Destination Guide - Mumbai

Mumbai is a city of extreme contrasts: opulent colonial architecture can seem somewhat out of place against the reality of sprawling slums, while Bollywood glamour dances up against serious international business. Get up close and personal with some of the 19 million residents as you explore the overpopulated streets on an auto-rickshaw or walk through the bazaars and loose yourself in the colour, calamity and chapatti. Despite the anarchy, it’s one of the more progressive cities in India, serving up some of the best restaurants and nightlife in the country.

The Basics

Currency: Indian Rupee (Rs)
Population: 19,000,000
Languages: Marathi, Hindi and English
Time zone: +5.5
Daylight savings: N/A
Country code: +91
Area code: 22
Electricity voltage: 230-240V
Electricity hz: 50Hz
Electrical plugs: Three large round pins in a triangular pattern
Mobile network: GSM

Highlights

  • Colaba Causeway
  • Gateway of India
  • Chowpatty Beach

Events

  • 26 January
    Republic Day
  • 1 May
    Maharashtra Day

Weather

Monsoon season occurs from June to September. Ideal travel conditions occur from October to February with coolest conditions occurring in December and January. It is warm almost all year around though with temperatures reaching between 25 -30°C even in the cooler months.


Getting there and around

Mumbai is one of the few cities in India with a reliable train network. The auto-rickshaw is always a good economical sightseeing option – agree the driver’s fee before you set off for your destination. Taxis are reasonably reliable, too. Mumbai’s buses are good for short trips and a ferry is a nice way to see the city. Train travel between cities is a good way to see the culture of the country. Domestic flights between cities are plentiful.

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Travel Insider Mumbai suggestions

Shopping

The merchants of Mumbai
The merchants of Mumbai

Shopping in one of the world’s most populated cities is exciting, but it takes a little planning. Here’s a retail trail to beat the traffic and the heat while still packing in some of the city’s more unique offerings.

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Insider City Guide

Mumbai markets. Photo: photolibrary.com
Tour de force: Mumbai

Whether you're stopping over or staying a while, guide Lincoln Harris shows how to get the most out of a Mumbai visit.

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Accommodation

The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower Mumbai
Where I Stay: The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower Mumbai.

Senior Vice President Asia Pacific, Kiwi Collection Inc on The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower Mumbai.

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