The urban metropolis of Mumbai is a city teeming with things to do. From simple cheap thrills to historical experiences, a visit to the city is definitely a memorable experience one will cherish for a long time to come. Here are the top tourist attractions in Mumbai you must check out.
Gateway of India
The Gateway of India is an arch-shaped monument built during the 20th century. The monument was constructed to commemorate the historic arrival of King George V and Queen Mary at Apollo Bunder on their visit to India in 1911. The iconic architecture is now a hub for tourists and locals alike who throng the waterfront structure to click photographs, embark on private yacht journeys and much more.
Address: Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai
Bandra-Worli Sea Link
The awe-inspiring bridge built over the Arabian Sea is 5.6 kilometres long and is an infrastructural marvel of India. It is the first cable-stayed bridge built on an open sea in India. The Bandra-Worli Sea Link is the ideal road for a long drive across the city, featuring incomparable views of the Mumbai skyline and sea.
Address: Bandra West, Worli, Mumbai
Kanheri Caves
Nestled in the heart of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, the tranquil cave complex is a collection of 109 caves, with some of the earliest ones dating back to the first century BC. Kanheri Caves, formerly a Buddhist monastery and a place of study and meditation, is now a place to experience a refreshing trek and idyllic verdant views of the city.
Address: Western Express Highway, Borivali East, Mumbai
Global Vipassana Pagoda
An eye-catching meditation dome built as a tribute to Sayagyi U Ba Khin, a Vipassana teacher from Myanmar, this is a soulful retreat from the humdrum of the city. Located amongst the greenery on an island near Gorai, the Global Vipassana Pagoda is the world’s largest stone dome standing without any supporting pillars. Apart from the large main dome, Global Vipassana Pagoda complex has two smaller domes - the North Pagoda and South Pagoda.
Address: Global Vipassana Pagoda Road, Gorai Village, West Borivali, Mumbai
Juhu Beach
One of the most popular beaches of India and the longest beach in Mumbai, Juhu beach is known for its street food offerings and views of the sea. To escape the crowd, we recommend reaching the beach a little before/after sunrise to enjoy the expanse of the ocean and a peaceful run or stroll along the shoreline. If one wishes to gorge on typical Mumbai street food, the stalls are buzzing with options and come to life in the evening.
Address: Juhu Beach, Juhu Tara Rd, Chandrabai Nagar, Juhu, Mumbai
Chor Bazaar
Located near Bhendi Bazaar on Grant Road, the 150-year-old bazaar is the country’s largest flea market. It derives its name from an age-old saying that dictates that if something is stolen in the city, it will likely turn up for sale in this market. Renowned for its enormous collection of antiques, quirky second-hand items, home décor items, vintage movie posters and so much more, one can chance upon a great bargain on a rare object in Chor Bazaar.
Address: Chor Bazaar, Grant Road, Mumbai
Mount Mary's Basilica
Situated atop a hillock, this is arguably the most beautiful church in Mumbai. Mount Mary's Basilica is a Roman Catholic church and has stood for over 100 years. The church is open to people from all faiths and is a must-visit for admirers of formidable architecture. The original chapel has been in existence since the 16th century and the original statue of the Virgin Mary was shipped in from Portugal by a Jesuit priest.
Address: Mt Mary Rd, near Shanti Avedna Sadan, Mount Mary, Bandra West, Mumbai
Elephanta Island
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination in Mumbai located 10 kilometres away from the mainland, the island is accessible via ferries from the Gateway of India. The cave complex on the island is cut from solid basalt rock and sprawls over an area of approximately 60,000 sq. ft. There are seven caves on the island divided into two groups. The first group of five caves feature Hindu sculptures and the second group consists of two Buddhist caves.
Address: Gharapuri, Maharashtra
Marine Drive
Famously also referred to as the Queen’s Necklace due to its beauty in the evening when it glimmers with lights, the arc-shaped bay side boulevard is idyllic for watching the sun set over the Arabian Sea. The sea facing path is further known for the luxury hotels situated next to it. One can enjoy the scenic views provided by Marine Drive on the boulevard or from a luxury hotel overlooking the stretch.
Address: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road, Mumbai
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Veer Mata Jijabai Bhonsale Park (Mumbai Zoo)
The zoo situated in the Byculla area, is the only zoo in Mumbai and one of the oldest in India. It was established in 1861 and after a recent refurbishment the zoo now contains a wide variety of birds and animals, including the recently introduced penguins. Spread over an impressive 50 acres, the attraction is perfect for those visiting the city with young children.
Address: Railway Station, 91A, Lalbaug Flyover, near Byculla, Byculla East, Mumbai
National Gallery of Modern Art, Mumbai
Situated in Colaba, the gallery first opened its doors to the public in 1996. A haven for art lovers, the gallery features an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and artefacts. Governed by the Government of India’s Department of Culture, the oldest artwork in the gallery is known to be around 160 years old. The National Gallery of Modern Art hosts a rotation of various art exhibitions which provides a platform to both renowned and emerging artists.
Address: Sir Cowasji Jahangir Public Hall, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Fort, Mumbai
Hill Road
A hub for retail therapy, Hill Road in Bandra is the best spot for street shopping in Mumbai. One can shop a wide range of items ranging from top-end brands, local products, and even first copies of branded items. The road stretches from the intersection of Bandra Railway Station Road and S.V Road to Mehboob Studio. However, the main shopping area starts from the Marks and Spencer store and extends all the way to St. Peters Church.
Address: Hill Road, Bandra West, Mumbai
Bandra Fort
Built by the Portuguese in 1640 CE, the fort stands 79 ft above sea level. Initially built to protect the city and placed with cannons and guns to defend the Mumbai Harbour from invaders coming via the northern sea route, now it stands as an ode to the largely forgotten history of the city. In 2003, the Bandra Bandstand Residents’ Trust started the conservation of the ruined fort by repairing it and now it is visited by tourists and locals who come to enjoy an unparalleled view of the city.
Address: Byramji Jeejeebhoy Road, Bandstand Road, Mumbai
Anithya Balachandran
I am a journalist whose niches are travel, business and luxury. I have been working as a journalist for over a year now, before which I was working in the advertising industry in the digital marketing segment, however, I graduated from film school with a degree in Screenwriting. My passions are literature, art and helping stray animals. When I am not behind my computer screen racing against the clock to meet a deadline, I am on the couch snuggling with my four-legged furry baby.
