Mumbai is one of those cities I return to again and again – and each visit feels just as exciting as the last. India’s fastest-growing metropolitan city, it’s constantly buzzing with energy, diversity, and creativity. What I love most is how multicultural and dynamic it is, and how no two trips ever feel the same.
On this occasion, Mumbai was the final stop on our week-long India adventure, and after a whirlwind tour, we simply wanted to unwind, indulge in the incredible Mumbai food scene, and take things at a slower pace. Having ticked off many of the major attractions on previous trips, this visit was more about soaking up the atmosphere and rediscovering old favourites.
So this isn’t a traditional ‘Top 10 Things to Do in Mumbai’ list, but rather a glimpse into how we spent our relaxed, flavour-filled time in the city of dreams.
Sights
Contents
- 1 Sights
- 2 Dhobi Ghat: The World’s Largest Open-Air Laundry
- 3 Admiring the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel’s architectural splendour
- 4 Admiring the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
- 5 Gateway of India
- 6 Mumbai Street Food at Chowpatty Beach
- 7 Sunday brunch at Bastian
- 8 The Bombay Canteen
- 9 Bademiya
- 10 Brooke Bond Taj Mahal Tea House
- 11 Aer at Four Seasons Mumbai
- 12 Sunset on Marine Drive
- 13 Planning a Mumbai Escape? Here’s What to Bookmark
- 14 Final Thoughts on Mumbai
Dhobi Ghat: The World’s Largest Open-Air Laundry
One sight I’d always been curious about but never managed to visit before was Dhobi Ghat – and this time I finally made it.
Located near Mahalaxmi station, this is the world’s largest open-air laundromat, and it’s an absolutely fascinating place to observe. Clothes from across Mumbai — from homes, hotels and hospitals — are brought here, sorted, and scrubbed by hand using traditional methods.
The name “Dhobi” comes from the Hindi word dhona, which means to wash. Historically, the Dhobi caste specialised in laundering clothes, and the tradition continues today with each worker managing their own washing stall and flogging stone.
It’s labour-intensive and incredibly precise. After washing, clothes are hung in neat rows to dry above the washing pens — creating a sea of colourful fabrics fluttering in the breeze. Watching it all in action is a photographer’s dream and a cultural eye-opener.
Admiring the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel’s architectural splendour
Admiring the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
While wandering around Colaba, the majestic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel never fails to catch my eye. Its architecture is both intricate and imposing — a mix of Islamic, Renaissance and Victorian Gothic styles that make it one of the most iconic buildings in Mumbai.
I stayed at the Taj Mahal Palace on a previous trip and wrote all about that stay [link your review here] — but even if you’re not checking in, it’s worth stopping by to admire its grandeur.
Gateway of India
Just across from the Taj stands the Gateway of India, a towering colonial-era arch that once welcomed British royals into what was then Bombay. It was built to impress, and it still does. Facing the Arabian Sea, the monument is free to visit and makes a great photo stop, especially in the early morning or at sunset.
It is free to visit this site.
Mumbai Street Food at Chowpatty Beach
We couldn’t leave Mumbai without experiencing its legendary street food, and Chowpatty Beach is one of the best spots to dive in.
Craving Pau Bhaji, we headed there on a warm evening and were met with the deliciously chaotic atmosphere of sizzling pans, cheerful vendors and families chatting over paper plates of snacks.
The Pau Bhaji was sensational – spicy, buttery, perfectly mashed, and served with hot buttered bread rolls. Easily the best I’ve ever had – and all for 80p!
We finished off with Kulfi (Indian ice cream) and some Paan, a traditional palate cleanser made with betel leaf. The combination of flavours, smells and sounds was pure Mumbai.
Travel tip: If you’re worried about Delhi Belly, stick to stalls that cook everything fresh in front of you, and avoid ice or tap water.
Sunday brunch at Bastian
Bastian came highly recommended and absolutely lived up to the hype. We treated ourselves to Sunday brunch and were blown away by the creativity of the menu.
Highlights included:
-
Mud Crab Benedict – rich, flavourful and totally indulgent
-
Spicy Dan Dan Noodles – with a zingy, addictive kick
-
Cappuccino-Stuffed French Toast – warm, gooey and unmissable
The vibe is stylish but laid-back, perfect for a lazy Sunday treat.
The Bombay Canteen
We popped into The Bombay Canteen for lunch and were welcomed by its modern Indian décor and a buzzing crowd of locals and visitors. The menu celebrates Indian flavours with a twist, and it’s easy to see why it’s so popular.
We devoured the Chettinad Prawns, served with spicy oil perfect for mopping up with bread. But the real showstopper? The rum-soaked gulab jamun donut – a dreamy blend of East meets West. Don’t leave without trying it!
Bademiya
Bademiya, tucked behind the Taj in Colaba, is a must-visit for late-night bites. It’s a roadside eatery with incredible grilled kebabs served straight to your car or at simple tables.
We went for the Chicken Seekh Kebabs as they’d run out of lamb – and they were next-level delicious. Juicy, spiced, and full of smoky flavour. Simple, cheap, and unforgettable.
Brooke Bond Taj Mahal Tea House
In Bandra West, we discovered the Brooke Bond Taj Mahal Tea House, a dreamy space with vintage vibes and a menu full of unusual teas and tasty bites.
From classic Masala Chai to fruity infusions, there’s something for every tea lover — and the food menu has some unexpected gems too. A great spot to unwind and catch your breath in between shopping or sightseeing.
Aer at Four Seasons Mumbai
If you’re after sweeping views and elegant cocktails, AER at the Four Seasons is the place. It’s Mumbai’s highest rooftop bar, and the panoramic views are unbeatable.
We timed it perfectly with Happy Hour — and yes, Champagne was included! The drinks were top-notch, the service was slick, and the whole evening felt like a scene from a movie.
Sunset on Marine Drive
No trip to Mumbai is complete without a walk along Marine Drive, especially at sunset. Nicknamed the Queen’s Necklace because of how the streetlights curve along the bay, it sparkles after dark and feels completely magical.
We strolled along the promenade, watched the sun dip behind the horizon, and reflected on an amazing week in India. A peaceful, picture-perfect way to end the trip.
Planning a Mumbai Escape? Here’s What to Bookmark
-
Dhobi Ghat – fascinating, offbeat and worth seeing
-
Taj Mahal Palace Hotel – for architecture lovers
-
Gateway of India – a slice of colonial history
-
️ Chowpatty Beach – street food heaven
-
AER Rooftop Bar – unbeatable views
-
The Bombay Canteen – modern Indian cuisine
-
Bastian – brunch dreams come true
-
Bademiya – kebab perfection
-
Taj Mahal Tea House – charming and calming
-
Marine Drive at sunset – pure Mumbai magic
Final Thoughts on Mumbai
Mumbai is a city that never sleeps, a place where old-world charm meets modern innovation, and where every street tells a story. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, the city has a way of surprising you.
This time around, I took it slow — and discovered that sometimes, the best way to experience Mumbai is just to eat well, wander freely and follow your senses.
That Pav Bhaji and Kulfi is making me miss Chowpatty. It’s just the best!
What an incredibly atmospheric city!
What a great city to explore and get lost in!