Planning your trip but not sure what things to do in Mumbai? Come with us as we explore the fantastic markets, spiritual havens, creative hubs, and community projects that truly embody the spirit of the "City of Dreams." In this guide, we'll highlight both the must-see spots and hidden gems that make Mumbai one of India's best cities.
Bonnet Macaque Monkey at Sanjay Gandhi National Park © Shutterstock
The Gateway of India is a standout landmark in Mumbai, right by the waterfront. Built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary, the monument mixes Indo-Saracenic and Muslim architectural styles.
It’s a great place to take in the view of the Arabian Sea and watch boats heading to Elephanta Island. The monument looks especially stunning at sunset. This is easily one of the best things to do in India.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a quiet escape within the busy city of Mumbai. This 40-square-mile (104-square-km) park is home to leopards, macaques, and over 250 bird species. It’s a great spot with hiking trails, a mini-train safari, and picnic areas by Vihar Lake.
Don’t miss the Kanheri Caves, which are over 2,000 years old and house Buddhist rock-cut monuments. During the monsoon season, the park is especially lush with waterfalls. This is one of the best things to do in Mumbai to see some of the city's more natural elements.
The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, formerly the Prince of Wales Museum, is a must-see for anyone. The building itself is beautiful, with a white dome and green surroundings.
Inside, you’ll find over 50,000 artifacts, including sculptures, miniature paintings, and Nepali-Tibetan art. The museum also has a natural history section that’s great for kids. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Mughal and Deccan paintings. It’s a great way to take a deeper look into India’s cultural history.
Pani Puri, Swati Snacks, Mumbai © Lottie Gross 2014
Marve Beach is a quieter, more relaxed alternative to the crowded beaches in Mumbai. It’s located in the northern suburbs and is a peaceful spot to enjoy the sea, with silver-gray sand and gentle waves.
The area retains its rustic charm, with fishing villages and coconut groves along the shore. The sunsets here are lovely, with vibrant orange and pink skies. It's perfect for a calm day, whether you want to swim, walk along the shore, or just unwind.
You can also take a short ferry to nearby EsselWorld or Madh Island if you're looking for something extra. Learn more about getting from A to B in our guide to getting around India.
The street food scene is an essential part of the city’s vibe, and trying it is easily one of the best things to do in Mumbai. You’ll find vendors on almost every street, serving up a wide variety of flavorful dishes that are easy to grab on the go.
Street food in Mumbai is often a mix of savory snacks and sweet treats, with some dishes like Vada Pav and Pav Bhaji becoming local favorites.
If you’re cautious about cleanliness, it’s best to visit the busier, more popular stalls or join a food tour for cleaner options (see more in our India health travel tips). From spicy Pani Puri to sweet Malai Kulfi, the street food in Mumbai is not to be missed.
Mumbai train station, India © Shutterstock
If you’re interested in contemporary art, SJ Studio in Andheri is definitely worth a stop. Founded by Sudarshan Jha, this creative space doubles as both an artist workshop and a gallery.
You’ll find a variety of mixed-media pieces that dive into urban Indian life. This is one of the best things to do in Mumbai to get in touch with the local art scene.
The exhibitions rotate regularly, so there’s always something fresh to check out, from up-and-coming artists to established names. And if you’re in the mood for a break, head to the rooftop café for a nice view of the city.
Sassoon Docks is one of Mumbai’s oldest fishing docks, built in 1875. It is still a working port and home to the Koli fishing community, which has been here long before Mumbai became the city it is today.
If you’re an early riser, it’s worth visiting before 9 AM to see the action as the boats unload their fresh catch. You’ll also catch the fish auctions, where traders haggle over everything from prawns to pomfret. While you’re there, take a look at the old colonial buildings and the colorful murals painted by local artists.
When shopping in Mumbai, why not pick up something that has a deeper connection to the local community? Many shops in the city focus on supporting artisans, especially women from marginalized communities. By buying their work, you’re helping preserve traditional crafts and supporting sustainable livelihoods. Some places to check out:
Elephanta Caves at Mumbai, India © Shutterstock
Siddhivinayak Temple is a must-visit if you're in Mumbai. It’s dedicated to Lord Ganesha, and people come from all over India, including Bollywood stars and politicians, to pray here.
The temple, which has been around for over 200 years, houses a black stone idol of the elephant-headed god, and many believe it grants wishes to those who pray sincerely.
The temple’s gold-plated dome and intricate wooden carvings are beautiful, and the inside radiates a unique spiritual energy from years of prayer. Tuesdays are especially busy, with long lines of people waiting to pray, so be prepared for a bit of a wait.
Even if you’re not Hindu, the peaceful vibe and cultural significance of the temple are worth experiencing. Just make sure to dress modestly and expect security checks.
Elephanta Island is a fantastic day trip from Mumbai. It’s home to ancient rock-cut temples, carved into the hillside, and is about 6 miles (10 kilometers) away. You can reach it by a scenic hour-long ferry ride across Mumbai harbor.
The main cave features a massive 20-foot (6-meter) sculpture of Lord Shiva in various forms, including the famous three-headed Trimurti, which represents creation, protection, and destruction.
You might just spot monkeys along the winding stairways. While historians are still debating the origins of the caves, many believe they were built by the Chalukyan or Rashtrakutan dynasties. Aside from the history and architecture, the caves are also a spiritual place for Hindu visitors.
Khotachiwadi is a hidden gem in South Mumbai. Founded in the late 18th century, this charming village still has around 28 wooden houses, each with ornate balconies, pitched roofs, and stained-glass windows.
It’s one of the few places left in Mumbai where life feels a bit slower and more relaxed, offering a refreshing change from the fast-paced city.
The neighborhood is home to a small East Indian Catholic community, and some of the old houses have been transformed into boutique studios and shops, like those of local fashion designer James Ferreir. If you're still deciding what your trip to India should look like, be sure to check out our 14 days India itinerary for inspiration.
The Haji Ali Dargah, a famous tomb and a mosque in Mumbai © Shutterstock
If you're in Dharavi, Mumbai, make time to visit the potter’s workshops where artisans from the Kumbhar community keep age-old pottery traditions alive. These family-run workshops give you a chance to watch the whole pottery-making process, from shaping the clay to firing it in the kiln.
The master potters create everything from practical water pots to colorful Ganesh idols, all using techniques passed down for generations. This is by far one of the best things to do in Mumbai.
You can even try your hand at the wheel with their help, making a personal souvenir to take home. It’s also a great way to support these potters, who are up against mass-produced alternatives. For more advice, be sure to check out our India travel tips.
A visit to Haji Ali Dargah is a peaceful experience. This stunning white marble shrine seems to float in the Arabian Sea, connected to Mumbai’s coastline by a causeway that disappears at high tide.
Built in the 15th century, it holds the tomb of Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, a Muslim saint who, according to legend, asked for his coffin to be cast into the sea, where it miraculously came to rest here.
People from all faiths visit the shrine for blessings related to health, prosperity, and family, with Thursdays and Fridays being especially busy. Inside, you’ll see beautiful mirror work and Quranic inscriptions, while devotional music fills the courtyard. The causeway walk itself is a highlight—passing by vendors selling flowers, incense, and prayer cloths, with lovely views of the sea.
Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary is a hidden gem you won’t want to miss. It’s home to thousands of flamingos, especially from November to May, when they flock to the mudflats and turn them a soft pink.
You can take a boat ride through the sanctuary to see the flamingos up close while keeping a respectful distance. There are also over 200 other bird species here, so it’s a great spot for birdwatching. The sanctuary is set in a beautiful mangrove ecosystem that helps protect the city from flooding and pollution.
The slums of Dharavi in Mumbai can be and should be visited responsibly with the local community in mind © Shutterstock
Mani Bhavan is a special place for anyone interested in Mahatma Gandhi’s life and legacy. This simple two-story building was Gandhi’s Mumbai headquarters from 1917 to 1934, where he planned the major civil disobedience movements that led to India’s independence.
Now a museum, the building preserves Gandhi’s room, which is set up exactly as he left it, complete with his spinning wheel and floor mattress.
There’s also a library with over 50,000 books on his life and a diorama gallery that uses clay figures to show important moments in his journey. You can also see letters he wrote, including ones to Leo Tolstoy, and even the desk where he wrote many of his articles.
Reality Tours is a great way to experience Dharavi, Mumbai's largest urban settlement, in a meaningful and respectful way. With local guides, you’ll explore thriving industries like pottery, textiles, recycling, and leather, all of which contribute to the local economy in a big way.
The tours also highlight community efforts in education, health, and women’s empowerment. What’s really special is that 80% of the profits go to Reality Gives, a non-profit that supports education programs in Dharavi. This is by far one of the best things to do in Mumbai to learn about the local community while supporting it.
The tours provide a deeper understanding of the community’s resilience and innovation, challenging the stereotypes you might have heard.
written by
Dre Roelandt
updated 20.05.2025
Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting India
