A world in itself- Fort in Mumbai perched north of Colaba, is a neighbourhood that carries with it a little of everything. A bustling commercial district, it retains slices of history, art and culture, iconic eateries, fashion domains and natural estates, all that makes it whole. Home to the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, Mumbai’s iconic CST station and decades-old Yazdani bakery among more, a walk along the district’s historic premises is a treat in all its manners. We, therefore, bring you our guide to the best things to do in Fort, Mumbai.
1. Explore the heritage structures
The towering Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus is the first thing you notice upon arriving in this neighbourhood. This larger-than-life structure adorned with Victorian Gothic Revival architecture is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you walk along further, the intricacy of Fort’s historic buildings as well as the well-preserved structures lets you sample the milieu of Old Bombay. You can opt for several walking tours offered in the area for a thorough experience touring places like Bombay Port Trust, Asiatic Hall and many more.
2. Challenge reality at the Paradox Museum
This one-of-a-kind exhibition seeking to defy perceptions of reality is finally in Mumbai. With over 50 paradox exhibits, this interactive museum features the city’s only zero-gravity room. You can stumble through vortex tunnels, pose in the Squid Game auditoriums, fall through infinity wells or play a game of hide and seek in the camouflage room. Borrowing an hour of your time, is perfect for a fun activity planned with friends and family.
📍Shreeniwas House, Azad Maidan, Fort
🎟️You can get your tickets here
3. Shop your heart out at Crawford market
The city’s oldest wholesale and retail market offers honestly, everything! There are rarely things that fall through its expansive nooks and crannies featuring a vast range of household goodies. With dedicated lanes for beauty supplies, clothing, jewellery, food items and home decor among more, this market is a one-stop destination for all.
📍Lokmanya Tilak Rd, Dhobi Talao, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Area, Fort
4. Discover the city’s iconic bakeries
While there are several restaurants trailing the Fort district, the fresh, buttery whiffs tempting from some of Mumbai’s oldest eateries have no competitors. The soft bun maska submerged in Irani chai, spoonfuls of Parsi custard and warm apple pies, Shrewsberry cookies and the swabbing of luscious keema pavs win hearts in Yazdani Bakery and Kyani & Co. Their dilapidated corners carry their tenure and the fragrance still manages to keep the house packed.
📍Yazdani Bakery – 11A, Cawasji Patel Rd, Kala Ghoda, Fort
📍Kyani & Co. – Jer Mahal Estate, 657, Opp. Metro Inox Theatre, Dhobi Talao, Marine Lines
5. Explore the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum
A culmination of art, archaeology and natural history, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum is an icon. Hosting collections of artefacts from the Indus Valley Civilization to miniature paintings, ivory and jade collectables, geological minerals, and ancient coins, CSM is a storehouse full of wonderful wonders waiting to be explored.
📍159-161, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Kala Ghoda, Fort
6. Shop at the renowned Fashion street
Hosting 150 stalls, the street market sells everything from garments and accessories to footwear and more. Rummage through their saturated displays and we promise you will find a bargain (or twenty!).
📍New Marine Lines, Churchgate
7. Pick your next read at Kitab Khana
Submerged in books from floor to ceiling, Kitab Khana is a gorgeous bookstore calling on every literary fanatic. Perched in a 150-year-old beautiful building, the bookstore features everything from the classics to modern fiction. They also host book signings and literary events and further provide a soothing space for browsing and late afternoon reading sessions.
📍 45, Ground Floor, Flora Fountain Somaiya Bhavan, 47, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Fort
8. Sit by or stroll around Marine Drive
Extend your exploration around Fort by paying a visit to Mumbai’s iconic seafront. The sweeping Queen’s Necklace is an excellent place to catch the sunset and feel the gentle breeze which, honest to God, has several healing properties (Mumbaikars will agree!).
📍Marine Drive Promenade, Netaji Subhaschandra Bose Road, Churchgate