21 Best Places To Visit In Mumbai, India - Updated 2024

Louise
Louise 
Updated
| 10 min read
Nishi Jain
Endorsed by a Mumbai Local Expert
|
Nishi Jain

Formerly named Bombay, Mumbai City is a vibrant metropolis in the western part of India. On record, it is the largest city in the country, a financial hub, and a business district. Here in the city of dreams, you’ll find lots of upscale attractions, excellent restaurants, delicious street food, rich flora, and iconic landmarks. The marvelous Gateway of India welcomes you as you enter the city. While in Mumbai City, be sure to visit Elephanta Island and check out the Elephanta Caves with its stunning sculpted cave temples. Also, visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and see a majestic example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. You can not end your Mumbai escapade without paying a visit to Juhu Beach, Chowpatty Beach, ISKCON Temple, and the Global Vipassana Pagoda. For a more in-depth guide, here is a list of fantastic places to visit in Mumbai, India. Feel free to check it out below.

Don't forget to check out recommendations by local tour guide at the end of the article

1. Kanheri Caves (from USD 112.0)

Got so much time in your hands while on a vacation to Mumbai City? If so, spend some time exploring the Kanheri Caves and the rich flora through this private half-day excursion trip. Nesting in the rich flora of Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Borivali East lies the rock-cut monuments and a group of caves called Kanheri Caves. With an informative guide, participants of the tour will be exploring these caves and will be immersed in the area’s ancient Buddhist culture. Hotel pick up and drop off is included in this tour package for guests’ added convenience.

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Private Half-Day Kanheri Caves Excursion from Mumbai

Duration: 4 hours

6 reviews

2. Jehangir Art Gallery (from USD 83.0)

Dip into the vibrant art scene of Mumbai City with this fantastic half-day sightseeing city tour. One of the major attractions that you will get to visit during the tour is the fascinating Jehangir Art Gallery. Founded by Sir Cowasji Jehangir in 1952, the Jehangir Art Gallery is a prime exhibition space on Mahatma Gandhi Road, Kala Ghoda. Jehangir Art Gallery features paintings, sculptures, and other masterpieces from talented Indians. But the Jehangir Art Gallery is only one of the several stops on this tour. You will also visit the Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, Haji Ali Mosque, Babulnath Temple, Marine Drive, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, and more. This is a fantastic tour package for families or groups of friends who want to see most of the city’s tourist attractions in half a day.

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Highlights of the Mumbai (Guided Half Day Sightseeing City Tour)

Duration: 4 hours

1 review

3. Hanging Gardens (from USD 53.0)

Also known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens, Perched at the top of Malabar Hill, the Hanging Gardens is a breathtaking terraced garden with lovely lush vegetation and beautiful array of flora. Also, the garden is filled with charming animal-shaped hedges that add charm to it. Book this Mumbai sightseeing full-day tour and get to witness the beauty of the Hanging Gardens. Not only that, but you will also visit other tourist attractions such as Taraporewala Aquarium, Prince of Wales Museum, Marine Drive, Gateway of India, Juhu Beach, and a lot more. A complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off service is provided for guests’ added convenience.

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Mumbai Sightseeing Full-Day Tour with Ferry Ride

Duration: 10 hours

5 reviews

4. Mumbai Film City (from USD 154.0)

The Mumbai Film City is a busy integrated film studio complex in Mumbai. Lots of Bollywood films were shot in this location. Also considered one of the most visited tourist hubs in the city, visitors get to see production sets, film props, and other iconic settings in the Mumbai Film City. Visit this fascinating tourist attraction through this Mumbai Film City and Bollywood tour with a meal and get to know the ropes of filming. Plus, a sumptuous meal awaits guests of the tour package. Enjoy bonding with other tourists and making friends with them throughout the visit.

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Mumbai Film City and Bollywood Tour with Meal

Duration: 7 hours

18 reviews

Mumbai Tour Guide

Sukanya Roy Choudhury

Sukanya Roy Choudhury

I am a licensed guide but Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation. I am also a visiting faculty teaching travel and tourism in the University of Mumbai and Patkar Varde College. Have alot of fun facts and stories about the city which I would be happy to share.

Tours by Sukanya

5. Nehru Science Centre

Nehru Science Centre19
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Viraj used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Located in Worli, Nehru Science Center is considered the largest science museum not only in Mumbai City but also in the whole of India. Its name is derived from Jawaharlal Nehru, the first prime minister of India. This beautiful museum showcases scientific tools, equipment, and other fascinating objects. It also has exhibits and galleries that show tourists the development of science and technology through time. Lots of activities also await tourists visiting the Nehru Science Center. Being here will quench your thirsty thought and imaginative mind.

Nehru Science Centre

Address: Worli, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400018, India

Website: Nehru Science Centre

Opening hours: 9:30am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 1 USD

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6. Jijamata Udyaan

Macaw At Jijamata Udyan
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Sahil Naseer used under CC BY-SA 4.0

If you’re traveling to Mumbai with your family, especially the kids, bring them to the Jijamata Udyaan for a fantastic time at the Mumbai zoo. Popularly known as Byculla Zoo, this fascinating home to animals is popular among tourists driving in Byculla. It has lions, elephants, penguins, turtles, and other rare fellows. If you want to disconnect from the city and have a break from all the museum and temple visits and other touristy stuff, the Jijamata Udyaan is a fantastic place to visit. Watch your kids have the best time interacting with friendly animals and learn interesting facts about them in this Mumbai zoo.

Jijamata Udyaan

Address: 91A, Lalbaug Flyover, Near Railway Station, Byculla East, Byculla, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400027, India

Website: Jijamata Udyaan

Opening hours: Thu - Tue: 9:30am - 5:50pm (closed on Wed)

Price: 1 USD

Tip from Trip101 local expert

Nishi

Nishi
Mumbai

I fondly remember the time when my grandmother used to take me to Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan And Zoo, fondly known as Buyculla Zoo or Rani Baug, for a day picnic. It was always so fascinating to watch the lions and tigers giving us a blink-and-miss appearance. It's one of the oldest zoos in the country and also houses the Humboldt Penguins, which were recently added to the family. The ticket price is 50 INR (0.60 USD) for adults and 25 INR (0.30) for kids. Moreover, the zoo is only an 11-minute walk from Byculla station. If you're coming from Western Line, get down at Mahalaxmi station and take a taxi/cab to the zoo. Be sure to carry lots of snacks and water, and wear comfortable shoes. You can plan an early morning visit and have a family picnic on the vast lawn.

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7. Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Mandai (from USD 100.0)

If you want to learn more about the city’s culture and lifestyle, you should check out the hustle and bustle at Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Mandai. It is a bustling marketplace with lots of retail stores, restaurants, souvenir shops, and other businesses. It is a fantastic place to try the city’s authentic eats and bag home some artisan products. Through this nine-hour excursion tour explore the Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Mandai and other interesting sites such as the Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Marine Drive, Gandhi Museum, and a lot more.

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Mumbai Shore Excursion: Full-Day Mumbai Private Guided Tour

Duration: 8 to 9 hours

1 review

8. Mahakali Caves

Mahakali caves (3)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ashish1594 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Just 20 minutes away from Juhu Beach is The Mahakali Caves, also referred to as Kondivite Caves. It features a total of 19 rock-cut monuments that date back to the 1st century to the 6th century. In the main cave, you’ll find Buddha figures that are relevant to the culture and religion of Indians. One of the nine caves in the Mahakali Caves, the largest, features seven depictions of Buddhist figures. These caves are carved from volcanic trap breccias that are prone to weathering. Be sure to have your camera of smartphone ready when you visit the Makahali Caves as this place is unique, and being here is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Mahakali Caves

Address: Mahakali Caves Rd, Sunder Nagar, Andheri East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400093, India

Website: Mahakali Caves

Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)

Price: .50 USD

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9. Haji Ali Dargah (from USD 8.4)

haji ali dargah
Source: www.klook.com

Located in Worli, the Haji Ali Darga, also known as the monument of Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, is a stunning mosque and dargah that features a combination of the Indo-Islamic style of architecture and modern Muslim architecture. Opened in 1431, this place of worship are an architectural wonder and a sacred site in one. Haji Ali Dargah is considered one of the most iconic sites in the city, and lots of tourists from around the world make sure to visit it when they come to Mumbai City. The majestic structure of Haji Ali is a stunning testament to the beauty and intricacy of the diverse architecture of the city and its cultural influences.

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Divinity Walking Tour in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India - Klook

Duration: 2hrsDuration

10. Colaba Causeway Market

Antiques being sold on Colaba Causeway
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user https://www.flick... used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Before going home to your hometown, be sure to drop by the Colaba Causeway Market. It is one of the busiest places in Mumbai. This shopping district features various businesses from retail shops, souvenir stores, boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls. Just like Chor Bazaar, which boasts stunning Muslim architecture and a plethora of unique treasures, Colaba Causeway Market is a fantastic place to go to as well, especially if you want to learn the Indian way of life and score some quality finds. Bag as many items as you can, and distribute them between your family and friends when you get home to your hometown.

Colaba Causeway Market

Address: Bakery Ln, Army Area, Nofra, Navy Nagar, Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400005, India

Opening hours: 10am - 9pm (daily)

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11. Sha'ar Harahamin

Shaar Harahamin Synagogue, Mumbai, Plaque 2
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Rangan Datta Wiki used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Immerse in the Jewish heritage of Mumbai through this fantastic private tour. Spend half a day visiting some remarkable synagogues in the city such as the Gate of Mercy, Sha'ar Harahamin, Keneseth Eliyahoo Jewish orthodox synagogue, and others. Also, included in the fascinating places to drop by during the trip are the historic Sassoon Docks, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. With a professional guide and a comfortable transport vehicle, you will surely get to enjoy a private adventure in Mumbai with your family or friends. Learn about the Jewish side of the diverse heritage of Mumbai.

Sha'ar Harahamin

Address: Tembi Naka, Thane 440601

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12. Taraporewala Aquarium (from USD 53.0)

Make the most of your Mumbai city adventure through this superb tour package. Lasting for 10 fun-filled hours, visit the city’s major attractions and pass through 34 iconic landmarks throughout this exciting trip. A stop at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya and the Tarapowela Aquarium is the highlight of the journey. Also, guests will sail through the coastal area of Mumbai, including Juhu Beach, to enjoy the cool breeze and witness the beauty of the city’s skyline. Other places to visit include the Hanging Gardens, the Marine Drive, and others. These are fantastic places to visit, especially if you are traveling to Mumbai with your family.

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Mumbai Sightseeing Full-Day Tour with Ferry Ride

Duration: 10 hours

5 reviews

13. Global Vipassana Pagoda (from USD 120.0)

global vipassana pagoda

Visit one of the most stunning and iconic landmarks you’ll find in Mumbai, the Global Pagoda, through this exciting day tour. Built as a tribute to Buddha and as a sacred worship place, this breathtaking landmark can comfortably accommodate up to 8000 Vipassana meditators. Its architectural style is heavily influenced by the architecture of Myanmar and its culture. While in the Global Vipassana Pagoda, you may offer some prayer of thanks and safe travel. But that’s not all, your seven hours of the tour also include other attractions such as the Kanheri Caves.

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Mumbai Temples and Caves Day Tour

Duration: 7 hour

2 reviews

14. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (from USD 39.0)

Get to explore South Mumbai and understand its vibrant heritage and interesting traditions through this exciting four-hour tour in Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya. Guests will be able to explore Mumbai’s Prince of Wales Museum, which was built in the early 20th century, and be left in awe of its stunning architecture and its lavish interiors. At the present time called The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, the Prince of Wales Museum is one of the main attractions of the city and South Mumbai. Its vast perfectly landscaped lawn and picturesque views are another reason to book this fantastic tour package. Enjoy the extensive collection of marvelous monuments and have a peaceful holiday.

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4-Hour Tour of Mumbai's Prince of Wales Museum

15. Kamala Nehru Park (from USD 61.0)

Located in the Malabar Hills in Mumbai is Kamala Nehru Park, or Kamla Nehru Park. It is a developed natural park maintained by the Hydraulic Engineer’s Department of the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai. It is a vast green space that is ideal for a picnic, cardio exercises, and other recreational activities. It also has a playground, murals, a pond, and other charming features. Explore the Kamala Nehru Park in Malabar Hill and other attractions in Mumbai such as Chowpatty Beach, Marine Drive, and the Kamathipura red-light district through this excellent Mumbai night tour.

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Mumbai Small-Group Evening Culture Tour

Duration: 3 hours

13 reviews

16. Gateway of India (from USD 81.0)

Planning an exciting trip to Mumbai any time soon? Be sure to check out the iconic Gateway of India and have your breath taken away by the beauty and intricacy of this 20th-century landmark. It was constructed to celebrate the royal visit of King George V and Queen Mary. Check out this fantastic full-day Mumbai City tour including the marvelous Gateway of India and other stunning landmarks and popular attractions. Explore the vibrant city for eight fun-filled hours. Also, included in the itinerary is the Prince of Wales Museum, Dhobi Ghat, the Jain Temple, and many more.

Traveler's tips

Good Tip

The Gateway of India is perhaps the most iconic structure in Mumbai. It was built to commemorate the arrival of George V, which was the first time that a British monarch set foot in India. You can catch ferries plying to various attractions near Mumbai, including Alibag and Elephanta Caves, from the harbor right next to the Gateway. The promenade runs parallel to the Gateway and it is a great place to sit and enjoy the views. 

Note that the landmark is almost always crowded, and heading there early in the morning might allow you to skip much of the crowd.

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Mumbai Full-Day Tour with Gateway of India, Dhobi Ghat Museum

Duration: 8 hours

4 reviews

17. Elephanta Caves (from USD 136.0)

Found on Elephanta Island, Elephant Caves is one of the most fascinating attractions in Mumbai. Not only do they feature stunning cave temples, but Elephanta caves also have exquisite sculptures and archaeological relics. While in the city, be sure not to miss visiting it. Book this private tour package and see the most-visited attractions and landmarks in the city including Elephanta Caves. Through the course of the trip, guests will also visit the Gateway of India, the Prince of Wales Museum, the Hanging Gardens, and more. With a professional guide, you will surely learn a lot not only about Elephanta Caves but also about the city’s culture and heritage.

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Mumbai Private Tour: Elephant Caves, Hanging Gardens

Duration: 8 hours

6 reviews

18. Bandra- Worli Sea Link (from USD 76.0)

Experience a lovely night in the city’s most charming temples. This fascinating tour package will make that possible. Participants of the tour package will get to explore the iconic Shree Siddhivinayak Temple and Bandra-Worli Sea Link with a professional guide that explains to them about the significance of these landmarks to the city’s heritage. Not only that, but a sumptuous dinner is also prepared for tourists at a local restaurant in the city. You will surely have so much fun getting to see stunning architecture, majestic interior designs, and luxurious decors throughout the tour. Come over with your partner or friends and have fun.

Traveler's tips

Good Tip

Bandra Beach and the Bandstand Promenade are right next to the Bandra-Worli Sea Link. The beach is composed of rocky outcrops weathered across millions of years by the sea. It is not advised to swim here, as the waters are regarded as polluted. 

However, during low tide, you can hop across the rocky outcrops, venture deep into the sea (and collect corals along the way), and surround yourself with the tranquility of the sea. You'll also have exceptional views of the Sea Link Bridge and the city from here.

Take caution to not get stranded as the tides rise, and make sure to return to the promenade before the rocky outcrops submerge again.

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Mumbai Shree Siddhivinayak, Bandra-Worli Sea Link Tour, Dinner

Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes

19. Dhobi Ghat (from USD 87.0)

Dhobi Ghat is one of the most fascinating reflections of the culture of India. It is an open-air laundromat in South Mumbai that features cleaners and washers called Dhobis. The place is filled with linens, towels, and other washables from the city’s hotels and hospitals. On the other hand, Dabbawalas is an organized delivery system that caters to homes, offices, and restaurants for their hot fresh food, especially for those in the workforce. This tour package from Viator will show you a glimpse of these two strong institutions of Mumbai. To top it all off, guests will be picked up and dropped off from and to their respective hotels. Imagine getting to discover interesting traditions in the city without the hassle of public transport under the scorching hot sun.

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Half Day Private Tour of Dabbawalas and Dhobi Ghat in Mumbai

Duration: 4 hours

20. Sanjay Gandhi National Park (from USD 85.0)

Located in Maharashtra between Mumbai and Thane, Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a vast protected area that was once called Borivali National Park. It is a popular national park that exists close to a metropolis. Sanjay Gandhi National Park is one of the most visited parks globally. Lots of tourists come here to spend some picnicking and bonding time with their families. Visit this lovely park through this six-hour tour package and explore nature trails and witness wildlife in their natural habitat. Not to mention, it is a fantastic place to practice your photography skills as it boasts excellent photography subjects.

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Sanjay Gandhi National Park Nature Tour with Kanheri Caves

Duration: 6 hours

21. Red Carpet Wax Museum (from USD 3.0)

Located in R. City Mall, the Red Carpet Wax Museum is a fascinating attraction that you’ll find in the vibrant metropolis of Mumbai. This beautiful museum features real-looking wax figures of iconic people, celebrities, politicians, musicians, and others. It is a fun place to visit with your family and friends. Strike some poses with the wax figures and upload them straight to the gram. You’ll surely get those likes.

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Skip the Line: Red Carpet Wax Museum in Mumbai

Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes

Explore Mumbai

Mumbai is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant culture and rich heritage. Though heavily influenced by modern times, remnants of the past are still visible through its stunning architecture, remarkable temples, and interesting traditions. In a city as vibrant as Mumbai, you will surely never run out of places to visit and things to do. If you are planning a tour in Mumbai any time soon, use this article of the best places to visit in the city as your guide in an organized and hassle-free adventure. Have a fantastic escapade ahead.

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TOUR GUIDE INSIGHTS


  • Could you suggest good areas for families, couples, groups, and solo travelers/backpackers to stay?

    Mumbai is a city that caters to all types of travelers. There’s a diverse range of accommodation options available, from 3-star to 5-star deluxe hotels. Among the best are iconic establishments like the Taj Mahal Palace, The Oberoi, The Trident, and St. Regis. For business travelers, hotels such as the Grand Hyatt and Westin are popular choices. Honeymooners can opt for more affordable yet romantic options like the Intercontinental - Marine Drive and the Marine Plaza.

    Additionally, there are alternatives like homestays, with Airbnb being a reliable source. Young travelers have numerous youth hostels to choose from, including BBhouse and the Social Space. For solo female travelers, Mumbai is considered very safe, with plenty of accommodation options tailored to their needs, I would recommend Bandra, known for its vibrant cafes and hangout spots. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your preferences and interests. As suggested by Tour Guide Sukanya

  • Any advice on local transportation?

    Day by day the traffic has been increasing. However with the new roadway construction coming up, hopefully the traffic should reduce. But the best way to move around especially when you plan to move from north to south is the trains (not during the peak hours) which is cheaper and faster mode of transport. Secondly you could use the rickshaws which only move in the north of Mumbai and they run as per meter and so does the black and yellow taxis.

    The next best option is using services of OLA and UBER. As suggested by Tour Guide Sukanya

  • Where can one find authentic souvenirs in local markets?

    There are many options for shopping here. Depending on what you would want. Souvenir options are available at Colaba right from your magnets to whatever you are looking for. There are govt shops also selling authentic handloom items which are represented from various states. Mostly located in south Mumbai. For clothes and other brands you also have options for shopping in Bandra, Santacruz and many more. As suggested by Tour Guide Sukanya

  • Are credit cards widely accepted?

    American express cards maybe a problem here and may not be accepted everywhere. GPay is the best if you don’t have cash. There are many options for converting money. And of course cash is the best option. You can withdraw money but minimum INR 10000 at one go. As suggested by Tour Guide Sukanya

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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This article has been endorsed by Mumbai local expert Nishi Jain

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She is a lover of life and a very optimistic person. She thinks of herself as a vessel of a billion possibilities, which can harness limitless potential. Trying new experiences, going places she's...Read more

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