Mumbai is a city that has something for everyone! From wildlife to ferry rides, from checking out local dainties to exploring historical forts and religious places, Mumbai offers plenty of things to do for a perfect holiday experience. Keep scrolling down to learn more about these exciting activities!
Things to Do in Mumbai
Let’s get into the details of various things to do in Mumbai!
1- Mumbai’s Iconic Promenade: Marine Drive
Marine Drive is a famous Mumbai landmark representing the city’s glamour and glitter. It’s a 3.6-kilometer-long boulevard shaped like an arc along the South Mumbai coast. It starts from Nariman Point and ends at Girgaum Chowpatty, known as Chowpatty Beach. This beautiful coastal road is the best place in Mumbai to watch the sunset or take a stroll by the sea at any time of the day or night.
Moreover, people flock to Marine Drive in the evenings to experience the brilliant sunset. The entire coastline lights up at night, nicknamed “Queen’s Necklace.” The palm trees lining the curve of the coast make for a spectacular view, and you can find vendors selling chai and cigarettes at all hours.
2- Ferry Ride to Elephanta Caves: Gateway of India
The Gateway of India, a defining monument of Mumbai, is a popular tourist spot. It was built in 1924 to mark the visit of King George and Queen Mary. The beautiful confluence of Indian, Arabic, and Western architecture has become a popular tourist hub. This iconic landmark, made of yellow basalt and solid concrete, embellished with numerous Muslim and Hindu motifs, served as the entry and exit access to India through waterways before independence.
Moreover, the view of the Gateway complex from the sea, especially at night, is ethereal and beautiful. A ferry ride to Elephanta Caves from the Gateway of India is one of the best things to do in Mumbai, offering a unique experience and beautiful views of the sea and the city.
3- A Divine View of the Arabian Sea: Sunset at Haji Ali Dargah
Sunset at Haji Ali Dargah is a breathtaking experience you don’t want to miss! Haji Ali Dargah is a holy shrine dedicated to a Muslim Sufi saint on a small islet off the southern coast of Mumbai near Worli. You can only reach the shrine during low tide by walking on a causeway surrounded by the sea. The shrine is beautifully built of glass in the Indo-Islamic style of architecture, and the marble courtyard contains the central tomb.
Also, the tomb is roofed by a red and green cloth held up by a stunning silver frame and marble columns. The main hall is filled with marble pillars engraved with creative mirror work, which spells the ninety-nine names of Allah in Arabic patterns. There are different praying rooms for ladies and gents. As the sun sets, the view of the shrine lit up in the distance against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea is divine.
4- Fun in the Sun! Juhu Beach
Juhu Beach is a fun and exciting place to visit in Mumbai. It is the longest beach in the city and is well-known for its delicious street food with a sweet and sour taste. Visitors can spot them jogging or filming a television show on the beach. Toy sellers, roasted corn vendors, and acrobats can also be seen on the beach. Near the beach is the famous ISKCON Temple.
So, the visitors can watch a theatre performance at the Prithvi Cafe. Just walking on the beach sand can give an infinite sense of calm. Although it was criticized for being unclean, the scenery has significantly improved in the past few years thanks to the efforts of the BMC. Come and enjoy a fun-filled day at Juhu Beach!
5- Shop Till You Drop: Colaba Causeway
Colaba Causeway is a fantastic shopping street in Mumbai that you don’t want to miss! You can find many amazing things here, from beautiful clothes and accessories to home decor items like lampshades, curios, and antiques. The street has simple and fancy shops selling various products at different prices and qualities.
It is also a great place to grab some food as there are many affordable restaurants, including the famous Cafe Leopold and Cafe Mondegar. The street is also home to the iconic Regal Cinema, which has a classic movie charm. Colaba Causeway is the heart of Mumbai, connecting Colaba and Old Woman’s Island.
In addition, it’s close to the Fort area, which has been the city’s business sector and heart since the British era. Don’t forget to walk to the Gateway of India overlooking the Arabian Sea, where the majestic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel dominates the skyline. Come and see the liveliest part of Mumbai!
6- Taste the Yummy Street Food: Girgaum Chowpatty
Girgaum Chowpatty, also known as Chowpatty, is a small sandy beach in southern Mumbai. It transforms into a colorful fair at night, with children riding the Ferris wheel and merry-go-rounds and adults indulging in Mumbai’s famous street snacks. There are also nearby attractions and local markets to explore.
Moreover, the beach is always buzzing with activity, with people lazing around on the sand or building sand castles along the shore. Girgaum Chowpatty is a perfect spot to enjoy fun, frenzy, and delicious food all in one place. Spend a few hours here to break free from the city’s hustle and have a great time.
7- Drive Through Bandra: Worli Sea Link
Bandra Worli Sea Link, also known as Rajiv Gandhi Sea Link, is a massive Mumbai bridge connecting Bandra and Worli. This bridge is a modern engineering marvel that reflects the city’s advanced infrastructure. With its eight lanes and pre-stressed concrete-steel viaducts, the bridge can accommodate over 37,500 vehicles per day, reducing travel time between Bandra and Worli by a big margin.
As you drive across the bridge, you can enjoy the spectacular view of Mahim Bay and feel the salty sea breeze blowing through your hair. You can also capture stunning candid shots of the city from the bridge’s elevated position. At night, the bridge looks even more magical with its twinkling lights. The Bandra Worli Sea Link is a perfect spot to marvel at the beauty of modern infrastructure and nature’s wonder.
8- Thrilling Rides: Experience Essel World!
Essel World is a famous amusement park located in Gorai, close to Mumbai. It is one of the largest amusement parks in Asia, with an area of 64 acres! People of all ages, especially kids, love visiting Essel World and Water Kingdom, which are both a part of the same amusement park. There are so many exciting rides and entertainment options that you’ll want to stay all day! If you’re visiting Mumbai, Essel World is a must-visit destination.
Adults love going to Essel World because it reminds them of their childhood days filled with enthusiasm and fun. The amusement park is beautifully landscaped and featured in many Bollywood movies and TV serials. Essel World has also won several awards. Whether planning a day-long trip or staying overnight at one of the nearby hotels, it promises a thrilling adventure for the whole family!
9- An Oasis of Serenity: Revitalise at Aksa Beach
Aksa Beach, located on the outskirts of Mumbai in Malad, is an exceptional escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The beach’s long coastline provides a breathtaking view of the merging horizon, and it is still untouched by city crowds, maintaining its natural charm and immaculate cleanliness. Families and couples frequently visit this beach, known for its pristine beauty.
While the strong tides and currents prohibit swimming, the tiny eateries are worth trying. You can munch on chana whole garam and enjoy a quiet evening stroll on the stunning seashore. With quaint little cottages and luxury resorts dotted along the coastline, Aksa Beach makes for an ideal getaway from everyday life.
Final Verdict
Mumbai is a city of many experiences and identities! Whether you’re a backpacker, solo traveler, or family vacation maker, you’re sure to find activities and attractions to keep you entertained once you leave your hotels in Mumbai. Whether you have an exciting time at Essel World with your kids or hang out with your better half at Marine Drive, you will have more fun than you can imagine!
FAQs about Things to Do in Mumbai
Mumbai is famous for its street food, including vada pav, pav bhaji, and chaat. You can also try traditional Maharashtrian cuisines like thali, puran poli, and modak. The city is also known for its seafood, and you can enjoy fresh catches at various restaurants and food stalls.
Mumbai is a shopper’s paradise with various options, from street markets to high-end malls. Colaba Causeway, Crawford Market, and Chor Bazaar are famous for street shopping, while Palladium Mall, Phoenix Marketcity, and High Street Phoenix are popular shopping malls.
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