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Hi! Jenn here. I’ve been wanting to explore more of India on my site, but as I’m far from an expert, I thought I would hand the blog over to someone who is. Meet Sharukh Bamboat of TravelIndiaDestinations.com. Sharukh is a local who will take you through the wonders of Mumbai.

Pro tip, the weather is hot and humid, so make sure you read up on what to wear in Mumbai as well.

I hope you enjoy!

10 Things to Do in Mumbai (from a Local)

Offering a unique blend of culture, history, and modernity, there are plenty of things to do in Mumbai. Known as the City of Dreams, Mumbai is where people from all walks of life and corners of the world come seeking opportunities. Hence, it is also a city of stark contrast where you see billionaires and poor class living side by side.

It has a unique combination of colonial buildings, bustling markets, ancient temples and churches, heritage structures, retro theatres, and iconic landmarks. Mumbai is also the Entertainment Capital of India, the heart of the Hindi film industry, and a perfect spot for foodies who want to taste different Indian cuisines all in one place.

With its chaotic and fast-paced lifestyle, Mumbai can be overwhelming for small towners but with friendly locals and vibrant culture, Mumbai can offer a unique and unforgettable experience that will make your trip worthwhile.

Start Your Day at Gateway of India

Constructed in 1924, Gateway of India is one of the most popular landmarks of Mumbai and one of the top tourist places. Built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India, this archway is a unique blend of Indo-Sarcenic and Islamic architecture. Overlooking the sea, this iconic landmark is a perfect way to get your day started.

While most people visit Gateway of India during evening hours, you should actually visit this place during the sunrise hours. This offers you an unforgettable experience as you can enjoy the sunrise views plus fewer crowds. If you are a photo enthusiast you can capture some stunning sunrise shots here.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes.

Explore Kala Ghoda Precinct on Foot

One of the best ways to explore the Kala Ghoda area is on foot. Just a 10-minute walk from the iconic Gateway of India, Kala Ghoda is a vibrant cultural and artistic district you should not miss. It’s a popular place to visit in Mumbai. If you are into heritage buildings and architecture, this place is nothing short of paradise. Almost all buildings here are at least 70 years old, some a century old.

As you explore the Kala Ghoda (literally means The Black Horse and there’s a reason for its name) district you can explore the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (formerly known as Prince of Wales Museum).

This is a great place for exploring Indus Valley Civilization artifacts if you’re interested. Right next to it, you can admire art at the Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai’s premier and oldest art gallery filled with famous works of art. You may also want to explore Saint Thomas Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in Mumbai.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes.

Explore the Majestic Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus

Welcome to one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Mumbai. Formerly known as the Victoria Terminus, this tops the list of the oldest railway stations in India. Opened in 1888, this is a stunning example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture. Also, with 18 platforms side by side, it is one of the busiest railway stations in India.

Take your time to explore its grandeur from outside and inside when you are in Mumbai. Also, feel the chaotic rush of commuters as thousands of people board and alight trains arriving and departing from here.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes.

Take the Local Train

One of the things to do in Mumbai is take the commuter train ride. Locally known as the ‘local’ this commuter train system is the lifeline of Mumbai taking passengers across various parts of Mumbai. On average seven million passengers use local trains in Mumbai which is broadly divided into three lines: The Western, The Central, and the Harbour Line.

While these trains are infamous for being overcrowded, especially during peak hours you can always experience during the afternoon hours when they are not overly crowded. This also allows you to move around the city most affordably and be in the center of the action.

Wheelchair Accessible: No. Sadly local trains are not wheelchair accessible.

Explore Temples and Churches

Mumbai offers a perfect blend of cultures and traditions. Hence, you will find some historic temples and churches here that must be on your list. These temples and churches offer a great insight into the religious beliefs and traditions of the people of Mumbai.

While you are exploring Mumbai you should not miss out on visiting the Siddhivinayak Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, it is one of the most revered and visited temples in Mumbai. Similarly, you can visit iconic churches like the Mount Mary Basilica, St Andrew’s Church, and the Shrine of Don Bosco’s Madonna. Also, you can add the iconic Haji Ali Dargah to your list.

Wheelchair Accessible: Popular Wheelchair-accessible temples include Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Temple, and ISKCON Temple, home of the Hare Krishna movement.

Visit Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum

Located in Byculla, Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum (a.k.a. BDL Museum) is one of the hidden gems in Mumbai. Hence, you certainly will not want to miss exploring this museum when you are in Mumbai. Formerly known as the Victoria and Albert Museum, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. You can read more about the city’s history and art.

The museum building itself is a work of art so those who are interested in architecture will find themselves in a great spot. However, even if you are not that much into architecture you can still browse thousands of exhibits, pottery collections, historical photographs, and textiles that will keep you engaged for hours.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes.

Shop & Eat At Colaba Causeway

Planning to spend a day leisurely? Exploring Colaba Causeway is one of the best things to do in Mumbai when you have nothing much on your mind. This stretch of lane starts from Regal Cinema and ends at Colaba market. This commercial street is dotted with street vendors and stalls that sell all kinds of products.

Apart from street shopping, you can also find various brand stores where you can shop your heart out. The area is also known for its popular bars, cafes, and restaurants which allow you to enjoy a hearty meal when you are done shopping.

Wheelchair Accessible: No.

Watch Sunset At Chowpatty Beach

One of the best things to do in Mumbai during evening hours is enjoy the sunset at Chowpatty Beach. This is one of the popular beaches in Mumbai where you can spend your evening hours at your pace.

Chowpatty is also a great place for those who want to enjoy street food in Mumbai. Here you can find various food stalls that sell a range of dishes like pani puri, bhel puri, and whatnot. When you are done head to the Kulfi stalls for some delicious creamy dessert.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes.

Catch a Movie at Heritage Theatres

Mumbai has a more-than-a-century-old connection with movies. Hence, one of the best things to do in Mumbai is to catch a movie at various heritage theatres. These theatres offer more than just a movie-going experience. These theatres are cultural spots and a time machine that take you back in time when fancy luxurious multiplexes were absent in Mumbai.

These theatres still retain the old-world charm and interiors that reveal a lot about what cinemagoers would experience back in the '60s, '70s, and '80s eras. While Regal Cinema still has the same old-world charm, Eros has now been upgraded into an IMAX theatre making it the world’s only IMAX theatre inside a 90-year-old heritage building.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes.

Eat at a Local Restaurant

While Mumbai has a lively street food scene, you cannot miss out on dining at various local restaurants that serve traditional and international cuisines. Mumbai has around 10,000 restaurants that you can choose from.

These restaurants serve you a variety of cuisines like North Indian cuisine, South Indian cuisine, Maharashtrian cuisine, Bengali cuisine, and Rajasthani cuisine. You can look for affordable ones if you are on a budget, but you can also find luxurious ones if you are planning to indulge and make the most of your visit to Mumbai.

Wheelchair Accessible: Many of the restaurants are accessible, but not all.

Final Thoughts On The Top Places To Visit In Mumbai

Mumbai offers a lot more experiences if you have the time and patience for it. The city has a lot of history and therefore has become a melting pot of cultures, traditions, flavors, and experiences. The city offers new experiences at every corner and allows you to understand the pulse of what keeps India going.

With a unique blend of tradition, modernity, and sheer vibrancy you can have a great time as you explore various places in Mumbai and uncover interesting facts that baffle you. With its warm welcoming spirit, Mumbai can leave a lasting impression on your mind with its infectious energy and never-give-up attitude.

Author: Sharukh Bamboat an aspiring travel blogger and writer based in Mumbai, India. He blogs at TravelIndiaDestinations.com, where he shares his passion for travel, food, and culture through engaging stories and vivid photography. With a focus on showcasing the lesser-known aspects of Mumbai and India, Sharukh brings a fresh perspective to the travel blogging scene, often highlighting hidden gems and local experiences in India that tourists might otherwise overlook.

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