4-Day Family Adventure: Sightseeing and Shopping in Mumbai

Mumbai, India

4 days

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

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.

4-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring South Mumbai

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Gateway of India, a monument that symbolizes the city's rich colonial history. Take a leisurely stroll around the area, soaking in the early morning atmosphere.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Maharashtrian lunch at a local eatery. Try out local delicacies like Vada Pav, Pav Bhaji, and Puran Poli.

Afternoon

Post lunch, head to the Prince of Wales Museum, now known as the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya. Explore the vast collection of artifacts, paintings, and sculptures.

Dinner

For dinner, indulge in some coastal cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and a variety of spices.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing walk along Marine Drive, also known as the Queen's Necklace, and enjoy the beautiful sunset.

Morning

Begin your day with a visit to the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, home to a variety of flora and fauna. Don't miss the ancient Kanheri Caves within the park.

Lunch

Have a picnic lunch within the park, enjoying the serene surroundings.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, visit the Global Vipassana Pagoda, a monument of peace and harmony.

Dinner

Enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant, trying out Mumbai's street food favorites like Bhel Puri and Pani Puri.

Evening

Spend the evening exploring the local markets of Mumbai, shopping for traditional Indian clothes, jewelry, and handicrafts.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Juhu Beach, one of the most famous beaches in Mumbai. Enjoy the early morning calm before the crowds arrive.

Lunch

Have lunch at a beachside eatery, enjoying the local seafood delicacies.

Afternoon

Post lunch, visit the ISKCON Temple, a spiritual haven in the bustling city.

Dinner

Dine at a local restaurant, trying out Mumbai's famous Biryani.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Prithvi Theatre, a hub for Hindi theatre in Mumbai.

Morning

Begin your last day in Mumbai with a visit to the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a ferry ride to reach the island.

Lunch

Enjoy a packed lunch on the island, amidst the ancient rock-cut temples.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, visit the iconic Haji Ali Dargah, a mosque and tomb located on an islet off the coast of Mumbai.

Dinner

For your last dinner in Mumbai, try out the city's famous street food at a local eatery.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, an architectural marvel and one of the city's most iconic landmarks.

Attractions in Itinerary (12)

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
Prince of Wales Museum

2
Prince of Wales Museum

Also known as the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, this is one of the premier art and history museums in India. It houses several collections of ancient artworks, sculptures, and artifacts.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Marine Drive

3
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
Sanjay Gandhi National Park

4
Sanjay Gandhi National Park

A large protected area in the northern part of Mumbai. It encompasses an area of 104 km2 (40 sq mi) and is surrounded on three sides by India's most populous city.

Parks
Cultural Experiences
Tours
Kanheri Caves

5
Kanheri Caves

The Kanheri Caves are a group of caves and rock-cut monuments cut into a massive basalt outcrop in the forests of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, on the island of Salsette in the western outskirts of Mumbai. They contain Buddhist sculptures and relief carvings, paintings and inscriptions, dating from the 1st century BCE to the 10th century CE.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Monuments
Global Vipassana Pagoda

6
Global Vipassana Pagoda

A large meditation hall known for its impressive architecture and serene atmosphere. It's also the world's largest stone dome built without any supporting pillars.

Religious Sites
Architecture
Juhu Beach

7
Juhu Beach

One of the most famous and most visited beaches on the shores of the Arabian Sea. It is situated in 'Ville Parle'.

Beaches
Entertainment
Food and Drink
ISKCON Temple

8
ISKCON Temple

ISKCON Temple, also known as the Hare Krishna Temple, is a popular spiritual institution in Mumbai. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is a hub of spirituality and cultural activities. The temple complex also houses a restaurant, a library, and a guest house.

Religious Sites
Architecture
Prithvi Theatre

9
Prithvi Theatre

A famous theatre venue that hosts a variety of performances, including plays, music concerts, and dance shows. It's also a hub for theatre workshops and discussions.

Cultural Experiences
Entertainment
Elephanta Caves

10
Elephanta Caves

A network of sculpted caves located on Elephanta Island. The caves contain rock cut stone sculptures that show syncretism of Hindu and Buddhist ideas and iconography.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Landmarks
Religious Sites
Haji Ali Dargah

11
Haji Ali Dargah

A mosque and dargah (tomb) located on an islet off the coast of Worli in the southern part of Mumbai.

Religious Sites
Cultural Experiences
Landmarks
Bandra-Worli Sea Link

A cable-stayed bridge that links Bandra with Worli, offering stunning views of the city and the sea.

Attractions
Landmarks
Architecture

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

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Sleepwear

  • Swimwear

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sandals

  • Hat or cap

  • Sunglasses

  • Lightweight jacket or sweater

  • Raincoat or umbrella

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • Hand sanitizer

  • First-aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Travel-size laundry detergent

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Visa

  • Driver's license

  • Airline tickets

  • Hotel reservation confirmations

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Headphones

  • Laptop and charger

  • Camera and charger

  • Memory cards for camera

  • Travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Books or e-books

  • Travel guide and map

  • Notebook and pen

  • Tissues

  • Reusable shopping bag

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.

2.2h
93 km / 57.8 mi
How to get there
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
95 km / 59.0 mi
How to get there
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.

3h
44 km / 27.3 mi
How to get there
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.

3h
148 km / 92.0 mi
How to get there
Nashik

Nashik

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

3.5h
167 km / 103.8 mi
How to get there
Shirdi

Shirdi

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

4.5h
241 km / 149.8 mi
How to get there
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.

5h
263 km / 163.4 mi
How to get there
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.

6.5h
335 km / 208.2 mi
How to get there

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