50 Things To Do In Mumbai If You Want To Experience The City Like A Local

A rich history, cosmopolitan society, and a ‘get up and go’ attitude are the three cornerstones of what makes Mumbai thrive. It’s the financial capital of the country, the epicenter of Bollywood and also home to the largest slum in Asia - these are just come of the complexities and contradictions that make up the character of Mumbai. However, despite the stunning variety of experiences to be had in the city, there are some things one absolutely must do when one is in town. So, whether you’re a seasoned local or a first-time visitor, here are 50 things to do in Mumbai if you want to experience the city like a local Mumbaikar.

1: Travel By Local Train
Whatshot Mumbai

No experience says Mumbai quite like a ride on a local train and you may even catch the city’s famous dabbawalas in action while you’re at it! While you can do a ride from any station, we’d recommend taking a train from the Khar Road, where the Harbour Line will take you on a lovely ride that ends at CST – a Mumbai icon in its own right and a gorgeous example of ‎Indo-Saracenic architecture. 

Where: Khar Road Railway Station

2: Watch A Show At The Planetarium
Whatshot Mumbai

Lean back and learn about the cosmos, a visit to the Nehru Planetarium is one of our favourite things to do in Mumbai. Why? It’s educational, entertaining, and is a really good alternative to a movie. The show at the planetarium changes once a year, with editions in English, Hindi, and Marathi. Plus, a ticket is very budget friendly! 

Where: Nehru Planetarium, Nehru Centre, Dr Annie Besant Road, Lotus Colony, Worli

3: Visit A National Park In The City
Whatshot Mumbai

There’s a forest in our backyards and you’ve got to check it out! Sanjay Gandhi National Park at Borivali is within city limits and home to over 200 species of birds and 35 species of mammals including spotted deer, sambar, barking deer, porcupine, leopards, striped hyenas, the elusive four-horned antelope and mouse deer, langurs (among other monkey species), and 17 species of bat including the Indian flying fox.

Where: Sanjay Gandhi National Park, National Park-Kanheri Caves Road, Rajendra Nagar Society, Kulupwadi, Borivali East

4: Walk The Halls Of The CSMVS Museum
Whatshot Mumbai

One of our favourite buildings in the city, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (formerly the Prince of Wales Museum) is gorgeous outside and in. Admire the lawns and then step inside to take a journey through the history of India. PS: school and college students have discounted entry, so carry ID cards!

Where: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, 159-161, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Fort

Also read about: Best Things To Do In Mumbai

5: Eat Berry Pulao At Britannia & Co.
Whatshot Mumbai

The cuisine of the Parsis, a small but notable community in Mumbai, is a balance of sweet and spicy flavours, and can be eaten at Britannia. Not to be missed, however, is the proprietors’ creation of Mutton Berry Pulao, which is studded with sour red Zereshk berries (barberries) from Iran that add a wonderful tanginess to the rich rice dish.

Where: Britannia & Co., Wakefield House,11, Sport Rd, 16, Opposite New Custom House, Ballard Estate

Also read: Free Things To Do In Mumbai

6: Attend A Classical Music Performance At The NCPA
Whatshot Mumbai

The National Centre For The Performing Arts is home to India’s first symphony orchestra, the Symphony Orchestra of India (SOI), who play concerts here regularly. If western classical isn’t your thing, the NCPA has multiple theatres (including the stunning Jamshed Bhabha Theatre), all of which regularly have plays, Indian classical music performances, dance recitals, operas, ballets, and screenings. Don’t miss out on their delicious cold coffee during the interval!

Where: National Centre For The Performing Arts, NCPA Marg, Nariman Point

7: Relive Your Childhood At Kamala Nehru Park
Whatshot Mumbai

Remember the nursery rhyme about the old lady who lived in her shoe? You can visit a larger-than-life homage to it at Kamala Nehru Park! The whole park has a nursery rhyme theme and we love it! 

Where: Kamala Nehru Park, BG Kher Road, Malabar Hill

8: Visit A Japanese Temple In Worli
Whatshot Mumbai

The Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple has a long and storied history behind it and is also an oasis of calm in a bustling part of the city. Visit this to discover more about the Middle Path.

Where: Nipponzan Myohoji Japanese Buddhist Temple, Opposite Poddar Hospital, Diagonally Opposite City Bakery, Dr Annie Besant Road, Worli

9: Discover Mumbai’s Past At This Gorgeous Museum
Whatshot Mumbai

The Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum is the city’s oldest museum. Built in 1855, it was originally Victoria and Albert Museum but is now named after Mumbai’s first sheriff. The stunning structure has exhibits centred around the history of Mumbai along with relics from across the country. It’s located on the same grounds as the city zoo. 

Where: Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum, Veer Mata JijaBai Bhosale Udyan, 91 A, Dr Balasaheb Ambedkar Road, Byculla East

10: Explore The Only Chinese Temple In Mumbai
Whatshot Mumbai

Built in 1919, the Kuan Kung Temple is the only Chinese temple in Mumbai. Soon to turn 100 years old, the two-storey temple building remains in pristine condition thanks Albert Tham, its caretaker whose ancestors built the temple!

Where: Kuan Kung Temple, Dockyard Road, Mazgaon, look for the sign SEEYUP KOON and enter through the red door

11: Watch A Play At Prithvi Theatre
Whatshot Mumbai

Prithvi is synonymous with theatre in Mumbai. If you love to watch plays or have a child who’s caught the theatre bug, a visit to this beloved Juhu venue is a must. Also a must? Stopping by Prithvi Cafe for a snack and chai!

Where: Prithvi Theatre, 20 Janki Kutir, Juhu Church Road, Juhu

12: Catch A Gig At Live At The Quarter
Whatshot Mumbai

The Quarter is a music and dining venue located at the Royal Opera House (another must-visit in Mumbai), and Live At The Quarter is the gig venue. Hosting a number of indie musicians, classical performers, bands, jazz artists, and more, this plush, intimate venue is perfect for music lovers.

Where: The Quarter, Royal Opera House, Mathew Road, Opera House, Girgaon

13: Try The Best Croissants At KC Roasters
Whatshot Mumbai

KC Roasters in Khar is amongst our favourite cafes in the city. Their freshly roasted and ground coffee with its intoxicating aroma has a special place in our hearts and the light, flaky butter croissants are uh-amazing!

Where: Koinonia Coffee Roasters, 6, Chuim Village Rd, Chuim Village, Danda, Khar West

14: Try Pani Puri At Elco Market
Whatshot Mumbai

If you’re looking to try pani puri, you might as well try it from the very best. The pani puri at Elco Market in Bandra hits the right note in terms of sweet, spice, and everything nice

Where: Elco Market, Ramdas Nayak Marg, Bandra West

15: Walk Along Marine Drive
Whatshot Mumbai

The iconic Marine Drive has pictorially represented Mumbai since we can remember. If you’re in the city, a walk along this scenic 3.6km boulevard, with the wind rustling through your hair, is an absolute must! 

Where: Marine Drive, Mumbai

Explore something spooky as well: Haunted Places In Mumbai

16: Drive On The Bandra-Worli Sea Link
Whatshot Mumbai

With constant traffic jams, honking and jaywalkers, let’s face it – driving in Mumbai isn’t really a pleasant experience. However, the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, a wide 5-km-long bridge with no crowding, a high speed limit, and breathtaking oceanic views of the city’s skyline on either side, makes for the perfect exception.

Where: Bandra Worli Sea Link, Mount Mary, Bandra West

17: Indulge In Sardar Pav Bhaji
Whatshot Mumbai

Spicy, buttery and flavourful, the pav bhaji at Sardar is everything you were looking for. Famous Mumbai-wide (in fact it featured on our list of 50 Things To Eat In Mumbai), this joint draws heavy crowds through the day!

Where: Sardar Pav Bhaji, 166-A, 166-B, Tardeo Road

18: Visit Jehangir Art Gallery
Whatshot Mumbai

Catch a glimpse of artworks from across categories, with everything from ancient to modern art by Indian artists on display. One of the oldest of its kind, Jehangir Art Gallery is a Mumbai landmark.

Where: Jehangir Art Gallery, 161B, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Kala Ghoda, Fort

19: Eat Vada Pav At Ladoo Samrat
Whatshot Mumbai

A staple snack, the vada pav is a crucial element for any Mumbai experience to be truly complete. The vada pav served at Ladoo Samrat is fresh, perfectly balanced, and one of our favourites

Where: Ladoo Samrat, Shop No. 1-2, Habib Terrace, Lalbaug, Dr Ambedkar Road, Parel

20: Watch DDLJ At Maratha Mandir
Whatshot Mumbai

The SRK-Kajol starrer Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge is the epitome of Bollywood romance and never fails to make us swoon. Catch this film at Maratha Mandir, an iconic Mumbai cinema where it has been running for over 22 years! 

Where: Maratha Mandir, 22, MM Marg, RBI Staff Colony, Mumbai Central

21: Drop By The Sassoon Docks
Whatshot Mumbai

Amongst the oldest in the city, Mumbaikars have rejuvenated these docks with the ‘Sassoon Docks Art Project’. If you stop by early morning, you’ll catch the fish vending community in action, sorting through fresh catch to be taken to market, along with restaurateurs and locals looking to buy the freshest seafood.

Where: Sassoon Docks, Colaba

22: Tuck Into Sizzlers At Kobe
Whatshot Mumbai

Kobe Sizzlers offers the best variety of smoky sizzlers to choose from and to say they’re delicious would be an understatement. Try them at any outlet of this chain ’cause you sure don’t want to miss it!

Where: Kobe Sizzlers, 13/14, Sukh Sagar, Marina Mansion, Chowpatty Sea Face, Lamington Road, Hughes Road

23: Catch A View Of The Queen’s Necklace
Whatshot Mumbai

The semi-circular promenade of Marine Drive is referred to as the Queen’s Necklace because the sweeping curve, when lit up at night, resembles a sparkling necklace. You can catch a glimpse of it from atop the Oberoi Trident Towers, a skyrise window, or the viewpoint at Teen Batti.

Where: Queen’s Necklace, Nariman Point

24: Feast At The Vegetarian Khau Galli
Whatshot Mumbai

A dream come true for all vegetarians, you shouldn’t miss feasting on street food, comfort food, Chindian, chaat, and desserts at this pure veg khau galli in Kandivali. 

Where: Mahavir Nagar, Kandivali West

25: Visit Phillips Antiques
Whatshot Mumbai

Entering this antique store is like entering a time capsule – it can be called a museum on sale! Whether a collector or not, visit Phillips to view some of the most lovely antiques you’ll ever see.

Where: Phillips Antiques, Indian Mercantile Mansions, Madam Cama Road, Opp. Regal Cinema

26: Visit Elephanta Caves
Whatshot Mumbai

These beautiful cave temples, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will take up your day as you marvel at the stone sculptures depicting Hindu and Buddhist mythology. 

Where: Elephanta Caves, Elephanta Island, Mumbai Harbour

27: Go Celebrity Spotting
Whatshot Mumbai

Be it King Khan’s Mannat or the Bachchans’ Jalsa, these celebrity homes have become popular landmarks in the city. Always surrounded by paparazzi and fans, you will surely catch a glimpse of your favourite star if you wait long enough! 

Where: Shah Rukh Khan’s Mannat in Bandra, Amitabh Bachchan’s Jalsa in Juhu, Salman Khan’s Galaxy Apartments in Bandra

28: Catch A Comedy Gig At The Cuckoo Club
Whatshot Mumbai
Picture courtesy: The Cuckoo Club

The Cuckoo Club has become one of the go-to places if you’re looking to catch stand-up comedy in Mumbai. Hosting popular experienced comedians and up-and-comers alike, they also schedule plays and other experimental productions regularly.  

Where: The Cuckoo Club, 5AA, Mac Ronells Compound, Next to Candies, Near Pali Hill, Saint Andrews Road, Bandra West

29: Visit the Global Vipassana Pagoda
Whatshot Mumbai
Picture courtesy: Vipassana Meditation

Symbolizing peace and harmony, this monument is a meditation dome that can seat 8,000 vipassana practitioners. It’s also the largest of its kind in the world!

Where: Global Vipassana Pagoda, Global Pagoda Road, Near Esselworld, Gorai

30: Stop By At KidZania In R-City Mall
Whatshot Mumbai
Picture courtesy: KidZania

Spend an exciting evening with your children at this indoor theme park which aims to develop real life skills by having kids start their own bank account, get a credit card, and ‘work’ to earn points or KidZania currency! It’s a learning experience that’s a whole lot of fun!

Where: KidZania Mumbai, R City Mall, 3rd Floor, North Wing, Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg, Amrut Nagar, Ghatkopar West

31: Pay A Visit To The Nehru Science Centre
Whatshot Mumbai

An interactive science centre, this is something you must check out for its uber-cool exhibits in some of the major streams of science and technology. Not just for kids, this is a whole lot of fun for adults too!

Where: Nehru Science Centre, Opposite 4 Seasons Hotel, Dr. E. Moses Road, Worli

32: Feast On A Thali at Shree Thaker Bhojanalay
Whatshot Mumbai

A favourite amongst Mumbaikars, their unlimited Gujarati thali is spot on and presses all the right buttons when it comes to desi khana. 

Where: Shree Thaker Bhojanalay, Building No. 31, Dadiseth Agyari Lane, Gaiwadi, Kalbadevi

33: Eat Macaroni And Cheese At WTC Pasta Stall
Whatshot Mumbai

Street food and pasta? Who knew! Macaroni with loads of cheese is the success mantra at this roadside stall and why mess with a formula that works?

Where: WTC Pasta Stall, Opposite World Trade Centre, Near Jolly Maker Apartments 2, Cuffe Parade

34: Run Into Celebrities Around B-Town 
Whatshot Mumbai

It isn’t difficult to spot next-gen celebrities in Mumbai, especially when you have insider information on where to ‘casually’ run into them! The likes of Janhvi Kapoor, Shahid Kapoor, Ranveer Singh, and Alia Bhatt hangout at popular Bandra hangouts post-workout and on cheat days, and that’s reason enough for us to head there too! 

Where: Kitchen Garden By Suzette, Olive Bar & Kitchen, Sequel Bistro & Juice Bar

35: Relish Seafood At Highway Gomantak
Whatshot Mumbai
Picture courtesy: Highway Gomantak

A no-fuss Goan eatery tucked away in a corner of Bandra East, this place will always have patrons queued-up for a seat. Try out their prawns fry, seafood thalis, sabzi of the day, and bombil fry for a wholesome seafood experience! 

Where: Highway Gomantak, 44/2179, Gandhi Nagar, Bandra East

36: Splash Around At Water Kingdom
Whatshot Mumbai

One of Asia’s largest water parks, a visit to Water Kingdom is a must if you are looking for some fun and frolic. They have high speed slides, wave pools, lazy river rides, and lots of things for kids! 

Where: Water Kingdom, Global Pagoda Road, Essel World Amusement Park, Borivali West

37: Slide And Glide At Snow World
Whatshot Mumbai
Picture courtesy: Snow World

Snow in Mumbai sounds like a dream, but this one is very, very real! Full of adventure and thrill, this snow winter park offers a host of winter sports such as ice skating, sledding, snowboarding and lots more! 

Where: Snow World, Phoenix Market City, Lower Ground Level, 58 - 61, Between Atrium 2 & 6, 15 L.B.S. Marg, Kamani Junction, Kurla (W)

38: Explore Fort Bassein
Whatshot Mumbai

All history buffs will love this ancient Portuguese fort, which warrants a visit for its haunting ruins and the nature that surrounds it. 

Where: Fort Bassein, Killa Road, Police Colony, Vasai West, Vasai

39: Go Street Shopping On Colaba Causeway
Whatshot Mumbai

From housing the city’s premiere hotel, to being a haven for budget travellers - you’re bound to find something that suits every budget in Colaba, but what remains unmatched is the sheer variety of street side shopping along Colaba Causeway. Drop in at this store that only sells saree borders, buy readymade saree blouses for as little as just Rs 150 in this shop, buy everyday basics from  the export surplus stores on Colaba Causeway, Kolhapuri chappals for as little as Rs 300, or discover loads of imitation jewellery along the street - you’ll never be disappointed here!

Where: Colaba Causeway

40: Visit Crawford Market
Whatshot Mumbai

The market gets its anglicised name from the erstwhile municipal commissioner of the city, Arthur Crawford, and dates back to 1869. Far from being a relic of the city’s Colonial past, it is the supply chain of Mumbai’s everyday essentials at wholesale rates. Find everything from fruits, to household essentials and stationery here.

Where: Dhobi Talao, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Area, Fort

41: Visit The Railway Museum At Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
Whatshot Mumbai

The grand art deco structure of Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus also houses the little known Railway Museum of the city. Here, you’ll discover how the vast network of Indian Railways truly functions and also spot gems like models of old trains and tickets. Here are some more iconic museums you must visit in the city. 

Where: Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Area, Fort 

 

42: Walk Through Ranwar Village
Whatshot Mumbai

Can you guess who the original inhabitants of Mumbai are? The East Indian community! And  Ranwar Village was their home. Now, part of bustling Bandra, you can find some stunning architecture (dating back to the 19th century), exclusive boutiques and quaint cafes here.

Where: Ranwar Village, Bandra West

43: Discover Khotachiwadi
Whatshot Mumbai

Hidden from plain sight in the chaos of the Girgaon area, Khotachiwadi consists of narrow lanes that are best navigated only on foot. Like Ranwar, the area dates back to the 19th century and has been acknowledged as a heritage zone. Consisting mostly of homes, you’ll notice a tight-knit community of East Indians who live here and take pride in maintaining the unique, Portuguese architecture of the homes. 

Where: Khotachiwadi, Girgaon

44: Explore Fort On Foot
Whatshot Mumbai

This business district of Mumbai is also home to its most stunning architecture that dates back to the 18th century. The High Court, Mumbai University, Raja Bhai Tower, David Sassoon Library are just some of the buildings that will remind you of the grand structures built by the British, and are in a lot of ways, way more grand than what you’ll find even in London

Where: Fort

45: Check Out Asiatic Library
Whatshot Mumbai

The Asiatic Society of Mumbai houses a library that has more than 1,00,000 books, of which 15,000 have been identified as rare and valuable. The iconic steps of the building have featured in many Hindi movies, posing mostly as the steps to a courthouse.

Where: Shahid Bhagat Singh Road, Fort  

46: Eat Golas At Juhu Beach
Whatshot Mumbai

Nope, you can’t even think of taking a dip in the waters at Juhu beach, but you can walk along the shore and try the golas at the stalls here. It’s crowded on holidays, but a quintessential Mumbai experience. 

Where: Juhu Beach

47: Take A Tour Of Dharavi
Whatshot Mumbai

Part of the contrasts and juxtapositions of living in Mumbai are the extreme poverty and wealth that exist side-by-side. Part of this dubious distinction, is Dharavi - Asia’s largest slum, but also a thriving community in the city. Their leather market is notorious for selling designer knock-offs at unbeatable prices, and many tour companies also conduct tours of Dharavi.

Where: Dharavi

48: Tuck Into Loaded Seekh Parathas
Whatshot Mumbai

A former banker, gave up his career to make and sell these loaded parathas at a stall in Bandra’s Carter Road. Made fresh for every order, their Mutton Seekh Parrontha is loaded - with keema, butter and of course, loads of love!

Where: Lassi Te Parrontthe, Carter Road, Bandra West

49: End The Day With Drinks At Aer
Whatshot Mumbai
Picture courtesy: Four Seasons Hotel

Mumbai looks its best at night and there’s no better place than Aer to, a ‘sky’ bar at the Four Seasons, to catch panoramic views of the city and some pretty neat cocktails too! 

Where: Aer, Four Seasons, 1/136, 34th Floor, Dr. E. Moses Road, Worli

50: Go Flamingo Watching
Whatshot Mumbai

January to March are the best months of the year to go flamingo watching in Mumbai. It is during these months that the migratory birds make the city their home, just before the summer sets in.

Where: Catch them at these spots in the city

MORE