Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is one of India’s most populous cities and is the capital of the state of Maharashtra. It is also the home of Bollywood as well as several of the country’s most iconic architectural wonders, scenic promenades, museums, and high-end malls. One of the top things to do in Mumbai for tourists is to join heritage tours to learn more about Indian culture and visit the many emblematic places of the city.
Mumbai, previously called Bombay, is the most populated city in western India. This vibrant city is home to Bollywood, the world’s largest tropical forest in an urban zone, and the country’s fashion capital.
City is home to not one, not two, but three UNESCO World Heritage Sites! Make sure to make a visit to the Elephant Caves and explore the incredibly carved caves at the site. Stop by Chhatrapati Shivaji, formerly known as Victoria Terminus, and see a railway station of stunning detail. Another set of popular structures would be the Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai, which includes the Rajabai Clock Tower, the Bombay High Court, and University of Mumbai.
Here are some things to do in Mumbai:
- Visit the Gateway of India: The Gateway of India is an iconic landmark in Mumbai and a popular tourist spot. It was built during the British Raj and is a great place to take photos and enjoy the sea breeze.
- Explore the Elephanta Caves: The Elephanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a collection of rock-cut temples located on an island in Mumbai Harbor. The caves are dedicated to Lord Shiva and feature intricate carvings and sculptures.
- Visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus: The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the busiest railway stations in India. It is a stunning example of Victorian Gothic architecture and a great place to people watch.
- Take a stroll on Marine Drive: Marine Drive is a popular promenade that runs along the coast of Mumbai. It is a great place to take a walk, enjoy the view, and watch the sunset.
- Explore the Crawford Market: The Crawford Market is a bustling market in South Mumbai that sells everything from fresh produce to electronics. It is a great place to shop for souvenirs or try some local street food.
- Visit the Haji Ali Dargah: The Haji Ali Dargah is a mosque and tomb located on an island in the Arabian Sea. It is a popular pilgrimage site and a beautiful example of Islamic architecture.
- Watch a Bollywood film: Mumbai is the heart of the Bollywood film industry, so why not catch a movie in one of the city’s many cinemas? You’ll get a taste of the local culture and maybe even see some of your favorite stars on the big screen.
- Explore the street art scene: Mumbai has a vibrant street art scene, with murals and graffiti decorating many of the city’s walls. Take a walking tour or explore on your own to discover some of the city’s best street art.
- Visit the Chor Bazaar: The Chor Bazaar, which translates to “thieves’ market,” is a bustling market in South Mumbai where you can find everything from antiques to electronics. It’s a great place to haggle for a bargain.
- Take a day trip to the nearby beaches: Mumbai is surrounded by beautiful beaches, including Juhu Beach and Versova Beach. Take a day trip to one of these beaches to soak up some sun and enjoy the local atmosphere.
Must-Have Apps for Tourists in Mumbai
Mumbai, a city that never sleeps, offers a thrilling blend of culture, history, and modernity. To make the most of your visit, consider downloading these essential apps:
Transportation
- M-Indicator: This is your go-to app for navigating Mumbai’s complex local train network. It provides real-time schedules, platform numbers, and even crowd estimates.
- UTS (Unified Mobile Ticketing System): Buy local train tickets directly from your phone, saving time and hassle.
- Ola and Uber: These ride-hailing apps offer convenient and reliable transportation options.
- Google Maps: While not specific to Mumbai, Google Maps is essential for navigating the city’s streets and finding your way around.
Food and Dining
- Zomato and Swiggy: These food delivery apps are great for ordering in or finding nearby restaurants.
- Dineout: Discover restaurants, explore menus, and book tables with this app.
Sightseeing and Exploration
- SmartGuide: This app offers self-guided tours, audio guides, and offline maps, helping you explore Mumbai independently.
- TripAdvisor: Read reviews, find attractions and book activities.
- Google Translate: Helpful for communicating with locals who may not speak English.
Other Useful Apps
- Paytm: This digital wallet is widely accepted for payments, making it convenient for transactions.
- WhatsApp: Stay connected with your travel companions and use it for local communication.
Remember:
- Data Plans: Ensure you have a reliable data plan or consider purchasing an eSIM for affordable internet access.
- App Updates: Keep your apps updated for the best performance and access to new features.
- Safety: Be aware of your surroundings and use caution when using your phone in crowded areas.
By utilizing these apps, you can enhance your Mumbai experience and navigate the city with ease.