Heading to Mumbai? This short, sharp guide skips the fluff—get the essentials for an epic trip (top hostels below)!
QUICK FACTS
- The capital city of the Maharashtra state, Mumbai is home to 20.9 million.
- The most populous city in India is also the fourth most populous city in the world, formerly known as Bombay.
- The wealthiest city in India, ranked 6th in the top 10 global cities by billionaire count.
- Mumbai is India’s cosmopolitan capital and the home of Bollywood. It is the commercial hub of the country.
- Nicknames: City of Seven Islands, City of Dreams, Bollywood City.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
- Currency: Indian Rupee (INR).
- Spoken languages: Marathi, Hindi and English.
- Best time to visit: October to March are the most pleasant months of the year, with temperatures varying within 30°C (86°F).
- Arriving via airport:
– Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM) is served by public bus routes to Vile Parle East or Andheri East railway stations whereas taxis and auto-rickshaws can be hired for Rs450-600. Go for pre-paid taxis (avoid metered taxis, as they will try to overcharge you).
– Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA): Located near Mumbai-Pune Expressway; taxi fare to South Mumbai: ₹800–₹1,200. Prepaid taxi counters available; avoid unlicensed drivers - Best way to exchange money: use ATMs at reputable banks to withdraw Rupees (otherwise, exchange rates vary greatly if using dedicated money exchange shops).
WHERE TO STAY
- Best Mumbai hostel for solo travelers: Nap Manor
– Close to airport, safe location, clean facilities, and a great place to make new friends.
– Book ahead! - South Mumbai is the epicenter of all touristic activity thanks to its access to the city’s landmarks and its upscale accommodation, restaurants, luxury retail and entertainment particularly in the areas of Colaba, Fort and Nariman Point.
- Avoid isolated areas in Dharavi or Kurla post-sunset.
GETTING AROUND
- BEST supplies the bus and tram services in the city that operate from 5 AM to Midnight. Tickets are purchased aboard from a uniformed conductor. Day pass: ₹40 (excludes AC/express buses).
- Tourist tickets can be purchased for unlimited travel between the Central and Western railway stations. 1st class tickets cost Rs170 for 1-day, Rs330 for 3-days and Rs390 for 5-days.
- The train system is by far the most popular mode of public transport in Mumbai. It operates on four lines, and runs from 4 AM until 1 AM. A tourist pass costs 160 INR and allows unlimited travel in first class for the entire day.
– Avoid peak hours (8–11 AM, 5–8 PM), especially on Line 1 (Versova–Ghatkopar) due to overcrowding.
– Metro tourist pass: ₹200/day (unlimited rides on all lines). - For AC (air conditioned) comfort, take Metro Line 3 (Aqua) or BEST AC buses (₹50–₹150 per ride).
- Auto-rickshaws (min. ₹26 for 1.5 km) are banned in South Mumbai. Use taxis or Metro Line 3 instead. Confirm drivers use recalibrated meters or show the revised tariff card.
- Buses connecting the city and suburbs run daily from 5 AM until Midnight. A day pass costs 40 INR (not valid for use on express and A/C buses).
- The black and yellow cabs are a cheap and easy way to move around Mumbai. Hail a cab straight off the street and agree on a price before you leave. Most places of interest in the Colaba district should not cost more than 200 INR.
– ₹29 base fare + ₹45/km after first 1.5km. - Uber and Ola (ride sharing apps) are very popular in Mumbai for convenience, safety, and fare transparency. Great alternative to taxis.
MUMBAI NIGHTLIFE
- Drinking age is 21, and last call is 1:30 AM.
- Colaba is renowned for its exclusive nightclubs and all-night parties.
- Bandra is a popular destination for its trendy DJ bars and extensive drinks lists. This area is known for containing many “resto-bars” (an Indian term for a restaurant that doubles as a place to drink and dance in the evenings).
- Juhu is where the dress code is smart and the drinks hard to pronounce. Check out R’Adda (Juhu): ₹1,200 cover includes live music transitioning to Bollywood dance parties.
- Looking for great food and drinks in one spot? Check out Busago, Hoppipola ($$$ – Gastropub), Social ($$$), The Tasting Room ($$$), Hard Rock Cafe ($$$).
- Clubbing with a young crowd? Tryst is your place.
- Cocktails with a view from the roof? Head to AER (Four Seasons) or Asilo (Palladium). Warning: expensive!
- Typical costs: Domestic beer: ₹200-400, Cocktails at rooftop bars: ₹850-1,200, Club cover charges: ₹1,500-3,000 (2X price for Saturday/Sunday)
UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT
- Gateway of India is a monumental arch located at the water’s edge in Mumbai Harbour overlooking the Arabian Sea.
- Elephanta Caves are a network of sculpted Hindu and Buddhist caves located on Elephanta Island, also called Gharapuri. Pro tip: go either early in the morning or late in the afternoon to beat the crowds.
- ISKON Temple is one of India’s most important and sacred temples dedicated to Lord Krishna, a spiritual oasis located in Juhu.
- Mani Bhavan Gandhi Museum is a library and research centre documenting Gandhi’s life and his accomplishments in the fight for Indian freedom.
- Dhobi Ghat: a human powered laundry of mass proportions. Watch the washerman (dhobi) as they wash clothing in traditional wash basins and hang them out to dry.
- Film City Studios: experience Bollywood first hand in Goregaon.
– Unique experience: 3-hour Bollywood Dance Crash Courses are ₹2,000 per person at Film City. - Other interesting sites: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Kala Ghoda Arts Precinct, and the Siddhivinayak Temple.
- Need a break from the hectic city? Check out the Sanjay Gandhi National Park.
- Check out the local beaches: Girgaon Chowpatty beach in South Mumbai, Juhu beach in the western suburbs and Aska beach are some of the busier beaches. Swimming is not recommended due to pollution, although they are a great spot for people watching. Women should not walk around in bathing costumes, especially in a two-piece.
INTERESTING WALKS
- Marine Drive is a beachside promenade bordering the Arabian Sea that is popular for its sunsets and evening lights.
- Shivaji Park is the locals’ favorite public park and the site of many political and social gatherings.
- Hanging Gardens on Malabar Hill are famous for the numerous hedges carved into the shape of animals that make up the grounds’ main presence. The peaceful park provides excellent views of the sunset and is popular among families and couples.
- There are dozens of iconic bazaars with their own character and history. Among them, Crawford Market, Chor Bazaar, Mirchi Galli and Mangaldas Cloth Market are worth a visit.
- Take a walking tour through Dharavi, India’s largest slum (home for over a million people). You can brave it alone, or go on a tour (many guides use their profits to give back to the slum).
- Take a stroll through Mumbai’s many bazaars and food stalls. Beware of the men selling giant balloons!
- Walk along the “Queen’s Necklace” (Marine Drive) at sunset and enjoy the sweeping ocean views and gentle sea breeze.
WHERE TO EAT
- Great restaurants in Mumbai (that locals love): Swati Snacks (Tardeo Rd.), Seefah (Bandra West), Subko Specialty Coffee (delicious snacks), Ram Ashraya (vegetarian), Soam ($$ – vegetarian), Arabian Darbar ($$).
- Toscano (Navi Mumbai): Authentic Italian entrees ₹800-1,200, open until 11 PM
- Scarlett House (BKC): French-Vietnamese fusion, avg meal ₹2,200.
- Best way to try street food? Try a local food tour. Street food highlights include vada pav and pav bhaji.
- Where to find good cheap eats: everywhere! Mumbai’s street food is delicious and cheap. To avoid travel sickness, choose a vendor with the longest line and one that looks clean. Tip: If street food is not for you, choose Indian restaurants over restaurants offering western food, especially in tourist areas such as Colaba and the Fort.
LOCAL WISDOM
- To protect yourself from illness, only drink bottled water and always say “no ice, please” when ordering drinks from local restaurants.
- The Taj Mahal Palace is Mumbai’s first harbour landmark, a legendary hotel that has hosted Maharajas and leaders from all over the world.
- Some places have more than one name (and many are named after Nehru or Shivaji). Make sure you know the exact details to make sure you end up in the right spot!
- Ganesh Chathurti is a 10-day Hindu festival celebrated yearly between August and September by millions of people who take to the streets.
- Dangerous areas: as in any overcrowded city, it is advised to always exercise caution, be wary of overly helpful strangers, and avoid flashing expensive jewelry or cash.
- Exercise caution in crowded markets (Crawford, Chor Bazaar) and avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas after dark, especially near Dharavi or Kurla.
- Female travelers:
– Wear modest clothing (avoid shorts/tank tops).
– Use Uber/Ola for night transport; avoid trains after 9 PM.
– Safe areas: Bandra, Juhu, Andheri; avoid dimly lit streets in Colaba post-1 AM.
Recommended trip duration: 3-4 days