Touring the icons
Start your day in South Mumbai, where many of the city’s landmarks sit close to one another. The Gateway of India is an obvious starting point. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, this historic archway is best enjoyed early in the morning, when the crowds are thinner. Or late in the evening, if people-watching is your thing. Believe me when I say that no European plaza stroll comes close to the experience of sitting on a bench, munching on roasted peanuts served in a paper cone and watching ferries disappear into the Arabian Sea.
Next up, visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, one of India’s finest museums. Formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum of Western India, this houses an impressive collection of over 50,000 artifacts and exhibits, spanning from the prehistoric era to the modern times. With elevators, seating areas and clear signages, it’s ideal for visitors of all ages and interests.
Right next door, the Jehangir Art Gallery offers a quieter, more contemporary contrast. Entry is free, exhibitions change often, and the space is easy to explore at leisure. Don’t miss a chance to interact with the many local artists who exhibit their works right outside the gallery.
A short distance away stands the magnificent Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you are interested in architecture and stories, the CSMT Heritage Walk conducted every day at 4 pm offers an engaging way to understand the building’s Victorian-Gothic design and its role in Mumbai’s complex history.
End your day with another dose of art at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre, a first-of-its-kind, modern multi-disciplinary cultural centre in Mumbai, which hosts shows, art exhibitions, and live performances, and grab a bite at one of the excellent cafés inside.
Tip: If you have a day to spare, take a ferry to visit Elephanta Caves, the UNESCO-listed 5th century rock-cut cave temples.
Spiritual stops
Mumbai’s spiritual life is layered and inclusive – with temples, churches and mosques sitting cheek by jowl on the same street - and you should not leave the city without experiencing this vibe.
Start your second day in Mumbai with a visit to Siddhivinayak Mandir, the temple dedicated to Ganesha, the elephant-headed god – if only to get a sense of how faith is intertwined in the DNA of this otherwise cynical city. This one is a local favourite, so go on weekday mornings to avoid crowds.
St. Thomas Cathedral Mumbai, the city’s oldest Anglican church, is a calm haven in the midst of busy streets. Inside, it’s peaceful and airy, making it perfect for a short, reflective pause. Explore traditional Indo-Islamic architecture with a visit to the Haji Ali Dargah, a 700-year-old tomb and mosque (multifaith monument really), located on a small islet off the main coast, taking care to avoid high tides.
Nature nooks
Mumbai may be densely packed, but it has pockets of green that feel wonderfully restorative. The intriguingly-named Hanging Gardens and the neighbouring Kamala Nehru Park offer flat walking paths and panoramic views of the city.
The newly opened Elevated Nature Trail at Malabar Hill, with timed one-hour entry slots, offers a quiet green escape where birdsong and tall trees make it feel as though the city itself has briefly slowed down.
Mumbai’s favourite public hangout, the long promenade known as Marine Drive provides one of the city’s gentlest pleasures — a leisurely walk along the curve of the coastline. Watching the sunset here, with the city lights slowly switching on, is an experience that never feels rushed.
If you are in the mood for wildlife, head to Sanjay Gandhi National Park, a rich biodiversity site with hundreds of native flora and fauna. You can choose to walk, hike, bike or go on a boat ride within this sprawling urban oasis.
Tip: Carry a hat for sun protection, and binoculars for clearer animal and bird sightings.
Flavour fiestas
Mumbai’s food scene is legendary, and for a good reason. Make time for South Mumbai’s iconic eateries like Café Mondegar and Kala Ghoda Café, as well as traditional Irani bakeries like Yazdani, Kyani and Jimmy Boy. These are ideal for a “sit down and catch your breath” break after your exploratory walks.
For a taste of the city’s fabulous street food – without the grime and germs of the street – head to Swati Snacks or Soam, where the friendly waitstaff will be glad to make suggestions and tailor spice levels to your preference.