Mumbai, India-7-day-itinerary

7 Day Itinerary for Travelling in Mumbai, India

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring South Mumbai

  • Morning: Arrive at Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM) and take a taxi or Uber to your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Visit the iconic Gateway of India, a stunning monument built to commemorate King George V’s visit to India in 1911. Take a leisurely stroll along the Marine Drive, also known as the “Queen’s Necklace”, which offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea.
  • Evening: Head to Colaba Causeway, a bustling street filled with street food stalls, cafes, and shops selling everything from souvenirs to clothing. Try some delicious street food at Bademiya or Bade Miyan.
  • Accommodation: Stay at the InterContinental Marine Drive or The Oberoi Mumbai, both located in the heart of South Mumbai.
  • Tips: Be prepared for crowds and chaos, especially during peak hours. Try to avoid traveling during rush hour (7-10 am and 5-8 pm).

Day 2: Exploring Mumbai’s Cultural Heritage

  • Morning: Visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS), a museum showcasing Indian art, culture, and history. Spend some time exploring the Hanging Gardens, a beautiful park built on top of a water reservoir.
  • Afternoon: Take a guided tour of the Mani Bhavan, a historic building that served as Mahatma Gandhi’s residence during his freedom struggle.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Indian dinner at Mahesh Lunch Home or Kebabs & Curries.
  • Accommodation: Same as Day 1.

Day 3: Bollywood and Shopping

  • Morning: Take a guided tour of the Dharavi Slum, one of the largest slums in Asia. This will give you an insight into the lives of Mumbai’s underprivileged population.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Film City (Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagri), where many Bollywood films are produced. You can take a guided tour or even catch a film shoot if you’re lucky!
  • Evening: Shop till you drop at Linking Road, Bandra Hill Road, or High Street Phoenix.
  • Accommodation: Same as Day 1.

Day 4: Elephanta Caves and Mumbai’s Coastal Route

  • Morning: Take a ferry to Elephanta Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  • Afternoon: Drive along the scenic Western Express Highway, which offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Stop at Juhu Beach or Versova Beach for some relaxation time.
  • Evening: Enjoy seafood at Mahesh Lunch Home or Gajalee.
  • Accommodation: Same as Day 1.

Day 5: Sanjay Gandhi National Park and Kanheri Caves

  • Morning: Visit the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, a protected area with lush forests, lakes, and hiking trails. Take a guided tour or explore on your own.
  • Afternoon: Explore the ancient Kanheri Caves, a Buddhist site featuring intricate carvings and sculptures.
  • Evening: Enjoy a peaceful dinner at The Pantry or The Table.
  • Accommodation: Same as Day 1.

Day 6: Street Food and Markets

  • Morning: Visit the bustling Crawford Market, where you can find everything from fruits to souvenirs. Try some street food at Khau Galli or Mumbai Chaat.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Flora Fountain area, which offers a glimpse into Mumbai’s Parsi community.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Indigo Deli or The Bombay Canteen.
  • Accommodation: Same as Day 1.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market.
  • Afternoon: Depart for the airport and catch your flight back home.

Things to Know

  • Mumbai is a bustling city with crowded streets, so be prepared for chaos and noise.
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-10 am and 5-8 pm) to avoid traffic congestion.
  • Be cautious of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

Transportation

  • Taxi: Available at the airport or through apps like Ola or Uber.
  • Auto Rickshaw: A cheap and convenient way to get around, but be prepared to haggle over prices.
  • Local Train: An efficient way to travel long distances, but be prepared for crowds.
  • Bus: A budget-friendly option, but not recommended due to traffic congestion.

Tips

  • Try to learn some basic Hindi phrases to communicate with locals.
  • Be open-minded and flexible when dealing with cultural differences.
  • Respect the local environment and keep Mumbai clean!
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Mumbai!