A One-Day Mumbai Trip You Can Easily Do
Mumbai is one of my favourite cities in the world, and I try to visit it whenever I get the chance. But somehow, all my trips always revolved around South Mumbai. This time, I finally fulfilled a long-standing wish – to visit the iconic Siddhivinayak Temple.
I was in Mumbai for some work and extended my trip by one day just to explore more of the city. My hotel was near the airport (Novotel Mumbai Airport, and I have a separate tour video for that), so I started early in the day to make the most of it.
My First Visit to Siddhivinayak Temple
The drive to Siddhivinayak Temple was a new experience because it was my first time seeing this side of Mumbai. The roads, the streets, the local shops – everything felt fresh and exciting.
Buying Prasad and Offerings
Just outside the temple, you will find several shops selling flowers, coconuts, modak, and other pooja items. I purchased my offerings from one such shop. An interesting tip came from my cab driver: These shopkeepers may tell you to “pay later” after darshan, but it’s better to pay first so that the offerings you place inside the sanctum are truly your own.
The shops also keep your footwear safely until you return.
Entry and Darshan Tips
There is a very convenient Rs. 100 donation entry that allows you to skip long lines. I used that option, and it saved a lot of time.
Inside the main chamber, videography is not allowed, but a live screen outside shows the ongoing pooja. The atmosphere is serene and deeply spiritual.
The Mooshak and the Tradition of Wishes
Outside, you will find the Mooshak – Lord Ganesha’s vehicle. It is believed that whispering your wish into the Mooshak’s ear helps it come true. Like many others, I joined the line and made my wish too.
Temple Complex Shopping
Inside the temple perimeter, stalls sell modaks, flowers, laddoos, and pooja essentials.
I had purchased modak earlier, so I picked up the temple’s special Nariyal Wadi and laddoo packets (priced at Rs. 30).
I also bought a beautiful Siddhivinayak idol that resembles the one inside the sanctum.
Heading to My Favourite Part of the City: South Mumbai
After the darshan, I took a classic kaali-peeli cab and made my way to South Bombay — a place that has always fascinated me with its architecture, culture, and charm.
Heritage Drive Through Fort Area
On my way, I passed the historic Fort district, Flora Fountain, the CSMVS museum, and the iconic Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (VT). Every building here has a story, and every corner feels like a piece of living history.
Gateway of India and Taj Mahal Palace
My first stop was the Gateway of India. Standing tall against the sea, it remains as grand and beautiful as ever. Across from it is the Taj Mahal Palace and Tower — a landmark I never tire of admiring.
Colaba Causeway: A Must-Visit Market
A short walk from the Gateway leads you to Colaba Causeway, one of Mumbai’s most vibrant street markets. From clothes and accessories to décor and souvenirs, the lanes are buzzing with activity. This market is always part of my Mumbai plans.
Lunch at Café Mondegar
After some shopping, I headed to Café Mondegar – a personal favourite.
This iconic eatery features Mario Miranda’s legendary illustrations on its walls and tableware. Add to that the best of 70s and 80s rock music, and you get a timeless atmosphere.
Marine Drive: The Queen’s Necklace
Arabian Sea views from Marine Drive
No trip to South Mumbai is complete without a visit to Marine Drive. The sea breeze, the sweeping arc of the coastline, and the Art Deco skyline make it one of the most enchanting places in the city. I took another Kaali-Peeli cab from Colaba to Marine Drive.
Photographers here offer quick photoshoots, which can be especially helpful for solo travellers. I got my pictures taken from a photographer here (you will see them walking around with DSLR cameras in their hands) and loved the results. They have print as well as digital transfer options for the image files.
Street Snacks and More History
I tried Chana Jor Garam from a street vendor! The vendor kept passing by as I sat there. I refused a few times, but finally gave in to the temptation. It wasn’t the best that day, not very crunchy, but it was still part of the Marine Drive experience.
The beautiful Art Deco building, Soona Mahal, on Marine Drive
On this stretch, you also get a great view of the famous Art Deco buildings including Soona Mahal, home to Pizza by the Bay. These buildings carry decades of architectural heritage. Many Bollywood celebrities of yesteryears have called these buildings home and each building has stories to tell.
Back to the Hotel and One Last View of Mumbai
After a long, fulfilling walk along Marine Drive, I booked an Uber back to my hotel to pick up my luggage before leaving for the airport.
On the way, I caught a glimpse of Haji Ali. Before the new coastal road, it used to be far more visible. Mumbai is changing rapidly, yet it continues to remain one of my favourite cities.
After a quick drop-off at the airport, my whirlwind one-day Mumbai adventure came to an end.
Final Thoughts
If you want to explore Mumbai in a single day, this itinerary is perfect. It covers spirituality, heritage, markets, food, seaside beauty, and classic landmarks – all at a relaxed pace.
Whether you are a solo traveller or visiting with family, Mumbai always has something magical to offer.
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