7 Free Things to Do in Mumbai

Mumbai, the bustling financial capital of India, is a city that never sleeps. It's a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and experiences, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads looking for an urban adventure. While living in Mumbai can be expensive, there are plenty of free activities that allow you to explore the city's rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture without spending a rupee. Here's a mix of popular and lesser-known free things to do in Mumbai that will enrich your stay without emptying your wallet.

Marine Drive

Marine Drive, also known as the Queen's Necklace, is a 3.6-kilometer-long boulevard in South Mumbai that has a stunning view of the Arabian Sea. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists to take a leisurely stroll, watch the sunset, or simply enjoy the sea breeze. The promenade is lined with palm trees and is a great place to people-watch or to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Location: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road, South Mumbai. It's a curved coastline, starting at Nariman Point and ending at Girgaum Chowpatty.

Travel Tip: Visit during the early morning or late evening to avoid the heat and to witness the spectacular sunrise or sunset views.

Nearby: After your walk, stop by at Cha Bar at Oxford Bookstore for a refreshing cup of tea and a good selection of books.

Gateway of India

The Gateway of India is one of Mumbai's most iconic landmarks. This historic arch-monument was built during the 20th century to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. It's a great place to learn about India's colonial past and to take some memorable photographs. The area is always bustling with activity, and you can enjoy the views of the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel and the Arabian Sea.

Location: Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai. It's situated right by the water's edge.

Travel Tip: Early mornings are less crowded, making it a perfect time for photography enthusiasts to capture the monument without the crowds.

Nearby: Leopold Cafe, a popular and historic eatery, is a short walk away and a great place to grab a bite after your visit.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park

Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a rare national park situated within a metropolitan city. It offers a respite from the city's chaos with its rich flora and fauna, including a population of leopards. The park features ancient cave temples, hiking trails, and the famous Kanheri Caves. While there may be a nominal entry fee, exploring the park itself and many of its trails are free.

Location: Borivali East, Mumbai. It's located in the northern suburbs of Mumbai.

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and carry water, as exploring the park and caves can be quite a hike.

Nearby: The Stomach restaurant in Borivali East offers a variety of cuisines to satisfy your hunger after a day of exploration.

Bandra Fort

Bandra Fort, also known as Castella de Aguada, is a lesser-known historical site that offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the Bandra-Worli Sea Link. It's a quiet spot, perfect for a peaceful evening away from the city's noise. The fort's ruins are a reminder of Mumbai's strategic importance throughout history and provide a picturesque backdrop for photography.

Location: Byramji Jeejeebhoy Road, Bandstand Road, Bandra West, Mumbai. It's perched at the end of Bandra Bandstand.

Travel Tip: Visit during the monsoon season when the greenery is lush, and the sea is particularly dramatic.

Nearby: The Taj Mahal Tea House offers a serene environment and a selection of fine teas, perfect for unwinding after your visit.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum, is one of the premier art and history museums in India. While there is usually an entry fee, the museum offers free entry on certain days of the year. Check their website for these dates to explore the vast collection of artifacts, sculptures, and paintings that span India's rich cultural heritage.

Location: 159-161 Mahatma Gandhi Road, Fort, Mumbai. It's located in the heart of the city's art district.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit on a free entry day by checking the museum's website or social media pages for announcements.

Nearby: Kala Ghoda Cafe is a cozy spot nearby that serves excellent coffee and light bites, ideal for a post-museum visit.

Sewri Mangrove Park

Sewri Mangrove Park is a hidden gem in Mumbai, known for its mangrove forests and as a flamingo-watching hotspot. During the migratory season, thousands of flamingos can be seen feeding in the mudflats. It's a fantastic place for birdwatchers and nature lovers to spend a quiet morning or afternoon.

Location: Sewri, in the eastern part of Mumbai. It's accessible via the Sewri railway station.

Travel Tip: The best time to visit is during the low tide when flamingos come closer to the shore for feeding.

Nearby: Try the local street food at Sewri market for an authentic taste of Mumbai's snacks.

Juhu Beach

Juhu Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Mumbai, known for its wide stretch of sand, street food stalls, and vibrant atmosphere. It's a great place to watch the sunset, enjoy a game of beach cricket, or simply relax by the Arabian Sea. The beach is also a popular spot for film shoots, so you might catch a glimpse of Bollywood in action.

Location: Juhu Tara Road, Juhu, Mumbai. It's in the western suburbs, close to many Bollywood celebrities' homes.

Travel Tip: Visit in the early morning for a peaceful walk along the shore before the crowds arrive.

Nearby: Prithvi Cafe, located near Prithvi Theatre, is a cultural hub where you can enjoy a coffee and possibly spot a celebrity.

Hanging Gardens

The Hanging Gardens, also known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens, are terraced gardens perched on the slopes of Malabar Hill. They provide a tranquil green space with well-manicured hedges and flowerbeds. The gardens are famous for their animal-shaped topiaries and offer a stunning view of the sunset over the Arabian Sea.

Location: Ridge Road, Malabar Hill, Mumbai. It's situated on top of a hill, providing a panoramic view of the city.

Travel Tip: Bring a picnic to enjoy on the garden lawns, but remember to clean up after yourself to maintain the beauty of the space.

Nearby: The iconic Kyani & Co. is a short drive away and is one of Mumbai's oldest Irani cafes, known for its bun maska and chai.

Dhobi Ghat

Dhobi Ghat is the world's largest open-air laundromat and provides a unique glimpse into the traditional work of Mumbai's dhobis (washermen). From a distance, you can watch the dhobis wash clothes in a seemingly endless row of concrete wash pens. This fascinating spectacle highlights the city's working-class culture and is a photographer's delight.

Location: Dr. E. Moses Road, near Mahalaxmi Station, Mumbai. It's visible from the bridge over Mahalaxmi Railway Station.

Travel Tip: For a better view, visit the viewing gallery on the bridge early in the morning when the washing activity is at its peak.

Nearby: The famous Sarvi Restaurant, known for its delicious kebabs and Persian-inspired cuisine, is a great place to dine after visiting Dhobi Ghat.

Exploring Mumbai doesn't have to be expensive. With these free attractions, digital nomads can immerse themselves in the city's culture and history while keeping their expenses low. Whether you're into nature, history, or just want to experience the local vibe, Mumbai has something to offer for every kind of traveler.