Quick answer

Mumbai is India’s largest city — a bustling, diverse metropolis with rich culture, busy streets, and great food. Be prepared for crowds, heat/humidity (seasonal), and a mix of modern and traditional experiences.

Visa & entry requirements

• Most foreign nationals need a valid visa for India. Apply for an e-Visa (tourist) online up to 120 days before travel for many nationalities. Check the Indian government e-Visa site for eligibility and fees.
• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from date of arrival and have at least two blank pages.
• Have a printed or digital copy of your e-Visa and return/onward ticket; immigration may ask for proof of accommodation.

Best time to visit

• November to February: coolest and most pleasant (dry, daytime 20–30°C / 68–86°F). Peak tourist season.
• March to May: hot and humid; temperatures often exceed 35°C (95°F).
• June to September: monsoon season — heavy rain, flooding, reduced outdoor activities; dramatic but crowded transport and intermittent closures.

Safety tips

• Mumbai is relatively safe compared with many big cities, but take standard urban precautions:
  • Keep valuables secure; use hotel safes for passports and extra cash.
  • Avoid isolated areas at night; prefer taxis or app-based cabs after dark.
  • Be cautious with ATMs; use machines inside banks or malls.
  • Watch out for petty scams (overcharging, tuk-tuk drivers refusing meters). Agree fares or use meters/app fares.
  • Carry a copy of ID; keep emergency numbers handy (local police 100, ambulance 102/108).

Local customs & etiquette

• Dress modestly in religious sites: cover shoulders and knees; remove shoes when entering temples and some homes.
• Public displays of affection are frowned upon in conservative areas.
• Greet with a handshake or a slight nod; among Hindus, many use "Namaste" (hands pressed together).
• Bargain politely in markets but accept fixed prices in stores/malls.

Currency & money

• Indian Rupee (INR). Carry small notes and coins for local purchases and auto-rickshaws.
• Credit/debit cards widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. Inform your bank of travel to avoid card blocks.
• ATMs are common; carry some cash when visiting markets or local eateries.
• Tip: 5–10% in restaurants if service charge isn’t included; small change for porters/taxis.

Transportation

• App-based taxis (Uber, Ola) are convenient, relatively safe, and usually cheaper than hotels’ cabs.
• Local trains (Mumbai suburban railways) are the fastest way to cross the city but can be extremely crowded during peak hours; avoid with heavy luggage.
• BEST buses cover the city extensively; cheaper but slower.
• Auto-rickshaws limited to suburbs; they don’t operate in the city’s southern tip (South Mumbai). Insist on metered fares or agree on price before boarding.
• Metered taxis: ask driver to use the meter or negotiate fare beforehand.
• Domestic flights: Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) is a major hub — allow extra time for traffic to/from airport.

Must-know tips & local insights

• Time management: traffic can be severe; allow extra travel time between sights.
• Plan visits: South Mumbai (Colaba, Fort, Marine Drive, Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus), Bandra (cafés, street art, Bandra-Worli Sea Link), Juhu and suburban beaches.
• Food: street food (vada pav, pav bhaji, bhel puri) is delicious — choose busy stalls with high turnover for safer options. Drink bottled water only.
• Markets: Crawford Market, Chor Bazaar, Colaba Causeway for shopping and antiques — bring cash and bargain.
• Cultural sites: visit Siddhivinayak Temple, Haji Ali Dargah, Elephanta Caves (boat from Gateway of India) — check opening days/hours.
• Connectivity: buy a local SIM or eSIM for data; public Wi‑Fi exists but is spotty.
• Health: carry mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and basic meds. If you have food sensitivities, ask about ingredients (many dishes use dairy or nuts).

Quick checklist before you go

• Valid passport + e-Visa/visa documentation
• Local currency and working cards; notify bank
• Comfortable clothes, hat, sunscreen, reusable water bottle
• Power adapter (India uses types C/D/M; 230V, 50Hz)
• Download Uber/Ola, maps, and a translation/dictionary app

Enjoy the energy, food, and culture of Mumbai — plan for crowds and heat, use app taxis or trains wisely, and you’ll have a rewarding visit.