Top 23 FAQs About Mumbai- Everything You Need To Know

Top 23 FAQs About Mumbai- Everything You Need To Know
Trip101 Editorial
Trip101 Editorial 
Published
| 11 min read
Nishi Jain
Endorsed by a Mumbai Local Expert
|
Nishi Jain

It’s pretty rare to talk about India and fail to mention its largest city, Mumbai. As a cosmopolitan district on India’s west coast, Mumbai is an epicenter for architecture, Bollywood, festivals, and numerous tourist attractions. It’s no surprise why travelers are mystified by this city and have been constantly curious about how to enjoy an immersive local experience during their visit. The internet can be a vast source of information for all the questions you might have in mind about Mumbai, but we got your back! Here’s everything you need to know about Mumbai to get your vacation plans rolling.

1. How can I spend a day in Mumbai?

While Mumbai is massive and can lead you to several attractions in any direction, its southern area is the go-to spot for an eventful day. The Gateway to India is the best introduction to Mumbai that you can get because of its historical and cultural significance. This gorgeous architectural arch-monument neighbors some of the most famous museums and art galleries in India, such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum, Rajabai Clock Tower, and St. Thomas Cathedral, which you can all visit within the span of a day. If you’re looking to enjoy more adventure options, there are several day tours in Mumbai that will surely suit your thrills.

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2. Are two days enough in Mumbai?

A trip to this large city is best enjoyed through an extended stay. There are so many wonderful places to visit and fun things to do in Mumbai with friends and family that only a couple of days’ excursion can provide. The abundance of authentic food, sun-drenched beaches, magnificent structures, interesting museums, and more will surely leave you craving for more. However, if only a short while is what your time can afford, you can embark on the short tours in Mumbai to still enjoy a memorable visit.

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3. What is unique in Mumbai?

As one of the largest cities in India, Mumbai’s diversified culture, architecture, and cuisine are the main ingredients of its uniqueness. Maharashtrians, its locals, are also an essential part of the distinct energy of the city as their easy-going and kind nature contributes to the city’s safe stature. Exploring Bandra’s street art, dining aboard AB Celestial (a floating restaurant docked on the Arabian Sea), a tour of Dharavi (Asia’s biggest slum, and of course, a visit to the Guinness Book of World Records’ famed Dhobi Ghat (140-year open-air laundry and the largest of its kind in the world) are some of the things you should absolutely not miss.

And some that complement the city’s distinctiveness are the unique Airbnbs to stay and themed hotels in Mumbai, which you can check out for one-of-a-kind accommodation options.

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4. When is the best month to visit Mumbai?

Mumbai enjoys a tropical climate, so it is ideal to arrange your travel between October and February since the weather is cooler and more pleasant. If you’re traveling for the city’s rich culture and arts, then the end of August or the beginning of September is a better period as it is the time when the city celebrates the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi, one of the top festivals in India.

Keep in mind that the date for Ganesh Chaturthi may vary according to the Hindu calendar so check online resources before planning your trip. The festival’s usual dates are also within the rainy season, from June to September, so it’s better to check for the weather as well because Mumbai is notorious for floods and major disruptions during monsoons.

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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. Which Khau Galli is famous in Mumbai?

If you’re all about enjoying a destination’s food scene, then Mumbai’s Khau Gallis (food lanes) are must-visits for a taste of scrumptious street food in Mumbai. There are street food sellers in almost every corner of Mumbai but the areas of Carter Road, Ghatkopar, Mohammed Ali Road, and Princess Street are the ones that get packed with crowds waiting in line for a gastronomic treat. What’s more, these popular joints are easy on the pocket, allowing you to savor one more dish after another. Those who take their street food seriously can check out the food tours in Mumbai and they’ll surely find a Khau Galli in one of the stops.

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6. What are Mumbai's famous food?

Most tourists develop a deeper connection to Mumbai once they taste the flavorful dishes that authentically represent the city’s cuisine. Among the well-known foods that you can try here are Bhel Puri and Sev Puri, two homegrown chaats (savory dishes) of Mumbai that are a plateful of yummy goodness. The filling Bombay Sandwich is also a must-have if you’d like to try the combination of buttered white bread slices, beetroot, onion rings, boiled potatoes, mint chutney, and cucumbers all in one bite. Whether you wish to enjoy the local cuisine in the food lanes or fine-dining restaurants in Mumbai, you’re sure to have a scrumptious treat.

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7. Which snacks are famous in Mumbai?

A foodie haven, Mumbai is more than a satisfying destination for anyone planning to have a food crawl. The diverse bites in the city are excellently highlighted in the many street stalls offering their own take on famous local snacks. Some of the lip-smacking street foods you must try in Mumbai include Vada Pav, which is essentially a burger with spiced potato fitter, and Pav Bhaji, a mixture of mashed vegetables served with a bun. You can also munch a Ragda Pattice, a street food made of deep-fried potato patties and pea sauce, as well as a Baida Roti, which is a square-shaped fried patty of seasoned meat with scrambled eggs and onions.

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8. Which sweets are famous in Mumbai?

You always have to save room for dessert when indulging in Indian cuisine in Mumbai as there is a lot on its plate in terms of sweets. On your next food adventure, make sure to conclude your meal with a Modak, which is a well-known sweet dumpling. You can also treat your palate with a Puran Poli, a bread-like pastry made of jaggery powder, clarified butter, and flour, for a sweet fix.

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9. Does Mumbai have beaches?

Yes! Any beach lover will have a fun time basking under the sun on the many sandy shores of Mumbai. Some of the amazing beaches that you can visit for a tropical holiday include Juhu, Versova, Aksa, Girgaum Chowpatty, and Madh Island. In fact, one of the things Mumbai is famous for is the iconic Juhu Beach. This 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) long beach is a great spot to enjoy the sunset over the Arabian Sea.

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10. Which beaches are clean in Mumbai?

The city of Mumbai has some of the most protected waterfronts in India and the effort shows in its well-loved stretch of sand and coast. Apart from technicolor sunsets, you’ll also catch sight of immaculate coastlines on its famous beaches such as Aksa, Madh Island, Kalamb, Gorai, and Juhu. The shallow waters and several private cottages of Aksa Beach make it one of the perfect spots to spend a seaside holiday.

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11. Is Marine Drive safe at night?

Nightlife in Mumbai is arguably most vibrant in the 3-kilometer (1.9-mile) long boulevard of Marine Drive. The arc-shaped landmark is a famous hangout spot for people from all walks of life. Locals and tourists alike vouch for Marine Drive as a completely safe area to stroll at night since its party scene starts much later in the evening. However, it’s best to always be mindful of the safety tips when getting around Mumbai and perform the safety precautions that you would normally take to enjoy a trouble-free time, especially if you’re a first-timer in the area.

Tip from Trip101 local expert

Nishi

Nishi
Mumbai

Marine Drive Marine Drive

The glittering street lights have earned Marine Drive its moniker, "Queen's Necklace." Like all other famous public places in Mumbai, Marine Drive is also under strict police vigilance. Thus, you're not allowed to stay here after midnight. Also, avoid throwing trash on the promenade as that may attract a heavy fine if caught by the BMC officials. So, if you're planning a picnic, remember to take care of all the trash.

This place comes to life during the weekends when it's literally filled with locals and tourist, so come here early if you want a good spot to enjoy sunset views. But monsoon season is my favorite time to come here as the light showers and cool breeze makes for an ideal atmosphere to enjoy hot corns roasted on coal stove and topped with lime juice and red chilli powder! You can get down at Charni Road station and start walking towards Nariman Point. Another alternative is to get down at Churchgate station and take an AC bus to Nariman Point where you'll find stalls to try street food and posh restaurants where you can enjoy find dining.
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12. Why is Marine Drive so famous?

With an extensive coast that wraps the Arabian Sea and a view of the majestic sunsets, it’s not hard to see why Marine Drive draws many with its beauty and is one of the places to visit in Mumbai. The scenic promenade lights up the curved stretch of coastline at night, making its street lights appear like a string of pearls in a necklace when viewed from a higher point. It earned the moniker Queen’s Necklace because of this. Besides its serene side, Marine Drive’s bustling entertainment and nightlife are famous to those looking to enjoy its party scene.

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13. When is the best time to visit Marine Drive?

The coastal setting of Marine Drive is a welcome sight at any time of the day. You can drop by early in the morning, between 5 am and 8 am, if you wish to do your walking or jogging routine with the cool breeze hitting your skin. Meanwhile, stunning sunsets await you if you decide to check it out late in the afternoon, which comes in handy for a free romantic experience with your significant other. But keep in mind that Marine Drive does become packed at these times, so plan the time of your visit accordingly if you want to avoid a large crowd.

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14. Does Mumbai have a good nightlife?

You can never go wrong with Mumbai if vibrant nightlife is part of your agenda. The neighborhoods of Colaba, Kala Ghoda, Lower Parel, and Bandra West sure know how to entertain with their strips of nightly venues. Bars such as Bombay Cocktail Bar and The Bar Terminal command the lively scene as they tend to provide a more sociable vibe. Head over to Drop or R-Adda if you intend to go clubbing with the elites. Those who fancy a more relaxed vibe can step into the late-night and rooftop restaurants in Mumbai offering live music. Comedy is also a thriving industry here as you can laugh the night away in several comedy bars.

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15. Where can we go at night in Mumbai?

Even after sunset, the iconic attractions in Mumbai shine as bright as the city’s twinkling lights. Aside from the usual party places, you can make your way to picturesque landmarks such as Gateway of India, Victoria Station, and Marine Drive for an enriching experience under the Mumbai stars. These attractions all look lovely, if not lovelier compared to during the day, as lights play wonders in their detailed facades and walls. There are guided tours that take tourists through the city for hassle-free adventure and are just one of the best things to do alone in Mumbai for solo travelers.

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16. Where do celebrities go clubbing in Mumbai?

Bollywood fans surely know where their favorite celebrities enjoy a night out in Mumbai. If you want to groove to some good music and relish delicious bites the way these personalities do, then you definitely need to check out Luna Nudo, a sophisticated club in Lower Parel atop a 37-floor building. You can also pay a visit to Bandra and sway to the tunes played at House of Nomad, a chic bar tucked inside Taj Lands End hotel, and Drop, an energetic and artsy nightspot with a dance floor.

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17. How do you get around in Mumbai?

Being one of India’s busiest and most inhabited cities, Mumbai provides numerous options to get around its urban layout. The public transport situation can frequently become crowded and uncomfortable but don’t let this prevent you from enjoying your trip as there are different modes of transport for every course and budget.

Trains are the most popular option here as it operates using four primary service lines, though they can get really crowded during rush hours. Mumbai implements a bus system that covers the entire city but some are quite not tourist-friendly. Taxis are also widespread in the city and operate on fixed-price fares for both locals and foreign tourists. If you have internet access to your phone, you can use ride-sharing apps such as Uber and Ola. Ferry, auto rickshaws, and bicycle services are also other means to efficiently explore the city.

Traveler's tips

Local trains are the best way to get around the city, and you basically just need two apps to find your way through Mumbai's local train network. Make sure to download mIndicator for live updates and route suggestions for local trains and UTS for booking tickets online. However, note that UTS has an inbuilt GPS system that disallows you from booking tickets if you're within a 1 km (0.6 mi) radius of the station.

With these two apps, you'll have an easy time getting around the city. If you prefer buses, make sure to download the Chalo app, which tracks buses and lets you book tickets online.

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18. How can I spend my weekend in Mumbai?

When a weekend is all that you can squeeze out of your time for an escapade in Mumbai, one of the best ways to experience the magnificent city is to spend a relaxing time at the beach. There are plenty of family resorts in Mumbai where you can take the family for a weekend getaway. Some of these refreshing spots are also situated near popular attractions. So when you’re taking a break from the pools and the shores, you can shortly explore the area. However, if you’re feeling adventuresome, the adventure sports in Mumbai such as sky diving, bungee jumping, and paragliding will surely satisfy your thrill-seeking spirit.

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19. What are the famous things to buy in Mumbai?

While it is impossible to explore this enormous destination in one visit, you can always bring back home a part of Mumbai to remind you of the city until you return. If you’re thinking about what to buy in Mumbai, you’ll surely find yourself in a myriad of choices for souvenirs, but don’t fret. You can support local craftsmanship by purchasing decor items from The Bombay Store, jewelry from Colaba Causeway, or impressive lampshades from numerous manufacturers. For more practical options, like something more useful, Kolhapuri chappals (leather sandals), traditional block-printed fabrics, or high-quality wines from the Sula vineyards should grace your shopping list.

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20. What is the best area to stay in Mumbai?

With several neighborhoods and choices in Mumbai, any type of traveler will surely find an idyllic spot as a hideaway. One of the most befitting areas for first-time visitors is Colaba as it is the tourist capital of the city and home to several attractions. You can check out the Airbnb vacation rentals in Colaba for great stays.

Budget travelers can take refuge in Bandra West for good-value accommodations while party goers should reside within Bandra Kurla Complex. Stay within easy reach of both districts by staying in one of the Airbnb vacation rentals in Bandra. Additionally, the neighborhood of Fort/Kala Ghoda is the best pick for art enthusiasts while Juhu is for families spending a beach holiday. Those looking to stay near the coasts can browse through these Airbnb vacation rentals near Juhu.

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21. What are the best beach hotels in Mumbai?

For an unforgettable holiday on one of Mumbai’s beaches, you can book a reservation at these accommodations: i) Trident Nariman Point, ii) JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, iii) Taj Lands End, and iv) Hotel Sea Princess. These recommendations are well-known for their top-notch amenities and excellent services, making getaway moments even more enjoyable.

However, if you wish to explore more options or have an immersive and local experience, there are beach houses in Mumbai that strive to offer the same level of convenience as the abovementioned hotel properties.

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22. Which are the best sea-facing hotels in Mumbai?

Nothing compares to waking up to stunning sea views right from your hotel window or balcony. If you wish to experience such luxury, the hotels with sea views in Mumbai are sure to spoil you with stunning views. Not only do you get to savor breathtaking ocean vistas but also enjoy easy access to beaches for a day spent on the sand and coast. For a refreshing escapade in Mumbai, you can consider checking in at one of these suggestions: i) Sun-n-Sand Mumbai, ii) The Taj Mahal Tower Mumbai, iii) Trident Nariman Point, and iv) JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu.

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23. What are the best hotels with private beach in Mumbai?

A quiet moment at the beach is sometimes all it takes to ease our weary spirit. What better way to do just that in Mumbai than to drift away on a private beach? That’s what you can get and more when you stay in one of the hotels with private beaches in Mumbai. Veer away from the crowd and enjoy an exclusive sandy coast when you spend a restorative vacation in one of these accommodations boasting a private beach: i) The Resort, ii) Sun-n-Sand Mumbai Juhu Beach, iii) JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, and iv) Hotel Sea Princess.

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Gateway of India, Mumbai
Source: Pixahive
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This article has been endorsed by Mumbai local expert Nishi Jain

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