Top 10 Attractions in Mumbai

Mumbai, the “City of Dreams” and India’s financial powerhouse, offers visitors a trove of memorable experiences. From the valor of the Maratha empire to modern cosmopolitan culture, Mumbai contains multitudes. Gleaming skyscrapers and posh neighborhoods contrast with sprawling suburban slums, while the glitz of Bollywood collides with humble street food like vada pav. Mumbai’s uniqueness is hard to capture in words. To explore the best attractions, solo travelers, groups, and families have many glorious spots to choose from. Explore the top attractions in Mumbai and delve into its vibrant tapestry of sights and experiences.

When planning a Mumbai trip, visiting the right places is crucial for fully appreciating the city’s magnificence. We’ve compiled some of Mumbai’s most amazing attractions to help you fall in love with this extraordinary city.

Top 10 Places to Visit in Mumbai

1. Gateway of India

The Gateway of India, built in 1924 to honor King George V and Queen Mary’s Mumbai visit, may be the best attraction for families or groups. Situated overlooking the Arabian Sea, the Gateway of India exemplifies India’s Indo-Islamic architectural style. Visit early morning or evening when cooling breezes make photography pleasant. Its proximity to the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel adds grandeur. Take a ferry ride for marvelous seaward views of the monument.

• Location: Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Entry: Free

Note: Ferry rides cost extra.

2. Sanjay Gandhi National Park

Spanning 104 sq km, Sanjay Gandhi National Park is one of Asia’s most-visited urban nature preserves. Enjoy fresh air while walking or riding through lush greenery, a welcome respite from metro pollution and noise. Diverse fun activities include safari trips to see big cats and boating on an artificial lake. Follow the trail or stairs to Gandhi Tekdi, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi.

Kids love the “Van Rani” toy train ride. Also explore the ancient Kanheri Caves with Buddha relics dating back 2000 years. Undisturbed nature trails and a Jain temple in the forest offer more to discover.

• Location: Borivali East, Mumbai
• Hours: 7:30 am – 6:30 pm, closed Mondays
• Entry fee:

1. Adults – ₹53
2. Children (5-12 years) – ₹28
3. Children under 5 – Free

Separate fees for safari, boating, toy train.

3. Haji Ali Dargah

The iconic Haji Ali Dargah, housing the tomb of Saint Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, is built dramatically on an islet off the coast. It’s one of Mumbai’s most important religious sites. Gleaming white marble gives this Indo-Islamic structure grandeur. Walking the causeway connecting it to shore is a highlight. Feel the spiritual ambience while enjoying the picturesque seascape!

• Location: Dargah Road, Mumbai
• Hours: 5:30 am – 10:00 pm daily
• Entry: Free

4. Siddhivinayak Temple

The Siddhivinayak Temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesh, is another key Mumbai religious site, drawing devotees from across India including Bollywood celebrities, businessmen, and politicians seeking Ganpati’s blessings. The main idol of Lord Ganesh is carved from a single black stone with a unique rightward bent trunk. Visit with loved ones to attain peace and prosperity.

• Location: Khed Galli, Prabhadevi, Mumbai
• Hours: 5:30 am – 10:00 pm daily
• Entry: Free

5. Elephanta Caves

The Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, make a great one-day Mumbai side-trip. Massive rock-cut caves date back centuries. Five Hindu caves honor Lord Shiva while two depict Buddhist styles. Reach the island by an hour-long ferry from Gateway of India. Those avoiding the hike can ride the toy train. Dine at the MTDC restaurants and canteen.

• Location: Gharapuri Island
• Hours: 9:00 am – 5:30 pm, closed Mondays
• Entry fee:

1. Indian citizens – ₹10
2. Foreigners – ₹250

Separate charges for videography, toy train, and ferry.

6. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus

Mumbai’s second UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, stands at the city’s heart. Built in 1888 during British rule, its Victorian-Gothic design is Instagrammable. It’s India’s most photographed building after the Taj Mahal!

• Location: Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Area
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Entry: Free

7. Juhu Beach

What’s better than strolling alongside gently crashing waves as the sunset paints the sky? Juhu Beach offers a bit of escape for couples amid Mumbai’s rush. Beachside restaurants set the scene for a romantic date night.

• Location: Juhu Tara Road, Mumbai
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Entry: Free

8. Marine Drive

Marine Drive’s panoramic view of the Queen’s Necklace ranks among Mumbai’s top attractions. Watch the sun sink into the Arabian Sea while relaxing or snacking on delicious street food. A prime spot to visit at night.

• Location: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road, Chowpatty
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Entry: Free

9. Mumbai Film City

Covering over 100,000 sq ft, Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari, or Mumbai Film City, fascinates Bollywood fans. See studios, gardens, lakes, and sets leased for film shoots. Take a tour bus with friends to spot locations from hit movies and shows. Die-hard fans shouldn’t miss it!

• Location: Goregaon East, Mumbai
• Hours: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm daily
• Entry fee: Tours starting at ₹599

10. Colaba Causeway

No Mumbai trip is complete without shopping on Colaba Causeway! Browse affordable clothes, high-end designs, home decor, jewelry, and more at the many lively shops and stalls. Fuel up at the numerous restaurants, cafes, and juice bars lining this iconic promenade.

• Location: Colaba, Mumbai
• Hours: Open daily
• Entry: Free