When you think of Mumbai, what are the first images that come to your mind? Let us guess! Bustling streets with vendors selling delectable street food like vada pao and Bombay sandwiches, iconic Bollywood landmarks, Juhu Beach or towering skyscrapers. Amidst all this urban scenario, there lies a serene and spiritual side to this city, a plethora of temples in Mumbai that echo with devotion, culture, and history. These temples are a place to worship, but more than that, they are architectural marvels that tell stories of Mumbai’s rich heritage and culture. These temples serve as sanctuaries for those seeking solace in the urban chaos and a space where the city's vibrant culture comes alive through festivals and communal gatherings. Each temple to visit in Mumbai has its unique charm, inviting you to step inside and immerse yourself in a tranquil ambience.
So, if you are ready to embark on a transformative spiritual journey in your Mumbai tourism package, ahead are the top twelve temples you must definitely visit. So, explore the various Mumbai tour packages listed on Veena World and get ready to discover the hidden gems of spirituality in the City of Dreams, Mumbai.
Famous Temples in Mumbai
- Siddhivinayak Temple
- Mahalakshmi Temple
- ISKCON Temple
- Mahakali Caves Temple
- Walkeshwar Temple
- Banganga Tank Temple
- Ganesh Gully Temple
- Shree Mumbadevi Temple
- Swaminarayan Temple
- Knesset Eliyahoo Synagogue
- Babulnath Temple
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus Temple
Siddhivinayak Temple
Siddhivinayak Temple, the famous Ganesha mandir of Mumbai, consistently tops the list whenever you search for famous temples. Known for its stunning architecture and immense spiritual significance, Siddhivinayak Temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, attracts devotees worldwide, from Bollywood celebrities to commoners. Lord Ganesha is known as the remover of obstacles, and his idol in the temple is carved out of a single black stone. With its golden dome and intricately carved wooden doors, the temple is a symbol of Mumbai’s deep-rooted religious traditions and modern-day faith.
Best time to visit: Tuesdays, which are special for Lord Ganesha, but be prepared for the crowds.
Tip to visit: Consider visiting the temple in the early morning for a more peaceful and serene experience and easier darshan.
Mahalakshmi Temple
One of the most revered and oldest temples in Mumbai, the Mahalakshmi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi, the deity of prosperity and wealth. Overlooking the stunning Arabian Sea, the temple offers spiritual fulfilment and breathtaking views, making it a perfect combination for devotees and tourists alike.
Best time to visit: The nine-day Navratri festival is the best time to visit the Mahalakshmi Temple, when it is decked in colourful lights and flowers.
Tip to visit: Arrive at the temple just before sunset to witness the mesmerising view of the sea alongside your temple visit.
ISKCON Temple
Located near the famous Juhu Beach, the ISKCON Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is also one of the biggest temples in Mumbai. The temple is well-known among devotees for its spiritual teachings and the Govinda’s restaurant, which serves delicious vegetarian meals. The temple’s white marble interiors, intricate carvings, and peaceful atmosphere make it a must-visit temple in Mumbai for anyone looking to escape the city’s hustle and immerse themselves in divine tranquillity.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit the temple is during Janmashtami or during the daily evening aarti.
Tip to visit: Do not miss the soothing kirtan sessions, which fill the temple halls with mesmerising chants and music.
Mahakali Caves Temple
Tucked away in Andheri, this lesser-known temple to visit in Mumbai is dedicated to Goddess Kali, which dates back over 2,000 years. The temple in the City of Dreams offers a tranquil retreat from the chaos of the city, and the nearby caves add a touch of history and intrigue to your visit.
Best time to visit: Visit the temple early in the morning to enjoy a peaceful darshan.
Tip to visit: Pair your temple visit with a walk through the Mahakali caves to experience Mumbai’s ancient Buddhist past.
Walkeshwar Temple
Nestled in the upscale Malabar Hill area, the Walkeshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This famous and most powerful temple in Mumbai is believed to be where Lord Rama created a lingam out of sand. The temple is not only one of the significant religious sites but also a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Best time to visit: Visit the temple during the Banganga festival in January. During this time, the temple area comes alive with classical music performances.
Tip to visit: Do not miss the ancient Banganga Tank, which is believed to have healing powers.
Banganga Tank Temple
This most famous temple is located near Mumbai’s revered Malabar Hill. The Banganga Tank Temple is part of the ancient Walkeshwar Temple complex. The site is steeped in mythology and is believed to have been created by Lord Rama during his quest to rescue Goddess Sita. Surrounded by tiny temples and home to the sacred Banganga Tank, this temple offers both historical significance and a peaceful environment for reflection.
Best time to visit: Visit the temple in January during the Banganga Festival when musicians across the country and come and perform by the sacred tank.
Tip to visit: Spend some time walking around the narrow streets of Walkeshwar Temple to explore hidden gems of Mumbai’s spiritual side.
Ganesh Gully Temple
Located in Lalbaug, Ganesh Gali is a hotspot during Ganesh Chaturthi when the area lights up with massive celebrations. The Ganesh Gully is renowned as one of the famous Ganesh Temples in Mumbai, attracting thousands of devotees and tourists alike every year. Every year, the temple features a grand idol of Ganesha, fondly known as ‘Lalbaug cha Raja,’ intricately carved and designed with attention to detail, making it a major highlight of the festival.
Best time to visit: During Ganesh Chaturthi, when the whole street of Lalbaug turns into a festival hub.
Tip to visit: Plan your visit in the late evening to see the lights and grand displays without the intense midday heat.
Shree Mumbadevi Temple
Dedicated to Goddess Mumbadevi, the patron goddess after whom the city of Mumbai has been named, this temple is nestled within the bustling markets of Bhuleshwar. Despite its modest size, this temple in Mumbai holds immense significance, especially for locals. A visit to Mumbadevi Temple offers a spiritual experience and a chance to explore nearby lively markets.
Best time to visit: Visit the temple on weekdays to avoid the crowd gathering for weekend shopping.
Tip to visit: Explore the Bhuleshwar market after visiting the temple for an authentic Mumbai street shopping experience.
Swaminarayan Temple
This temple, dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, is one of the mandirs in Mumbai that is a true example of spirituality and architectural finesse. It is a spiritual and architectural marvel in which many devotees from around the globe come to seek blessings and marvel at the intricate detailing. The beautifully carved temple walls and serene surroundings create a perfect backdrop for prayer and meditation. The Swaminarayan Temple is also known for its grand celebrations during festivals like Janmashtami and Diwali.
Best time to visit: Visit the temple during Diwali, when the temple glows with stunning lighting displays.
Tip to visit: Attend a religious session or bhajan to experience the temple's calm and peaceful vibe.
Knesset Eliyahoo Synagogue
Though not a traditional Hindu temple, Knesset Eliyahoo Synagogue is a mandir in Mumbai that stands as a symbol of Mumbai’s Jewish community. Built in 1884, the religious site is known for its beautiful blue facade and stunning interiors. Visiting this place is a unique and historical experience showcasing the city’s religious diversity among various famous temples in Mumbai.
Best time to visit: Visit the Synagogue on weekdays to avoid crowd gatherings.
Tip to visit: A guided tour will give you an in-depth understanding of the Jewish heritage of Mumbai.
Babulnath Temple
Nestled on a hill, Babulnath Temple is another powerful temple in Mumbai. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and offers a serene retreat with panoramic views of the city and the Arabian Sea. The temple is a popular destination during Maha Shivratri, when thousands of devotees come to offer prayers. The quiet and calm atmosphere makes the temple perfect for unwinding and meditation.
Best time to visit: Early mornings and late evenings are the best time to visit the temple for a quiet atmosphere and scenic views.
Tip to visit: If you are not up for climbing the temple on foot, opt for the lift service.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus Temple
Within the iconic CST railway station, a small temple dedicated to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj stands as a tribute to the Maratha warrior. The juxtaposition of this one of the best temples in Mumbai with a bustling railway hub is a reflection of this city’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.
Best time to visit: Visit the temple on weekdays to avoid the commuter rush.
Tip to visit: After your temple visit, take time to admire the stunning architecture of CST, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The City of Dreams, Mumbai, is not just about a bustling metropolis but a city that perfectly intertwines spirituality and modernity. These famous temples in Mumbai offer a peaceful retreat from the city’s chaos and also allow devotees to immerse themselves in rich culture and age-old traditions. At Veena World, we understand that every journey is more than just visiting a destination; it is more about creating lasting memories. With our thoughtfully crafted Mumbai tourism packages, you can embark on a seamless journey across the city’s sacred landmarks, leaving all the worries behind. Let us take care of the details so you can focus on experiencing the divine essence of Mumbai.
Book your Mumbai tourism package today with Veena World, and let your journey into the city’s spiritual heart begin!
Post your Comment
Please let us know your thoughts on this story by leaving a comment.