Top 10 Things To Do In South Mumbai For An Upscale Experience

A view of the South Mumbai skyline, featuring skyscrapers and city lights.

South Mumbai is a vibrant hub that blends colonial history with modern vibrancy. There are many things to do in South Mumbai such as visiting monuments and statues, marine drives, religious buildings, etc. Famous for its Victorian architecture, upscale shopping districts, and diverse cultural experiences, this area offers something for everyone. Whether you love history, enjoy trying different foods, appreciate art, or want to enjoy beautiful views, South Mumbai has something for everyone. From the famous Gateway of India to the busy Colaba Causeway, this part of the city is an excellent blend of old traditions and modern life.

Top 10 Things To Do In South Mumbai

Here’s a list of the best activities and things to do in South Mumbai for a memorable and scenic experience:

1. Explore The Gateway Of India

Historic gateway overlooking the Arabian Sea, one of the best things to see in South Mumbai.

Photo: iMahesh / Wikimedia Commons

The Gateway of India is South Mumbai’s most iconic monument. Built in 1924 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary, it stands tall on the waterfront, facing the Arabian Sea. The structure is a perfect example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. A popular tourist spot, it’s a great place to take a leisurely walk and capture stunning photographs. The site is often surrounded by street vendors, offering a lively atmosphere. Visiting the Gateway of India is one of the top things tourists and locals do in South Mumbai.

Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 24*7
Location: Apollo Bunder, Colaba

2. Stroll Through Marine Drive

A serene evening view of Marine Drive with its famous promenade and sea views.

Photo: Dr Vikramjit Kakati / Wikimedia Commons

Marine Drive, famously known as the “Queen’s Necklace,” is one of the most scenic spots in South Mumbai. This 3.6 km long promenade curves along the Arabian Sea, offering a perfect place for a peaceful walk or jog. It’s beautiful during the evenings when the streetlights form a glowing arc, making it look like a necklace. Marine Drive is a favourite spot for tourists to relax, watch the sunset, or simply soak in the sea breeze. A visit to Marine Drive is a must when looking for things to see in South Mumbai.

Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 24*7
Location: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road, South Mumbai

3. Visit The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus / CST

Majestic architecture of CST railway station, one of the best things to see in South Mumbai.

Photo: Anoop Ravi / Wikimedia Commons

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the busiest railway stations in India. This stunning example of Victorian Gothic architecture is an architectural marvel blending Indian and British influences. Its intricate design, grand spires, and stained-glass windows make it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts. CST is a functional railway station and a cultural landmark, offering a glimpse into Mumbai’s colonial past. Exploring this heritage site is one of the best things for history buffs to do in South Mumbai.

Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 24*7 (best viewed during the day)
Location: DN Road, Fort, Mumbai

4. Wander Through Colaba Causeway

 Explore the Colaba Causeway Street market where you can pick up trendy jewellery and artefacts

Photo: Anonymous / pxhere / Image For Representation Only

Colaba Causeway is a shopper’s paradise, offering various goods, from trendy clothes to quirky souvenirs. This bustling street market is the go-to destination for street shopping in South Mumbai. Colaba Causeway has something for everyone, from handicrafts and jewellery to branded fashion. After shopping, you can visit many cafés and restaurants in the area, including the famous Leopold Café. Colaba Causeway offers an authentic local shopping experience, and it’s one of the best things to do in South Bombay if you love to bargain and explore.

Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 10 AM – 10 PM
Location: Colaba, South Mumbai

5. Marvel At The Haji Ali Dargah

A fantastic view of Haji Ali Dargah in Mumbai, surrounded by water, with the city skyline behind.

Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons

Haji Ali Dargah is a stunning mosque and tomb situated on an islet off the coast of Worli. Built-in 1431, the Dargah is dedicated to the memory of Sayyed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari. The mosque is accessible by a causeway during low tide and is surrounded by the Arabian Sea, offering a peaceful and spiritual ambience. The Haji Ali mosque has a mix of Indo-Islamic architecture and looks impressive standing in the water. Visiting Haji Ali is one of the best things to see in South Mumbai for those seeking a peaceful and spiritual place.

Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 5:30 AM – 10 PM
Location: Dargah Road, Worli, Mumbai

6. Enjoy Art At Jehangir Art Gallery

 Visitors admiring the contemporary artworks and collections at Jehangir Art Gallery

Photo: Suryanarayan Ganesh / Wikimedia Commons

For art enthusiasts, Jehangir Art Gallery is a must-visit destination. Established in 1952, this gallery has been a premier platform for showcasing contemporary art by renowned and upcoming artists. The gallery is located in the heart of South Mumbai and offers a tranquil space to enjoy various art forms, from paintings and sculptures to photography. Its proximity to other cultural landmarks like the Prince of Wales Museum and Kala Ghoda makes it an excellent stop for anyone exploring the city’s artistic side. Visiting the Jehangir Art Gallery is one of the things art lovers do in South Mumbai.

Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 11 AM – 7 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Location: Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai

7. Relax At Hanging Gardens

View of Mumbai's Hanging Gardens with lush greenery, overlooking the city skyline in the distance.

Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons

Hanging Gardens, known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens, is a beautiful terraced garden on Malabar Hill’s top. It offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the iconic Marine Drive. The garden is famous for its well-maintained flower beds, animal-shaped hedges, and cosy atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for families, joggers, and nature lovers. Whether you’re looking for a quiet stroll or a place to relax, Hanging Gardens is one of the top things to do in South Mumbai for a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle.

Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
Location: Malabar Hill, South Mumbai

8. Discover History At Mani Bhavan Gandhi Museum

 A view of Mani Bhavan, Mahatma Gandhi’s residence and museum, one of the attractions in South Mumbai

Photo: Nicholas / Wikimedia Commons

Mani Bhavan is a quaint two-story building that served as Mahatma Gandhi’s residence during his visits to Mumbai between 1917 and 1934. It has now turned into a museum. The museum houses photographs, letters, and documents about Gandhi’s role in India’s freedom movement. The library inside Mani Bhavan has over 50,000 books dedicated to the Father of the Nation. It is one of the best things to do in South Mumbai for those interested in learning about India’s struggle for independence. This location offers a deep insight into the history and the life of Mahatma Gandhi.

Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 9:30 AM – 6 PM
Location: Gamdevi, Mumbai

9. Visit The Prince Of Wales Museum / Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya

View of the Prince of Wales Museum in South Mumbai, one of the best things to see in South Mumbai.

Photo: Anoop Ravi / Wikimedia Commons

The Prince of Wales Museum, officially known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, is a treasure trove of Indian history and culture. Established in 1922, the museum houses an impressive collection of ancient sculptures, coins, textiles, and artworks from various Indian dynasties. The Indo-Saracenic architecture of the museum building is a masterpiece in itself. The museum is a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts, offering a deep dive into India’s rich cultural heritage. Exploring this museum is one of the top things for culture lovers to do in South Mumbai.

Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Entry Fee: ₹85 for Indians, ₹500 for Foreigners
Timings: 10:15 AM – 6 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Location: Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai

10. Savour Street Food At Chowpatty Beach

 View of Chowpatty Beach in Mumbai, featuring the sandy shore and distant city skyline.

Photo: Ganesh Mohan T / Wikimedia Commons

Every visit to South Mumbai is complete with indulging in the local street food, and Chowpatty Beach is the ultimate destination for food lovers. From bhel puri to pav bhaji, the beach has stalls serving some of Mumbai’s most famous snacks. Chowpatty is also a great place to relax and watch the sunset while enjoying the bustling atmosphere of this popular hangout. The delicious food and stunning views make visiting Chowpatty Beach one of the best things to see in South Mumbai for an authentic local experience.

Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Free (Food charges vary)
Timings: Open 24 hours (Best during the evening)
Location: Girgaum Chowpatty, South Mumbai

South Mumbai is a melting pot of history and culture, offering endless opportunities for exploration. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in history, there are various things to do in South Mumbai at CST or relax at Marine Drive, such as visiting historical monuments and religious buildings. There’s always something unique waiting around the corner. Plan your visit to South Mumbai with TripXL and create unforgettable memories in this dynamic city.

Cover Photo: Drone Master / Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit South Mumbai is during the winter months, from November to February.
Yes, Colaba Causeway and local markets offer a great shopping experience.
South Mumbai is well-connected by local trains, buses, and taxis.
A minimum of 2-3 days is recommended to explore the main attractions in South Mumbai comfortably.
South Mumbai offers a variety of cuisines, including local street food, seafood, and international dining options.

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