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Malabar Hill in Maharashtra is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. However, beyond that, the hills are equally popular for being home to numerous religious destinations, including Walkeshwar Temple, which is in Mumbai. Also known as the Baan Ganga Temple, Walkeshwar Temple is one of the most empowering Shiva temples in the state. Every year, the temple is frequented by thousands of devotees who want to bring some peace into their lives. As you are planning your well-rounded trip across Mumbai, planning to spend a few hours to worship Lord Shiva at Walkeshwar Temple is a must.
Quick Details
Walkeshwar Temple Address: 40, Banganga Cross Ln, Teen Batti, Malabar Hill, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Walkeshwar Temple Timings: 9 AM – 1 PM; 5 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: None
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Nearest Railway Station: Charni Road Railway Station
Famous For: Legend of Lord Ram and the sacred freshwater Banganga Tank
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
About Walkeshwar Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Walkeshwar Temple dates back to the 12th century, originally built by the Silhara dynasty by Lakshman Prabhu in 1127 AD. Ever since the first time that the temple was built, it has undergone years of reconstruction as well. Historical evidence depicts that it is one of the oldest temples in Mumbai, especially tied to the city’s ancient roots. Not just that, the temple also holds a lot of significance with the Hindu epic Ramayana, drawing in devotees from across the country.
How To Reach Walkeshwar Temple
Photo: Sourabh Sinha / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
By Air: You’d need to book your flight to Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, which is around 23 km away. Outside the airport, you will find numerous transport options to take you to the temple. There are taxis and public buses available.
By Rail: One of the closest railway stations to the temple is the Charni Road Railway Station, located 5 km away. From the station, you can catch a bus, take an auto or hire a taxi to get to the temple.
By Road: Walkeshwar Temple is well connected by Mumbai’s extensive road network. If you’re travelling within the city, taxis, autos, and public buses are available. If you are driving from South Mumbai, it’s about 7 km from the Gateway of India, and from Western suburbs, it’s a 45-minute drive.
Things To Do At Walkeshwar Temple
After you reach the Walkeshwar Temple, being prepared for what you will do inside the temple helps you sort things out
in advance.
1. Explore The Historical Banganga Tank
Photo: Seervims / Wikimedia Commons
Beyond the inner sanctum, one of the main attractions is the Banganga Tank, which is located in the centre of the temple. It is believed to be Mumbai’s one of the oldest water bodies. According to legend, this tank was created when Lord Rama shot an arrow into the ground, summoning water. Banganga Tank, with its flight of ancient stone steps, creates a picturesque setting for the devotees.
2. Visit The Annual Banganga Festival
Photo: Rajesh Dhungana / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Every year in January, the Banganga Festival turns the area around Walkeshwar Temple into a cultural hub. The event is organised by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) for two days where you get to witness classical Indian music performances by renowned artists from across the country. The open-air concerts take place right by the Banganga Tank, blending music with the spiritual and historical ambience of the site.
3. Take A Heritage Walk Around Walkeshwar And Malabar Hill
Photo: Bahnfrend / Wikimedia Commons
The Walkeshwar and Malabar Hill areas are immersed in history, with numerous colonial-era bungalows, parks, and religious sites to explore. If you are visiting the temple with a local guide, planning a heritage walk around the temple is undoubtedly one of the most immersive experiences you will get to immerse yourself in. Don’t miss a visit to the Raj Bhavan (Governor’s House) nearby, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city and sea.
Places To Visit Around Walkeshwar Temple
After you finish offering your prayers at Walkeshwar Temple and check out all the activities, you can then take your time to explore some of the nearby sightseeing spots.
1. Hanging Gardens
Photo: Dslcards / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Hanging Gardens, also known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens, are located just a short distance from Walkeshwar Temple atop Malabar Hill. These date back to 1881 and are one of the most beautiful terraced gardens in the area. Due to the elevated location, the gardens also pose as a great spot for witnessing sunset views. Some of the major attractions include manicured green lawns, animal-shaped topiary, and quiet walking paths.
Distance From Walkeshwar Temple: 2.7 Km
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
2. Kamala Nehru Park
Photo: Christopher J. Fynn / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Another beautiful natural wonder worth checking out around Malabar Hill is the Kamala Nehru Park. It is part of the Hanging Gardens and the main attraction is the shoe-shaped structure, called the “Old Woman’s Shoe,” which is a reference to the nursery rhyme “There was an Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe.” The park is especially popular among children who want to soak in the views and the serenity of the place.
Distance From Walkeshwar Temple: 2.6 Km
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
3. Marine Drive
Photo: Dr Vikramjit Kakati / Wikimedia Commons
Often called the Queen’s Necklace due to the streetlights resembling a string of pearls when viewed at night, Marine Drive is a must-visit destination when you are in Mumbai. It is a 3.6 km long boulevard that is located along the coastline of South Mumbai. You can find a spot to relax and witness amazing sunset views or you can embark on a leisurely walk around the promenade. There are cafes and restaurants that you can check out too.
Distance From Walkeshwar Temple: 5.7 Km
Timings: 24 hours
Where To Stay
Photo: Vojtech Bruzek / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Walkeshwar Temple is quite centrally located in Mumbai, surrounded by numerous tourist attractions. If you are planning to spend a few days exploring the tourist sites around, you can plan your stay at one of the many hotels and resorts including Ferreira House, Hotel Golden Palace, Hotel Regal Palace, Hotel Kemps Corner and The Sahil Hotel.
Where To Eat
Photo: Rutvi Mistry / Wikimedia Commons
To appease your hunger and to try some authentic Maharashtrian cuisine, there are numerous local restaurants that you can check out. Some of the best ones include Dakshinayan, Spices and Flavours and Saraswati Hindu Hotel Restaurant.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Karthik Nadar / Wikimedia Commons
- Wear appropriate clothing when visiting the temple.
- Some areas of the temple may not allow photography but you can take Walkeshwar Temple photos from the outside.
- Maintain a respectful and peaceful demeanour while visiting the temple.
- Consider the temple’s timings and the best time to visit to avoid crowds.
- You’d have to leave your personal belongings in a locker before entering the main sanctum.
Walkeshwar Temple is one of the most spiritually uplifting temples in Mumbai, with an enriching history and mythological background. As you are planning your trip to the city, ensure that you aren’t missing out on any of the unique experiences mentioned. You can plan your trip with TripXL for the ultimate travel experience and experience the sacred magic of this temple!
Cover Photo: Abhideo21 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
