10 Most Popular Places to Visit in Mumbai City

Mumbai, also known as Bombay, is one of the busiest cities in India. It is the financial capital of the country and is also known for its nightlife, beaches, and famous street food. In this article, we will explore the most popular places to visit in Greater Mumbai city.

1. Gateway of India

The Gateway of India is an iconic landmark of Mumbai. It was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India in 1911. The construction of this monument was completed in 1924. The Gateway of India is located at the Apollo Bunder waterfront in Colaba. This place is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

Historical details and Interesting facts: The Gateway of India was the point of departure for the British troops during World War I. The last British troops left India through this monument after India gained independence in 1947. In 2008, this monument was the site of a terrorist attack.

Best time to visit: The Gateway of India is open 24/7, so you can visit it anytime. However, the best time to visit is during the early morning or late evening when the crowds are less.

How to reach here: The Gateway of India is located in Colaba, which is easily accessible by local trains, buses, and taxis.

Address: Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001, India.

Distance from Nearest Railway station: 2.5 km from Churchgate Railway Station.

2. Elephanta Caves

The Elephanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage site and are located on Elephanta Island, which is about 10 km away from Mumbai. These caves are dedicated to Lord Shiva and were constructed in the 6th century AD. The Elephanta Caves are known for their exquisite rock-cut architecture and sculptures.

Historical details and Interesting facts: The Elephanta Caves were named after the statue of an elephant that was found on the island. The statue is now displayed at the Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum in Mumbai.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit the Elephanta Caves is between November and March when the weather is pleasant.

How to reach here: The Elephanta Caves are accessible by ferry from the Gateway of India. The ferry ride takes about an hour.

Address: Elephanta Island, Mumbai Harbour, Maharashtra 400094, India.

Distance from Nearest Railway station: 4 km from Mumbai CST Railway Station.

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3. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, also known as CST, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the busiest railway stations in India. It was built in 1887 and is a fine example of Victorian Gothic architecture. The CST is located in the heart of Mumbai and is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.

Historical details and Interesting facts: The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus was formerly known as Victoria Terminus. It was renamed in 1996 in honor of the great Maratha warrior, Chhatrapati Shivaji.

Best time to visit: The CST is open 24/7, so you can visit it anytime. However, the best time to visit is during the early morning or late evening when the crowds are less.

How to reach here: The CST is easily accessible by local trains, buses, and taxis.

Address: Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Area, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001, India.

Distance from Nearest Railway station: The CST is a railway station itself.

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4. Marine Drive

Marine Drive is a 3.6 km long promenade that runs along the Arabian Sea in South Mumbai. It is also known as the Queen's Necklace due to the sparkling lights that resemble a necklace at night. Marine Drive is a popular spot for locals and tourists to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the sunset.

Historical details and Interesting facts: Marine Drive was built on reclaimed land and was officially opened in 1920. It is a C-shaped six-lane concrete road that connects Nariman Point to Babulnath. The promenade is lined with palm trees and is a popular spot for movie shoots.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Marine Drive is during the evening when the lights are on and the sea breeze cools you down.

How to reach here: Marine Drive is easily accessible by local trains, buses, and taxis.

Address: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Rd, Chowpatty, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400007, India.

Distance from Nearest Railway station: 4 km from Mumbai Central Railway Station.

5. Siddhivinayak Temple

Siddhivinayak Temple is a popular Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, who is also known as Vinayak. It is located in Prabhadevi, Mumbai, and is visited by millions of devotees every year. The temple was built in 1801 and is one of the richest temples in Mumbai.

Historical details and Interesting facts: The temple is believed to grant wishes, and many Bollywood celebrities visit it before the release of their movies. The idol of Lord Ganesha at Siddhivinayak Temple is made of black stone and has four arms.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Siddhivinayak Temple is early in the morning when the crowds are less.

How to reach here: The temple is easily accessible by local trains, buses, and taxis.

Address: SK Bole Marg, Prabhadevi, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400028, India.

Distance from Nearest Railway station: 3 km from Dadar Railway Station.

6. Haji Ali Dargah

Haji Ali Dargah is a mosque and tomb located on an islet off the coast of Worli in South Mumbai. It was built in 1431 and is dedicated to the memory of a wealthy Muslim merchant, Sayyed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari. The Dargah is visited by people of all religions and is a symbol of communal harmony.

Historical details and Interesting facts: The Haji Ali Dargah is built on a tiny islet surrounded by the Arabian Sea. It is connected to the mainland by a causeway that is submerged during high tide. The Dargah is a beautiful example of Indo-Islamic architecture.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Haji Ali Dargah is during the early morning or late evening when the crowds are less.

How to reach here: Haji Ali Dargah is easily accessible by local trains, buses, and taxis.

Address: Dargah Road, Haji Ali, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400026, India.

Distance from Nearest Railway station: 4 km from Mumbai Central Railway Station.

7. Sanjay Gandhi National Park

Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a protected area located in the northern part of Mumbai. It covers an area of 104 sq km and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The park is a popular spot for nature lovers, trekkers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

Historical details and Interesting facts: Sanjay Gandhi National Park was formerly known as Borivali National Park. It was renamed in 1996 in honor of Sanjay Gandhi, the son of former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The park is home to several species of animals, including leopards, deer, monkeys, and a variety of birds.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Sanjay Gandhi National Park is during the monsoon season (June to September) when the park is lush green and the waterfalls are in full flow.

How to reach here: The park is easily accessible by local trains and buses. The nearest railway station is Borivali.

Address: Borivali East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400066, India.

Distance from Nearest Railway station: 1 km from Borivali Railway Station.

8. Crawford Market

Crawford Market is a popular shopping destination in Mumbai, known for its wide range of products, including fresh produce, spices, and household items.

Historical details and Interesting facts

The market was built in 1869 and is named after Arthur Crawford, the first municipal commissioner of Mumbai. It is known for its beautiful Victorian architecture and is a popular tourist spot.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Crawford Market is during the early morning when the market is bustling with activity.

How to reach here

The market is easily accessible via local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. The nearest railway station is the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, which is about 2 kilometers away.

Address

Mangaldas Market, Dhobi Talao, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Area, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001

Distance from Nearest Railway Station

2 kilometers from Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus.

9. Nehru Planetarium

The Nehru Planetarium is a popular tourist destination in Mumbai, known for its interactive exhibits and informative shows about astronomy.

Historical details and Interesting facts

The planetarium was inaugurated in 1977 and is named after India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. It is known for its beautiful architecture and is a popular spot for both adults and children.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the Nehru Planetarium is during the evening when the shows are being conducted.

How to reach here

The planetarium is easily accessible via local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. The nearest railway station is the Mahalaxmi station, which is about 2 kilometers away.

Address

Nehru Centre, Dr. E. Moses Road, Worli, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400018

Distance from Nearest Railway Station

2 kilometers from Mahalaxmi station.

10. Global Vipassana Pagoda

The Global Vipassana Pagoda is a meditation center and a popular tourist attraction in Mumbai. It is located in Gorai and is known for its stunning architecture.

Historical details and Interesting facts

The pagoda was inaugurated in 2009 and is the largest unsupported dome in the world. It is built in white marble and is a beautiful example of Buddhist architecture.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the Global Vipassana Pagoda is during the early morning or late evening.

How to reach here

The pagoda is easily accessible via local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. Visitors can also take a ferry from the Gateway of India to reach the pagoda.

Address

Global Vipassana Pagoda, Gorai Village, Gorai Island, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400091

Distance from Nearest Railway Station

The nearest railway station is the Borivali station, which is about 12 kilometers away. 

Conclusion

Greater Mumbai city is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that offers a wide range of attractions for locals and tourists. From historic monuments to natural wonders, there is something for everyone in this city. So, if you are planning a trip to Mumbai, be sure to include these popular places in your itinerary.