Mumbai, India’s city of dreams, is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines and colours. It is also a city of contrasts, where skyscrapers coexist with slums, and glamour meets grit, but beyond the usual tourist attractions, Mumbai has many hidden gems that offer a glimpse into its rich and diverse history, heritage and lifestyle. Here are 10 hidden gems you should seek out when you are in Mumbai.
Explore Kanhoji Angre Island
If you are looking for a serene getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Kanhoji Angre Island, a small island off the coast of Mumbai. The island is named after Kanhoji Angre, a naval chief of the Maratha Empire who used it as a base to attack British ships in the 18th century. The island has a lighthouse, a temple and a fort that offer panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. You can also enjoy birdwatching, fishing and swimming on the island. To reach the island, you need to take a boat ride from Gateway of India or Alibaug.
Marvel at Bandra’s street art
Bandra, one of Mumbai’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, is also home to some of the most amazing street art in the city. The walls of Bandra are adorned with colourful graffiti that depict everything from Bollywood stars to social issues. You can take a walk around the district and admire the creativity and talent of the local artists. Some of the best spots to see street art in Bandra are Chapel Road, Hill Road, Waroda Road and Ranwar Village.
Relax at Dana Pani Beach
If you are looking for a quiet and clean beach in Mumbai, Dana Pani Beach is a good option. Located in Malad West, this beach is less crowded and more peaceful than other popular beaches in the city. You can enjoy the sun, sand and sea without any hassle. You can also spot some birds and crabs on the beach. The beach is also close to Aksa Beach and Madh Island, where you can visit some old churches and forts.
Visit Kwan Kung Temple
Did you know that Mumbai has a Chinese temple? Kwan Kung Temple is a small but beautiful temple dedicated to Kwan Kung, a Chinese god of war and justice. The temple is located in Mazgaon, where a small community of Chinese immigrants settled in the 19th century. The temple has a red facade and a golden statue of Kwan Kung inside. You can visit the temple during Chinese festivals like Chinese New Year and Moon Festival, when it is decorated with lanterns and flowers.
Explore Mahakali Caves
Mahakali Caves, also known as Kondivite Caves, are a group of 19 rock-cut caves dating back to the 1st century BC. The caves are located in Andheri East, and are among the oldest Buddhist monuments in Mumbai. The caves have sculptures and inscriptions that depict Buddhist teachings and stories. You can also see some traces of paintings on the walls and ceilings of some caves. The caves are surrounded by greenery and offer a tranquil escape from the urban chaos.
Witness Dhobi Ghat
Dhobi Ghat is one of Mumbai’s most unique and iconic sights. It is a massive open-air laundry where thousands of dhobis (washermen) wash, dry and iron clothes every day. The clothes come from hotels, hospitals and households across the city. You can watch the dhobis at work from a bridge or a nearby building, or take a guided tour inside the ghat. You can also learn about the history and culture of the dhobi community, which has been operating the ghat for over a century.
Visit Vasai Fort
Vasai Fort, also known as Bassein Fort, is a historical fort that was once a strategic stronghold of the Portuguese in the 16th and 17th centuries. The fort is located in Vasai, about 50 km from Mumbai. The fort has ruins of churches, chapels, barracks and watchtowers that reflect the Portuguese architecture and influence. You can explore the fort and enjoy the views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding countryside. The fort is also a popular spot for film and TV shoots.
Go kayaking
If you are looking for some adventure and fun in Mumbai, you can try kayaking in the backwaters of Vasai Creek or Kundalika River. Kayaking is a water sport that involves paddling a small boat in the water. You can enjoy the thrill of navigating the rapids and currents, as well as the scenic beauty of the mangroves and wildlife. You can also opt for night kayaking, where you can see the bioluminescence of plankton in the water.
Watch a movie at Regal Cinema
Mumbai is the home of Bollywood, and watching a movie at Regal Cinema is one of the best ways to experience the magic of cinema in the city. Regal Cinema is one of the oldest and most iconic theatres in Mumbai, built in 1933 in an art-deco style. The theatre has a grand facade, a spacious lobby and a majestic auditorium that can seat up to 1,100 people. You can watch the latest Bollywood movies or classics at Regal Cinema, and enjoy the ambiance and nostalgia of the theatre.
Take a food tour
Mumbai is a food lover’s paradise, with a variety of cuisines and dishes to suit every palate and budget. You can take a food tour to sample some of the best street food, snacks, sweets and beverages that Mumbai has to offer. You can try vada pav, pav bhaji, bhel puri, sev puri, pani puri, kebabs, biryanis, kulfi, falooda and more. You can also visit some of the iconic eateries like Britannia & Co., Bademiya, Leopold Cafe and Yazdani Bakery.
