Mumbai and monsoons are a combination that has been romanticised for a long time. From the splashes of the sea drenching you in Marine Drive to the hot cutting chai, you get at your local tapri, monsoons in Mumbai are more so a feeling loved and cherished by the locals. We have therefore curated a list of the best things to do on a rainy day in Mumbai.
1. Go on nature trails
Monsoon calls for a refreshing change of scenery. Gone are the sticky and humid days now replaced by cool crisp air and strong splashes of rain jittering down. The Sanjay Gandhi National Park or the Yeoor Forest in Thane offers a chance to head out on nature trails without ever leaving the city. A welcome change, witness the brighter shades of green all around as the greenery and rain make for the most enchanting combination. Further, if you love adventure, trekking to the Kanheri Caves is a great option for an excursion.
2. Get drenched by the tides at Marine Drive
If you are one of those who love getting drenched in the rain, we recommend heading to Marine Drive. The cool sea breeze, the gigantic waves, and the sight of incoming monsoon clouds with rains splattering down is as close to the Mumbai monsoon experience as you can get. Side note: Pedestrian movement gets restricted on high-alert days so always check the schedule first.
3. Enjoy hot chai and bhutta (corn on the cob) at Bandra Bandstand
Bandra promenade is another hotspot during the monsoons in Mumbai. Get yourself a cup of hot cutting chai and perch yourself by the rocky coastline of the Arabian Sea. Trust us, nothing beats the combination of chai, the view of the sea, and the grey clouds overhead.
4. Visit the Gateway of India
Dramatic clouds, large waves crashing along the border walls, and the lingering mist surrounding the tall architecture on the Mumbai waterfront! Walk along the iconic Taj Mahal Hotel and the colonial architecture around it, and you can capture some of the most aesthetic pictures to spam your gram.
5. Have a fun splash at the Water Kingdom
You wouldn’t expect to visit a water park in Mumbai on a rainy day. But why not? The early monsoon season is perfect for visiting the Water Kingdom at Borivali, especially if you prefer fewer crowds. Enjoy the water slides, jump in the pool, or drift along the lazy river. Don’t miss out on the special discounts during the monsoons—typically an off-season.
6. Play football in open playgrounds
If you don’t mind the mess and mud of the rainy season, gather your buddies for a football game in open playgrounds like Azad Maidan, Oval Maidan, or those around your locality. Relive your childhood days by kicking and splashing along the sludge as you strive to score a goal.
7. Experience a romantic dinner at a sea-facing restaurant
Soak in the romantic vibe of the monsoons by planning a dinner at one of the many sea-facing restaurants in the city. Mumbai is blessed with a sea view, and several romantic restaurants, such as Pizza By The Way, Dome, Estella, and Bay View Cafe allow you to admire it with their sumptuous menu. Surprise your partner with a romantic date where a cool breeze, combined with the sound of the sea, creates a magical and memorable setting.
8. Relish on street food
Mumbai monsoons are meant to be enjoyed while gorging on its quintessential street food. Butter-slattered spicy bhuttas, steaming hot vada pav, or pavs swabbing buttery bhajis. The aroma of hot-fried Batata Vadas (mashed potato patty) with a cup of masala chai is especially addicting when you are soaking wet.
9. Plan a monsoon getaway
Recruit a few friends, pack up your car, and venture out to the hills (or the beach) to make the most out of the grey-ridden clouds! The sound of the rain against the backdrop of green towering hills is a postcard memory that we wish for everyone. We have therefore curated a list of the best destinations to plan a getaway from Mumbai during the monsoon months. You can find the full list of places here.