Welcome to Mumbai, where dreams dance on every street corner and the spirit of the city never sleeps. From the hustle of its train stations to the aroma of its iconic street food, Mumbai is a tapestry of contrasts and colors. Join us on a journey through the city’s finest treasures, where history meets modernity and every corner tells a story. Let’s explore the magic of Mumbai together. If you’re planning your next getaway to Mumbai, explore this curated list of the Places to Visit in Mumbai.
Best Places to Visit in Mumbai with Family & Friends
1. Gateway of India
The Gateway of India stands as a timeless symbol of Mumbai’s grandeur. Erected in 1924 by George Willet to commemorate the royal visit of King George V and Queen Mary, it beckons visitors to bask in its historic glory. For a serene experience, consider a visit during the tranquil hours of early morning or late evening, when the sea breeze whispers tales of the Arabian Sea. Nestled beside the illustrious Taj Mahal Palace, this architectural marvel casts a mesmerizing spell on all who behold it. Opt for a ferry ride for a breathtaking perspective from the sea, and explore other nearby attractions that await your discovery.
- Location: Apollo Bandar, Colaba
- Timings: 24×7; every day
- How to reach: Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and Churchgate are the nearest train stations at a distance of around 4 km.
- Tip: Spend an evening at the rooftop cafes in hotels located along the coastline.
- Entry Fee: Free entry
- Places to Stay:Â Hotels near Gateway of India
2. Marine Drive
A must-visit destination in Mumbai, Marine Drive boasts stunning sunset vistas that never fail to enchant. Tourists flock here to meander along the scenic promenade, soaking in the invigorating sea breeze as they go.
- Best Time to Visit – March and October
- Entry Fee – Free of cost
- Operational Hours – Open all days
- Things to Do – View the sunset, have street food at Chowpatty
- How to Reach –Â Via road
3. Haji Ali Dargah
Haji Ali Dargah, a revered landmark in Mumbai, stands as a testament to faith and devotion. Housing the tomb of Sayed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, this grand edifice crafted from gleaming white marble is more than just an architectural marvel—it’s a sanctuary of spiritual solace for countless devotees. As you traverse the causeway linking the Dargah to Lala Rajput Rai Marg, you’ll be enveloped in an aura of tranquility, allowing you to connect with something greater amidst the bustling cityscape. It’s no wonder that Haji Ali Dargah holds a revered place as the third-ranked destination on my list of Mumbai’s finest attractions.
- Location: Dargah Road
- Timings: 05:30 am to 10:00 pm; every day
- Entry Fee: N/A
- How to reach: The nearest railway stations to the Dargah are Mahalakshmi Railway Station, Mumbai Central Station, and Byculla Railway Station.
- Tip: Make sure you are modestly dressed and cover your head before entering the shrine.
- Places to Stay:Â Hotels near Haji Ali Dargah
4. Elephanta Caves
Step into history at Mumbai’s Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with ancient wonders carved into massive rock formations. These centuries-old caves, featuring five dedicated to Lord Shiva and two adorned with Buddhist architecture, offer a mesmerizing glimpse into India’s rich cultural tapestry. Accessible via a scenic one-hour ferry ride from the iconic Gateway of India, the journey itself becomes an adventure, showcasing Mumbai’s coastal charm. Whether you’re a history buff or a curious traveler, this blog is your key to unlocking the secrets of the Elephanta Caves.
- Location: Gharapuri
- Timings: 9:00 am to 5:30 pm; closed on Mondays
- Entry Fee:
- Citizens of India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, & Thailand – ₹10 per person
- Other foreign citizens – ₹250 per person
- How to reach: There are regular ferries from Gateway of India from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM to reach Elephanta Caves.
- Tip:Â There are no proper restaurants and water facilities on the island, so take some snacks and water with you beforehand.
5. Siddhivinayak Temple
Experience divine blessings at Mumbai’s Siddhivinayak Temple, a cherished destination dedicated to Lord Ganesh. Revered by devotees nationwide, including renowned figures from Bollywood and sports, this temple attracts pilgrims seeking the benevolent grace of Siddhivinayak Ganapati. The sacred idol, crafted from a single black stone with a unique rightward-bent trunk, stands as a testament to its unparalleled significance. Plan a visit with your family to immerse yourselves in this spiritually enriching experience.
- Location: Khed Galli, Prabhadevi
- Timings: 05:30 am to 10:00 pm; every day
- Entry Fee: NA
- How to reach: Dadar Railway Station is the nearest railway station at 3 km.
- Places to Stay:Â Hotels near Siddhivinayak Temple
6. Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Spanning 104 square kilometers, this national park ranks among Asia’s most visited, securing the second spot among Mumbai’s top attractions. Perfect for family outings, it offers a plethora of activities, from close encounters with big cats on safari to leisurely boat rides on its artificial lake. Hike to Gandhi Tekdi, a memorial honoring Mahatma Gandhi, or hop aboard the beloved Van Rani toy train. Explore the ancient Kanheri Caves or wander the park’s serene trails, including a visit to the tranquil Jain Temple. With its focus on ecotourism, this park promises a memorable blend of adventure and tranquility.
- Location: Borivali East
- Timings: 07:30 am to 06:30 pm; closed on Mondays
- Entry Fee:
- Adults – ₹53 per person
- Children (Between 5 to 12 years of age) – ₹28 per person
- Children (Below 5 years) – free
- How to reach: The nearest railway station is Borivali (4 km).
- Tip: You can rent cycles at a nominal price of INR 10 per hour.
- Places to stay:Â Hotels in Borivali East
7. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST)
Nestled in Mumbai’s core, Chatrapati Shivaji Terminus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing stunning Victorian-Gothic architecture dating back to 1888. It’s a must-visit spot where you can capture cherished family moments in front of this iconic landmark, often hailed as India’s second-most photographed building after the Taj Mahal! After exploring, indulge in Mumbai’s culinary delights, from budget-friendly eateries to upscale dining experiences. Check out our blog on Mumbai’s top restaurants for some delectable recommendations to round off your day of sightseeing.
- Location: Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Area
- Timings: Every day
- Entry Fee: N/A
- How to reach: Almost every train stops at CST station. Buses and taxis are also available to reach the station.
- Tip: Avoid the peak hours for the rush.
- Places to Stay:Â Hotels near CST Road
8. Juhu Beach
Juhu Beach, recognized as one of the premier beaches in Maharashtra, offers more than just sun and sand. Serving as a reptile zoo, the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust also conducts vital herpetology research and works diligently to preserve various species, including the marsh crocodile, gharial, and the endangered saltwater crocodile.
- Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
- Open Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Except Monday)
- Ideal Vacation Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Things to Do: Learn about crocodiles, and see them in their natural habitat
- How to Reach:Â Via bus, rail and cab
9. Bandra-Worli Sea Link
Also known as the Rajiv Gandhi Sea Link, this iconic structure stands as Mumbai’s most ambitious civil engineering project to date. Spanning 5.6 kilometers, it significantly reduces travel time between Bandra and Worli while offering breathtaking views of the city skyline. Connecting upscale neighborhoods, the sea link requires payment of tolls upfront, either in cash or via card, or deducted from your FASTag account. Although closed to pedestrians, it opens exclusively for Mumbai Marathon participants. With four traffic lanes on each side, this world-class marvel, completed after a decade of construction, opened its gates to the public in 2010.
- Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra
- Timings: 24/7
- Entry Fee: Tolls applicable
- How to reach: Car, taxi, public transport
- Places to Stay: Bandra, Worli
10. Mumbai Film City
Covering an expansive area of around 100,000 sq. ft., the Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari, also referred to as Mumbai Film City, is a captivating realm brimming with theaters, gardens, lakes, recording studios, and shooting locations leased by Bollywood. Embark on a bus tour of this cinematic hub with your friends to explore iconic sets from beloved sitcoms and films. For Bollywood aficionados, visiting this film city is an unmissable experience.
- Location: Aarey Colony, Goregaon East
- Timings: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm; every day
- Entry Fee: Tours starting at ₹599
- How to reach: Goregaon is the nearest railway station.
- Tip: Follow all the guidelines as instructed at the beginning of the tour.
- Places to stay:Â Hotels near Film City
Also read: Romantic Places In Pune To Spend Date Night At
As we wrap up our exploration of the best places to visit in Maharashtra, don’t overlook the opportunity to savor the delicious local cuisine while exploring Mumbai. Keep your eyes peeled, as you might even spot Bollywood celebrities during your adventures, offering a chance to capture a memorable selfie!
