Mumbai, also known as the ‘City of Dreams’, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis in India. With its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning architecture, Mumbai offers a plethora of attractions for every type of traveler. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or your significant other, there are plenty of places to explore and experience. In this article, we will highlight the top 10 places to visit in Mumbai, as well as specific recommendations for families, couples, and friends.
Key Takeaways
- Mumbai is a city with a rich history and diverse culture.
- The Gateway of India and Marine Drive are iconic landmarks that offer stunning views of the city.
- Shree Siddhivinayak and Haji Ali Dargah are popular religious sites in Mumbai.
- Sanjay Gandhi National Park and Elephanta Caves are must-visit attractions for nature and history enthusiasts.
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya showcase the architectural grandeur of Mumbai.
Top 10 Mumbai Tourist Places to Visit
Gateway of India
The Gateway of India is a monument built in 1911 to commemorate the landing of King George V and Queen Mary on their visit to India. It is the city’s most popular attraction and universally considered to be a symbol of Mumbai. The Gateway is impressive from land, but it looks even more majestic when viewed from the Arabian Sea. A ferry ride to Elephanta Island is a great opportunity to see the Gateway from the other side. Facing the Gateway of India is the famous Taj Mahal Palace and Tower, the most iconic hotel in Mumbai. The hotel was built by wealthy industrialist Jamsetji Tata after being denied entry into the city’s grandest hotel at the time. Take a ferry ride to experience a stupendous view of the Gateway of India from the sea. You can also visit other main attractions nearby. Enjoy the beauty of this iconic monument for free and explore the many famous places in Mumbai that you can enjoy without spending a penny.
Marine Drive
Marine Drive, also known as the Queen’s Necklace, is a scenic 3.6 km stretch of coastal road in Mumbai. It is famous for its Art Deco buildings, which make it look like a shimmering necklace at night. Walking along Marine Drive feels like being in Miami, with the Arabian Sea on one side and beautiful architecture on the other. If you’re a fan of ocean views and architecture, this is the place to be. You can find luxury, midrange, and budget accommodations on or around Marine Drive. Here are some options:
- Luxury: InterContinental Marine Drive Mumbai, an IHG Hotel
- Midrange: West End Hotel Opp Bombay Hospital
- Budget: Bentley Hotel Marine Drive
Shree Siddhivinayak
Shree Siddhivinayak is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It is located in Mumbai’s central area, Prabhadevi, and is the most revered Lord Ganesh temple not only in Maharashtra but also in India. Devotees from all over the country, including famous personalities from Bollywood and sports, visit the temple to seek the blessings of Siddhivinayak Ganapati. The temple is known for its intricately designed architecture and the auspicious idol of Lord Ganesha, which is carved out of a single black stone with the trunk bent towards the right, making it one-of-a-kind. It is one of the most frequented tourist places in Mumbai and is a must-visit for those seeking a spiritual experience.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is one of the most-visited national parks in Asia, covering an area of 104 sq. km. Located in Mumbai, it offers a wide range of fun activities for the whole family. Visitors can watch the big cats up close in a safari cage and enjoy boating in the park’s artificial lake. A hike to Gandhi Tekdi, a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, is a popular activity. The park also features the Van Rani toy train, which is a hit among kids. Nature enthusiasts can explore the undisturbed natural trails and visit the Jain Temple in the forest. Entry fee for Indians is INR 15 per head and for foreigners is INR 200 per head. The park is open from 07:30 am to 05:00 pm, Tuesday to Monday.
Red Carpet Wax Museum
The Red Carpet Wax Museum is a popular tourist attraction in Mumbai. It features lifelike wax figures of prominent icons from various fields including science, politics, sports, and world cinema. Visitors can take selfies with their favorite icons and post them on social media. The museum is a great place to fulfill your dream of standing next to Barack Obama, striking a pose with Michael Jackson, or taking a selfie with Harry Potter. It is definitely a must-visit place in Mumbai.
Haji Ali Dargah
Haji Ali Dargah is one of the most popular religious shrines in Mumbai, located in the middle of the Arabian Sea. It houses the tomb of Sayed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari and is made of white marbles, showcasing the Indo-Islamic style of architecture. The main attraction of this place is the causeway that connects the Dargah to the Lala Rajput Rai Marg. Visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the deep blue waters while experiencing the spirituality of the place. Haji Ali Dargah is ranked number 4 among the best places to visit in Mumbai.
Elephanta Caves
The Elephanta Caves is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Mumbai that features massive rock-cut caves dating back to several centuries. It consists of five caves dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and two caves depicting Buddhist architectures. To reach the Elephanta Caves, you can take a one-hour ferry ride from the Gateway of India, which offers a scenic view of the city. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, you can also take a toy train tour of the caves. The Elephanta Caves is a must-visit attraction in Mumbai for its historical and cultural significance.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST)
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) is a historic railway terminus and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. Built in the year 1888, during the British colonial period, this edifice exemplifies the Victorian-Gothic style of architecture. It is one of the grandest and most striking examples of Gothic architecture in Mumbai. The CST is Mumbai’s main railway station and the heart of its extensive metro system. If you stay in South Mumbai and plan to get around by train, then chances are you’ll be going through this building at least once or twice a day. Be sure to visit the CST in the morning and evening as it looks absolutely magical when it’s lit up at night. Many Mumbai city tours make stops at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya is one of the famous places in Mumbai that demand your attention as a centre of entertainment and learning. Since the museum was built to commemorate the India visit of George V’s, the then Prince of Wales, it was initially named as the Prince of Wales Museum. Home to about 50,000 artefacts, this beautiful museum has received the 2010 UNESCO Asia – Pacific Heritage Award and is a must-visit if you are keen to know about our country’s heritage. It is indeed, one of the leading heritage places for sightseeing in Mumbai.
Here are some key features of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya:
- Location: Mahatma Gandhi Road, Kala
- Timings: Every day
- Entry Fee: N/A
If you are interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of India, this museum is a must-visit. With its grand Indo-Saracenic architectural style, it offers a unique experience for visitors. The museum houses a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, religious artifacts, weapons, and archaeological items. It is a treasure trove of knowledge and a testament to the rich history and culture of our country.
If you are planning a trip to Mumbai, make sure to include Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya in your itinerary. It will provide you with a fascinating insight into India’s heritage and leave you with lasting memories.
ISKCON Temple
ISKCON Temple, also known as Sri Sri Radha Rasabihari ji Temple, is one of the top 10 places to visit in Mumbai to experience spirituality. Located close to Juhu Beach, this gorgeously carved temple draws Hindu devotees in droves. It boasts 4 acres of land area and hosts festivals like Ratha Yatra, Janmashtami, Radhasthami, Makarsankranti, and Gaura Purnima with great pomp and show. Crafted with marble, the temple comes with a 7-storey guesthouse, an auditorium, and a restaurant to help devotees attend spiritual programs with ease. The ISKCON Temple is also an educational hub and its library houses an impressive collection of spiritual books.
Here are the details of ISKCON Temple:
- Location: Hare Krishna Land, Juhu
- Timings: 08:00 am to 01:00 pm and 04:15 pm to 09:00 pm, Monday to Sunday
- Entry Fee: Free
Places to Visit in Mumbai with Kids
Nehru Center
Built in the memory of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, this center propagates his teachings and ideas through educational and cultural programs. It consists of a spectacular dome-shaped planetarium that creates curiosity about astronomy and science in young kids. You can stargaze with your little ones at the sky theater for a memorable time. Make your kids stand at the cubicle that calculates their weight in each of the nine planets of the solar system. Other attractions here, such as the miniature galaxy with Sun at the center, Moon’s surface, a view of
Kidzania
Kidzania is an indoor amusement park made exclusively for kids with a unique concept of role-playing in a real city-like environment. Here, kids are required to perform a ‘job’ as a part of their role-playing. After successful completion of the job, they get paid in the form of kidzo money as an encouragement. You can see them brimming with joy as they make their own money for the first job in their life. Parents can relax at the lounge, from where they can monitor their kids on the TV screen. With such interactive edutainment activities, Kidzania should be your ideal destination for a fun-filled day with your tiny tots.
- Location: R City Mall, Ghatkopar West
- Timings: 10:00 am to 08:00 pm; Tuesday to Friday 10:00 am to 03:00 pm and 04:00 pm to 09:00 pm; Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays
- Entry Fee: Different packages for kids, adults, and senior citizens, ranging from ₹300 to ₹1500. Check the website for more details.
Taraporewala Aquarium
Taraporewala Aquarium is touted as India’s oldest aquarium and is one of the top 10 places to visit in Mumbai with kids. It houses a variety of marine and freshwater fishes, including coral fishes from the Lakshadweep Islands. The aquarium also features an Oceanarium that gives visitors the feel of walking under the sea with exotic fishes floating above them. One of the highlights of the aquarium is the Touch Pool, where kids can touch some of the aquatic fishes and animals without harming them. Visitors can also enjoy a fish spa experience at the aquarium. Taraporewala Aquarium is a perfect blend of education and entertainment, making it an ideal place to visit with kids. Located on Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road, Marine Drive, the aquarium is open from 10:00 am to 08:00 pm, except on Mondays. The entry fee is ₹60 per person for adults and ₹30 per child (below 12 years).
Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Zoo
Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Zoo, located in Byculla East, Mazgaon, is a popular destination for a day out with your little ones. The zoo houses a variety of wild animals such as elephants, lions, tigers, monkeys, and crocodiles. The aviary is home to colorful birds and rare species like albino crows and flamingos. One of the main attractions of the zoo is its penguin enclosure, which is maintained in the perfect environment and temperature. Spread over 48 acres, the zoo offers a unique experience for visitors. The entry fee for a family of four is ₹100, with an additional ₹25 for each extra child. Couples can enter for ₹100, while students from private schools can enter for ₹15. The zoo is closed on Wednesdays.
Smaaash Junior
Smaaash Junior is the perfect entertainment zone for kids in Mumbai. It offers a variety of slides and rides including the Tubular Slide, Canon Shooting, Netted Tunnel, Padded Bridge, and Spinning Palm Tree. Kids can have a frolicsome day at Smaaash Junior, enjoying these exciting attractions. The place also has a food court where families can grab a bite to eat. Smaaash Junior is a great option for indoor activities on hot summer days or rainy days.
EsselWorld
EsselWorld is a famous amusement park in Mumbai that offers a wide array of vibrant and exciting rides for the whole family. From roller coasters to kid-friendly rides, challenges, and a cheerful playground, EsselWorld has something for everyone. It is also a popular destination for wedding photography and events. Located on Global Pagoda Road, Gorai Island, Borivali West, EsselWorld is open from 10:00 am to 06:30 pm, Monday to Sunday. Multiple packages are available for both children and adults, including Basic, Silver, Fast Track + Silver, Combine, and Annual Pass – Passport Next. The entry fee ranges from INR 290 to INR 1640. For more details, you can visit their website.
Shivaji Park
If you’re looking to explore beyond the city limits of Mumbai, there are several amazing places nearby that are worth a visit. Here are some of the top places to visit near Mumbai:
Places to Visit in Mumbai for Couples
Juhu Beach
Juhu Beach is one of the most visited tourist places in Mumbai for couples looking for a romantic escape from the city. The beach offers a spectacular view of the crimson sun and the luminous orange sky, making it the perfect spot for a romantic date night. You can also enjoy a relaxing time at one of the beachside restaurants available at Juhu. Location: Juhu Tara Road Timings: 24 x 7; every day Entry Fee: NA
Here are some other romantic places to visit in Mumbai:
Marine Drive: Walk hand in hand with your loved one along the walkway at Marine Drive and witness the beautiful sunset hues reflecting on the Arabian Sea.
Chota Kashmir: Experience the tranquility of Chota Kashmir, a peaceful and scenic spot in Mumbai where you can enjoy a boat ride and spend quality time with your partner.
Worli Sea Face: Take a romantic stroll along the Worli Sea Face and enjoy the breathtaking view of the sea and the Bandra-Worli Sea Link.
Hanging Gardens: Explore the beautiful Hanging Gardens and enjoy the serene atmosphere and lush greenery with your loved one.
Prithvi Theatre: If you and your partner are movie enthusiasts, visit Prithvi Theatre in Juhu and experience the vibrant theater scene in Mumbai.
Versova Beach: Visit Versova Beach, known for its unique appeal with dry black and white sand. You can relax, swim, or even participate in a fish auction.
Madh Island: Escape the city and visit Madh Island, a peaceful and secluded beach where you can enjoy a quiet time with your loved one.
Global Vipassana Pagoda: Explore the Global Vipassana Pagoda, a magnificent meditation hall located in Gorai. The pagoda offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere.
Bandra-Worli Sea Link: Take a drive on the iconic Bandra-Worli Sea Link and enjoy the stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the Mumbai skyline.
These are just a few of the many romantic places to visit in Mumbai with your partner.
Chota Kashmir
If you are in search of a peaceful yet serene place to cherish some intimate moments with your partner, Chota Kashmir should be the right spot while you are in the city. It has a beautifully landscaped garden and a placid lake that tranquillizes your body and mind, making it one of the best places in Mumbai for couples. Recline peacefully on the greens of the garden or go boating in the lake and get lost in love on this little piece of paradise. Either way, you are sure to find a new spark in your love life!
Worli Sea Face
Worli Sea Face is undoubtedly one of the favorite hangout spots for couples in Mumbai. Located in Worli, this long stretched promenade offers a splendid view of the Arabian Sea. Couples can walk along the seafront in the evening or late night hours, enjoying the cool refreshing breeze and the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks below. It is ranked among the top 10 places to visit in Mumbai for day outings.
Hanging Gardens
Every relationship deserves a break from monotonous daily routines. Take your significant other to this amazing Hanging Garden and unwind and slacken yourself amidst the flower beds, spectacular water fountains, and lush green animal shaped hedges. Don’t miss out to take a funny picture with your partner at the giant boot structure here, known as the “Old Women Shoes”. What else can be more romantic?
Prithvi Theatre
If you are a connoisseur of performing and fine arts and things that make you think, a visit to the Prithvi Theatre is a must. It occupies a top place in Mumbai’s famous places list. Built in the memory of Prithviraj Kapoor, this theatre conducts meaningful live performances in various languages and even online workshops. One of the top places to visit in Mumbai, it hosts many festivals too, and has a bookshop and café to cater to your mind and gastronomic juices. Since 1978, this theatre has always been about embracing new ideas, respecting each other, and evolving as human beings.
Versova Beach
Versova Beach is a serene and peaceful place located in Mumbai. It is known for its unique appeal with dry black and white sand. Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, lazing around, and even participating in a fish auction. The beach is also a great spot for photographers, especially during dawn and dusk. Located in Bharat Nagar, Andheri West, Versova Beach is easily accessible by ferry from Mumbai. Entry to the beach is free, with a nominal ferry charge of INR 3 per person. It is a must-visit place for couples looking for a relaxing and romantic getaway.
Madh Island
Madh Island is a serene getaway from the busy city life of Mumbai. Located on the north-western coast, it offers rustic farmlands, charming fishing villages, and serene beaches like Aksa, Silver, Erangel, and Dana Pani. The island is also home to a modest Portuguese fort and is surrounded by Malad Creek on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west. Visitors can reach Madh Island easily by availing the ferry service from Versova. It is rated as one of the most peaceful places in Mumbai.
Here are some key details about Madh Island:
- Location: 30 km from the north-western coast of Mumbai
- Timings: 24×7
- Entry Fee: Free
For those seeking adventure, Madh Island offers activities like snorkelling, surfing, and scuba diving. The beach is also a favorite spot for photographers, especially during sunrise and sunset. Visitors can also enjoy delicious seafood at the cafes located on the island. Overall, Madh Island is a perfect destination for a relaxed weekend getaway.
Global Vipassana Pagoda
Finding peace amidst Mumbai’s hustle and bustle is possible if you pay a visit to this picturesque pagoda. Designed to accommodate 8000 Vipassana meditators, the pagoda’s architectural style is Burmese. While the pagoda has 3 sub-domes, the largest and first dome holds Buddha’s bone relics. Different courses are offered to new and old students who wish to embrace Buddha’s teachings, practise gratitude and shed mortal bindings. Best for religious sightseeing in Mumbai.
Location: Global Pagoda Road near EsselWorld Gorai, Borivali West
Timings: 09:00 am to 07:00 pm (entry allowed till 06:30 pm), Monday to Sunday (ID proof required)
Entry Fee:
Bandra-Worli Sea Link
The Bandra-Worli Sea Link is a magnificent example of modern architecture. It is a cable-stayed bridge that spans across Mahim Bay, connecting Bandra and Worli. The bridge is 5.6 km in length and can support a total of 8 lanes of traffic. It is not only a popular spot for photography but also makes traveling between Bandra and Worli convenient. The Bandra-Worli Sea Link is regarded as one of the top places to visit in Mumbai for scenic sunsets.
Here are some key details about the Bandra-Worli Sea Link:
- Location: Kesarinath Buva Bhaye Marg, Koliwada, Worli
- Timings: 24×7
- Entry Fee: Toll for Car – INR 70, Light Commercial Vehicle – INR 110, Heavy Vehicle – INR 145
Places to Visit in Mumbai with Friends
Colaba Causeway
Colaba Causeway is located in the southernmost part of Mumbai, in the neighborhood of Colaba. It is a bustling street filled with interesting shops, restaurants, and cafes. This vibrant area is known for its rich history, iconic eating and drinking joints, and artistic connections. It is a popular tourist destination and a must-visit place in Mumbai. Colaba Causeway offers a unique shopping experience with a wide variety of items such as clothes, accessories, handicrafts, and antiques. It is a great place to explore and immerse yourself in the local culture and atmosphere.
Mumbai Film City
Mumbai Film City, also known as Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari, is a sprawling complex spread over approximately 100,000 sq. ft. It is a world of wonders where you can see theaters, gardens, lakes, recording rooms, and grounds that are leased out for Bollywood film shootings. Take a bus tour of the film city with your friends and see the familiar sets of popular sitcoms and movies. If you and your pals are die-hard fans of Bollywood, this film city is something you shouldn’t miss out on.
Location: Aarey Colony, Goregaon East
Timings: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm; every day
Entry Fee: Tours starting at ₹599
Hakone Entertainment Centre
An ideal entertainment center to have a blast with your friends, Hakone Entertainment Centre offers the perfect blend of sports, fun, and leisure for people of all ages. Here you can indulge in Go-Karting on the 200-meter track with karts of Honda engines of 5.5HP. This power-packed entertainment center also offers simulators, redemption machines, billiards, and a LAN Gaming zone. Some of the other popular activities here are the Bull Ride, Air Gun Shooting, and Bumper Cars. Or how about competing with your friends at the Paintball game in a real, simulated field? Among the must visit places in Mumbai for gaming.
Snow World
Snow World is a great place to have serious fun with your friends in Mumbai. You can experience -10°C temperature, feel the natural snowfall, slide through the ice in a rubber tube, play snowball wars, go ice skating, and learn some snowboarding. Besides Snow World, Mumbai also offers a range of amusement parks where you can have a fun-filled day with your family and friends. Some popular amusement parks in Mumbai include Essel World, Yazoo Park, Hakone, and Vardhman Fantasy. For those who love aquatic fun, there are also options for water parks in Mumbai. Snow World is ranked #33 out of 49 places to visit in Mumbai with friends.
Clue Hunt Mumbai
Looking for some unique yet interesting games to play with your friends? Indulge yourselves in this 60-minutes ‘Room Escape’ game challenge, where you and your friends are locked in a game room. Using some hidden clues and keys, you should solve the puzzles and escape out of a 250 sq.ft mysterious room. Don’t miss out on the brilliant mind games at Clue Hunt Mumbai.
Location: Andheri, Bandra, Lower Parel, and Fort, Mumbai
Timings: 11:00 am to 10:30 pm; every day
Entry Fee: Weekdays – Clue Hunt Twin – ₹700 per person, Triplet – ₹600 per person, Quartet, Quintet, Sixtet, Septet, and Octet – ₹500 per person
Weekends and Public holidays – Clue Hunt Twin – ₹1000 per person, Triplet – ₹900 per person, Quartet – ₹800 per person, Quintet, Sixtet, Septet, and Octet – ₹700 per person (Exclusive of taxes)
National Gallery Of Modern Art
The National Gallery Of Modern Art in Mumbai is a butterfly-shaped gallery with a dome in the center that attracts art lovers from all over India. It showcases the evolution of visual and plastic art forms over time, featuring art collections from important civilizations, artists, and sculptors. Visitors can explore artworks by renowned artists like Pablo Picasso and admire Egyptian artifacts. With its diverse collection, the National Gallery Of Modern Art is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts in Mumbai.
Gorai Beach
Whether you like solitude or parties, Gorai Beach offers ample opportunities for you to enjoy the way you want. Watch palm trees sway while you relish street food at one of the colourful shacks here. Or, participate in water sports to get your adrenaline pumping. Sunsets are amazing here too. Considered best as a picnic spot in Mumbai.
Kanheri Caves
The Kanheri Caves in Mumbai were once home to Buddhist monks who studied and meditated here. These caves, carved out of basalt rock between the 1st and 10th centuries CE, are located in the forests of Sanjay Gandhi National Park. The caves feature ancient carvings, sculptures, inscriptions, and paintings, making them one of the most popular places to visit in Mumbai. The congregation hall with its massive stupa and stone pillars is certainly of special interest. The Kanheri Caves also have channels that drained rainwater into cisterns. Entry fee for Indians is INR 15 per head and for foreigners is INR 200 per head. The caves are open from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm, Tuesday to Monday.
Jehangir Art Gallery
Jehangir Art Gallery is a popular space for many important exhibitions by photographers, painters, sculptors, craftsmen, weavers, and alike. It was established with the aim of promoting contemporary Indian art and forging a bond between aspiring artists and art patrons. Noted artists such as S. H. Raza and M. F. Hussain have had exhibitions here. The gallery is considered one of the best places in Mumbai for art enthusiasts.
Mahakali Caves
This group of 19 hillside caves should feature on your places-to-see list. Carved out of black solid basalt between 1st century BCE and 6th century CE, these ancient caves housed Buddhist monks once. They are also known as Kondivite Caves and boast a Buddhist Stupa as well as Pali scriptures on many walls. Among the must visit places in Mumbai for exploring.
Location: Mahakali Caves Rd, Sunder Nagar, Andheri East, Mumbai
Timings: 09:00 am to 06:00 pm, Monday to Sunday
Entry Fee: INR 20 per head
Places to Visit Near Mumbai
- Lonavala
Nestled in the Sahyadri range of the Western Ghats.
Places to Visit Near Mumbai
Lonavala
Lonavala is a scenic hill station located 5 km away from Khandala. It is a popular getaway for Mumbaikars and Punekars looking to escape the city chaos and spend quality time in natural surroundings. The hill station is famous for its beautiful valleys, gushing waterfalls, and glittering lakes that come to life during the monsoon season. It is easily reachable from nearby cities, making it a popular destination among rock climbers, hikers, and nature lovers.
Here are some popular attractions in Lonavala:
- Bhaja Caves
- Karla Caves
- Tikona Fort
- Bhushi Dam
- Narayani Dham Temple
- Lonavala Lake
- Lohagad Fort
- Adlabs Imagicaa
- Della Adventure Park
Lonavala is a must-visit place for those seeking a peaceful and scenic retreat from the bustling city life.
Khandala
Khandala is a popular getaway for Mumbaikars and Punekars looking to escape the city chaos and spend quality time in natural surroundings. It is famous for its beautiful valleys, gushing waterfalls, and glittering lakes that come to life during the monsoon season. The hill station is easily reachable from the nearby cities, making it a popular destination among rock climbers, hikers, and trekkers. Some of the top attractions in Khandala include Tiger’s Leap, Rajmachi Fort, Visapur Fort, Lonavala Lake, Lohagad Fort, Adlabs Imagicaa, and Della Adventure Park. With a distance of 79 km from Mumbai, the best time to visit Khandala is from July to September and December to February.
Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar is counted among the most scenic hill stations near Mumbai. It is popularly known as the strawberry capital of India and is blessed with nature’s bounty. The place is dotted with lakes, waterfalls, viewing points, and trekking trails. Mapro Garden, a garden park known for producing luscious strawberries, is a must-visit attraction here. Mahabaleshwar also houses some revered temples, caves, and amusement parks, making it an ideal destination for different types of tourists. It is located at a distance of 263 km from Mumbai and the best time to visit is from November to February. Some of the top attractions in Mahabaleshwar include Venna Lake, Elephant’s Head Point, Wilson Point, Chinaman’s Falls, Dhobi Waterfall, Arthur’s Seat, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Krishnabai Temple, and On Wheelz Amusement Park.
Matheran
When you are done exploring the popular Mumbai tourist places and are looking to spend some time amidst nature, Matheran is a wonderful option. This cosy hill station in the Western Ghats is only 83 km away from Mumbai and is perfect for a weekend getaway. Besides the scenic vistas and serenity, Matheran boasts automobile-free pathways and a pollution-free environment. Hence, a trip to the hill station will transport you to a different world altogether. Although the place is good to visit at any time of the year, the rainy season is the best time for nature lovers, with lush greenery all around. However, those looking to engage in outdoor activities must avoid Matheran during monsoons.
Alibaug
Alibaug is a serene coastal town in the Raigad district, known as the "Mini Goa of Maharashtra". It is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches and villas, making it a favorite destination among nature lovers, peace seekers, and photographers. The unpolluted air, natural beauty, and serenity add a distinctive charm to Alibaug. Adventure enthusiasts can also engage in a range of adrenaline-rushing water sports such as parasailing, kayaking, scuba diving, and jet skiing. Alibaug is also home to popular forts, temples, and museums. Some of the top attractions in Alibaug include Alibaug Beach, Varsoli Beach, Kihim Beach, Kolaba Fort, Murud-Janjira Fort, Kanakeshwar Forest, Vrindavan Farm, and Kanakeshwar Devasthan Temple. The best time to visit Alibaug is from November to February.
Lavasa
Lavasa is a stunning blend of natural beauty and manmade infrastructure. It is the first planned hill station in India, spread over 25000 acres of land. Drawing inspiration from the Italian town Portofino, Lavasa offers a serene ambience, beautiful infrastructure, and clean surroundings. The hill station is known for its huge manmade lake with a lakeside promenade, where visitors can enjoy shopping, eating, boating, cycling, and other activities. With its scenic backdrop of hills and valleys, Lavasa is a popular getaway for Mumbaikars. If you are a tourist looking for things to do in Mumbai and nearby attractions, make sure to add Lavasa to your list. It is considered one of the top 10 places to visit in Mumbai with family.
Raigad
Raigad Fort, one of the strongest fortresses on the Deccan Plateau, is the main attraction in Raigad. This district holds great historical significance as it was the first independent capital of the popular Maratha Kingdom led by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The district also houses many other forts and boasts beautiful landscapes and abundant natural beauty. Explore this area as you continue sightseeing in Mumbai.
Here are the top attractions in Raigad:
- Raigad Fort
- Diveagar Beach
- Jagadishwar Temple
- Madhe Ghat
- Raj Bhavan
- Gangasagar Lake
Manori
Manori is a charming village located less than 50 km from Mumbai. It is famous for housing the 2 km long Manori Beach, which is often referred to as Mini-Goa due to its Goan vibe. The sandy beach is lined with coconut and cashew trees, seaside restaurants, shacks, and churches, making it a popular destination for party lovers, picnickers, and the spiritually inclined. Manori is one of the best nearby places to visit in Mumbai for a peaceful time by the sea. Some of the top attractions in Manori include Manori Beach, Global Vippasanna Pagoda, Samudreshwar Temple, and Nath Sampradaya Ashrams. The best time to visit Manori is from October to March.
Adlabs Imagicaa
Adlabs Imagicaa is a popular entertainment theme park located on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. It is a perfect destination for a one-day trip from Mumbai. The park has three entertainment zones: Theme Park, Water Park, and Snow Park, offering a wide range of entertainment options for people of all ages. From roller coasters and water slides to the kiddie pool and snow basketball, Adlabs Imagicaa has something for everyone. The park also hosts live performances, such as magic shows, acrobats, and hip-hop dancing. Accommodation, dining, and shopping facilities are available at Adlabs Imagicaa as well. It is considered one of the best places to enjoy in Mumbai with kids. The park is located 68 km away from Mumbai and is open from 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM every day. Ticket prices start from INR 999 for the Theme Park, INR 699 for the Water Park, and INR 499 for the Snow Park.
Jawhar
Jawhar is a quaint little hill station in the Thane district of Maharashtra, known for its abundant natural beauty with majestic mountains, dense forests, gushing waterfalls, and beautiful flora. It is also famous for its ancient architectural wonders and strong cultural ethics. The hill station houses some stunning manmade marvels that speak volumes about its rich past. One of the prime attractions in Jawhar is Shirpamal, a historic site belonging to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Another popular attraction is the Jai Vilas Palace, which was home to the tribal kings of the Munke family. Jawhar is a great place to hang out with friends and enjoy the serene surroundings. It is located at a distance of 135 km from Mumbai and the best time to visit is from October to February.
Conclusion
Mumbai is a city that never fails to mesmerize its visitors with its vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking attractions. From iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India and Marine Drive to spiritual sanctuaries like the Siddhivinayak Temple and Haji Ali Dargah, there is something for everyone in this bustling metropolis. Whether you’re exploring with family, friends, or your significant other, Mumbai offers a diverse range of experiences that will leave you spellbound. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the top 10 places to visit in Mumbai.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top tourist places to visit in Mumbai?
The top tourist places to visit in Mumbai are Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Shree Siddhivinayak, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Red Carpet Wax Museum, Haji Ali Dargah, Elephanta Caves, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST), Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, and ISKCON Temple.
What are some places to visit in Mumbai with kids?
Some places to visit in Mumbai with kids are Nehru Center, Kidzania, Taraporewala Aquarium, Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Zoo, Smaaash Junior, EsselWorld, and Shivaji Park.
What are some places to visit in Mumbai for couples?
Some places to visit in Mumbai for couples are Juhu Beach, Chota Kashmir, Worli Sea Face, Hanging Gardens, Prithvi Theatre, Versova Beach, Madh Island, Global Vipassana Pagoda, and Bandra-Worli Sea Link.
What are some places to visit in Mumbai with friends?
Some places to visit in Mumbai with friends are Colaba Causeway, Mumbai Film City, Hakone Entertainment Centre, Snow World, Clue Hunt Mumbai, National Gallery Of Modern Art, Gorai Beach, Kanheri Caves, Jehangir Art Gallery, and Mahakali Caves.
What are some places to visit near Mumbai?
Some places to visit near Mumbai are Lonavala, Khandala, Mahabaleshwar, Matheran, Alibaug, Lavasa, Raigad, Manori, Adlabs Imagicaa, and Jawhar.
What is the Gateway of India?
The Gateway of India is an iconic monument overlooking the Arabian Sea, symbolizing Mumbai’s rich history and architectural grandeur.
What is Marine Drive?
Marine Drive is a picturesque promenade along the coastline, offering stunning views of the city skyline and a serene escape for locals and tourists alike.
What is the Shree Siddhivinayak Temple?
The Shree Siddhivinayak Temple is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, attracting devotees and art enthusiasts with its intricately designed architecture.
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