3 Days in Mumbai for an Action-Packed Trip

Kick off your Mumbai adventure with the city's most iconic sights, from the Gateway of India to the bustling Colaba Causeway, topped off with a sunset at Marine Drive.

Activities

Gateway of India & Colaba Causeway

Start your day at the Gateway of India, Mumbai's most famous landmark. This grand arch overlooking the Arabian Sea was built to commemorate King George V's visit in 1911. After soaking in the views, stroll down to Colaba Causeway, a lively street packed with shops selling everything from souvenirs to antiques. Don't miss the nearby Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, an architectural marvel.

Gateway of India, Apollo Bandar, ColabaMorning, around 9 AM to avoid crowdsFree (shopping extra)

Tips:

• Bargain hard at Colaba Causeway—start at half the quoted price.
• Try the fresh coconut water from street vendors near Gateway.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS)

Just a short walk from Gateway of India, this museum is a treasure trove of Indian history, art, and culture. The Indo-Saracenic architecture alone is worth the visit. Highlights include ancient sculptures, miniature paintings, and a fascinating natural history section.

Mahatma Gandhi Road, FortLate morning, around 11 AM₹100-200 per person

Tips:

• Skip the photography pass unless you're serious about pics—the phone camera is enough.
• Check out the museum café for a quick chai break.

Marine Drive Sunset & Chowpatty Beach

Head to Marine Drive, Mumbai's iconic crescent-shaped promenade, for a breathtaking sunset. Watch the city lights flicker on as the sky turns orange. Then, hop over to Chowpatty Beach (just a 5-minute walk) to try Mumbai's famous street food like pav bhaji and bhel puri.

Marine Drive, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose RoadEvening, around 5:30 PM for sunsetFree (street food ₹50-200 per dish)

Tips:

• Grab a seat on the seawall for the best sunset views.
• Stick to popular stalls at Chowpatty for hygiene.

Must Try Foods

Dive deeper into Mumbai's iconic landmarks and local flavors, from the bustling markets to the serene Hanging Gardens and the historic Dhobi Ghat.

Activities

Explore Crawford Market & Chor Bazaar

Start your day at Crawford Market, a vibrant hub for fresh produce, spices, and quirky souvenirs. The colonial-era architecture adds charm to the chaos. Then, head to Chor Bazaar (Thieves' Market), where you can hunt for antiques, vintage Bollywood posters, and oddities. Bargaining is a must here!

Crawford Market (Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Mandai), Chor Bazaar (Mutton Street)10:00 AM - 1:00 PM (markets open by 11:00 AM)Free to explore; shopping varies (₹100-₹5000+)

Tips:

• Carry cash—many vendors don’t accept cards.
• Watch your belongings in crowded areas.

Visit Hanging Gardens & Kamala Nehru Park

Escape the city buzz at the Hanging Gardens, a terraced garden with topiary animals and panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Just next door, Kamala Nehru Park features the iconic 'Old Woman’s Shoe' structure and more sweeping vistas. Perfect for a relaxed stroll and photos.

Hanging Gardens, Malabar Hill2:00 PM - 3:30 PM (avoid midday heat)Free

Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes—there are steps.
• Visit nearby Banganga Tank for a hidden spiritual spot.

Discover Dhobi Ghat & Local Snacks

Peek into Mumbai’s unique Dhobi Ghat, the world’s largest open-air laundry, where hundreds of washermen (dhobis) scrub clothes in concrete troughs. Then, refuel with Mumbai’s famous street food: try vada pav (spicy potato fritter in a bun) or pav bhaji (buttery mashed veggies with bread) at a nearby stall.

Dhobi Ghat, near Mahalaxmi Station4:00 PM - 5:00 PM (best light for photos)Free to view; snacks (₹20-₹50 per item)

Tips:

• View Dhobi Ghat from the Mahalaxmi Station footbridge for the best vantage.
• Ask locals for their favorite snack stalls—they know best!

Must Try Foods

Dive into Mumbai’s lesser-known spots and cultural highlights, from historic neighborhoods to vibrant street food scenes.

Activities

Walk Through Khotachiwadi Heritage Village

Step into a slice of old Mumbai in Khotachiwadi, a charming heritage village with colorful Portuguese-style bungalows and narrow lanes. This quiet neighborhood feels worlds away from the city’s chaos, offering a glimpse into Mumbai’s multicultural past. Chat with locals, admire the architecture, and soak in the nostalgic vibe.

Khotachiwadi, GirgaonMorning (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM) to avoid afternoon heatFree (small donations to residents appreciated)

Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes for uneven lanes
• Ask before photographing homes—some residents prefer privacy

Explore Sassoon Docks & Try Fresh Seafood

Head to Sassoon Docks, Mumbai’s oldest fishing dock, where the day’s catch arrives at dawn. The bustling scene of fishermen, colorful boats, and stacked crates is photogenic but raw—this is the real Mumbai. Grab a plate of fried bombil (Bombay duck) or prawn koliwada from a dockside stall for an authentic taste.

Sassoon Docks, ColabaEarly morning (6:30 AM - 8:00 AM) for the liveliest action₹100-300 for snacks

Tips:

• Arrive early for the best seafood
• The smell can be strong—bring a scarf if sensitive

Evening at Bandra’s Chapel Road & Cafés

Wrap up your trip in Bandra, Mumbai’s artsy suburb. Stroll Chapel Road, lined with street art, indie boutiques, and quirky cafés. Stop by Candies for their legendary desserts or Pali Village Café for Goan-inspired small plates. The area comes alive at night with locals hanging out at sidewalk tables.

Chapel Road, Bandra WestLate afternoon to evening (4:00 PM onwards)₹500-1,500 for a meal

Tips:

• Look for the ‘Bandra Love’ mural near Mehboob Studio
• Parking is tight—opt for a cab or train

Must Try Foods