Is Mumbai Worth Visiting?

Is Mumbai worth visiting?

Full disclosure: I’ve lived in Mumbai for nearly two decades and can be considered a local. However, I’ve watched my foreign buddies zip in and out, and so I’ve formed a good idea of what works and what doesn’t. Therefore, my considered answer to the question will be: “It depends”.

Mumbai is a fascinating city. It has millions of people, places, and experiences stuffed in it and is somewhat akin to an enormous ticking time bomb, which, somehow manages never to go off. People from all over the country congregate here, so it’s a massive amalgamation of cultures, mores, and ambitions. However, it’s also modernised and the cultures are mixed up to form something wholly unique and new.

If you’re looking for a cultural, authentic Indian experience, you’ll need to look a little harder. Unless you (sadly) count poverty, scraping by, and hassling tourists as authentically Indian—there’s plenty of that here, too—but give time to know us, to cut through the surface to understand what lies beneath, and you’ll be rewarded. It’s like hard exercise. You don’t know if you’ll make it, but once you do, the exhilaration is limitless.

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The Verdict

So the short answer is, yes, Mumbai is worth visiting but how you should do it will depend on the kind of traveller you are. If you’re inexperienced, and a bit afraid, yet want to see the city, choose a long layover to tick off the essentials of Mumbai and employ the services of a reputed tour guide. Mumbai has a lot to offer in a small space of 12 or 24 hours. You can see the highlights easily within this time.

If you have to choose Mumbai or Delhi for a stopover, I prefer Mumbai because it’s safer, the transportation is easier and the people are much nicer (that’s not debatable!). I dread the times I’ve to visit Delhi even though I’m Indian (of course, being a woman doesn’t help). However, a large part of Mumbai’s sightseeing is from the British era, while Delhi offers a blend of Mughal and British architecture.

For those who are brave and/or experienced, and seeking an adventure, I invite you to stay with us longer and experience Mumbai as it’s meant to be. This lively city offers a unique opportunity to see what modern India is like. People from all corners of the country come to Mumbai to create a life for themselves, making it a true reflection of India’s diversity. This option is best suited for those who have been to India before and have ample time to explore new things. You can witness the aspirations of modern India, the lives of the growing middle class, and even the rich urban youth (yes, we exist!). Mumbai is a rare blend of modernity, ambition, and humility that is hard to find elsewhere.

What are the things you can do? What sets Mumbai apart? There are UNESCO World Heritage sites, there is a rich cinema and theatre scene, eateries that represent all the cuisines in the country, lovely museums, and some unique walks to take.

About Mumbai

The port city of Mumbai is the financial capital of India and the capital of the Western State of Maharashtra. With a population of over 24 million, it is among the most populated cities in the world. A melting pot of communities and cultures, the city is home to the Bombay Stock Exchange, Bollywood i.e., Indian Cinema, the best cafes and restaurants in the country, and the biggest slum in Asia. Like any bustling metropolis, there’s always tons to do. No two days are the same, each experience is intense.

When to Visit

Considering Weather: It’s advisable to steer clear of April and May, as well as June to August. April and May are the hottest summer months where temperatures can go above 38 degrees centigrade making it hot and humid and very hard to move around the roads. But it gets worse during the monsoon months—my favourite time—but cumbersome for tourists because it rains nonstop. The roads are flooded and it’s really hard to get a conveyance to go from one place to another. If arriving during monsoon, choose to stay inside a mall, take indoor tours, or get a sturdy umbrella. Overall, the best months to visit are October to March.

Considering Festivals: Consider aligning your visit to Mumbai with one of the three festivals. Firstly, the Kala Ghoda Festival, typically held at the end of February each year. It’s a multi-site, multi-event festival featuring talks, workshops, movies, concerts, and heritage walks. Another option is Ganesh Chaturthi, a grand 10-day event in September, offering a lively atmosphere at certain locations in Mumbai. Keep in mind the significant crowds during these festivals. Lastly, Diwali, occurring in October or November, illuminates the entire city, creating a marvellous festive ambience that adds spring to everyone’s step.

Getting Around

Uber works well in Mumbai. Alternatively, you can download the Ola app. The airport has a prepaid cab service at the P4 level which can be availed. You can perhaps strike a bargain with the cab driver to show you around the city. 4 hours of moving around (say, a 30 km distance) and a waiting charge should not amount to more than INR 4000, or about USD 50. Alternatively, book an Uber Rental and keep the car for up to 12 hours. Note that in South Mumbai, only taxis (commonly known as Kali Peelis) and cars are allowed to operate, whereas the rest of Mumbai is serviced by both auto rickshaws and taxis.

Safety for Women

Mumbai, like any large city, has a complex and multifaceted safety landscape for women. It is the safest metropolis in India yet instances of harassment, molestation, and serious crimes exist. Cabs and rickshaws are honest and ply by meter, but may take circuitous routes so they can overcharge. Take the usual precautions of not trusting too easily and keeping your wits about you. However, booking a private tour doesn’t cost much and there are a host of them to choose from. I enjoyed this one and recommend it. Khaki Tours are great for private and guided tours.

For a Short Term Stay (12, 24, 48 hours)

If you are short on time and want to make the most of your visit to Mumbai, consider exploring the city through private tours. Here are some ideas on places to visit and the kinds of tours you can take. Khaki Tours and Raconteur are great and I have used their services myself.

1. Heritage Walks: Mumbai is steeped in history, and a heritage walk will take you through the iconic landmarks and historic neighbourhoods. Explore colonial-era buildings and Art Deco architecture, and learn about the city’s fascinating past. These tours take place in the Fort / Colaba / Town Area of Mumbai i.e. South Mumbai / South Bombay (SoBo)
2. Street Food Tours: Mumbai is famous for its mouth-watering street food. Join a food tour to savour the diverse flavours of local delicacies like pav bhaji, vada pav, and pani puri, while experiencing the lively street life.
3. Bollywood Tours: As the heart of the Indian film industry, Mumbai offers Bollywood-themed tours. Visit film studios, see live shoots, and get a glimpse of the glamorous world of Bollywood.
4. Dharavi Slum Tours: Dharavi is Asia’s largest slum by area and the largest in the world by population. About 1 million people live here. A tour of the slum led by one of its residents will give you valuable insights into the people and their lives here. It’s not what you think at all. You’ll be astounded by its people, their diversity, generosity and entrepreneurial spirit. It certainly opened my eyes when I went.
5. Elephanta Caves Tour: Take a boat ride to Elephanta Island and explore the ancient rock-cut cave temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. This can be an exciting, offbeat thing to do.

   

For a Longer Term Stay (1 to 2 weeks or more)

Consider staying in Bandra or Juhu

Bandra

Bandra is a suburb located in the western part of Mumbai, India. It is a thriving, wonderful part of the city and also where I stay. Originally, a small fishing village, Bandra was part of the larger Mumbai archipelago and came under Portuguese rule in the 16th century. In 1661, it was ceded to the British as part of the dowry for Catherine de Braganza’s marriage to King Charles II of England. Bandra is connected to South Mumbai via the Bandra-Worli Sea Link and is adjacent to other prominent neighbourhoods such as Khar, Santacruz, and Mahim. The area is well-known for its landmarks, including the Bandra Fort, Bandstand Promenade, Mount Mary Church, and the iconic Bandra-Worli Sea Link, which connects Bandra to Worli in South Mumbai. It also offers a host of shopping and eating out options, and you will find plenty to do unless crowds overwhelm you. Read a teaser of what it feels like to walk around in Bandra.

Juhu

Juhu is another suburb of Mumbai. It’s home to many Bollywood actors, producers, and directors. Prithvi Theatre, located in Juhu, is a renowned cultural hub that has hosted numerous plays and performances. The place often attracts aspiring actors and artists. Many well-known Indian film personalities reside in Juhu (such as Amitabh Bachchan) due to its proximity to film and television studios. It’s a hotbed for people-watching and has great cafes, shops, and malls.

Here is a list of activities you can do in Mumbai solo, experienced and curated by yours truly.

Books to Prepare You

A Fine Balance

Rohinton Mistry’s “A Fine Balance” serves as a compelling gateway to Mumbai. The book follows the intertwined lives of four characters—Dina, Ishvar, Omprakash, and Maneck—in 1970s India. Dina, a widow, opens her home to boarders Ishvar and Om, tailors who have fled caste oppression. Maneck, a student, joins them. As they forge bonds in the backdrop of political turmoil, their individual stories converge. Through vivid storytelling, the book captures Mumbai’s social fabric, economic disparities, and human resilience. As characters navigate life’s complexities, readers gain insights into Mumbai’s essence—a melting pot of hopes, dreams, and struggles. It’s a lovely book which I often still think about.

Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found

“Maximum City” by Suketu Mehta is a sprawling narrative that delves into the multifaceted soul of Mumbai. The book journeys through the lives of diverse characters, from slum dwellers to celebrities, and weaves their stories with the city’s dynamic backdrop. Mehta examines themes of crime, politics, religion, and Bollywood, revealing the paradoxes that define Mumbai’s identity. The narrative also reflects on the author’s return to the city, adding a layer of introspection. It is part fiction and part nonfiction and a great introduction to the soul of Mumbai.

Shantaram

Shantaram is fluff but good fluff. The book takes place mostly in the Town (colonial) part of Mumbai and visits some beloved locations. The 2003 novel, written by Gregory David Roberts, is about a convicted Australian bank robber and heroin addict (Lindsay Ford) who escapes from Pentridge Prison and flees to India. The book portrays Lin’s journey from Australian prison escape to Mumbai’s underworld. Amid slums and criminals, he finds friends, love, and chaos. He joins the mafia and fights in Afghanistan. Lin’s struggle mirrors Mumbai’s gritty essence, showcasing its urban complexity and human resilience. Mostly autobiographical but in a fun way, the book resonates with readers familiar with Mumbai’s raw streets and diverse culture. I also thought it was beautifully written.

Where to Stay

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