A Family-Friendly 3-Day Itinerary: Mumbai and Surrounding Areas
Sunday August 13: Exploring Mumbai
Start your trip in the bustling city of Mumbai, known for its vibrant culture and rich history. In the morning, visit the iconic Gateway of India, a monument that overlooks the Arabian Sea. Take a boat ride to Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can admire ancient rock-cut temples. In the afternoon, head to Marine Drive, also called the Queen's Necklace, for a leisurely stroll along the promenade. Marvel at the sunset and enjoy local street food. In the evening, explore the lively markets of Colaba Causeway, perfect for shopping and experiencing the local atmosphere.
Gateway of India: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Elephanta Caves: Estimated cost - Boat ride: INR 250-300 per person, Entrance fee: INR 40 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Colaba Causeway: Estimated cost - Varies based on shopping, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Cafe Madras, a popular South Indian restaurant known for its delicious dosas and filter coffee. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Britannia & Co., an iconic Parsi restaurant that has been serving delicious Parsi and Iranian cuisine since 1923. Don't miss their famous Berry Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Trishna, a renowned seafood restaurant in Mumbai. Known for their mouthwatering butter garlic crab, Trishna offers a memorable dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about INR 1,500 per person.
Monday August 14: Ali Bag and EsselWorld
Embark on a day trip to Ali Bag, a serene beach located near Mumbai. Spend the morning relaxing on the golden sands, swimming in the Arabian Sea, and enjoying beach activities. After a delicious seafood lunch at a local restaurant, head to EsselWorld, one of India's largest amusement parks. Experience thrilling rides, water slides, and entertainment shows that cater to all age groups. In the evening, return to Mumbai and indulge in a traditional Indian dinner at one of the city's renowned restaurants.
Ali Bag Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
EsselWorld: Estimated cost - Entrance fee: INR 949 per adult, INR 699 per child, Time spent - 4-5 hours
Dinner at a local restaurant: Estimated cost - Varies based on choice, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Madras, a popular South Indian restaurant known for its delicious filter coffee and authentic dosas. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
For lunch, try Gajalee, a seafood restaurant located near Ali Bag beach. Enjoy fresh and flavorful seafood dishes like butter garlic crab and prawn curry. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For dinner, dine at Khyber, a renowned restaurant in Mumbai known for its North Indian cuisine and elegant ambience. Indulge in delectable dishes like butter chicken and paneer tikka. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Tuesday August 15: Karjat Adventure
Explore the beautiful outdoors by visiting Karjat, a scenic town located near Mumbai. Start your day with a thrilling trek to Kondana Caves, ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves nestled amidst nature. After the trek, cool off with a dip in the refreshing waters of Bhivpuri Waterfall. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the lush greenery. In the afternoon, indulge in adventurous activities like rappelling and zip-lining at Della Adventure Park. End the day with a scenic sunset view from the famous Sunset Point in Karjat. Return to Mumbai in the evening.
Kondana Caves: Estimated cost - Entrance fee: INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
A popular breakfast spot near Karjat is The Breakfast Club, offering a wide variety of delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to The Farmhouse Kitchen, a cozy restaurant serving farm-to-table dishes made with fresh local ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at The Riverfront Restaurant, located by the river with stunning views. Enjoy a menu featuring both local and international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a off the beaten path experience, consider visiting Sanjay Gandhi National Park, located within Mumbai. It offers a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle, with lush green forests, wildlife, and hiking trails. Another hidden gem is the Global Vipassana Pagoda, a meditation center in Gorai that showcases stunning architecture and serene surroundings. Families can also explore KidZania in R City Mall, an interactive theme park where children can role-play various professions and learn valuable skills.
Check here to find the best hotel and flight prices for your trip to Mumbai and its surrounding areas.