Mumbai Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Planning & Logistics
When is the best time to visit Mumbai?
The best time is from November to March, when the weather is pleasant and less humid.
Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) as the city experiences heavy rainfall and flooding, making travel difficult.
How many days are enough to see Mumbai?
A 3- to 5-day trip is generally considered a good amount of time to cover the main attractions without feeling too rushed.
Is Mumbai a safe city for tourists, including solo female travelers?
Yes, Mumbai is widely considered one of the safest cities in India.
However, it’s always wise to be cautious, especially at night. Avoid unlit, secluded areas and crowded public transport during rush hour if you’re uncomfortable.
Women’s-only compartments are available on local trains and are a good option for late-night travel.
What’s the best way to get around the city?
For comfort and convenience, use ride-sharing apps like Uber and Ola. The price is upfront and you can pay with a credit card or digital wallets.
For shorter distances, auto-rickshaws are a great option. Make sure the driver uses the meter to avoid being overcharged.
Mumbai’s local trains are an authentic and fast way to travel long distances, but they are notoriously crowded during peak hours. Use the M-Indicator app for schedules and routes.
How do I handle the traffic?
Mumbai traffic is a major factor. Plan your travel time in hours, not kilometers. A short distance can take a very long time.
Try to travel during off-peak hours to avoid the worst of the congestion.
What should I pack?
Light, breathable, and comfortable clothing is essential due to the heat and humidity.
Sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
Sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle are highly recommended.
Do I need an Indian SIM card?
It’s a good idea to get one at the airport. Airtel and Jio are popular providers.
Having a local number is useful for booking cabs, making calls, and using online services.
Is it better to use cash or cards?
While many places accept credit cards and digital payments (like Google Pay), cash is still king, especially for street food, smaller shops, and taxis/rickshaws.
Always carry a decent amount of cash.
Will I be ripped off as a tourist?
It’s a common experience for tourists to be charged more.
Be prepared to bargain, especially at street markets like Colaba Causeway and Fashion Street.
Using apps for transportation (Uber/Ola) and shopping at fixed-price stores or malls helps avoid this.
Is it offensive to call the city “Bombay” instead of “Mumbai”?
While the official name is Mumbai, many locals still use “Bombay.” It’s generally not considered offensive, especially if it’s a genuine slip of the tongue.
Health and Safety
What about food and water safety?
Stick to bottled water for drinking. Avoid tap water and ice made from unpurified water.
Be cautious with street food if you have a sensitive stomach. Start with small portions and choose popular stalls with high turnover.
Eating at reputable restaurants is a safer bet.
Some travelers recommend avoiding green chutneys, as they are often made with unboiled water.
Should I be worried about scams?
Like any major city, be aware of your surroundings.
Common scams can involve taxi/rickshaw drivers who refuse to use the meter. Always insist on the meter or use a ride-sharing app.
Be wary of people who are overly friendly and offer to be your guide for free.
Accommodation
What is the best area to stay in Mumbai?
South Mumbai (Colaba, Fort, Marine Drive) is ideal for first-time tourists as it’s close to most of the iconic landmarks.
Bandra is known for its nightlife, cafes, and trendy atmosphere.
Andheri is a good option if you need to be closer to the airport or have business in that part of the city.
Staying in Navi Mumbai means longer travel times to the main tourist areas.
Must-See Attractions
What are the top must-see places?
Gateway of India & Taj Mahal Palace Hotel: The most iconic landmark.
Marine Drive (Queen’s Necklace): Famous for its stunning sunset views and nighttime lights.
Elephanta Caves: A UNESCO World Heritage site, reachable by ferry from the Gateway of India.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (formerly Prince of Wales Museum): A great museum with a vast collection.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST): Another UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park: For a nature escape, including the Kanheri Caves.
What are some “local” or off-the-beaten-path suggestions?
Dharavi Tour: An eye-opening experience to see the vibrant small businesses and community.
Kala Ghoda: An arts and culture precinct with historic buildings and galleries.
Bandra Fort & Bandstand: A scenic spot with ocean views and a good chance to spot celebrities.
Prithvi Theatre Cafe: A popular hangout for artists and a great place to people-watch.
Is it worth visiting Juhu Beach?
Juhu Beach is famous but can be crowded. It’s a great spot for street food and people-watching, but the water is not suitable for swimming.
What is the best way to get to Elephanta Caves?
Take a ferry from the jetty behind the Gateway of India. The trip takes about an hour each way.
Where can I see Bollywood celebrities?
Bandra Bandstand and Juhu are known for being home to many celebrities.
Keep an eye out for filming locations, but generally, spotting a celebrity is a matter of luck.
Food and Shopping
What street food should I try?
Vada Pav: A spicy potato fritter in a bun, the “Mumbai burger.”
Pani Puri: A crispy, hollow puri filled with spiced water, tamarind chutney, and other fillings.
Pav Bhaji: A thick vegetable curry served with a soft bread roll.
Bhelpuri: A savory snack made of puffed rice, vegetables, and a tangy tamarind sauce.
Elco Pani Puri in Bandra is a popular spot recommended for its hygiene.
Where can I go shopping?
Colaba Causeway: A bustling street market for clothes, jewelry, and souvenirs. Bargaining is a must.
Linking Road & Hill Road (Bandra): Great for trendy clothes and accessories.
Crawford Market: A historic market for spices, fruits, and household goods.
Zaveri Bazaar: Famous for its jewelry.
Additional Tips
How do I deal with the crowds?
Mumbai is a densely populated city. Be prepared for crowds, especially at popular attractions and on public transport.
If a train looks too crowded, it’s okay to wait for the next one.
If you’re claustrophobic, consider an AC cab instead of the local train.
What language is spoken?
Marathi is the official state language, and Hindi is widely spoken.
Most people, especially in tourist areas and for business, speak and understand English. Learning a few basic phrases in Hindi or Marathi can be helpful and appreciated.
What is the local etiquette?
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
Be respectful of local customs.
Avoid taking photos of people without their permission.
How do I cross the street?
Crossing a busy Mumbai street can be intimidating. The key is to walk confidently and predictably. The traffic will flow around you. It’s also wise to cross with a group of locals if you’re unsure.
Is it a good idea to hire a private driver?
For a longer trip or if you’re traveling with a group, hiring a driver for a day can be a convenient and efficient way to see multiple sights.