Travel Tips

Ask the Locals Travel Guide: Mumbai, India

Locations in this article:  Mumbai, India

Gateway of IndiaThis weekend, Peter is broadcasting his radio show from the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel and Tower in Mumbai, India.

This iconic landmark was one of the primary targets of the horrific terrorist attacks in November 2008, but after repairing the damage caused by the attacks it re-opened its doors (with enhanced security) on December 21, 2008.

Mumbai (formerly known as Bombay), continues to be one of India’s most lively, bustling and prosperous cities. Below we give you a roundup of some of the best places to go, eat and see, as recommended by longtime local residents of the city.

Saryu Doshi, former director of Mumbai’s National Gallery of Modern Art

Kala Ghoda Art District, South Mumbai – In the last decade this locality has become home to several museums and private art galleries. The most famous of the bunch is the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya. Formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum, this museum houses Indian antiquities. It was built in the early 20th century to honor a visit from the Prince of Wales himself, and is now one of Mumbai’s most renowned landmarks at the Gateway of India. www.bombaymuseum.org

Prince Wales museumNational Gallery of Modern Art – Art lovers don’t have to travel far from the Chhatrapati Shivaji museum to see more art. Just across the road is Mumbai’s National Gallery of Modern Art, which features nearly 14,000 works from locally and internationally renowned artists. https://ngmaindia.gov.in

Jehangir Art Gallery and the Museum Art Gallery – In these two public galleries,  which are adjacent to the museum and behind it, artists from all over rent space to exhibit their works.

Naresh Fernandes – editor of Time Out Mumbai

Swati Snacks – Get here early to enjoy traditional Gujarati food. This casual Mumbai mainstay is almost always packed with locals and visitors. Its signature dish is panki-chatni – rice-and-yogurt pancakes steamed in banana leaves served with tangy green chutney. Other favorite staples are dhokla (steamed bean cake) served with daal (lentil soup) and various Gujarati breads and chutneys. Tardeo Road, Mumbai

Various spicesBrittannia & Co – If you’re looking for a diversion from traditional Indian cuisine, head here for authentic Parsi and Iranian food. Established in 1924, Britannia is best known for its chicken pulao, a rice dish served with red berries from Iran. Don’t miss the caramel custard for dessert, which some claim is the best in Mumbai. Wakefield House, 11 Sprott Road, Ballard Estate

Sardar – Don’t come here if you’re watching your waistline. Sardar is known for its butter-drenched pav bhaji, a Maharashtrian dish made of vegetables and bread. 166A, Tardeo Road junction

For more information, don’t miss our Off the Brochure Travel Guide: Mumbai (Bombay) India.

And don’t miss Peter’s take on the Mumbai terror attacks with Mumbai Attacks Shouldn’t Deter Travelers.

And finally, check out more radio show guests and learn more about the show.