Behold Mumbai, the city of dreams. A city that never sleeps and where dreams meet reality.
A bustling megalopolis along the coast of the Arabian Sea, which offers a unique blend of traditional charm and sophistication. Apart from that, the city is also well-known among tourists. From the iconic gateway of India to the bustling lanes of Colaba, Mumbai is a love affair you’ll carry with you forever. 🏖️
If you want to enjoy the true essence of the city, you must learnt about the best time to visit Mumbai.
Get ready as we reveal the secrets of visiting Mumbai to make the most of your experience and make memories that will last a lifetime.
About Mumbai 🏛️
Mumbai (also known as Bombay, the official name until 1995) is the capital city of the Indian state of Maharashtra. The name of the city, Mumbai, is derived from the patron deity, the Mother Goddess Mumba Devi, worshipped by the earliest inhabitants, the Kolis. The seven islands that came to constitute Mumbai were home to communities of fishing colonies of the Koli people.
With its beautiful beaches, the grandeur of colonial-era architecture like the iconic Gateway of India, to the delicate beauty of ancient Elephanta Caves, whose rock-cut temples speak so much about the city’s cultural heritage.
For centuries, the islands were under the control of successive indigenous empires before being ceded to the Portuguese Empire and subsequently to the East India Company. In 1661, Charles II of England married Catherine of Braganza, and as part of her dowry, Charles received the ports of Tangier and the Seven Islands of Bombay.
During the mid-18th century, Bombay was reshaped by the Hornby Vellard project, which undertook the reclamation of the area between the seven islands from the sea. Along with the construction of major roads and railways, the reclamation project, completed in 1845, transformed Bombay into a major seaport on the Arabian Sea.
Bombay in the 19th century was characterised by economic and educational development. During the early 20th century, it became a strong base for the Indian independence movement.
Upon India’s independence in 1947, the city was incorporated into Bombay State. In 1960, following the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement, a new state of Maharashtra was created with Bombay as the capital.
Mumbai has transitioned from a collection of islands to a bustling, diverse metropolis, a perfect example of modern India, while also preserving its historical charm. It is this rich tapestry of history, from the Portuguese era to the British colonial rule and beyond, that has contributed to the city’s unique character and global renown.
It is also the wealthiest city in India, and has the highest number of millionaires and billionaires among all cities in India.
Best Time to Visit Mumbai: 🕐
There are three major seasons in Mumbai – summer, monsoon and winter. Each season, the city looks a little different and offers some amazing experiences.
Summer (March to June) 🌅
Summers are usually hot and humid in Mumbai. he temperature can reach upwards of 40°C (104°F). The sea breeze provides some relief from the scorching heat. It’s a time when the beaches come alive with families, couples, and kids building sandcastles. Although it is hot, you can enjoy a walk on Marine Drive and feel the pulse of the city as locals and tourists seek solace in the sea breeze. Although evenings are cool, daytime could be extremely hot.
Monsoon (June to September) 🌧️
The monsoon period in Mumbai is pretty amazing. The city gets heavy rainfall, and temperatures are around 30°C (86°F). The rain transforms the city as it washes away the Summer heat. The Hanging Gardens and Sanjay Gandhi National Park are pretty lush and vibrant. The waterfalls in Mumbai, such as Pandavkada Falls, are in full flow and are a great sight to behold. Mumbai’s rains can often lead to waterlogging, so make sure you plan accordingly and check the weather forecast to plan accordingly.
Autumn and Winter (October to February) 🌦️
From October to February, Mumbai dons a different persona altogether. The temperatures drop to a comfortable 20-25°C (68-77°F). It makes it an ideal time for sightseeing and exploration. If you wish to explore historical sites such as Elephanta Caves, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, or other places, you can enjoy all these places during this period. This is the peak season, so popular spots might be crowded. The accommodation and flight prices would be high as well.
Your Mumbai Weekend Guide
Packing Essentials for Your Mumbai Trip: 🎒
Whether you are moving to the city or visiting historical landmarks, packing right is crucial to making the most of your trip.
Here is a complete guide on what to pack for your Mumbai sojourn –
1. Pack your clothes
You can carry lightweight cotton clothes for summer. You can take several sleeveless shirts or tops and shorts, or skirts. Remember to carry umbrellas or raincoats as it might rain anytime. Also, carry comfy waterproof shoes, which you may need when you go out for sightseeing. Carry a pair of sandals if you are planning to visit the beach. Mumbai is a cosmopolitan place, so make sure you carry a stole or scarf in case you visit any religious places.
2. Sun Protection
The tropical sun can be strong, so you should use something with UV protection, especially when planning outdoor activities during the day. Also, don’t forget your sunglasses.
3. Medications and Basic First Aid
Keep medicines close to you if you have a certain illness. Always keep them in proper packaging. Also, include bandages, pain relievers, and other personal medications with you.
4. Travel Accessories
You should always carry travel items such as power adapters and type C, D, and M sockets. Also, carry a portable charger that is easy to carry here and there. You should also carry a water bottle to stay hydrated, especially during summer.
Book flights to Mumbai on Paytm.
Must-Try Dishes in Mumbai 🍞
Mumbai is a wonderful place in the heart of India, and there are so many street-side stalls and upscale restaurants that offer a gastronomic journey that promises to get your taste buds.
Here is a list of wonderful dishes that you can try in Mumbai –
1. Pav Bhaji:
This is a popular dish in Mumbai. It is a blend of mashed vegetables cooked with aromatic spices and then served with buttered bread rolls known as “pav.” It is often garnished with butter and chopped onions. You can easily get this at Juhu beach stalls, Sardar’s Pav Bhaji in Tardeo, and Amar Juice Centre in Vile Parle.
2. Vada Pav:
Also known as Mumbai’s burger, it contains a spicy potato fritter sandwiched between a bun and with tangy chutneys. It is a tangy and crunchy mix of puffed rice, sev, tomatoes, and chutney. You can have this at the Anand Vada pav stall near Mithibai College.
3. Bombil Fry:
Bombil fry is yet another type of popular food in Mumbai. Thin slices of Bombay duck are marinated in spices and deep-fried to make it look crispy. You can try it at Gajalee in vile parle and Prakash upahaar kendra in Shivaji park.
4. Pani Puri:
Pani puri are hollow puris filled with spicy tamarind water, tangy chutneys, and a mix of potato and chickpeas. You can try it at the Elco Pani Puri Centre in Bandra and the local stalls in Juhu Beach.
5. Keema Pav:
Keema pav is minced meat cooked with tomatoes and spices. These are served with pav. You can try the Olympia Coffee House in Colaba and Sarvi in Byculla.
6. Ragda Pattice:
These are potato patties served with some spicy white peas curry and topped with chutneys. You can find this at Guru Krupa and Aaswad in Dadar.
7. Mumbai Sandwich:
Another popular one is the multi-layered sandwich with chutneys, vegetables, and spices grilled or served cold. These sandwich stalls are common outside colleges such as Mithibai and HR College.
Plan your Mumbai Trip now! ✈️
Mumbai has diverse attractions and various activities. From its historic landmarks to bustling markets and nature spots, there is much to explore. Mumbai is not just a city; it’s a sentiment that will resonate in your heart long after you leave. It’s a place where the hope and promise of dreams coming true beat loudly in the hearts and minds of people.
If you have already started planning your trip to Mumbai, check out Paytm for all the latest deals on flights, buses, and hotels.
Grab the best deals and have some wonderful experiences while exploring Mumbai.
