Explore Mumbai’s top tourist places on a budget! Discover the City of Dreams with its mix of historical sites, cultural experiences, and modern attractions. Unlock affordable ways to experience Mumbai’s vibrant metropolis with our guide to low-cost attractions.
List of Top Tourist Places in Mumbai
Mumbai, also known as the City of Dreams, is a vibrant and dynamic metropolis with a mix of historical sites, cultural experiences, and modern attractions. You don’t have to spend a fortune to experience Mumbai; there are countless low-cost attractions that capture the true essence of this vibrant metropolis. Here are some of the best tourist attractions in Mumbai that you may visit on a modest budget.
Gateway of India
The Gateway is one of Mumbai’s most popular tourist attractions. The Gateway is a protected site in Maharashtra, overseen by the Archaeological Survey of India. It is a popular meeting location for residents, street sellers, and photographers.
The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation relocated the Elephanta Festival of Music and Dance from its original location at Elephanta Caves, where it had been held for 23 years, to the Gateway in 2012 due to the venue’s expanded capacity. The Gateway can accommodate 2,000 to 2,500 people, but Elephanta Caves can only accommodate 700 to 800.
Prithvi Theatre
Prithvi Theatre is located in Juhu, Mumbai, and was founded in 1978 by Shashi Kapoor in memory of his father, Prithviraj Kapoor, a famous actor. It’s a popular spot for watching plays, concerts, and films, offering a cozy setting for enjoying live performances.
People should visit Prithvi Theatre to experience its cultural vibe and see talented artists perform live. The theatre was originally started by Prithviraj Kapoor in the 1940s as a way to bring Hindi theatre to more people across India.
One interesting fact is that Prithvi Theatre was initially created as a traveling theatre company, aiming to make theatre more accessible to everyone. Today, it continues to be a significant place for theatre in Mumbai, celebrating the Kapoor family’s legacy in Indian cinema and entertainment.
Siddhinayak Temple
Siddhivinayak Temple holds significant spiritual importance as a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, known as the remover of obstacles and the god of beginnings. For devotees, visiting the temple is a way to seek blessings, offer prayers, and find solace in a serene and spiritually uplifting atmosphere.
Secondly, Siddhivinayak Temple is renowned for its beautiful architecture and craftsmanship, with the idol of Lord Ganesha made from black stone and adorned with various ornaments. It’s a cultural landmark that showcases traditional Indian temple architecture and artistry. Additionally, the temple’s location in Mumbai makes it easily accessible to both locals and tourists. It’s a place where people from all walks of life come together to experience the rich religious and cultural heritage of India, particularly during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi.
Marine Drive
Marine Drive in Mumbai is a famous spot along the coastline where you can enjoy beautiful views of the Arabian Sea. It’s known as the Queen’s Necklace because of how it looks lit up at night. Built in the 1920s, it’s a place that shows off Mumbai’s history and old architecture. Locals and tourists come here to walk, jog, and relax, especially during sunrise and sunset when the views are stunning. Families often gather here in the evenings for tea and snacks, and photographers love capturing the cityscape against the backdrop of the sea.
Marine Drive is close to other attractions like Chowpatty Beach and the Gateway of India, making it a great place to visit if you want to see more of Mumbai. Whether you’re interested in history, beautiful scenery, or just soaking up the atmosphere of the city, Marine Drive has something for everyone.
Elephanta Caves
Elephanta Caves, located on Elephanta Island in Mumbai Harbour, are a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for their ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures. To reach Elephanta Caves, you can take a ferry from the Gateway of India, which is the primary departure point.
The ferry ride takes approximately one hour each way, offering scenic views of Mumbai’s coastline. As for costs, ferry tickets typically range from around ₹200 to ₹300 for a return trip per person, with slight variations based on the type of ferry and any additional services provided. It’s advisable to check the current prices and schedules at the Gateway of India or online before planning your visit. Once you arrive on Elephanta Island, there is a short walk (approximately 15-20 minutes) from the jetty to the caves.
Entry fees to the Elephanta Caves are separate and generally range from ₹30 to ₹40 for Indian citizens and ₹500 to ₹600 for foreign tourists. The caves are open to visitors from morning to evening, allowing ample time to explore the intricately carved sculptures and ancient architecture that date back to the 5th to 8th centuries.
Global Vipassana Pagoda
The Global Vipassana Pagoda in Gorai, Mumbai, is a beautiful monument dedicated to Vipassana meditation—an ancient practice for finding inner peace and understanding oneself better. Its impressive stone dome, built without pillars, showcases simple yet remarkable craftsmanship.
Inside, the pagoda’s meditation hall welcomes visitors with peaceful marble interiors decorated with delicate designs, creating a quiet atmosphere perfect for reflection and meditation. It’s a place where people come to learn and practice meditation for personal growth and tranquility.
Accessible by a short ferry ride from Gorai Beach, the pagoda offers lovely views of the Arabian Sea, making it a peaceful escape from Mumbai’s busy city life. Best of all, entry is free, so everyone can enjoy the calming environment and learn about the peaceful teachings of Vipassana meditation.
Juhu Beach
Juhu Beach in Mumbai offers a wide stretch of sandy coastline where you can relax, take leisurely walks, and enjoy beautiful sunsets over the Arabian Sea. The beach is a hub of activity with locals and tourists alike, making it a great place to experience Mumbai’s vibrant beach culture. You can indulge in delicious street food like bhel puri and pav bhaji from the numerous stalls lining the promenade.
Families often come here for picnics, and couples enjoy romantic outings by the water. Nearby attractions such as the ISKCON Temple and Prithvi Theatre also provide additional things to explore. Whether you’re looking to unwind, enjoy local food, or soak in Mumbai’s coastal atmosphere, Juhu Beach offers a relaxed and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.
Bandra-Worli Sea Link
The Bandra-Worli Sea Link is a striking cable-stayed bridge spanning the Arabian Sea, linking Mumbai’s Bandra and Worli neighborhoods. Beyond its practical function of reducing travel time across the city, it stands as a symbol of Mumbai’s progress and modernity. Stretching over 5.6 kilometers, the Sea Link offers breathtaking views of the Mumbai skyline and the Arabian Sea, particularly stunning at sunset and illuminated at night.
Visitors are captivated by its architectural beauty and the panoramic vistas it provides. The bridge not only eases traffic but also showcases Mumbai’s ambition and technological prowess. Crossing over to explore different neighborhoods or simply taking in the impressive views, the Bandra-Worli Sea Link promises a journey that resonates with Mumbai’s energy and excitement.
Mani Bhavan
Mani Bhavan, located in Mumbai, holds significant historical importance as the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. It served as Gandhi’s headquarters from 1917 to 1934, where he initiated several movements and strategies for India’s independence struggle. Today, Mani Bhavan stands as a museum and memorial dedicated to Gandhi’s life and teachings.
Visitors to Mani Bhavan can explore the various rooms where Gandhi stayed and worked, including his simple bedroom and study. The museum exhibits a collection of photographs, letters, and personal belongings of Gandhi, offering insights into his philosophy of non-violence and his role in shaping India’s history.
Entry to Mani Bhavan is generally affordable, with ticket prices typically ranging from ₹10 to ₹20 for Indian citizens and around ₹50 to ₹100 for foreign tourists. These rates may vary slightly based on current policies and any additional exhibitions or facilities available at the museum.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (formerly Prince of Wales Museum)
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum, is a fascinating museum in Mumbai near the Gateway of India. It’s housed in a beautiful historic building and showcases a wide range of artifacts and art pieces from India’s rich cultural history. You can explore ancient sculptures, traditional paintings, and artifacts from different parts of India and various time periods.
Visiting the museum is affordable, with tickets typically costing between ₹50 to ₹100 for adults, depending on where you’re from. It’s a great place for anyone interested in history and art to learn about India’s diverse heritage in a beautiful setting. Whether you’re curious about ancient artifacts or enjoy admiring intricate artwork, a trip to this museum offers a wonderful opportunity to discover and appreciate India’s cultural treasures.
Chor Bazaar
Chor Bazaar is one of the largest flea markets in India, located at Mutton street, near Bhendi Bazaar in Grant Road, South Mumbai. The area is one of the tourist attractions of Mumbai. The word “chor” means ‘thief’ in Marathi, Gujarati and Hindi.
Visitors enjoy exploring the maze of narrow lanes filled with shops offering a mix of old and new treasures at reasonable prices. It’s a favorite spot for bargain hunters and curious tourists looking to uncover unique finds and experience Mumbai’s vibrant street culture.
Kanheri Caves
One lesser-known fact about the Kanheri Caves is that they were not only a center of Buddhist worship and learning but also served as a thriving hub of trade and commerce during their peak. The caves were strategically located on ancient trade routes, connecting them to various ports and cities across India and beyond. This dual role as a religious center and a bustling commercial hub highlights the caves’ importance in both spiritual and economic aspects of ancient Indian society.
Visitors can explore over a hundred rock-cut caves, adorned with intricate sculptures and ancient inscriptions that tell the stories of Buddhist teachings and daily life. The peaceful setting within the Sanjay Gandhi National Park offers a refreshing escape from the city, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views.
Jijamata Udyaan (Byculla Zoo)
Jijamata Udyan, also known as Byculla Zoo, was named after Jijabai, the mother of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, representing its long history. Established in 1861, it is one of India’s oldest zoos and an important part of Mumbai’s legacy.
Visiting Jijamata Udyan provides more than just a sight of nature; it allows you to immerse yourself in history while relaxing in a serene floral setting. The zoo exhibits a wide variety of animals, from exotic species to local fauna, making it an interesting destination for people of all ages.
Exploring Mumbai’s top tourist places on a limited budget allows you to experience the city’s rich culture, history, and modern charm without overspending..So, pack your curiosity and discover the heart of Mumbai on a budget-friendly journey filled with exploration and adventure.
Watch out for Part 2 coming soon! We’ll continue our journey exploring budget-friendly ways to discover Mumbai’s top tourist spots and uncover more hidden gems.
