Mumbai is the commercial capital of India but has many beautiful places for tourists. We have put together some unique places in Mumbai where you can spend your vacation with Family, Children, and friends.
01. Gorai beach
Gorai beach is a famous picnic spot surrounded by Manori, Uttan, Dongri & Marve villages.
It is also very close to Essel world and The Global Vipassana Pagoda. Couples and families prefer this beach as it’s accessible from Bhaydar, Borivali, and Malad.
Gorai is one of the cleanest and safest beaches in Mumbai and an excellent choice for those looking for a peaceful weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai.
There are several cottages and resorts available for overnight stays. Some houses are very close to the beach.
Gorai is very close to Marve & Manori beach. You can experience the calmness of the villages of the Koli community and can also see olden-style houses.
The main occupation of people there is fishing and farming.
How to reach Gorai beach
BY TRAIN
The closest station is Malad. Out of Malad station, you will get BEST bus 272 (Charge appx. Rs.15) or take an Auto rickshaw (Rs. 100) around 7 Km to Marve Beach.
From here, there are ferries every 5 min that will cross you over to Manori. From Manori, you will get a bus or Auto Rickshaw to Gorai.
BY CAR
You will have to reach via the Bhayandar route. From National Highway 8, Get inside the Kashi-Mira junction and keep straight. After 5 to 7 minutes of the drive, you will reach Bhayandar East-West Flyover on the left.
Keep following the Essel World signboard and go straight on Uttan Road to reach Gorai beach.
- Western Express Highway, 1st Left turn after Dahisar Octroi check Naka Route to Esselworld, Gorai-Manori.
02. Taraporewala Aquarium
It is one of India’s oldest aquariums. It is one of the main tourist attractions of Mumbai. You will find marine as well as freshwater fishes on display for visitors.
The Aquarium was taken up for renovation and renovated with a new look, and reopened on March 3, 2015.
It now has a 12 feet long and 360-degree view glass tunnel. Another exciting part is the unique pool for children, where they can touch and feel the fish, which are harmless.
The fishes are placed in a large glass tank which is illuminated with LED lighting.
The Taraporewala Aquarium houses 2,000 fishes of more than 400 different species. Internationally available exotic fishes have been introduced into the renovated Aquarium.
WHAT’S NEW
There is an Amphitheater with a 50 seating capacity, where they screen documentaries about
fishes and the marine ecosystem.- The pool where visitors can touch and feel the starfish, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, and various turtles.
- SPA for your foot – Here, you can dip your feet into one of the ten tanks. The fishes in the tank will nibble away and clean your feet of the dead skin.
- LED lighting displays coral and rocky Terran and Jellyfish in a circular tank.
HISTORY
Built-in the year 1951, the Taraporewala Aquarium was built at a cost of Rs.8,00,000 (around 12,000 USD). The Aquarium was inaugurated by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, who was India’s first president.
The major contributor to the Aquarium was a Parsee Philanthropist, DB Taraporewala (Rs.2,00,000 – 3,000 USD), after whom the Aquarium was named.
VISIT TIMING AND FEES (VALIDITY FOR THE TICKET IS ONE HOUR ONLY)
Taraporewala Aquarium is open from 10:00 am and 1:00 pm. After lunch, it is open again from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The Aquarium is closed on Mondays.
| Tourist Type | Rates (Rs.) |
|---|---|
| Adults, Above 12 years | 60 |
| Children Between Age 3 to 12 years | 30 |
| Rates For Educational Institutes | 30 |
| Retired Government Employees | 40 |
| Government Employees | 30 |
| Foreign Tourists (NRI & Other International Visitors, Above Age 12) | 200 |
| Children Foreign Tourists (NRI & Other International Visitors, Between 3 to 12 years) | 100 |
| Disabled or Physically Challenged Person | 30 |
Photography and Videography Charges :
| Type Of Cameras | Charges |
|---|---|
| Photography / Videos via mobile Cameras | 500 |
| Pictures and Clips Via Video and Digital Cameras | 1000 |
| Professional Still Cameras | 5000 |
| Professional Video Shoots | 10000 |
HOW TO REACH THE TATAPURWALA AQUARIUM
- Address: Tarapurwala Building, Near Charni Road Railway Station, Charni Road, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400002, India. Tel : +91-22-22821239 +91-22-22821622
- Walking distance from Charni Road Railway station.
03. Manori Beach
Manori is a peaceful village very close to the suburbs of Mumbai. Its commonly known as Manori Creek.
Manori is inhabited by local fishing and farming villagers, most of who are Kolis, Kunbis, and Bhandari, also known as East Indians.
Manori Beach is a famous attraction for tourists from Mumbai and other states.
Manori is a trendy weekend getaway for Mumbai people as it’s very easily accessible and gives you the experience of being in Goa; that is how it earned the name of ‘Mini Goa.’
Being a popular destination, there are numerous cottages and hotels offering stays to those coming for a one-day picnic and an overnight stay.
Manori is very close to famous attractions like Goria Beach, Global Vipassana Pagoda, Water kingdom, and Essel world.
WHEN TO VISIT Manori Beach
It can be visited throughout the year; however, the best time to visit is from October to Feb as the climate is less humid during this time.
HOW TO REACH MANORI BEACH
By train
The closest station is Malad. Out of Malad station, you will get BEST bus 272 (Charge appx. Rs.25) or take an Auto rickshaw (Rs. 120) around 7 Km to Marve Beach. From here, there are ferries every 5 min that will cross you over to Manori. From Manori, you will get a bus or Auto Rickshaw to Manori or Goria.
By Car
- You will have to reach via the Bhayandar route. From National Highway 8, Get inside the Kashi-Mira junction and keep straight. After 5 to 7 minutes of the drive, you will reach Bhayandar East-West Flyover on the left. Keep following the Essel World signboard and go straight to Uttan Road to get Manori beach.
- Western Express Highway, 1st Left turn after Dahisar Octroi check Naka Route to Esselworld, Gorai-Manori.
Alert
- There are many hotels available for stay. Many are for couples only. If you are a family, check with the hotel before making your booking.
2. You can enjoy the serenity and peaceful bliss of the beach; however, swimming is not allowed in the water.
04. Mahakali Caves
The suburbs of Mumbai hide several groups of unique monuments – ancient rock-cut temples. One such monument is the ancient Kondivite Caves, later known as Mahakali caves.
Mahakali caves are 19 rock-cut caves built between the 1st century BC and the 6th century AD. They are cut in black basalt. Unfortunately, the caves are on the verge of collapse.
The caves for two rows:
- 4 caves from 4th to 5th century AD on the northwest face of the long hillside.
- 15 caves – towards the southeast
The largest cave (cave 9) has seven depictions of Buddha and figures from Buddhist Mythology. This Buddhist monastery is located in the eastern suburb of Andheri. Its located near the junction between the Jogeshwari-Vikhroli link road and Seepz. The road that connects the monument to Andheri Kurla road is called Mahakali caves road. A direct bus by the BEST links the caves with the Andheri railway station.
Overall the caves are very peaceful and pleasantly beautiful. You can visit all the caves within 2-3 hours. Camera and videos are allowed inside, so you can click as many pictures are you want. The best part is that you can enjoy the scenic beauty for free. There are food courts and shops for purchasing eatables and drinks. Washroom facilities are also available, and they are clean and odor-free.
However, due to negligence, the caves have become a spot for the nearby residents to hang their clothes for drying, and people have started relieving themself outside the caves due to the lack of public toilets around the caves.Earlier, the caves were infamous for drinking, smoking, and doping, but after the central government took cognizance of this issue, the scenario became better.
What cannot be unseen about the caves is the marvelous sculpture of the carved caves, which have been there since the time of the Ashokan Empire.
Since there is a Buddhist stupa situated here, it indicates that monks who followed Buddhism lived here. The writings on the wall are in the Pali script – A language even older than Sanskrit. Although most of these inscriptions have been damaged, the governments have made a lot of effort to preserve it.
You will be mesmerized by the proficiency of the sculptures in that era. They have obviously had a great sense of aesthetics. They depicted figures associated with Buddhist mythology, each one telling a different story altogether.
Visit the caves once to pay tribute to the marvelous sight and beauty of that time.
- Timing : 9:00am to 4:00pm
Address – Mahakali Caves Road, Sunder Nagar, Andheri East, Mumbai (You can take an Auto from Andheri station, which will cost around Rs.100)
Let us look at some more Places to Visit in Mumbai
05. Mumbadevi Temple
We can never imagine Mumbai without Koli’s (fishermen/women). ‘Koli’ fishermen are the early inhabitants of Mumbai, and their deity is Goddess Mumbadevi or Goddess Shakti. Mumbadevi Temple is thus an ancient, beautifully sculptured temple dedicated to Goddess Mumbadevi.
It was first built in Bori Bunder in 1675; however, the temple was destroyed and rebuilt at Zaveri Bazaar, Bhuleshwar, in 1737. Situated amidst the jam-packed Zaveri Bazaar, we can easily spot the temple surrounded by several flower shops.
Except for Monday, the temple is open on all the other days. Devotees flock to the temple in the early morning. However, even tourists worldwide have started flocking to the temple to admire the gorgeous temple.What’s more, even Mumbai devised its name from the famous Mumbadevi temple. Therefore this temple holds a significant place in the heart of every Mumbaikar.
If legends are believed, then ‘Lord Brahma’ sent an eight-armed Goddess to eradicate the evil demon’ Mumbaraka,’ who terrorized the locals for a long time.
The Goddess defeated the demon, but the demon fell to his knees and begged the Goddess to take his name. The Goddess took his name and ordered him to build a beautiful temple dedicated to her. Thus this great shrine was built by Mumbaraka in the city’s heart.
The idol of Goddess adorns a silver crown, golden necklace, and a nose stud. The idol is placed on an altar surrounded by marigold flowers. Mumbadevi also symbolizes ‘Mother Earth,’ and hence, the idol has no mouth. There are idols of Hanuman, Ganesha and Annapurna placed in the temple complex. In other words, the structure of Mumbadevi is a stupendous sight for anyone who visits.
It’s not just the temple, but the various shops lined up selling varieties of fresh flowers and delicious sweets that are enchanting as well. You can find various religious artifacts and idols in all possible sizes. How can you miss the famous jewelry shops located in Zaveri Bazaar? After all, Zaveri means ‘Jewels’ and bazaar means ‘Market.’ Looking to invest in the best quality gold head to Zaveri Bazaar.
The other nearby places include Crawford market, which is famous for vegetables, fruits, meats, caged birds, and other animals (cats, parrots, parakeets, etc.) Then there is the Chowpaty, a famous tourist destination.
The railway is the cheapest and fastest way to travel to the temple. Charni Road station is only 10 minutes from Bhuleshwar. Even Churchgate station is close to Bhuleshwar. From the station, you can hire a taxi to reach the temple.
06. Gateway of India
Mumbai is the dream home of several ambitious aspirants, boots of vicious minds, and a vivid lifestyle. It is not just about beaches, pubs, caves, and clubs.
This island has a history so interesting that you would never see Mumbai as a crowded city but as a historical marvel. Let us explore one of the historical wonders of Mumbai.
The Gateway of India is located at Apollo Bunder in South Mumbai, on the shore of the Arabian Sea. This architectural marvel scores over any other monument in Mumbai. The foundation stone of the structure was laid in 1911 but took more than 13 years to get completed. A Scottish architect built this symbol by George Wittet to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. Undoubtedly the pride of Mumbai, this structure will always stay close to the heart of Mumbai. The Gateway of India stands right opposite the famous Taj Mahal hotel.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Famous Elephant Caves is located close to the Gateway of India. Boat service is available from Gateway of India to Elephant Islands, also known as Elephanta Caves. Famous leaders Shivaji Maharaj and Swami Vivekananda’s statue is seen at the entrance of the Gateway of India monument. The most famous and prestigious Taj Mahal Hotel is situated opposite the structure of the Gateway of India.
The gateway of India can be visited at any time of the year. I would suggest visiting during the early morning and evenings. The heavy crowd is seen during weekends and public holidays, and you should try to visit on weekdays.
How to Reach Here
2.5 km from Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminal and 2.4 km from Churchgate railway station.
There are many bus and Taxi services which will take you from CSTM or Churchgate station to the Gateway of India Monument. Tax will cost around Rs. 5007. Juhu Chowpatty Beach
Juhu Beach is one of the most famous and most visited beaches in Mumbai. It has a big shoreline. You will find people jogging on the beach during the early morning and evening. Security is managed well, and you will see Mumbai Police patrolling the beach regularly.
The best time of the day is evening time, as you will see the sunset, beautiful lighting, and various vendors offering food and articles for sale.
Juhu Beach is a favorite shoot location for the film industry as it provides a beautiful ambiance for shooting. Children and tourists love this beach.Stree Food at Juhu Chowpatty Beach:
Several options are available for food lovers. These are mainly Mumbai dishes like Pani Pune, Chat masala, Bhelpuri, Ragda patties, Dahi puri, Faluda, Kala Khatta Gola, Sarbat, the list is huge.
How to Reach Juhu Chowpatty Beach:
This beach can be reached from Andheri, Vile Parle, and Santa Cruz west railway station. You can take an Auto or local BEST bus to Juhu beach from here. I would suggest taking Auto from Vile Parle west railway station (3 Km), which will cost around Rs. 60.
08. Kanheri caves in National Park Borivali
Kanheri caves are situated in the suburbs of Mumbai. It is located within Sanjay Gandhi National Park (also known as Borivali National Park). This is probably the only green patch surviving within Mumbai, which the government maintains to ensure tourists coming here do not alter the environment or cause harm to animals.
Two million visitors visit National Park and Kanheri caves every year.
The Kanheri Caves are a protected archaeological site. The caves were sculpted by Buddhist residents around the 1st century BC. The word Kanheri comes from the ‘Sanskrit word ‘Krishnagiri,’ which means ‘Black Mountain.’
The place is very close to Borivali Railway station. Auto’s are available out of the station who will take you to National park for around Rs.35. It’s are a great place to come for a day for a Picnic, preferably with your own vehicle.
Visitors are not allowed to stay near the caves after 6 pm as wild animals come down to drink water.Please share your experience if you have visited Borivali National park or Kanheri Caves.
Address: Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400066, IndiaPhone:+91 22 2202 4482
Hours:
| Monday | 7:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 7:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 7:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Thursday | 7:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Friday | 7:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Saturday | 7:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Sunday | 7:30 am – 5:30 pm |
09. Global Vipassana Pagoda Mumbai
Vipassana: An Art of Living. The technique of Vipassana meditation, as taught by Acharya S.N. Goenka, is for one and all. There is no trace of sectarianism or casteism in it. People from all religious faiths and castes can learn Vipassana and benefit from it.
There is no conversion into any organized religion. Vipassana eradicates mental defilements such as anger, hatred, ill will, fear, ego, and greed which make us miserable.
It helps us develop selfless love, compassion, and goodwill and live a happy and harmonious life. There are many Vipassana centers in India and around the world.
There are no fees for Vipassana courses, not even for lodging and boarding.
At the end of the course, if one develops the violation to help others, one may donate towards the expenses of future courses.
Those who have taken a ten-day course in this tradition may meditate in the Grand Meditation hall under the relics of the Buddha at the Global Vipassana Pagoda.
The center of Global Vipassana Pagoda has the world’s largest dome made of stone and built without any supporting pillars. Its height is approximately 29 meters, and the height of the structure is 96.12 meters.The pagoda’s interior is hollow with a huge meditation ground with more than 65,000 ft. The huge inner dome can accommodate seats for over 8000 people.
Meditation is taught ten days of Vipassana meditation conducted free of charge.
Days and Timings
Monday to Sunday, from 9 am – 7 pm. ( Entry timing will be till 6.30 pm only )
How to Reach
1. Follow the Google Map Navigator if traveling by car.
2. Public Transport – Use the Western Railway train and get off at Malad Station. Cross the bridge to the Westside. From here you can take an auto-rickshaw to Marve Beach (Around Rs. 150) or take BEST public transport Bus number 272, the last stop is Marve Beach. From here you will get a Ferry Boat (30 min frequency) and the ticket cost is Rs.70.The Ferry will take you directly to Global Pagoda in around 20min.
10. Elephanta Caves
Its also home to seven ancient hand-carved caves. The main cave has a stunning large intricately carved sculpture of Lord Shiva. What’s more, there’s a tourist train up to the caves.
History Of Elephanta Caves
The Elephanta Caves are situated in the middle of Mumbai Harbour, off the coast of Mumbai. The island was known by three different names during ancient times.
It was called Gharapuri or Gharapur Island, which means City of Caves, Sonapuri, and Elpata.
The ancient Indians believed Shiva established his lingam at this site and created a new era – the ‘Shanivar era.’
11. Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Mumbai is not only about traffic and chaos. It also offers 100 square kilometers of lush greenery right here at Borivali.
Several activities can be done here, including trekking, boating, toy train ride, tiger and lion safaris, the recreational zone for kids, and the Kanheri Caves.
Want to forget the world outside? Why wait – head straight to Sanjay Gandhi National Park.
The Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a mini forest in the Heart of Mumbai and has all-in-one entertainment.
It has Van Rain mini train, Animal Safari, Caves, a Water fountain, Flora Fauna, Playground, and a playful environment where children and adults can experience nature and spend the whole day with families and friends.
It is a must-visit place if you are a tourist or even a local in Mumbai. Close to the city but a healthy green forest which makes Mumbai proud.
12. Esselworld/Water Kingdom
Enjoy a trip to the beach, a boat ride, and finally, the dream picnic spot. Either choose between the two, or you can shuffle between them during the picnic.
Esselworld offers numerous rides for kids and, of course, heart-stopping rides for adults. Including the oh-so-famous rain dance.
The Water Kingdom offers various slides and pools for kids and adults alike.
Forget the Spa and Sauna. Want to get all wet and pumped up? Think no more. Head straight to Esselworld / Water Kingdom.
Ticket Price for Essel World and Water Kindom
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Basic Package ( Adult & Child)Entry to park @ INR.90 and balance INR 200 redeemable at F&B outlets, Fab 5 merchandise stores, or rides in EsselWorld during the day of visit. | ₹ 290 |
| Silver (Adult)Entry to the park and access to all Adult & Family rides | ₹ 885 |
| Silver (Child)Entry to the park and access to all Kid & Family rides | ₹ 530 |
| Fast Track + Silver (Adult)Privilege entry to park & no ride queue. Access to all Adult & Family rides | ₹ 1170 |
| Fast Track + Silver (Child)Privilege entry to park & no ride queue. Access to all Kid & Family rides | ₹ 900 |
| Combine (Adult)Entry to EsselWorld + the Water Kingdom on the same day of the visit | ₹ 1405 |
| Combine (Child)Entry to EsselWorld + Water Kingdom on the same day of visit | ₹ 945 |
| Annual Pass – Passport NextEntry to either of the parks three times a year | ₹ 1640 |
13. Shopping – Hopping in South Mumbai
A picnic doesn’t always mean resorts, beaches, and food. Most Mumbaikars will agree that a day well spent on shopping is nothing less than a picnic.
Fashion Street and Colaba Causeway are the dream shopping hubs. From Ethnic to western, you can calm your shopping nerves here.Everything ranging from clothes to bags to shoes to accessories can be found here, that too moderately priced (of course, you need to have good bargaining skills too).
These places are in Mumbai, but if you can afford to travel outside Mumbai for more adventure, you can always head to Lavasa, Matheran, Lonavala, and Karjat. Well, the list is endless.
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