15 Hidden Places in Mumbai Only Locals Know About
Mumbai is full of surprises. Everyone knows the famous places – Marine Drive, Gateway of India, Juhu Beach. But let me tell you, there’s more to this city than what tourists see. If you think you’ve seen it all, wait till you visit these hidden gems.
I’ve lived in Mumbai my whole life, and even I keep discovering new places. Some of these spots are so well hidden that only locals know about them. Today, I’ll take you through 15 such secret places that will show you a different side of Mumbai.
Banganga Tank
This ancient water tank in Walkeshwar is one of the oldest parts of Mumbai. It’s a quiet place, completely different from the usual city chaos. You’ll find old temples around, small houses, and a peaceful vibe. People believe this tank has holy water, and many come here for religious rituals. If you want to see old Mumbai, this is the place.
Dhobi Ghat Viewpoint
Everyone has heard of Dhobi Ghat, the massive open-air laundry. But did you know there’s a hidden viewpoint near Mahalaxmi station? If you go to the bridge above the railway tracks, you’ll get a perfect view of hundreds of clothes being washed. It’s a unique sight, something you won’t see anywhere else in the world.
Sassoon Docks
Most people think Mumbai’s docks are just for business, but Sassoon Docks in Colaba is different. It’s one of the oldest docks in the city, and you can see fishermen bringing in fresh catch early in the morning. It smells fishy, but if you can handle that, it’s worth a visit. Plus, the place is now filled with street art, making it an unusual mix of old and new Mumbai.
Gilbert Hill
Right in the middle of Andheri, there’s a huge rock that’s over 65 million years old. It’s called Gilbert Hill. Not many people know about it, but it’s one of the few volcanic rock formations in India. You can climb up a small temple at the top and get an amazing view of the city.
Chhota Kashmir
If you ever wished for a peaceful lake in Mumbai, Chhota Kashmir in Aarey Colony is the answer. There’s a small lake with boats and a garden nearby. It’s a great spot for a quiet evening, away from the noise of the city.
Khotachiwadi
This is a hidden village right inside Mumbai. Khotachiwadi is in Girgaum, and it has old Portuguese-style houses, narrow lanes, and a charm that takes you back in time. It’s one of the last few places in Mumbai where you can see how the city looked before all the skyscrapers took over.
Maharashtra Nature Park
Most people don’t expect to find a forest in Mumbai, but Maharashtra Nature Park in Dharavi is exactly that. It used to be a dumping ground, but now it’s full of trees, birds, and walking trails. If you love nature, this is a hidden paradise.
Sion Fort
Mumbai has forts, but most people only know about Bandra Fort. Sion Fort is much less crowded, and it has a great view of the city. Built by the British, it’s now partly in ruins, but it’s still worth a visit if you like history.
Jogeshwari Caves
Everyone knows about Elephanta Caves, but have you heard of Jogeshwari Caves? These ancient rock-cut caves are in the middle of the city, but hardly anyone visits them. If you like exploring old places, this one is for you.
Madanpura’s Chai Culture
If you love tea, you have to visit Madanpura. This area is famous for its strong, flavorful chai. The tea stalls here have been serving the same traditional chai for generations. It’s not a tourist spot, but if you want a real Mumbai tea experience, this is the place.
Versova Rock Beach
Most people go to Juhu Beach, but if you want a quieter, more scenic beach, head to Versova Rock Beach. It’s not a place for swimming, but the rocky shore and sunset views are stunning.
Worli Fishing Village
Right next to the fancy buildings of Worli, there’s a hidden fishing village. It feels like a completely different world. Small houses, narrow lanes, and people still living a traditional fishing life. It’s a great place to see Mumbai’s old culture.
Gilbert Hill Caves
Not just the hill, but there are also secret caves near Gilbert Hill. They are not as famous as Kanheri Caves, but they have an old-world feel and are worth a visit if you like exploring.
Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Garden
This is a small hidden garden in Byculla, not many people know about it. It’s quiet, well-maintained, and a perfect place if you want to sit and relax away from the crowd.
Tanker Ship Spot in Uttan
If you love photography, there’s a hidden spot in Uttan where you can see abandoned tanker ships. It’s an unusual sight, and not many people go there. You’ll need a local to guide you, but it’s worth the trip.
Summary
Mumbai is full of hidden places that most people don’t know about. If you’re tired of the usual crowded spots, these places will show you a completely different side of the city. Next time you’re looking for something unique, try visiting one of these secret gems. If you know any other hidden places, drop a comment below!
