Mumbai Local Tips
Insider knowledge to navigate Mumbai like a local
Scam Warnings
Gem/jewelry export scam - never agree to ship items abroad
Commission-based auto drivers taking you to specific shops
Fake 'government approved' shops near monuments
Inflated prices for foreigners - always ask locals
Pushy priests at temples asking for donations
Overpriced elephant rides at Amer Fort
Free map/guide that leads to commission shops
Unofficial tour guides at popular sites
Bargaining Tips
Start at 40-50% of the quoted price
Compare prices at 2-3 shops before buying
Walk away technique works - they often call you back
Fixed price shops exist at government emporiums
Cash often gets better deals than cards
Don't show too much interest initially
Be friendly - aggressive bargaining is frowned upon
Buy multiple items for better discounts
Getting Around
Use Uber/Ola for fair fares - avoid negotiation hassle
Metro is clean, safe, and cheap (₹10-30)
Pre-book taxis for airport/day trips
Auto fares: Start meter or negotiate ₹50-100 for short trips
Full-day taxi: ₹2000-2500 for sightseeing
Don't drive yourself - traffic is chaotic
Airport prepaid taxi counter has fixed rates
Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees at temples
Temples & Religious SitesRemove shoes before entering temples
TemplesHead covering for women at Dargah (provided free)
Ajmer DargahLight, breathable cotton clothes recommended
GeneralComfortable walking shoes essential
SightseeingCarry dupatta/scarf for temple visits
WomenSmart casuals for fine dining restaurants
RestaurantsBest Times
| Time | Best For | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| 6-8 AM | Amer Fort (avoid crowds), morning temples | Bazaars (closed) |
| 9-11 AM | Street food breakfast, City Palace | Starting day trips |
| 12-3 PM | AC museums, lunch break | Outdoor sightseeing (too hot) |
| 4-7 PM | Bazaar shopping, Nahargarh sunset | Major monuments (closing) |
| 7-10 PM | Dinner, Chokhi Dhani, night markets | Isolated areas |
Money Matters
Carry cash - many bazaar shops don't accept cards
UPI (Google Pay, PhonePe) widely accepted
ATMs available near tourist areas
Tip 5-10% at restaurants (if no service charge)
Keep small change for temple donations, tips
Don't flash expensive items or large cash
Emergency
Essential Guide
Mumbai welcomes over 3 million tourists annually. Best time to visit is October to March (15-25°C). Shops open late (10-11 AM) and close by 8-9 PM. Hindi and Marathi are primary languages, though English is understood in tourist areas. Learn basics like "Namaste" (hello) and "Kitna?" (how much?).
FAQs
How much should I bargain in Mumbai bazaars?
Start at 40-50% of the quoted price and settle around 60-70%. Shopkeepers expect bargaining and initial prices are inflated for tourists. Compare prices at 2-3 shops before buying. Walk away if needed - vendors often call you back with better offers. Government emporiums like Rajasthali have fixed prices if you prefer not to bargain.
Is Mumbai safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, Mumbai is generally safe for solo female travelers. Stick to busy areas, dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees), avoid isolated areas after dark, and use Uber/Ola instead of auto-rickshaws at night. City of Dreams area and major tourist spots are well-policed. The metro is very safe and recommended for solo women.
What is the biggest tourist scam in Mumbai?
The gem/jewelry export scam is the most damaging. Scammers befriend tourists and convince them to 'export' gems for commission, claiming profit-sharing. Never agree to ship items abroad or make purchases based on stranger recommendations. Also beware of auto drivers taking you to 'government approved' shops for commission.
What should I wear to temples in Mumbai?
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Women should carry a dupatta or scarf. Remove shoes before entering temple premises. Some temples like Birla Mandir provide covers if needed. For Ajmer Sharif Dargah (day trip), women need head covering (provided free at entrance). Lightweight cotton clothing is best for Mumbai's climate.
What is the best time of day to visit Mumbai attractions?
Visit Amer Fort at 6-8 AM to avoid crowds and heat. City Palace and Hawa Mahal are best 9-11 AM. Avoid outdoor sightseeing 12-3 PM (too hot). Bazaar shopping is best 4-7 PM when shops are active. Nahargarh sunset is 5-7 PM. Night markets and Chokhi Dhani are good 7-10 PM options.
Should I tip in Mumbai restaurants?
Tip 5-10% at restaurants if no service charge is included. For auto drivers and taxi, rounding up is appreciated but not expected. At hotels, ₹50-100 for housekeeping per day is standard. For guides, ₹200-500 depending on duration. Keep small change (₹10-20 notes) for temple donations and small services.