Top 15 Places to Visit in Mumbai: A Complete Travel Guide

Mar 03, 2025

Mumbai stands out as an ideal escape from the chaos of urban life, presenting a captivating mix of experiences that appeal to every type of traveller. This vibrant metropolis boasts an impressive array of shopping centers, a diverse array of delightful cuisine, a dynamic nightlife, the city's artistic heritage and remarkable structures, and pristine beaches. To truly immerse yourself in the scenic and cultural beauty of this remarkable city, don’t miss exploring its top destinations, each brimming with unique character and charm.

15 Best Places to Visit in Mumbai

1. Gateway Of India

A remarkable landmark built on the waterfront at Apollo Bunder in Mumbai, facing the Arabian Sea, the Gateway of India commemorates the landing of Queen Mary and King George V in India in 1911. It is a 26-metre-high Indo-Saracenic-style arch monument whose construction was completed in 1924. The then viceroys and new Governors of Bombay used it as a symbolic ceremonial entrance to India.

Best time to visit- Between October and March.
How to reach- Gateway of India can be reached via Vile Parle Airport (30 km), the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (5 km), or its well-connected road system.

2. Marine Drive

A 3.6 km long stretch of Marine Drive is a promenade along the Arabian Sea in South Mumbai. It is a curve-shaped boulevard that offers a breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea. The path is affectionately known as the Queen's Necklace, as the streets light up in the evening and make it look like an array of gems that are sparkling in an arc and thus offer a panoramic and soothing view in contrast to its bustling cities.

Best time to visit- From November to February.
How to reach- Marine Lines Railway Station is the best way to reach Marine Drive, which is just 500 metres away from each other.

3. Haji Ali Dargah

A renowned Islamic shrine that has attracted tourists from all faith, Haji Ali Dargah is a mosque and the tomb of Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari and is situated at a small islet off the coast of Warli in the southern parts of Mumbai. It is famous for its charismatic devotees, remarkable architecture, which is a perfect combination of Indo-Islamic Mughals and Arabian architecture, and its annual celebration of the URS festival to commemorate the death anniversary of the saint.

Best time to visit- Between October and March.
How to reach- Haji Ali Dargah can be best reached via Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (20 km) or the nearest local railway stations including Mahalaxmi, Mumbai Central, Lower Parel, etc.

4. Essel World

Essel World is one of the oldest and largest amusement parks in India, located in Gorai on Dharavi Island of Mumbai. Its mixture of modern and traditional architecture offers visitors a unique and immersive experience. Visitors can explore more than 40 thrilling rides, including roller coasters, water slides, an Aqua Dive Ride, a Shot-N-Drop ride, and many other family-friendly attractions.

Best time to visit- In the cooler months of October to February.
How to reach- Essel World is easily accessible with Mumbai's wide road network, whereas the nearest railway station is Borivali.

5. Juhu Beach

One of the most popular beaches in India, Juhu Beach has an extensive coastline that stretches for around 6 km and offers a wide range of activities to cater for the needs of every kind of visitor, where they can indulge in activities like playing football or cricket, luxuriate in jogging or yoga, or enjoy the camel rides. Known for its rich stalls of street food, mesmerising sunset views, and occasional sights of celebrities make it popular among locals as well as tourists alike.

Best time to visit- Months from October to March
How to reach- Juhu can be easily reached by the D. N. Nagar and Andheri West Railway Station, which is around 3 km away, or via local transport using its wide road network.

6. Sanjay Gandhi National Museum

A perfect weekend getaway destination, Sanjay Gandhi National Museum offers the best respite from bustling cities and a hectic work-life balance schedule. Lodged in northern Mumbai, the park offers its visitors a lush green landscape, pristine lakes, beautiful waterfalls, scenic views, and the opportunity to explore over 500 species of birds and animals and more than 1,300 species of plants.

Best time to visit- In the rainy months, from July to mid-October.
How to reach- Sanjay Gandhi National Museum can be best reached by road through Ahmedabad Highway or Mumbai Airport, which is 15 km from the destination.

7. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya

Established as the Prince of Whales Museum in the early 20th century, it was later renamed the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya in honour of the great Maratha King, Chhatrapati Shivaji. Over the years, it has evolved and become one of the most illustrious and renowned museums of India. It holds an extensive array of collections of artefacts and artworks from the ancient Indus Valley Civilization to the modern Mughal Empire.

Best time to visit- Months from November to February
How to reach- The nearest railway station to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya is Churchgate Railway Station, 1.5 km away.

8. Elephanta Caves

A renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, Elephanta Caves are a beautiful array and the finest example of rock-cut temples located on Elephanta Island. Though the caves' construction dates are highly debated, it is generally accepted that they were formed between the mid-5th and 7th centuries and are dedicated to the Hindu lord Shiva, who is glorified in a myriad of forms and actions.

Best time to visit- Between November and February
How to reach- Elephanta Caves can be reached by ferry from the Gateway of India.

9. Film City

Spread over 520 acres in the heart of Mumbai, Film City of Mumbai is one of the premier film studio complexes in India. It hosts everything from small productions to blockbuster films and international award ceremonies. Over the years, nearly 900 movies and numerous television shows have been filmed here, making it one of the best-equipped studios with world-class facilities.

Best time to visit- From November to February.
How to reach- The best way to reach Film City is via Goregaon Railway Station, after which you can take a bus or taxi to reach the destination.

10. Hanging Gardens

The Hanging Gardens, located on the top of Malabar Hill, offers tranquillity to its visitors. Established in the early 20th century, this lush sanctuary offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle, attracting both locals and visitors. Whether seeking quiet contemplation or admiring nature's beauty, the gardens provide a serene refuge amidst the urban landscape.

Best time to visit- Between December and February
How to reach- Churchgate is the nearest train station to Hanging Gardens, which is around 1.5 km away.

11. Dhobi Ghat

This dhobi ghat, which has been in operation for 140 years, is the largest human-operated laundry facility in Mumbai, where daily, numerous individuals wash thousands of kilograms of dirty clothes and linens from the city using 1,026 open-air troughs. During a tour, an individual can understand the history and significance of Dhobi Ghat.

Best time to visit- Between October and March
How to reach- Via Mahalaxmi Station, 600 metres away, visitors can reach Dhobi Ghat easily.

12. Bandra Worli Sea Link Bridge

The Bandra Worli Sea Link Bridge is a remarkable architecture that has significantly reduced travel time between Bandra and Worli from 45-60 minutes to just 7-10 minutes. This iconic structure not only offers stunning views of the surroundings but is also Mumbai's first earthquake-resistant marvel. Its creation involved collaboration among engineers from India, Egypt, China, Canada, and Switzerland, showcasing a blend of global expertise.

Best time to visit- During winter months from November to February.
How to reach: Bandra Worli Sea Link Bridge is easily reachable by Bandra Railway Station, which is 6.5 km away.

13. Shri Siddhivinayak Temple

Shri Siddhivinayak Temple, nearly two centuries old, is a renowned temple in Mumbai that is known for fulfilling the desires of its worshipers. The main deity is Lord Ganesh, or Ganapati, represented in his elephant-headed form, along with the Goddesses Riddhi and Siddhi, symbolizing affluence and prosperity. This ancient shrine provides solace to devotees and pilgrims worldwide.

Best time to visit- Between September and February
How to reach- Dadar Railway station is the nearest railway station, which is 2 km away from Shri Siddhivinayak Temple.

14. Jehangir Art Gallery

Set up in 1952, the Jehangir Art Gallery has played a significant role in the promotion of contemporary Indian art, as it holds exhibitions of many sculptors, painters, printmakers, photographers, craftsmen, and weavers. The gallery even organizes frequently engaging lecture series and offers workshops and discussions covering various art forms, emphasizing various aspects of education.

Best time to visit- In the winter months, from November to February.
How to reach- Jehangir Art Gallery can be best reached via Mumbai's extensive road network or through Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, which is 3 km away from the destination.

15. Mahalakshmi Devi Temple

Located in the Mahalaxmi area of Mumbai, Mahalakshmi Temple is a renowned temple dedicated to the central deity of Devi Mahatmaya, Mahalakshmi. It was built by a Hindu merchant in 1831 and contains three principal deities, including Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasaraswati, collectively known as Tridevi goddesses. The temple compound is filled with several small stalls that sell items used by devotees as offerings to deities, including flower garlands.

Best time to visit- Between the months of October and March
How to reach- Mahalaxmi Railway Station is the best way to reach Mahalakshmi Devi Temple, which is 1 km away.

FAQs

Q. What is the most iconic monument to visit in Mumbai?

The Gateway of India is the most iconic and popular tourist monument in Mumbai. It is famous for its Indo-Saracenic style of architecture and its panoramic view of the Arabian Sea.

Q. Is Mumbai worth visiting?

Yes, Mumbai is considered worth visiting for its iconic landmarks, vibrant culture, diverse cuisine, rich city life, and the status of the heart of Bollywood.

Q. What is the best time to visit Mumbai?

The winter months, from October to February, are considered the best time to visit Mumbai. The weather is pleasant, with cool evenings and comfortable daytime temperatures.

Q. What are the most popular tourist spots in Mumbai?

Mumbai's most visited tourist places are the Gateway of India, Juhu Beach, Marine Drive, Elephanta Cave, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus.

Q. Which are the top attractions in Mumbai?

Shree Siddhivinayak Temple, Film City, Elephanta Cave, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, and the Gateway of India are some of the top attractions in Mumbai.

Q. What are some fun and interesting activities to do in Mumbai?

Mumbai offers many things to do for its visitors, including exploring iconic landmarks, experiencing vibrant cuisines, praying at Shree Shidhivinayak Temple, delving into rich historical culture through various city museums, and more.

Q. Which are the best places for kids to go to in Mumbai?

Amusement parks, Juhu Beach, Nehru Planetarium, KidZania Mumbai, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, and Nehru Science Centre are some of Mumbai's best tourist spots for kids.

Q. Which place in Mumbai is known for its stunning beauty?

The Gateway of India, Elephanta Caves, Juhu Beach, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus are a few of the beautiful places in Mumbai.

Q. How to spend a day in Mumbai?

You can start your day with a visit to its beautiful Gateway of India, followed by exploring the vibrant streets of Colaba Causeway to shop and eat lunch. During the afternoon, you can visit its iconic Haji Ali Dargah, followed by delving into the mesmerising Elephanta Caves. To end your day, you can explore any of its beaches for a sunset stroll.

Q. What are some romantic spots for couples in Mumbai?

The best places for couples in Mumbai include Marine Drive, Hanging Gardens, Worli Seaface, Madh Island, Powai Lake, Nariman Point, and Chota Kashmir.

Q. Why is Mumbai famous?

Mumbai is famous for its iconic landmarks, vibrant markets, beautiful beaches, historic caves, and strong link with the Bollywood film industry.