Bandra Kurla Complex is a planned commercial complex in the Indian city of Mumbai, which has now become a hub of swanky restaurants, quaint cafés, and lively pubs and bars. What I like about here is its strategic location between Western Express Highway and Eastern Express Highway. Moreover, this area is home to several companies’ headquarters, and its proximity to several entertainment and shopping options and smooth infrastructure make it one of the most sought-after places in Mumbai.
You can easily spend a day exploring the many things Bandra Kurla Complex has to offer. I have curated a detailed guide to Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai, to help you navigate this area and experience the best of it. Scroll down to learn more.
1. Things to do / highlights
Catch a show at Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
The Grand Theatre is the crown jewel of the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre. With state-of-the-art facilities that...
Posted by Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre on Wednesday, March 15, 2023
Inaugurated in 2023, Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre, located inside Jio World Convention Centre, is a multi-disciplinary cultural venue that promotes India’s culture and arts. It’s divided into several spaces, including the 16,000 sq ft (1486.45 sq m) Art House, which displays several installations and exhibitions of Indian and global art.
I suggest visiting the Infinity Mirrored Room to witness the optical illusions and patterns created by flickering LED lights, which create an impression of an infinite universe. The charges are 100 INR (1.20 USD) for a five-minute show. You can also check the official website for other permanent and temporary exhibitions and events.
Admire Fountain of Joy, Dhirubhai Ambani Square
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Just outside the cultural center, you’ll find Dhirubhai Ambani Square where a colorful, captivating musical fountain show is performed. Its lotus-inspired design showcases the spirit of Mumbai, and its water jets can soar up to 45 ft (13.72 m) high in the air. The 30-minute show is truly mesmerizing, and it’s organized every week from Wednesday through Sunday at 7:30pm.
The entry is free, but you’ll have to book an online pass. Since the show gets sold out within seconds, I recommend booking it in advance. Although it’s a free-standing event, the organizers can arrange seating for pregnant ladies, senior citizens, and guests with reduced mobility.
Go on a shopping spree at Phoenix Marketcity
Beat the heat by spending your afternoon at Phoenix Marketcity, touted as the largest mall in Mumbai. It has over 700 shops of luxury and high-end brands to choose from, so you can indulge in a shopping spree. After that, watch your favorite movies at PVR Cinema or fill your belly with delicious food from around 100 eateries in the food court.
This mall is my favorite spot because of Snow World and Timezone. You can play arcade games or try the mystery rooms with your companions. The best part is that the mall has regular events, live performances, and flea markets, so check for them on the official website if you don’t wish to miss out on the fun.
Indulge in birdwatching at Maharashtra Nature Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Maharashtra Nature Park is an oasis of green cover located around 4.3 km (2.67 mi) away from Jio World Convention Centre. It’s developed on a former dumping ground to educate and create awareness about the conservation of nature.
If you’re a nature enthusiast, you can opt for its nature trail and explore the biodiversity, which includes shrubs and woody trees, spiders, bats, exotic birds, and butterflies. The park is open from 8:30am to 3:30pm, so plan your visit accordingly. The entry fee is 20 INR (0.24 USD), and you’ll have to pay an additional 30 INR (0.36 USD) for parking should you plan on bringing your car.
Relish delicious meals at The Capital
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Head to The Capital, around 1.3 km (0.81 mi) from Jio World Convention Centre, if you’re fascinated with exemplary architecture. This eco-friendly structure is a USP LEED-certified gold building, and you can visit here to explore its grand lobby and relish a beverage at one of the cafés in the sky lobby.
Along with housing the headquarters of several big companies, The Capital also has a list of eateries, including Theobroma, SodaBottleOpenerWala, Capital Social, Punjab Grill, and more. Moreover, car owners can avail of its automated parking services.
Unwind amidst the greenery at Jio garden gate 1
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
In the middle of the concrete jungle lies Jio garden gate 1, which is the largest open-air turf in the western part of the city. The park is aesthetically decorated with a serene lotus pond and enchanting water fountains.
On non-event days, you can access the park and jog, run, stretch, or play with your companions for a minimal entry fee of 10 INR (0.12 USD). The timings are 5:30am to 10am, 12pm-2pm, and 4pm to 7pm.
2. Where to eat
Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
We have a sweet update for you See you soon! #MasalaLibrary #MasalaLibraryMumbai #MasalaLibraryByJiggsKalra #Mumbai #IndianCuisine #MumbaiFoodie
Posted by Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra, Mumbai on Sunday, September 18, 2022
Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra is celebrated for blending Indian gastronomy with modern techniques and presenting it innovatively. Its diverse menu brilliantly highlights the rich tapestry of traditional Indian cuisine, by fusing classic flavors with innovative presentations that burst with vibrant colors. If you’re visiting here, I suggest trying the masala chai ice cream, maska buns, and bhindi chaar pyaza which are my favorite.
The two things I loved here were the taste of the food and the unique serving style.
Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra
Address: Ground Floor, First International Financial Centre (CITI Bank Building), G Block, Opposite Sofitel Hotel, Bandra - Kurla Complex (BKC), Bandra (E), Mumbai – 400051, Maharashtra, India
Website: Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra
Opening hours: 12pm - 3pm & 7pm - 11pm (daily)
Blah!
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Experience a blast of flavors at this Instagram-worthy restaurant in Bandra Kurla Complex named Blah! Step into this oasis and admire the pastel decor and green plants suspended from ceilings as you savor continental, Indian, and pan-Asian delicacies. The food portion is perfect, and the presentation makes it even more appealing.
My top recommendations would be their farm-fresh pizza and Nutella French toast. Also, you’ll find several Pinterest-worthy spots here to click beautiful pictures with your gang!
Blah!
Address: Ground Floor, G-4, The Capital, G Block BKC, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400051, India
Opening hours: 12pm - 12am (daily)
Pondichéry Café - All-day Dining
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Pondichéry Café - All-day Dining boasts a relaxing atmosphere where you can savor buffet meals and lip-smacking French delicacies. This multi-cuisine restaurant offers Western, Mediterranean, Indian, and Asian dishes to suit every palette. In addition to its live counters, this place also has vegetarian, seafood, and vegan options.
While you’re here with your date, head to the dessert counter to sample mouthwatering sweet dishes. If you don’t wish to opt for a buffet, you can order from the à la carte menu.
3. Travel tips
Take Yulu bike rides
I vividly remember when Yulu bikes took Bandra Kurla Complex by storm a few years ago, and it remains my top recommendation for anyone exploring this area. What makes it even more appealing is that Bandra Kurla Complex has a dedicated cycling track ensuring a delightful experience. All you need to do is download the application and unlock a bike using the QR code. You can pay for the ride directly from the wallet after ending it.
Bandra Kurla Complex has several Yulu bike stands, and the rates are pretty nominal, thus making it a must-try activity with your companions.
4. How to get there
By train
The nearest train station is Bandra Station if you’re traveling on the Western line and Kurla station if you’re traveling on the Central and Harbour lines.
You can hire a shared auto from outside these stations to your preferred destination in Bandra Kurla Complex, which is the most cost-effective method to reach here.
By bus
Several buses depart from Bandra and Kurla stations towards Bandra Kurla Complex, and the tickets start from 5 INR (0.06 USD).
By Metro
Bandra Kurla Complex will have its Metro station once the upcoming Line 3 (Colaba-SEEPZ) is completed. Meanwhile, you can travel on Metro line 1 (Versova to Ghatkopar), get down at Jagruti Nagar, and hire an auto rickshaw to reach your destination.
By auto rickshaw/taxi or private cabs
The easiest way of commuting to Bandra Kurla Complex is by hiring a cab if you’re coming from south Mumbai or an auto rickshaw if you’re coming from the suburbs. Alternatively, you can book a ride on the Uber or Ola application and experience a seamless ride to your destination.
Explore the up-scale commercial hub of Mumbai
Bandra Kurla Complex boasts business headquarters, lively pubs, posh restaurants, and excellent physical and social infrastructure. If you’re planning to spend a day here, use this guide to make sure you don’t miss out on the fun!
History
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