The heart of India, often referred to as ‘The City of Dreams’, Mumbai has a lot to offer to anyone who sets foot here. Though the list of enthralling activities would be long for those with a heavy pocket, it also offers plenty of things that can be done without spending a penny. Yes! You read that right. If you’re looking for things to do in Mumbai for free, we have done detailed research to help you out. Here’s a list of places you can visit without hurting your budget or worrying about money.
1. Visit the Iconic Gateway of India
Gateway of India
Gateway of India or as many people call it “The Taj Mahal of Mumbai”, is a must-visit when you’re in the city. In fact, a trip to Mumbai isn’t complete without a visit to this magnificent monument, which is set on the waterfront at Apollo Bunder area at the end of Chhatrapati Shivaji Marg in South Mumbai. Overlooking the majestic Arabian Sea, it was originally built to commemorate the arrival of Queen Mary and King George V in the city and now serves as a popular tourist attraction.
Plan your visit either during the early hours of the day, to feed a sea of pigeons that flock the place, or in the evening when the monument is all lit-up under the shimmering rays of the setting sun. The Mumbai harbor adds to the beauty of the grand monument, resulting in a picture-worthy setting. No doubt catching a glimpse of this timeless architecture completes your visit to the grand city in a real sense.
- Location: Apollo Bandar
- Timings: Open 24*7
2. Experience Serenity Along Marine Drive
Marine Drive
Once you reach Mumbai, it will not take you long to realize why it’s one of the busiest cities in the country. Being right in the middle of all the hustle and bustle might leave you anxious and craving for something to brush off the stress. Marine Drive is the go-to place for Mumbaikars and tourists alike to soak in a slice of heaven that the city provides. The lashing waves and the distant skyline makes it easy, even if it’s for just some hours, to forget the world and take refuge in the vistas.
Whether it’s sipping ‘golas’, which kids of all ages love, or simply letting the sea breeze sink in, everything here feels relaxing. Marine Drive is often thronged by visitors during the afterhours, and is one of the best things to in Mumbai at night!
Switch off your phone, disconnect from the world and take a walk down Marine Drive to connect with yourself. Also known as the Queen’s Necklace, this 3.6-km stretch is sure to make you feel better and provide energy after a long and tiring day.
- Location: Chaupati
- Timings: Open 24*7
Also check hotels in Mumbai for Couple
3. Soothe your Soul at Siddhivinayak Temple
Siddhivinayak Temple
Mumbai has always been welcoming to all religions and cultures. You will find a number of popular mosques, temples, and churches to soothe your soul. Siddhivinayak Temple is no doubt one of the most visited places in Mumbai.
Built in 1801, this temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and welcomes devotees from all walks of life. The temple stands 6-stories tall, and its complex houses gold-plated domes, an idol of Lord Ganesha, and a lot more to leave you awestruck. If you are lucky, you might also come across a Bollywood celebrity, as most of them visit this temple before starting a new project.
- Location: Khed Galli
- Timings: 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM (Wednesday to Monday) / 3:30 AM to 12:30 AM (On Tuesdays)
Admire Master Strokes at Jehangir Art Gallery
Jehangir Art Gallery
Constructed in 1952, this is one of the most famous art galleries in the country. Art always comes with a price, but this gallery will not charge if you want to just stare at the breathtaking pieces of art or want to have your philosophical take on the artist’s perspective.
You will find some of the most celebrated artworks by many renowned Indian artists. There are many people who regularly visit this place to get lost in the artifacts and seek inspiration for their own work. Jehangir Art Gallery also sells paintings at exhibitions, so if you’d like to, you could be a proud owner of one of the many masterpieces displayed here.
- Location: Mahatma Gandhi Road, Kala Ghoda Fort
- Timings: 11 AM to 7 PM
Also Read: Places to Visit in Maharashtra
4. Relax and Unwind at Chowpatty Beach
Chowpatty Beach
There is a unique charisma to this beach which will make you visit it more than just once. It’s a sight to behold during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival when the entire beach is lit up ina celebratory mood. People come here from across the city, food stalls are set up all across the beach, and large idols of Ganesha are immersed into the sea.
There are numerous fun things to do at Chowpatty Beach, such as riding the Merry-Go-Round or the Ferris Wheel, enjoy performances by snake charmers and street dancers, and much more. If you visit this beach, do not forget to try out the famous ‘bhelpuri’, for amazing food always adds to the fun.
Visit Chowpatty in the evening, you will see fishermen mending their nets, elderly people taking a walk along the beach and children playing with sand, common things that often are missed by one in this fast-paced life. Accompanied by the cool breeze from the Arabian Sea, this place provides you with space to think about anything but running and rushing, and can easily be considered as one of the best things to do in Mumbai for couples.
- Location: Adjoining Marine Drive, Girgaon area
- Timings: Open 24*7
Also Read: Places to visit in Mumbai
5. Plan a Picnic in Oval Maidan
Oval Maidan
In case you want to appreciate some greenery and appease your eyes, pay a visit to the Oval Maidan. If you’re looking for things to do in Mumbai for kids, you’re in the right place. Residents often drop here to relax, play sports, or just watch others play.
As the name suggests, this field is oval in shape, and the lush green patches surrounding the field make for a perfect picnic spot for families, or for simply spending some quality time with your loved ones.
- Location: Maharshi Karve Road, Churchgate
- Timings: Open 24*7
These are some of the things you can do in Mumbai with a light pocket and leave with a lighter heart. Close to a lot of hotels in Mumbai, all the places listed above are popular for their own charm, and owing to the public transport infrastructure of the city, they are easily accessible for locals and visitors, alike.
This post was last modified on 28-Dec-2023