see the bustling businesses of the area, including leather workshops, pottery units, and recycling centers.
2. Local Market: Dharavi has a vibrant local market, where visitors can find everything from fresh produce to traditional Indian clothes. The market is a great place to interact with the locals and experience the lively atmosphere of the area.
3. Pottery Workshop: Dharavi is known for its pottery workshops, which produce a variety of ceramic products like cups, plates, and decorative items. Visitors can see the skilled craftsmen at work and even try their hand at pottery-making.
4. Recycling Center: Dharavi is a major hub for recycling, with a number of recycling centers in the area. Visitors can see the recycling process in action, including the sorting, cleaning, and processing of various materials like plastic, cardboard, and metal.
5. Community Center: Dharavi has several community centers, which provide education and support to the local residents. Visitors can interact with the staff and volunteers at the centers and learn about the various initiatives and programs they offer.
6. Street Art: Dharavi has a growing street art scene, with several murals and graffiti walls popping up in the area. Visitors can see the colorful and vibrant artwork and learn about the messages and themes behind them.

Overall, a tour of Dharavi offers a unique perspective on Mumbai and its people. Despite the challenges and hardships of living in a slum, the residents of Dharavi are resilient and resourceful, and their entrepreneurial spirit is a testament to the human spirit. A tour of Dharavi is a humbling and eye-opening experience, and a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the real Mumbai.

Food and Festivals

Mumbai is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, and this diversity is reflected in its festivals and food. Here are some of the top festivals and food experiences to try in Mumbai:

Festivals:

1. Ganesh Chaturthi: Ganesh Chaturthi is one of the biggest festivals in Mumbai, celebrated in honor of Lord Ganesha. The festival is marked by elaborate pandals (temporary structures) and colorful processions, with music, dance, and feasting.
2. Diwali: Diwali is the festival of lights, celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor in Mumbai. The city comes alive with lights, fireworks, and rangoli decorations, and families gather to exchange sweets and gifts.
3. Holi: Holi is the festival of colors, celebrated with great energy and joy in Mumbai. People throw colored powders and water at each other, and the streets come alive with music and dance.
4. Eid: Eid is the biggest Muslim festival in Mumbai, celebrated with feasting and prayer. The city’s Muslim neighborhoods come alive with festive lights and decorations, and families gather to share traditional dishes like biryani and kebabs.

Food:

1. Street Food: Mumbai is famous for its street food, offering a wide range of delicious and affordable cuisine. Visitors can try popular street foods like vada pav, pav bhaji, bhel puri, and sev puri.
2. Seafood: Mumbai is located on the coast, making seafood a popular cuisine in the city. Visitors can try fresh seafood dishes like fish curry, prawn fry, crab masala, and tandoori pomfret at popular seafood restaurants.
3. Irani Cafe: Mumbai’s Irani cafes offer a unique culinary experience, with a blend of Iranian and Indian flavors. Visitors can try signature dishes like bun maska, keema pav, and brun maska chai at popular Irani cafes.
4. Vegetarian Food: Mumbai has a large population of vegetarians, making vegetarian food a popular cuisine in the city. Visitors can try vegetarian dishes like paneer tikka, palak paneer, aloo gobi, and dal makhani at popular vegetarian restaurants.
5. Fine Dining: Mumbai also offers a range of fine dining experiences, with several Michelin-starred and celebrity chef restaurants in the city. Visitors can try gourmet dishes like lobster thermidor, wagyu beef, and caviar at popular fine dining restaurants.

Overall, a trip to Mumbai offers a wide range of food and festival experiences, from street food to fine dining, and traditional festivals to modern celebrations. With so many options to choose from, visitors are sure to leave Mumbai with a full stomach and a rich cultural experience.

Where to stay

Mumbai is a vibrant city that offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly hostels or luxury hotels, there is something for everyone in Mumbai. Here are some popular areas to consider when looking for a place to stay in Mumbai:

1. Colaba: Colaba is a popular tourist destination and a great place to stay for first-time visitors to Mumbai. The area is home to several iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India and the Taj Mahal Palace hotel. Colaba offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels.
2. Bandra: Bandra is a trendy neighborhood that offers a mix of old-world charm and modern amenities. The area is home to several popular restaurants, bars, and cafes, as well as a range of accommodation options. Visitors can choose from boutique hotels, hostels, and serviced apartments in Bandra.
3. Juhu: Juhu is a popular area located on the coast of Mumbai, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea. The area is home to several high-end hotels and luxury apartments, as well as a range of popular restaurants and bars.
4. Andheri: Andheri is a bustling area in Mumbai, home to several business centers, shopping malls, and entertainment venues. The area offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury apartments and serviced residences.
5. Powai: Powai is a popular residential area in Mumbai, located near several corporate offices and IT parks. The area offers a range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, serviced apartments, and budget-friendly hostels.

Overall, Mumbai has a wide range of accommodation options to choose from, depending on your budget and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious stay or a budget-friendly hostel, there is something for everyone in Mumbai.

Essential Information

Here are some essential pieces of information to keep in mind when traveling to Mumbai:

1. Visa Requirements: Most visitors to Mumbai will need a valid visa to enter the country. Visitors can apply for a visa online or at their nearest Indian embassy or consulate. Make sure to check the visa requirements well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.
2. Language: The official language of Mumbai is Marathi, but English and Hindi are also widely spoken and understood in the city.
3. Currency: The currency in Mumbai is the Indian rupee. Visitors can exchange foreign currency at airports, banks, or currency exchange offices.
4. Transportation: Mumbai has a well-developed public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and taxis. Visitors can also use ride-hailing services like Uber and Ola to get around the city.
5. Climate: Mumbai has a tropical climate, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. The monsoon season in Mumbai runs from June to September, with heavy rainfall and occasional flooding.
6. Safety: Mumbai is a relatively safe city, but visitors should still take precautions to ensure their safety. Avoid walking alone at night, be wary of pickpockets and scammers, and take care when using public transportation.
7. Culture and Customs: Mumbai is a diverse and multicultural city, with a rich history and traditions. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
8. Electricity: The standard voltage in Mumbai is 220-240V. Visitors will need an adapter to use electrical devices from other countries.
9. Medical Facilities: Mumbai has several high-quality medical facilities, including public hospitals, private hospitals, and clinics. Visitors should ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.