Mumbai India 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring South Mumbai

Morning

  • Start at Gateway of India: This iconic monument is a great place to begin your Mumbai journey. Take in the stunning views of the Arabian Sea and click some Instagram-worthy photos.
  • Walk to Colaba Causeway: This bustling street is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops selling everything from souvenirs to antiques.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS) Museum: This museum is a treasure trove of Indian art, history, and culture. Spend a few hours exploring the exhibits.
  • Take a stroll at the Hanging Gardens: These beautiful gardens offer breathtaking views of the city and are a great place to relax.

Evening

  • Dine at Bademiya: This iconic restaurant serves some of the best kebabs in Mumbai. Be prepared for a wait, but it’s worth it!
  • Explore the Street Food Scene: Try some popular street food dishes like vada pav, pani puri, or bhelpuri at stalls around the city.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Suba Palace: This 3-star hotel is located in the heart of South Mumbai and offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price.

Things to Know

  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos, especially during peak hours.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or museums.
  • Try to avoid traveling during rush hour (7-10 am and 5-8 pm).

Transportation

  • Local Trains: Mumbai’s local train network is efficient and affordable. Just be prepared for crowded trains and stations.
  • Taxis and Rickshaws: These are readily available, but make sure to negotiate the fare before you start your journey.

Tips

  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
  • Don’t eat from street vendors that don’t have a good reputation or proper food handling practices.

Day 2: Bollywood and Beyond

Morning

  • Take a Bollywood Tour: Get an inside look at India’s iconic film industry with a guided tour. You might even get to see a live shoot!
  • Visit the Dharavi Slum: This is one of the largest slums in Asia, and a guided tour can be a eye-opening experience.

Afternoon

  • Explore Bandra: This trendy suburb is known for its street art, hip cafes, and fashionable boutiques.
  • Walk along the Bandstand Promenade: This scenic promenade offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea.

Evening

  • Dine at Olive Bar & Kitchen: This popular restaurant serves up delicious Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in a chic setting.
  • Catch a Live Music or Comedy Gig: Mumbai has a thriving live music and comedy scene. Check out what’s on at venues like the Blue Frog or Canvas Laugh Club.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Rang Mahal: This 3-star hotel is located in Bandra and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities.

Things to Know

  • Be respectful when visiting the Dharavi Slum, and follow your guide’s instructions.
  • Dress appropriately for Bollywood tours (no ripped jeans or shorts).
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.

Transportation

  • Auto Rickshaws: These three-wheeled vehicles are a fun way to get around, but make sure to negotiate the fare before you start your journey.
  • Uber and Ola: These ride-hailing services are widely available in Mumbai.

Tips

  • Don’t flash large amounts of cash or valuables, especially in crowded areas.
  • Learn some basic Hindi phrases to help you navigate the city.
  • Be open-minded and flexible – Mumbai can be unpredictable!

Day 3: Elephanta Caves and Beyond

Morning

  • Take a Ferry to Elephanta Island: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to ancient rock-cut temples and stunning carvings.
  • Explore the Caves: Spend a few hours exploring the intricate carvings and sculptures that adorn the walls of these ancient temples.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Siddhivinayak Temple: This iconic temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is one of the most popular in Mumbai.
  • Walk around the Worli Sea Face: This scenic promenade offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea.

Evening

  • Dine at Mahesh Lunch Home: This seafood restaurant serves up some of the freshest and tastiest dishes in the city.
  • Explore the Night Markets: Mumbai’s night markets are a treasure trove of souvenirs, clothes, and accessories. Just be prepared for crowds and chaos.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Marine Plaza: This 3-star hotel is located near the Gateway of India and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities.

Things to Know

  • Wear comfortable shoes when exploring the Elephanta Caves – there’s a lot of walking involved!
  • Dress modestly when visiting temples or religious sites.
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.

Transportation

  • Ferries: These are the best way to get to Elephanta Island. Just be prepared for crowds and long lines.
  • Local Buses: Mumbai’s local bus network is efficient and affordable. Just be prepared for crowded buses and roads.

Tips

  • Don’t touch or damage the carvings or sculptures at the Elephanta Caves – they’re fragile and irreplaceable.
  • Learn to haggle when shopping at night markets – it’s all part of the fun!
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.