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Mumbai Tourism

A fascinating city, Mumbai has always charmed its way into people’s hearts through Bollywood and TV. For Mumbaikars, Mumbai is not a city but an indescribable feeling and a part of their soul. Previously known as Bombay city, it became famous with the song ‘Yeh hai Bombay meri jaan’ sung by the legendary Mohammed Rafiread more

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Best time to visit in mumbai

Love it or hate it, Mumbai is an alluring city that has captured the imagination of Bollywood for years. The city where dreams can come true has a fantastic cityscape that is abutted by the sea and crashing waves all through the year. The best time to visit Mumbai is from October to February when the city has its winter. This is the perfect time for traveling and sightseeing as the weather is moderate and you can comfortably walk about the city as you explore its glory and mysteries.

Summer is not the best season to visit Mumbai as it can get hot and sweaty between March and May. The monsoon is a beautiful time to visit the city as everything gets a washed and clean look. But be warned; the rains can play spoilsport when it comes to shopping and sightseeing. But this is also when you can head out to the surrounding hills and forts for a trek. 

Whether you choose to brave the extreme heat or monsoon, or play it safe in winter, Mumbai will not disappoint. Its rich culture clashes beautifully with its modern side and you can enjoy all the many facets of this energetic city. Are you ready for Mumbai?


Summer Season (March-May)
 

A coastal city, Mumbai during summer is muggy and sticky. It’s best to avoid the city during these three months.


Monsoon/ Autumn Season (June-September)
 

Mumbai is inundated during the monsoon. The city gets refreshed, undoubtedly, but when it is being lashed by heavy rain, it could get impossible to head out for sightseeing. If you like trekking, this could be a good time to visit. The gushing waterfalls and green hills make for a beautiful break from urban cityscapes.


Winter Season (October-March)

Mumbai is a coastal town and the best time to escape the high humidity is in the winter months. The temperature rarely goes below 10°C and the weather is perfect to walk around the city, exploring its many secrets. Winter is also when the city hosts several cultural events drawing the crowds with it.

 

Travel Seasons

Min/Max Temperature

Season

March to May

25-38 degrees

Summer  - Hot, humid and sweaty

June to September

20-30 degrees

Monsoon - Cool but heavy rains

October to February

10-35 degrees

Winter - Cool and pleasant

 

Mumbai During Summers (March to May) 

Temperature: Avg. of 38 degrees high to 25 degrees low 

Weather: Avoid Mumbai during the harsh months of summer. We cannot stress this more. The humidity and heat saps one's energy and enthusiasm, and what is the point of visiting a new city if all you do is spend your time indoors. Of course, if you are a budget traveller and you think you can manage with the humidity, then there is no better time than summer to visit Mumbai. The weather might be unpleasant, but the city has much to offer you between March and May.

Make Mumbai your base and head out to cooler destinations like Lonavala and Khandala. Head out to the beach and spend a day giving yourself a tan. If theme parks and water parks are your things, Essel World and Water Kingdom offer an entertaining respite from the heat. Head out to Bandra Bandstand, the Worli sea face or Marine Drive and watch the sunset on a beautiful day as the cool breeze ruffles your hair. The area also has plenty of restaurants and cafes for you to spend an idyllic evening out with friends. Explore street foods and do give your taste buds a chance to enjoy the local 'chuskis' or 'golas' (locally-made, fresh ice lollies). 

Significant events: Weather in summer of Mumbai is hot and humid and doesn't offer much opportunity for outdoor activities or festivals. The city dwellers celebrate Mahashivratri which is a religious festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. Temples are decorated and devotees stay awake all night, singing devotional songs. An interesting bit to know is that they serve 'bhaang' (pot-laced milk) during this festival and it is legal to consume it. Another household festival is Gudi Padwa, which is the Hindu New Year. This isn't the same as celebrating the New Year in public but is a private family celebration. People thank the gods for the year gone and pray for prosperity in the coming year as well. Keep your camera ready as this is when you will get an opportunity to capture beautiful rangoli designs, gudi flags and decorations that mark this festival.

Why you should visit now: Since nobody visits Mumbai in the summer this is great time to get some good deals.

Know before you visit: It's not just hot, it's also humid. That makes the weather doubly exhausting. 

Tips: Wear plenty of sunblock. Keep hydrating yourself. 

 

Mumbai During Monsoon Season (June to September) 

Temperature: Avg. of 30 degrees high to 20 degrees low

Weather: The monsoon in Mumbai isn't just a season; it is a celebration – of life, greenery and slightly better weather. Every day is an event and the monsoon is a living breathing person who occupies time and space in everyone's mind between June and September. The temperature drops a little but it continues to be humid; a little more. The showers are heaviest in July and the rain almost comes to an end by September. Everyone portrays the rain as a romantic season, and it is, but it can get inconvenient to move about and there are almost negligible opportunities to go sightseeing within the city.

But the weather of Mumbai in monsoon is great if you enjoy the greenery and allure of nature. Head out to the nearby areas during the rainy season and you will see lush green hills, mystical forts, and gushing waterfalls.

While the real magic of the monsoon in Mumbai lies outside the city, within, you can do what the locals do – head out to Marine drive and get sprayed by the mighty waves. Sip on a cup of hot 'cutting chai' while gorging on a plate of piping hot 'kanda bhajji' (sliced onion fried in batter) or roasted corn.

Significant events: If you decide to brave the monsoon and visit Mumbai during Monsoon, do try and coincide your trip with the Ganesh Festival, which is an elaborate, one-of-its-kind, ten-day, city-wide festival. Huge pandals (tents) are erected in the city and massive idols of Lord Ganesh are placed within these spaces. There is music, dance and prayer every day. On the last day of the festival, city roads are blocked for a long, colourful and festive procession that ends at the Arabian Sea where the idols are immersed in the water. Coming along the heels of Ganesh festival is Janmashtami, which celebrates the birth of lord Krishna. Kids dress up as Krishna and Radha, his consort. There are street games, the most attractive of which is the human pyramid. There are competitions to see which group can build the tallest pyramid and break the pot of buttermilk hanging high up in the air.

Why you should visit now: Monsoon is also not peak tourist season and you can get some amazing deals on hotels. The monsoon offers you plenty of excellent opportunities for photography when everything is shrouded in clouds and every surface reflects the cityscape. 

Know before you visit: It doesn't rain in Mumbai; it pours. Carry an umbrella, wear a jacket and still keep plenty of spare clothes.

Tips: Eat and drink at clean places. Drink only bottled water. Avoid eating uncooked food.

 

Mumbai During Winter Season (October to February) 

Temperature: Avg. of 35 degrees high to 10 degrees low

Weather: Winter is when Mumbai is at her best. The weather is pleasant and the air is clear to be able to view the beautiful city in its entire glory. Winter in Mumbai does not mean coats and boots. You can wear cotton clothes and carry a thin jacket or shawl for the evening when it could get slightly cooler. Overall, winter is the best climate to visit Mumbai. You can walk the city from corner to corner, and explore all its hidden mysteries. Winter is a great time for street shopping and for seeing all the major attractions of the megapolis. 

Significant events: Winter is a time for fun and festivals in Mumbai. Of course, there is a wonderful Christmas and a very colourful New Year, but there are some other events that are unique to the city.

The month of January sees the city spellbound by the two-day Banganga music festival. This is organized near Malabar Hills and it offers 48 hours of music and dance to art aficionados. This is an opportunity for shopping and photography too. In February, art lovers can also enjoy the Mumbai International Film Festival held at the National Centre for Performing Arts. This is when short films, documentaries and other non-commercial cinema get a captive audience in the city. For many years now, the ministry of culture and tourism is organising the Elephanta Festival on the island of Elephanta, near Mumbai. Once again, dance, art and music get a platform and the hurried people of Mumbai get a chance to unwind and relax. If you are in Mumbai in winter, you cannot miss the famous Kala Ghoda Festival. This nine-day festival is an explosion of art, dance, music and theatre. There are several workshops and you can go home with exclusive pieces made by talented artists only for this festival. 

Why you should visit now: The weather doesn't get any better in Mumbai than during the months of winter. The sun is warm and the days are pleasant. 

Know before you visit: Winter is a popular season with tourists and you will need to book your tickets in advance to get a good deal. 

Tips: You don't need typical woollens for winters in Mumbai. Pack light and keep plenty of space to carry back the incredible shopping that you will do here.

Mumbai is India's commercial capital and the city buzzes with energy all hours of the day and night. For you to truly understand what makes it tick, you need to make a holiday to the city of dreams. Browse through our Mumbai Tour Packages and you will get answers to all your Mumbai queries. Do make the most of the tips and handy hints that will help you have an amazing holiday when you are here. We can assist you with tickets, your visa application and even Indian currency needs. At Thomas Cook, we are a one-stop solution to all your travel needs and here you can get all the help that you need for your upcoming trip to Mumbai.

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A fascinating city, Mumbai has always charmed its way into people’s hearts through Bollywood and TV. For Mumbaikars, Mumbai is not a city but an indescribable feeling and a part of their soul. Previously known as Bombay city, it became famous with the song ‘Yeh hai Bombay meri jaan’ sung by the legendary Mohammed Rafi and since then, the city has continued its affair with artists, many calling it a source of their motivation.  A cultural hub, Mumbai invokes passion alluring throngs of people from all over India to come here and realise their dreams, thereby earning the moniker ‘The City of Dreams’.

A melting pot of diverse cultures, Mumbai is a beautiful mélange of various religions, festivals, events, cuisines, music and art. A city rich with traditions, every festival is celebrated with great aplomb successfully uniting people from different religions, caste and creed. Diwali, Holi, Christmas, Eid, Dussera, Moharram, Ganesh Chaturthi, Durga Puja, Maha Shivratri, Navratri, and Good Friday are some of the most important occasions observed and celebrated lavishly.

A trendsetter and true cosmopolitan city, Mumbai is always in news owing to its upcoming infrastructure, thriving hospitality industry and for the latest updates on Bollywood and the lives of the celebrities. Mumbai has a lot to offer to visitors to enjoy their trip to the hilt and the Mumbai tourism packages presents the best of the city from its famous landmarks, marvellous shopping, excellent dining options and vibrant nightlife.

Are you thinking of travelling to the land of possibilities that makes impossible dreams possible? Let’s dig deeper into the following Mumbai tour guide and explore the places worth visiting in this bustling metropolis. 

Mumbai: A Quick View of the City
Official Language Marathi, Hindi
Dial Code 022
Population 24 Million (as of 2018)
Currency Indian Rupee (INR)
Time Zone UTC+05:30 (IST)
Area 603.4 square km

Best Time And Places To Visit In Mumbai

The best time to visit Mumbai is in the winter season. The cool and breezy climate enhances the trip making it even more memorable. The gorgeous weather makes it easier to stroll along the streets and causeways, exploring the city by foot, street shopping, engaging in outdoor activities and indulging in relaxing at the open roof bars and lounges sipping on cocktails under the sparkling stars. It is also the best time to witness the various festivals that are celebrated with much enthusiasm and gusto.

Enjoy the spectacle of Dussehra, Diwali, Christmas, Kite flying and the iconic Kala Ghoda festival. One can also embark on several places to visit near Mumbai for a wholesome Mumbai experience. Apart from the hill stations such as Lonavala, Khandala, Panchgani, Lavasa and Mahableshwar, there are interesting cities such as Pune, Matheran, Igatpuri, Alibaug, Shirdi and Goa that can be visited for few days.

 So, be sure to visit the city surrounded by Victorian buildings and sun-kissed romantic beaches. Its lofty skyscrapers and Bollywood glamour will take you to a different world that will exceed your imagination. Keep reading the following Mumbai travel guide to know the best places to visit Mumbai. 

Places to Visit in Mumbai

Mumbai is brimming with countless places showcasing its heritage in the form of architecture and religious sites to the modern city that attracts people from all over the world. Some of the best places to visit in Mumbai are:

Architecture Of Mumbai

Gateway of India - Set against the backdrop of the glittering Arabian Sea, the illustrious monument built to commemorate King George V and Queen Mary's visit to India in 1911, boasts of exquisite Indo-Saracenic style architect and grandeur. Reflecting India’s rich culture and history, it is built with yellow basalt stone and intricately embellished with beautiful motifs. At a height of 26m, it standing tall on four turrets.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus - A UNESCO World Site Heritage and formerly known as Victoria Terminus, this splendid edifice is one if the busiest railway stations in the country. An outstanding example of Victorian-Gothic style with a blend of the traditional Indian style, marvel at the beautiful architecture that comprises of pointed arches, stone domes, turrets, eccentric ground plans and marvellous stained glass façade. It was built in the year 1887 by F. W. Stevens to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria.

Elephanta Caves - A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Elephanta Caves is a glorious example of the finest Indian architecture from the medieval period. An amalgamation of Hindu and Buddhist culture displayed through the rock cut architecture and sculptural art. Situated on a hillock, the Elephanta caves comprises of a total of 7 caves segregated into two groups of grottos. Five of the caves represent the Hindu culture while the two remaining represent the Buddhist culture. The 7m high “Sadashiva” or ‘trimurti’ inside the cave is a brilliant masterpiece depicting the three aspects of Shiva and a major tourist attraction.

Mount Mary Basilica - Founded in 1640, Mount Mary Basilica is an iconic beauty and is considered a sanctuary of tranquility. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it is a prominent Roman Catholic Church. However, it is different from other statues of the Holy Mother. The church features the Virgin Mary holding the baby on her right arm instead of the left. It stands atop a seven-storied high altar. Here, you can view a marvellous marble plaque demonstrating the Last Supper below the high altar. 

Religious Shrines In Mumbai

A secular city, Mumbai is speckled with several religious shrines that are centuries old and represent the several religions that coexist wonderfully. Some of the most popular ones that you can explore when enjoying Mumbai tourism are:

Mosques - Situated on an islet in the middle of Arabian Sea, Haji Ali Dargah is globally recognised and witnesses’ a huge footfall. Built in in Indo-Islamic architecture, it is a stunning white marble structure with minarets and arched frames. The dome has exquisite mirror work with intricate mosaic and a silver crown. Other mosque worth a visit is Jama Masjid.

Temples - Mahalaxmi Temple is one of the oldest temple dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi. The deity is flanked by Goddess Kali and Saraswati. All the three idols are bejeweled with gold bangles, nose rings and pearl necklaces. The temple is usually thronged by devotees during the festival of Navratra. Other popular temples are the Siddhivinayak Temple in Prabhadevi which is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and the ISKCON temple in Juhu which is dedicated to Lord Krishna.

Churches - Situated in Bandra, the Mount Mary church was built in the 16th century by the Portuguese and is very famous with people irrespective of their religion flocking to see the beautiful architecture and seek peace and tranquility. Other prominent churches are St. Thomas Cathedral in Fort and St. Michaels Church in Mahim.

 

Mumbai Beaches

A coastal city, Mumbai is teeming with beautiful beaches, promenades and chowpatty. With an extensive Mumbai tour guide, you can explore amazing beaches to play, lie down, or enjoy the sun. These are a perfect gateway that offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of the mega city. Some of the famous ones are Juhu beach,  Aksa beach, Worli seaface, Versova beach, Madh Island beach, Marine drive, Bandstand, Carter road and Girgaum chowpatty. Popular with tourists, they are intrinsically picturesque spots to catch the mesmerising sunrise and sunsets. The best way to enjoy it is to take a leisurely stroll as the breeze caresses your face and indulge in the street food while sipping on hot tea. So, come here to spend a perfect outing on the sandy shores and enjoy cool breezes.  

Landmarks

Mumbai has a multitude of gorgeous landmarks that showcase its heritage, culture, and architecture. Its architecture is considered a blend of Victorian, Gothic, and contemporary styles. Explore some of Mumbai’s famous places such as the Taj Hotel Mumbai, Flora Fountain, the Mantralaya, Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat, Colaba, Kala Ghoda precinct and Film City. The city also has a vibrant street culture that influences tourists coming for Mumbai tourism. Here, you can explore wonderful food stalls, bazaars, and shopping malls.  

Art Of Mumbai

For art aficionados, Mumbai boasts of a vibrant art scene with some of the best contemporary art galleries that showcase brilliant works of celebrated and upcoming young artists. The Jehangir Art Gallery, Volte, The loft, Chatterji & Lal, Chemould Prescott Road Gallery are some of the premier institutes with free entry.

 

Things to do in Mumbai

Apart from beautiful tourist places in Mumbai, the city also offers a plethora of activities that caters to every age group. Let’s delve into the following paragraphs of the Mumbai travel guide to ensure maximum happiness, joy, and adventure throughout the trip. 

Cuisine Of Mumbai

Mumbai is famous for its delicious street food that beats any other junk food. For a quintessential Mumbai experience, one must definitely splurge on the mouth watering delicacies such as vada pav, pav bhaji, misal pav, dabeli and a wide array of chaats like pani puri, sev puri, bhel, dahi puri etc. Apart from the street fare, Malwani and Maharashtrian cuisine is also equally delectable and must try. So, whether you are in Mumbai for a business meeting or a family holiday, make sure to try these delicious dishes that local people admire and recommend. 

Shopping At Mumbai

One of the most fashion forward metropolitan city, Mumbai is every shoppers’ paradise. A delightful experience, indulge in retail therapy ranging from street fashion to charming boutiques, celebrity designer stores and glitzy malls housing luxurious, international and local brands all under one roof. Visit the Colaba Causeway, Fashion Street, Hill Road and Linking Road for cheap street shopping. These street offer various latest trendy merchandises such as clothes, artificial jewellery, shoes, bags and accessories at great prices though bargaining is a must. While Palladium mall brings forth the luxurious brands, Phoenix, Phoenix Marketcity, and Infinity mall house several internationals and local brands catering to every shopaholic.

Sports In Mumbai

Mumbai population is extremely passionate about sports. Be it cricket, hockey, kabbaddi or football, every sport receives the same enthusiasm and fervour. One must definitely add the famous stadiums such as Wankhede, Oval and Mahalaxmi racecourse in the itinerary when visiting the city. Mumbai has many home-grown teams in various field of sports and some are even owned by Bollywood celebrities. Three time champions, Mumbai Indians, part of IPL, cricket has gained immense popularity over the years.

Outdoor Activities In Mumbai

Adventure enthusiasts rejoice! Mumbai boasts of myriad adrenaline pumping activities ensuring the perfect thrills and joy without having to travel abroad. This Mumbai travel guide, will help you explore some of the best activities that you should try: 

Water Sports - Jet Skiing, paddle boating, and trapezing at Mandwa beach, kayaking in Vasai, white water rafting in Kolad and sailing from Gateway of India.

Aerial Activities - Paragliding at Kamshet, bungee jumping in Lonavala, parasailing at Mandwa, sky diving at Aamby Valley, swoop swinging at Della Adventures in Lonavala and zip lining in Lonavala and Aamby Valley.

Trek and Camping - Some of the places worth visiting for an exhilarating experience for trekking and camping are Alibaug, Lonavala, Prabalmachi, Vasind and Bhandardhara.

There are several thrilling premium entertainment centres for a fun family outing such as theme parks, water parks, national park and gaming arcade. The top ones are Della Adventure, Imagica, Essel World, Water Kingdom, Sanjay Gandhi National Park and Smaaash.

Entertainment and Nightlife Of Mumbai

Buzzing with artists and performers, Mumbai has no dearth of quality entertainment. Here one can enjoy great stand up acts at Canvas Laugh Club, plays at Prithvi Theatre and NCPA and experience live music scene at Radio Bar and Blue Frog. Mumbai holidays is incomplete without experiencing the live entertainment scene.

A city that never sleeps, Mumbai possesses some of the best clubs, bars and lounges. Known for its brilliant nightlife culture, party the night away as you sway and sip cocktails at some of the most happening venues in town such as AER, Trilogy, Social, Bombay Adda, China House, Dome and many more. So, book a flight to Mumbai and indulge yourself in the glamorous world of Bollywood.  

How to reach Mumbai, Maharashtra

Are you thinking of how to reach Mumbai? Take a look at the following information given in the Mumbai tour guide for stress-free travelling to the city of dreamers: 

By Air: Being a metropolitan city, Mumbai has one of the busiest airports in India. The Mumbai International Airport i.e Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is well connected with major destinations in the world while the Santa Cruz domestic airport is with the rest of India. Hence, there are frequent international and domestic flights to Mumbai and most of the airlines cater to the city.

By Rail: Mumbai has several railway stations which are well connected to every part of India making the city truly accessible.

Weather Of Mumbai

Overlooking the dazzling Arabian Sea, Mumbai is a coastal region with three prominent climatic seasons. Here is a valuable insight that the Mumbai trip guide will offer you to make a well-informed decision: 

March-May
This is the peak summer season with the temperature ranging from 30-40 °C. With the humidity on the rise and sweltering heat, stepping outdoor is difficult and certainly not the advisable time to visit Mumbai

June-September
June marks the advent of the famous monsoon season. With the incessant rainfall, you may not be able to enjoy the activities but if you are inclined to travel during this period then there are beautiful getaway spots such as Lonavala and Mahableshwar. The enchanting hill stations offer stunning breath-taking vista of majestic mountains draped in clouds and lush verdant hills mesmerising the nature lovers and trekkers. Also, August/September bears witness to the 10 days Ganesh Chaturthi festival. Mumbai being one of the few cities where it is celebrated with great zest and exuberance, it will be a wonderful opportunity to experience the beauty, colours and scrumptious sweets. Visit the various pandals to worship Lord Ganesha and receive abundant blessings during these auspicious days.

October-February
Mid- October onwards is Indeed the ideal time to visit Mumbai as the temperature begins to dip. The mild winter season is pleasantly cool and tourists can enjoy the famous Mumbai sightseeing excursions, outdoor activities, beaches, vibrant nightlife, getaway trips and various vibrant cultural festivals.

History Of Mumbai

Formerly known as Bombay, Mumbai has an intriguingly extensive history ranging from being under King Ashoka during the Mauryan period who integrated the seven isles namely Bombay Island, Colaba, Mahim, Mazagaon, Worli, Parel, and Old Woman's Island to being under the Muslim rule. From here on it came under the influence of Portuguese from 1543 AD to 1661 AD. Along with the famous St. Michael Church in Mahim which is also one of the oldest, they were instrumental in building various other churches and forts. Soon, it paved way for other European countries to enter following the spice route leading from Dutch to British. The marriage of Catherine of Portugal to King Charles II of England witnessed the handover of the island to England as dowry which in turn was leased to East India Company. The island came to be known as Bombay and thus began the British era and the city’s consequent development. Bombay flourished under the British rule with the opening of the Suez Canal and constructions of a school, Bombay university, Colaba Causeway, bank, railways, port, various industries and the iconic Gateway of India and Victoria Terminus. Bombay was also at the epicentre of the Quit India movement led by Mahatma Gandhi, witnessing several events of the freedom struggle, following which eventually the last of the troops to leave India passed through the Gateway of India.

Post independence the city was crowned the capital of Maharashtra and it witnessed massive expansion leading to a huge influx in the population from all over India and the subsequent development of various suburbs such as Borivali, Andheri, Malad, Thane, Vashi, Dombivli, Navi Mumbai and Bandra. A booming city, it has gained the stature of being the financial capital of India and one of the most populous city in the world.

Language Spoken

Marathi, Hindi

Currency used:

Indian Rupee (INR)

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