3-Day Itinerary for Mumbai on a Shoestring Budget

  1. Day 1: Explore South Mumbai
    Estimated Time: 5 Hours, Estimated Distance: 11.5 KM

    Start at the Gateway of India, a famous monument overlooking the Arabian Sea that was built during British rule. Take a ferry to Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring rock-cut cave temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Return to South Mumbai and visit Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, a historic railway station, and Crawford Market, the oldest and most famous market in the city. End your day at Marine Drive, a long boulevard along the coast also known as the Queen's Necklace.

  2. Day 2: History and Spirituality
    Estimated Time: 6 Hours, Estimated Distance: 7.5 KM

    Start your day at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya Museum, which houses more than 50,000 artifacts related to the history and culture of India. Next, visit the Babulnath Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located on a hilltop. Afterward, go to the Haji Ali Dargah, a mosque and tomb located on an islet off the coast of Worli. End your day at Gateway of India and enjoy the beautiful sunset view over the Arabian Sea.

  3. Day 3: Markets and Beaches
    Estimated Time: 6 Hours, Estimated Distance: 16.9 KM

    Start your day at Chor Bazaar, a flea market famous for its antiques and vintage items. Next, go to Bandra Fort, an ancient fort located near Band Stand that offers a beautiful view of the sea. Afterward, visit Bandra's Pali Hill, an upscale residential area. End your day at Juhu Beach, a popular beach known for its street food and nightlife.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Gateway of India (1 hour, Free)
  • Elephanta Caves (3 hours, ₹200 for Indians, ₹600 for foreigners)
  • Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (30 minutes, Free)
  • Crawford Market (1 hour, Free)
  • Marine Drive (2 hours, Free)
  • Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya Museum (3 hours, ₹85 for Indians, ₹500 for foreigners)
  • Babulnath Temple (1 hour, Free)
  • Haji Ali Dargah (1 hour, Free)
  • Chor Bazaar (2 hours, Free)
  • Bandra Fort (1 hour, Free)
  • Bandra's Pali Hill (1 hour, Free)
  • Juhu Beach (2 hours, Free)
  • Total Estimated Costs (for one person): ₹885 for Indians, ₹1700 for foreigners

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can visit other popular attractions like the Siddhivinayak Temple or the Chorao Island. However, if you have less time, you can skip the Elephanta Caves and spend more time exploring other places. Make sure to carry cash as some places do not accept credit cards. Also, try the local street food at your own risk as it may not be suitable for all.

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