1-Day Mumbai Expedition: Sightseeing, Food and Wine Adventure

Mumbai, India

1 days

Mumbai skyscrapers
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya museum
Gateway of India and the Taj Mahal Palace hotel
Bandra-Worli sea link at sunset
Flora fountain

About Mumbai, India

Experience the vibrant city of Mumbai, India's financial powerhouse and the heart of Bollywood. This bustling metropolis offers a blend of colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, diverse cuisine, and colorful bazaars. Visit iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, and the UNESCO World Heritage site - Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. Explore the serene beaches of Juhu and Chowpatty, and enjoy the lush greenery of Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Dive into Mumbai's rich culture at Elephanta Caves, a network of sculpted caves located on Elephanta Island. Savor the city's culinary delights, from street food to fine dining. Mumbai, a city that never sleeps, offers an unforgettable journey of discovery and exploration.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Cultural and Culinary Delights of Mumbai

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Gateway of India, a monument that symbolizes Mumbai's rich history and cultural heritage. Enjoy the stunning views of the Arabian Sea and take a leisurely stroll around the area. Don't forget to capture some memorable photos.

Lunch

Head to a local eatery for a traditional Maharashtrian lunch. Try the famous Mumbai Thali, which includes a variety of dishes like puri bhaji, dal, rice, and sweet dishes. This is a great opportunity to experience the local cuisine.

Afternoon

Post lunch, visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum. This museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, paintings, and sculptures from different periods of Indian history.

Dinner

For dinner, indulge in some street food at the famous Chowpatty Beach. Try local favorites like pav bhaji, pani puri, and vada pav. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and the beautiful sunset view.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing walk along Marine Drive, also known as the Queen's Necklace. The twinkling lights reflecting on the water create a beautiful spectacle. This is the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Attractions in Itinerary (4)

Gateway of India

1
Gateway of India

An arch-monument built in the early twentieth century. It is located on the waterfront in Apollo Bunder area in South Mumbai.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya

2
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya

One of the premier art and history museums in India. It was founded in the early years of the 20th century by prominent citizens of Mumbai.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
Chowpatty Beach

3
Chowpatty Beach

Chowpatty Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Mumbai, known for its festive atmosphere, food stalls offering local street food, and cultural events like the annual Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.

Attractions
Beaches
Marine Drive

4
Marine Drive

A 3.6-kilometre-long boulevard in South Mumbai. It is a 'C'-shaped six-lane concrete road along the coast, which is a natural bay.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Vada Pav

Vada Pav

A popular fast food in Mumbai, Vada Pav is a spicy potato filling sandwiched between buns and layers of spicy garlic and green chutney.

Pav Bhaji

Pav Bhaji

A fast food dish from Mumbai, Pav Bhaji is a thick and spicy vegetable curry, served with a soft bread roll.

Bhelpuri

Bhelpuri

A savory snack, Bhelpuri is made of puffed rice, vegetables, and a tangy tamarind sauce. It's a popular street food in Mumbai.

Batata Vada

A popular snack in Mumbai, Batata Vada is a spicy potato dumpling, deep-fried and served hot with chutney.

Pani Puri

Pani Puri

A popular street snack in Mumbai, Pani Puri consists of a round, hollow puri filled with a mixture of flavored water, tamarind chutney, chili, chaat masala, potato, onion, and chickpeas.

Masala Chai

Masala Chai

A flavored tea beverage made by brewing black tea with a mixture of aromatic Indian spices and herbs. It's a staple drink in Mumbai.

Bombay Sandwich

A vegetarian sandwich native to the city of Mumbai, Bombay Sandwich is filled with various vegetables and is often served toasted.

Modak

Modak

A sweet dumpling popular in Mumbai, Modak is often eaten during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival.

Puran Poli

Puran Poli

A sweet flatbread, Puran Poli is a popular dessert in Mumbai, usually eaten during festivals.

Ragda Pattice

A popular street food in Mumbai, Ragda Pattice is a dish of potato patties, topped with ragda (dried peas curry) and various chutneys.

Kanda Poha

A popular breakfast dish in Mumbai, Kanda Poha is a quick and easy dish made from flattened rice, onions, and spices.

Cutting Chai

A half serving of tea, Cutting Chai is a popular beverage in Mumbai, often consumed during breaks.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Mumbai, India, as a tourist is during the winter season, from November to February. During this time, the city experiences a pleasant climate with temperatures ranging from 17 to 30 degrees Celsius. It's perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city's numerous attractions. Avoid the monsoon season from June to October, as heavy rains can disrupt travel plans.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 13

Sat

Lohri

January 26

Fri

Republic Day

March 25

Mon

Dolyatra

March 25

Mon

Holi

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

April 11

Thu

Ramzan Id/Eid-ul-Fitar

April 17

Wed

Rama Navami

April 21

Sun

Mahavir Jayanti

May 23

Thu

Buddha Purnima/Vesak

June 17

Mon

Bakrid/Eid ul-Adha

July 17

Wed

Muharram/Ashura

August 15

Thu

Independence Day

August 26

Mon

Janmashtami

September 16

Mon

Milad un-Nabi/Id-e-Milad

October 2

Wed

Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti

October 12

Sat

Dussehra

October 31

Thu

Diwali/Deepavali

November 15

Fri

Guru Nanak Jayanti

December 25

Wed

Christmas

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Local trains are the lifeline of Mumbai, connecting the farthest suburbs to the heart of the city. They are divided into three lines: Western, Central, and Harbour. They are the fastest and most economical way to travel around the city, but can be extremely crowded during peak hours.

Operated by the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST), buses are a reliable and economical way to get around Mumbai. They cover routes that are not accessible by trains. Buses are less crowded than trains, but can be slower due to traffic.

Taxis are a convenient way to travel around Mumbai. They are available 24/7 and can be hailed from the street or booked through various taxi services. There are two types of taxis in Mumbai: black and yellow taxis, and radio taxis. Black and yellow taxis are more common and cheaper, while radio taxis are air-conditioned and offer a more comfortable ride.

Auto rickshaws are a popular mode of transport in the suburbs of Mumbai. They are not allowed in the main city area. They can be hailed from the street and are a cheap and quick way to get around, especially for short distances.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Ola are widely available in Mumbai. They offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel around the city. You can book a ride using their respective apps and the fare is calculated based on the distance and time of travel.

Ferries are a fun and scenic way to travel in Mumbai. They operate between the Gateway of India and Elephanta Caves, and between Marve Beach and Manori. They offer a unique perspective of the city and are a great way to escape the city's traffic.

Private car hire services are available in Mumbai. They offer the convenience of having a car at your disposal for the duration of your stay. This is a good option if you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing or if you prefer the comfort and convenience of a private vehicle.

The suburban rail network is extensive and connects different parts of the city. It is a fast and efficient way to travel, especially during peak hours when the roads are congested. However, the trains can be very crowded.

Bicycling is not a common mode of transport in Mumbai due to the heavy traffic and lack of dedicated cycling lanes. However, there are some areas like the Bandra Kurla Complex where cycling is promoted and bicycles can be rented.

Walking is a good way to explore the city, especially the historic areas like South Mumbai. Many of the city's attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, be aware of the traffic and the heat during the summer months.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency₹ INR

Time zoneUTC+5.5

Driving sideLeft

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 102; Fire: 101; Police: 100, 103 (traffic accident)

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type DPower socket type M

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Mumbai, India as a first time visitor

1

Mumbai is India's financial capital and is a bustling metropolis.

2

The city is known for its heavy traffic, so plan your travel time accordingly.

3

Public transportation is widely available, including trains, buses, and auto-rickshaws.

4

Mumbai has a tropical climate, with a very hot summer (March to June) where temperatures can reach up to 104°F (40°C), and a monsoon season (June to September) with heavy rains.

5

English is widely spoken in Mumbai, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas.

6

The city is generally safe, but like any big city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

7

Street food is a big part of Mumbai's culture. Try local specialties like vada pav and pav bhaji, but make sure to eat at reputable stalls to avoid getting sick.

8

Tipping is customary in Mumbai. A 10% tip is usually expected in restaurants.

9

Mumbai is a city that never sleeps, with a vibrant nightlife that includes bars, clubs, and live music venues.

10

The city is also known for its film industry, Bollywood. You might even spot a celebrity while you're there.

11

Mumbai has a diverse mix of cultures, religions, and languages. Respect for all is important.

12

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should carry a scarf for covering their heads.

13

Bargaining is common in markets. Don't be afraid to negotiate prices.

14

Avoid drinking tap water. Bottled water is widely available and safer to drink.

15

Mumbai is a shopper's paradise, offering everything from high-end designer boutiques to bustling street markets.

16

The city has a rich history and is home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

17

Mumbai is a city of contrasts, with modern skyscrapers standing next to colonial-era buildings and slums.

18

The city can be quite noisy, with constant honking from cars and auto-rickshaws. Earplugs might be useful if you're a light sleeper.

19

Mumbai is a foodie's paradise, offering a wide range of cuisines from different parts of India and the world.

20

Carry some cash with you. While credit cards are widely accepted, small vendors and auto-rickshaw drivers usually prefer cash.

Basic Marathi to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Namaste

na-mas-te

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Alvida

Al-vee-da

Saying goodbye

Thank you

Dhanyavaad

Dhan-ya-vaad

Expressing gratitude

Please

Kripya

Kri-pya

Making a polite request

Yes

Haan

Haan

Agreeing with someone

No

Nahi

Na-hee

Disagreeing with someone

Excuse me

Maaf kijiye

Maaf ki-ji-ye

Getting someone's attention

I'm sorry

Mujhe maaf kijiye

Mujhe maaf ki-ji-ye

Apologizing

I don't understand

Mujhe samajh nahi aaya

Mujhe samajh na-hee aaya

When you don't understand something

Do you speak English?

Kya aap angrezi bolte hain?

Kya aap an-gre-zi bol-te hain?

Asking if someone speaks English

How much does this cost?

Yeh kitne ka hai?

Yeh kit-ne ka hai?

Asking the price of something

Where is the bathroom?

Shauchalaya kahan hai?

Shau-cha-laya ka-han hai?

Looking for a bathroom

I need help

Mujhe madad chahiye

Mujhe ma-dad cha-hi-ye

When you need assistance

Call the police

Police ko bulao

Police ko bu-lao

In case of an emergency

I am lost

Mujhe gum ho gaya

Mujhe gum ho gaya

When you're lost

Can I use your phone?

Kya main aapka phone istemal kar sakta hoon?

Kya main aap-ka phone is-te-mal kar sak-ta hoon?

When you need to make a phone call

Can you help me?

Kya aap meri madad kar sakte hain?

Kya aap me-ri ma-dad kar sak-te hain?

When you need help

Where is the nearest hospital?

Sabse nazdeeki aspataal kahan hai?

Sab-se naz-dee-ki as-pa-taal ka-han hai?

In case of a medical emergency

I need a doctor

Mujhe ek doctor ki zarurat hai

Mujhe ek doc-tor ki za-ru-rat hai

When you're not feeling well

Can you recommend a good restaurant?

Kya aap ek acchi restaurant ka naam bata sakte hain?

Kya aap ek ach-chi res-tau-rant ka naam ba-ta sak-te hain?

When looking for a place to eat

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Hat or cap for sun protection

  • Sunglasses

  • Rain jacket or umbrella (depending on the season)

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size toothpaste and toothbrush

  • Travel-size shampoo and conditioner

  • Travel-size body wash or soap

  • Deodorant

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Prescription medications (if any)

  • First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, etc.)

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Visa (if required)

  • Flight tickets

  • Hotel booking confirmation

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Emergency contact information

  • Local currency (Indian Rupees)

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for your electronics

  • Universal travel adapter

  • Portable power bank

  • Headphones

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Bottled water

  • Travel guidebook or map

  • Notebook and pen

  • Reusable shopping bag

  • Tissues or wet wipes

Weather Conditions

Mumbai, known for its tropical climate, experiences three major seasons: winter, summer, and monsoon. During the winter months from November to February, the weather is quite pleasant with temperatures ranging from 17°C (63°F) to 30°C (86°F). This is the best time to visit Mumbai as the humidity is less, and the cool breeze from the Arabian Sea makes sightseeing enjoyable. Remember to carry light woolens as evenings can get a bit chilly. The summer months from March to June can be quite hot and humid with temperatures soaring up to 40°C (104°F). If you're visiting during this time, it's advisable to stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothing. Don't forget your sunscreen and hats to protect against the strong sun. The monsoon season from June to September sees heavy rainfall due to the southwest monsoon. The city can get waterlogged, causing disruptions in public transport. If you're planning to visit during the monsoon, be prepared for unpredictable showers and carry waterproof gear. However, the rain-washed city has a charm of its own, and the lush green landscapes are a sight to behold. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip to pack appropriately and plan your activities. Mumbai is a bustling city with a lot to offer, and being prepared for its weather will ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

31° / 16°

January is a pleasant month to visit Mumbai, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 31°C. It's the perfect time to explore the city without feeling too hot.

February

32° / 18°

February is slightly warmer than January, but still comfortable for sightseeing. The temperatures range from 18°C to 32°C.

March

33° / 21°

March sees a rise in temperature, ranging from 21°C to 33°C. It's a good time to visit the beaches.

April

33° / 24°

April is the beginning of the hot season, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 33°C. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions like museums.

May

34° / 27°

May is quite hot, with temperatures ranging from 27°C to 34°C. It's a good time to visit the beaches in the early morning or late evening.

June

32° / 26°

June marks the beginning of the monsoon season, with temperatures ranging from 26°C to 32°C. It's a good time to experience the city's rain-soaked beauty.

July

30° / 25°

July is in the middle of the monsoon season, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C. It's a good time to enjoy the city's lush greenery.

August

30° / 25°

August continues the monsoon season, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C. It's a good time to visit the city's parks and gardens.

September

31° / 25°

September sees the end of the monsoon season, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 31°C. It's a good time to visit the city's outdoor attractions.

October

34° / 24°

October is a transitional month, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 34°C. It's a good time to visit the city's festivals.

November

34° / 21°

November is a pleasant month to visit Mumbai, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 34°C. It's a good time to explore the city's markets.

December

32° / 18°

December is a cool and comfortable month, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 32°C. It's a perfect time to explore the city's architecture and heritage sites.

Did you know?

Did you know that Mumbai is the financial, commercial, and entertainment capital of India?

1 of 10

Places near by Mumbai, India

Elephanta Caves

Elephanta Caves

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these caves are a collection of cave temples predominantly dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.

1h
11 km / 6.8 mi
How to get there
Lonavala

Lonavala

A hill station surrounded by green valleys in western India near Mumbai, it's known for its production of hard candy known as chikki.

2h
83 km / 51.6 mi
How to get there
Khandala

Khandala

Another hill station in the Western Ghats, known for its views, waterfalls, and forts.

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Alibaug

Alibaug

A coastal town and a municipal council in Raigad District in the Konkan region of Maharashtra, India. It is known for its beaches and forts.

2.5h
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Matheran

Matheran

The smallest hill station in India, it is located on the Western Ghats range at an elevation of around 800 m (2,625 feet) above sea level.

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Pune

Pune

A sprawling city in the western Indian state of Maharashtra, it was once the base of the Peshwas (prime ministers) of the Maratha Empire.

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Nashik

Nashik

An ancient holy city in Maharashtra, it is known for its links to the “Ramayana” epic poem.

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Shirdi

Shirdi

Famous for the shrine of 'Sai Baba', it is a major pilgrimage site.

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Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar

A hill station located in the Western Ghats range. With one of the few evergreen forests of India, it served as the summer capital of Bombay province during the British Raj.

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Aurangabad

Aurangabad

A city in the Indian state of Maharashtra, it is known for the 17th-century marble Bibi ka Maqbara shrine, styled on the Taj Mahal.

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