The Gateway of India is an iconic monument located in the Colaba area of Mumbai, overlooking the Arabian Sea. It was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai in 1911. Visitors can take a boat ride to the nearby Elephanta Caves or simply enjoy the sea breeze.
Marine Drive, also known as the Queen's Necklace, is a 3.6 km long promenade along the Arabian Sea. It's lined with Art Deco style buildings that offer stunning views of Mumbai's skyline. A short walk from Marine Drive is Chowpatty Beach, a popular spot for picnics and street food.
Siddhivinayak Temple is an important Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It's known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful architecture. Afterward, head to Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat, an open-air laundry facility that's been in operation since the 19th century. Despite being in the heart of the city, it's a surprisingly peaceful place to visit.
Haji Ali Dargah is a mosque and shrine located on a rocky islet in the Arabian Sea. It's accessible only during low tide and offers panoramic views of the city. Afterward, head to High Street Phoenix Mall for some retail therapy – it's one of the largest malls in India with a wide selection of international and domestic brands.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a large protected area in northern Mumbai that's home to a variety of flora and fauna including leopards and crocodiles. Don't miss the Kanheri Caves, an ancient Buddhist rock-cut monastery that dates back to the 1st century BCE. It contains over 100 rock-cut cave sculptures and inscriptions.
Take a ferry from the Gateway of India to the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site located on Elephanta Island. The caves contain stunning rock-cut sculptures and carvings that depict Lord Shiva and other Hindu deities. Afterward, enjoy a stroll around Oval Maidan, a large open-air recreational area in the heart of the city that's popular with cricket players and spectators alike.
Bollywood is a central part of Mumbai's identity, and a tour of the city's film studios and sets is a must-do for anyone interested in the Indian film industry. Afterward, head to Worli Sea Face, a promenade along the western coast of Mumbai that offers stunning views of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link bridge and the Arabian Sea.
To get around Mumbai, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Ola are widely available. Public transportation options include local trains, buses, and auto-rickshaws. However, traffic can be quite heavy during peak hours, so plan accordingly. Costs range from ₹50-200 for short rides, and up to ₹1,000 for longer distances.
If you have more time, consider a day trip to the nearby hill stations of Lonavala or Mahabaleshwar. If you have less time, consider skipping the Bollywood Tour or the High Street Phoenix Mall. Keep in mind that Mumbai is a tropical city and can get quite humid, so be sure to stay hydrated and carry sunscreen.
Mumbai is served by the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM), located in the suburb of Andheri. It's the second-busiest airport in India, handling both domestic and international flights. The airport is located around 24 minutes (10.9 km) from the Gateway of India.