Mumbai, a bustling metropolis on the western coast of India, teems with vibrant life and cultural diversity, where colonial-era architecture stands alongside gleaming skyscrapers, the aroma of street food wafts through narrow lanes, and millions navigate the frenetic pace of daily life with an unwavering spirit that reflects both the resilience and the rich heritage of this ever-evolving city.
India: Mumbai – Prince of Wales Museum / Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
We had first come across the Prince of Wales Museum earlier in the day as we made our way to meet our tour guide. At that time we did not go in, but the striking Gothic design of the building and the large reclining head of Buddha set out in the grounds immediately drew our attention. The statue, tilted slightly on its side, looked serene despite being weathered with age, and it seemed to welcome visitors in a quiet, dignified way. That first glimpse made us certain we would return later in the day to see more. It is one of those places that naturally pulls you in, partly because of its architectural style and partly because of the way it is set back from the busy Mumbai streets, creating a calm contrast to the noise and bustle outside.
🎟️ Entry and Practical Details
When we did come back, entry turned out to be very reasonable. The price of a ticket was not too steep at all, especially considering what the museum has to offer. Our admission also included an audio guide, which is always a welcome addition. These guides make it so much easier to understand what you are looking at, providing small snippets of background that can change a simple object into something far more meaningful. In our case it also helped us keep track of which gallery we were in, as the museum is divided into several sections that can otherwise feel a little overwhelming at first glance.
📸 The Grounds and Buddha Statue
Before heading inside, we paused to take some photographs of the Buddha statue in the garden. With its tilted head and calm expression, it is one of the museum’s most photographed features. The statue, despite being in the open air, retains a sense of reverence. It also gives you a sense of what lies inside, hinting at the deep and varied cultural collections waiting to be explored. The museum grounds themselves are fairly simple, but the greenery around the statue frames the building well.
🏗️ Entering the Museum
Unfortunately, when we finally walked towards the main facade, we found much of it hidden under scaffolding. Renovation work was underway, and that meant the museum’s fine Gothic features were obscured. Even so, the building’s bulk and outline were still impressive, giving you a sense of its history and importance. We stepped through the entrance into the large rotunda, which should have been a grand moment, but instead we were greeted by a wall of noise. The entire hall was filled with the lively chatter of hundreds of schoolchildren, clearly at the tail end of a school trip. It was chaotic for a short while, but luckily for us they were gathering their bags and teachers were already calling them together to leave. Within minutes, the noise dropped, and the space suddenly felt much calmer.
🔨 Renovation and Closures
Just like the outside, the inside of the museum was also affected by ongoing renovation work. Several galleries were temporarily closed, which was a little disappointing, but at the same time it gave us a better appreciation for the spaces that were open. Walking past sealed-off areas and scaffolding poles reminded us that museums are living institutions, constantly repairing, rethinking, and refreshing how they display their collections.
🕉️ Religious and Cultural Galleries
The heart of the museum lies in its main galleries, which are arranged by religion and culture. Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism all have their own dedicated spaces, each filled with objects that are both artistic and deeply symbolic. We saw stone carvings, bronze statues, delicate manuscripts, and ritual items that had once been central to worship. The audio guide was particularly useful here, as it explained how these objects fit into wider traditions and what role they played in daily religious practice. Without that extra detail, we would have only seen them as beautiful objects, but with the context, they became windows into entire ways of life.
🎨 The Picture Gallery
In addition to the cultural galleries, there was a room filled with pictures, mostly by Hindu artists. Many of these were classified as small-format paintings, a style that had been especially popular in earlier centuries. Their detail was astonishing, even in miniature size. Alongside these, there were some larger works, including images of Hindu gods and mythological scenes. These paintings gave another layer to the collection, showing not only religious devotion but also artistic skill and imagination.
🏺 An Unexpected Mummy
Perhaps the most surprising part of the museum was a small side gallery that contained an Egyptian mummy. It was completely out of context with the rest of the displays, almost as though it had wandered into the museum by mistake. Still, it was fascinating to see, and it highlighted just how wide-ranging the museum’s collection is. For visitors, it was a quirky addition that broke up the flow of Indian art and culture with something entirely different.
🧭 Getting Around the Museum
The museum is not overly large, which makes it relatively easy to explore. Once we had worked out the audio guide’s indexing system, moving from gallery to gallery became straightforward. It is the kind of museum where you can either spend a quick ninety minutes, as we did, or you can choose to linger for several hours, working your way slowly through every exhibit. We opted for the faster route, partly because we were already tired, but it was clear that more time would have been rewarding.
⏱️ Time Spent and Reflections
All told, we completed our visit in about ninety minutes. It was enough to get a good overview, but it felt a little rushed. Someone with more energy and curiosity could easily spend three or four hours here, listening carefully to the audio guide and reading through the detailed labels beside each object. The museum rewards patience and careful observation, but it also works well for a shorter visit if time is limited.
💭 Final Thoughts
The Prince of Wales Museum (now officially known as the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya) is one of Mumbai’s cultural highlights. Despite the renovation works that hid parts of the building and closed some galleries, it still offered a rewarding experience. From the serene Buddha in the gardens to the rich religious galleries and the unexpected Egyptian mummy, it was a place full of contrasts and surprises. While our own visit was fairly short, it gave us a strong sense of the museum’s importance and left us wishing we had more time to explore. If you are in Mumbai, it is well worth putting this museum on your itinerary.
Planning your visit to Prince of Wales Museum / Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
🏛️ Location
159-161, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Fort, Mumbai – 400 023, Maharashtra, India
🚗 How to Get There
By Train: Nearest stations are Churchgate (Western Railway) and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) (Central Railway). From either station, you can take a taxi or local transport.
By Bus: Several bus routes stop nearby, including those that go via Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Chowk. From Churchgate or CST you can catch buses and then walk a short distance.
By Road / Taxi / Auto-Rickshaw: Being in South Mumbai (Fort / Kala Ghoda area), many taxis or ride-sharing services can drop you close by. Walking from nearby landmarks is also feasible.
📅 Opening Hours & Closed Days
| Day | Opening | Closing |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday to Sunday | 10:15 AM |
Closed on Mondays and on public / national holidays.
Ticket counter usually closes slightly before closing time (around 5:45 PM).
💵 Entry Fees & Other Charges
Here are the approximate fees for entry and related services:
| Category | Entry Fee (Indian) | Foreign / Other Charges |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Adult (above ~12 or 15 yrs) | approx. ₹ 70-85 | — |
| Children (5-12 yrs) | approx. ₹ 20 | — |
| College Students with valid ID | ~ ₹ 40-75 | — |
| Senior Citizens / Defence personnel (Indian) | discounted — ₹ 60-100 depending on category | |
| Foreign Adult Visitors | ₹ 500-700 | |
| Foreign Child Visitor | ~ ₹ 200 |
Additional Charges / Facilities:
Audio guide: Domestic visitors pay (≈ ₹ 40-50) for audio guide; complimentary for international visitors in some cases.
Photography: Mobile phones / tabs: ~ ₹ 50; regular cameras without tripod ~ ₹ 100; cameras with tripod or for commercial shoots require prior permission and have higher fees.
📞 Contact Information
Telephone: +91 (022) 2284 4484; also +91 (022) 2284 4519 Email: csmvsmumbai@gmail.com (for general queries) shop.museumsofindia.org+1
🌐 Website
www.csmvs.in — the official site for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya.
Getting around Mumbai
🚉 Local Trains (“Suburban Railway”)
These are the lifeline of Mumbai. They connect South Mumbai to the suburbs via three main lines: Western, Central and Harbour.
Very crowded during peak hours (morning & evening), so better to travel outside those times.
Tickets can be bought at station counters or via apps.
🚇 Metro & Monorail
Mumbai has several Metro lines (e.g. Lines 1, 2A, 7, and the Aqua/Metro Line 3) that connect key areas. These are faster, less crowded than trains sometimes, and air-conditioned.
Monorail is available in certain suburbs, though its network is more limited.
🚌 Buses (BEST etc.)
BEST (Brihanmumbai Electric Supply & Transport) runs a large network of buses in Mumbai. Some are AC, some non-AC. Routes cover many neighbourhoods.
Bus fares are quite affordable; cost depends on distance.
🚕 Taxis, Auto-Rickshaws & App-Cabs
Traditional black-and-yellow taxis are iconic; require meter.
Auto-rickshaws are shorter-distance, cheaper, but may not be allowed in all areas (e.g. some parts of South Mumbai).
App-based services (Uber, Ola etc.) are widely available and often more comfortable.
⛴️ Ferries / Boats
There are ferry services across certain waterways (e.g. between Mumbai and Alibaug, or around the harbour). Good option if your itinerary includes coastal or island areas.
✈️ Airport Connectivity
Mumbai’s main airport (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport) is connected by taxis, app cabs, buses and also local trains depending on the terminal and nearby stations.
💳 Travel & Ticketing Cards / Passes
Mumbai 1 Smart Card: This is a unified smart‐card being introduced for use across many transport modes (local trains, metro, monorail, buses). Meant to simplify travel by using a single card.
It is part of the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) scheme.
There are also tourist/local train passes offering unlimited travel for durations such as 1, 3 or 5 days, useful if you’ll be using local trains often.
🔗 Useful Official Websites
Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd: mmrcl.com – for metro info, fares, station maps etc. mmrcl.com
Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC): for longer-distance/state bus services. msrtc.maharashtra.gov.in
Eating out for vegans in Mumbai
🥗 Vegan Food in Mumbai, India
Mumbai might not be the first city you think of for vegan dining, but it’s quickly becoming easier to enjoy tasty, plant-based meals. Here are some great places to try:
🌿 Earthlings Café – Bandra
A popular vegan café in Bandra offering a wide range of dishes, from pizzas and burgers to traditional Indian options. Known for its warm atmosphere and creative desserts.
📍 Address: Shop 3, Galaxy Residency, Chimbai Road, Bandra West, Mumbai
🌐 Website: earthlingscafe.in
🍜 Seed Café – Juhu
A wellness-focused café that serves wholesome vegan bowls, smoothies, and raw desserts. A favourite for health-conscious diners looking for clean and flavourful food.
📍 Address: 8, Janki Kutir, Juhu Church Road, Mumbai
🌐 Instagram: @seedcafemumbai
🛒 Rare Earth – Vegan Store & Café
Mumbai’s first fully vegan store, offering groceries, plant-based alternatives, and a café with snacks and meals. A one-stop shop for all things cruelty-free.
📍 Address: 10th Road, Juhu, Mumbai
🌐 Website: rareearththeorganicstore.com
🍽️ The Yoga House – Bandra
A calm and welcoming spot that serves vegetarian and vegan-friendly meals. While not fully vegan, they clearly mark plant-based choices on the menu.
📍 Address: Nargis Villa, Sherly Rajan Road, Bandra West, Mumbai
🌐 Website: theyogahouse.in
🧁 Sequel Bistro & Juice Bar – Multiple Locations
A stylish café known for organic, plant-based dishes and desserts. Their smoothies, superfood bowls, and vegan pastries are especially popular.
📍 Locations: Bandra, Kala Ghoda, BKC
🌐 Website: sequelmumbai.in
🥙 Burma Burma – Multiple Locations
Though not entirely vegan, this restaurant offers a dedicated vegan menu with Burmese dishes like tea leaf salad, curries, and noodles.
📍 Locations: Fort, Lower Parel, BKC
🌐 Website: burmaburma.in
🌱 Kitchen Garden by Suzette – Various Branches
Perfect for a quick bite, this café offers vegan-friendly salads, sandwiches, and smoothies. Ingredients are fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced.
📍 Locations: Bandra, BKC, Andheri
🌐 Website: kitchengardenbysuzette.in
The best time to visit Mumbai
☀️ Best Time to Visit Mumbai
Mumbai, India’s bustling coastal city, offers a unique blend of history, culture, food, and seaside charm. But with its tropical climate, the experience can feel very different depending on the season.
🌸 Winter (November – February)
This is the most pleasant time to visit. The weather is cooler and less humid, with average temperatures between 17°C and 30°C. Perfect for sightseeing, exploring street markets, and walking along Marine Drive. Festivals like Diwali (Nov) and Kala Ghoda Arts Festival (Feb) add extra charm.
🌧️ Monsoon (June – September)
Mumbai is famous for its heavy rains during the monsoon. The city transforms into a lush, green landscape, but flooding and travel delays are common. Temperatures range from 24°C to 29°C. While not ideal for tourists, the monsoon has its own romance, especially when enjoyed with a cup of hot chai by the sea.
🔥 Summer (March – May)
Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures soaring to 35°C and above. Outdoor activities can feel uncomfortable, though evenings by the coast offer some relief. This season is less crowded with tourists, so it’s better for budget travellers who don’t mind the heat.
📌 Summary
The best time to visit Mumbai is from November to February, when the weather is most comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
📊 Best Time to Visit Mumbai – At a Glance
| Season | Months | Temperature Range | Highlights | Things to Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🌸 Winter | Nov – Feb | 17°C – 30°C | Festivals, sightseeing, outdoor walks | Best time to visit |
| 🔥 Summer | Mar – May | 25°C – 35°C+ | Less crowded, cheaper stays | Hot & humid |
| 🌧️ Monsoon | Jun – Sep | 24°C – 29°C | Lush greenery, monsoon charm | Heavy rain, flooding |
| 🌤️ Post-Monsoon | Oct – Early Nov | 23°C – 32°C | Pleasant transition, festive season | Can be humid |
Where to stay in Mumbai
🏙️ South Mumbai (Colaba & Fort)
South Mumbai is perfect for first-time visitors who want to be close to iconic landmarks such as the Gateway of India, Marine Drive, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. The area offers a mix of colonial architecture, luxury hotels, budget stays, museums, and vibrant street markets.
🌊 Marine Drive & Chowpatty
For those who enjoy stunning sea views, Marine Drive is a top choice. Staying here means easy access to the famous promenade, beachside snacks at Chowpatty, and plenty of restaurants and cafés. It’s especially lively in the evenings when locals gather by the seaside.
🛍️ Bandra
Known as the “Queen of the Suburbs,” Bandra blends old-world charm with a modern, trendy lifestyle. It’s popular for boutique shopping, stylish cafés, vibrant nightlife, and seaside promenades. Many Bollywood celebrities also live here, adding to its glamour.
🌆 Juhu
Juhu is famous for its beach, luxury hotels, and the chance to spot Bollywood stars. It’s a family-friendly area with plenty of dining options and easy access to theatres and shopping hubs.
✈️ Andheri (East & West)
Conveniently close to the airport, Andheri offers a wide range of hotels for all budgets. Andheri West is known for its lively dining and nightlife scene, while Andheri East is popular for business travellers due to its proximity to commercial hubs.
🏢 Powai
A modern neighbourhood with lakeside views, Powai is ideal for those seeking a quieter, upscale stay. It’s well-planned, with luxury hotels, restaurants, and a cosmopolitan vibe, away from the chaos of central Mumbai.
🏖️ Versova
Versova, close to Andheri, has a bohemian and artistic feel. It’s popular with creative professionals and offers a quieter beach, seafood joints, and trendy cafés.
1. Mid Range: Residency Hotel Fort
Residency Hotel Fort Mumbai is a charming boutique property located in the heart of South Mumbai, offering guests a warm blend of comfort, elegance, and old-world charm. Set within a heritage building, the hotel combines colonial-style architecture with modern amenities, making it a popular choice for both leisure and business travellers. Its prime location in the historic Fort district means that iconic landmarks such as the Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, and the bustling Colaba Causeway are just a short walk or drive away. The interiors are tastefully decorated, with a mix of traditional wooden furnishings and contemporary touches that create a welcoming atmosphere. Rooms are well-appointed with air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, satellite television, and en-suite bathrooms, ensuring convenience and relaxation. The hotel is also praised for its attentive staff who go out of their way to make each stay memorable, offering personalised service and local recommendations. A hearty breakfast is included, featuring both Indian and continental options, which provides the perfect start to a day of exploring the city. With its combination of location, comfort, and hospitality, Residency Hotel Fort Mumbai is an excellent base for visitors who want to experience the cultural richness and vibrant energy of Mumbai.
2. Luxury – The Leela Mumbai
The Leela Mumbai is a luxurious five-star hotel located conveniently close to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travellers. Surrounded by landscaped gardens and cascading waterfalls, the hotel offers a serene escape from the bustling energy of Mumbai while still keeping guests connected to the city’s major commercial districts. Inside, the interiors are grand and elegant, blending Indian opulence with contemporary comfort. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms and suites with modern amenities, as well as an impressive selection of dining options that range from fine Indian cuisine to international favourites. The hotel also boasts a full-service spa, a large outdoor swimming pool, and state-of-the-art fitness facilities, ensuring a well-rounded experience for those seeking relaxation or rejuvenation. For corporate visitors, The Leela Mumbai provides extensive conference and banquet spaces, equipped with the latest technology and supported by attentive staff, making it a preferred venue for events, meetings, and weddings. With its impeccable service, refined atmosphere, and convenient location, The Leela Mumbai is widely regarded as one of the city’s most distinguished and welcoming luxury hotels.
3. Budget – Hotel Antique – Colaba
Hotel Antique in Colaba, Mumbai, is a charming mid-range property that offers visitors a comfortable stay in one of the city’s most vibrant and historic neighbourhoods. Nestled in the lively lanes of Colaba, the hotel provides easy access to some of Mumbai’s most iconic attractions, including the Gateway of India, the bustling Colaba Causeway market, and the scenic Marine Drive. The interiors combine a sense of old-world character with practical amenities, creating a homely and welcoming atmosphere for both leisure and business travellers. Rooms are clean and simply furnished, with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and essential facilities that make for a convenient stay without unnecessary frills. Guests particularly appreciate the hotel’s friendly staff, who go out of their way to offer assistance and local recommendations, adding to the overall warmth of the experience. Being located in Colaba also means guests are never far from popular cafés, art galleries, and restaurants, making it an ideal base for exploring Mumbai’s cosmopolitan side while still enjoying the character of a historic neighbourhood. Hotel Antique is particularly popular with travellers looking for value, location, and a sense of authentic Mumbai charm.
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