Mumbai, the ‘city that never sleeps’, has been a cultural and artistic hub ever since its inception. The beautiful city’s rich history is stunningly apparent in its intricate architecture and cultural centres. From unique tourist attractions to bustling markets, lively nightlife and fantastic museums, Mumbai packs everything for the ever-curious traveller. The city has something for everyone and piques your curiosity with its umpteen offerings.
If you are travelling to Mumbai soon, then a few places should be on your checklist, and we don’t just mean the usual Juhu Beach and Gateway Of India. The museums in Mumbai also make for some of the best jewels of the city and are spots that should not be missed. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a science geek or simply want to know more about the city’s history, the museums in Mumbai shall cater to all your needs.
Here is a list of the best museums in Mumbai that you should instantly add to your travel itinerary.
7 Best Museums of Mumbai
1. National Gallery Of Modern Art
Born out of the idea that India’s artistic scene should have a space where art can thrive, NGMA today has some of the best art exhibitions in Mumbai and showcases work from some of the most renowned artists. Rabindranath Tagore, Pablo Picasso, Maqbool Fida Husain, Homi Bhabha and Raja Ravi Verma are just a few of the many artists whose work is displayed at this gallery. As India’s most prominent art hub, NGMA seamlessly records the country’s evolving artistic world.
Address: Sir Cowasji Jahangir Public Hall, MG Road, Fort, Mumbai
Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Closed On Monday)
Entry Fee: INR 20/-
Also Read: Water Kingdom Mumbai
2. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
Formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum Mumbai, Shivaji Museum Mumbai was established to promote our country’s rich heritage. Built in an Indo-gothic architectural style designed by George Willet, the museum is one of Mumbai’s most aesthetically pleasing buildings. It is home to relics and artworks from the Mughal era, Buddhist sculpture from the Maurya age and pottery dating back to the Indus Valley. The museum also has exhibits that depict India’s trade relations with the rest of the world.
Address: MG Road, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai
Timings: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 70 (Adults); INR 35 (College Students); INR 20 (Children & Students)
3. Nehru Centre
A prominent science museum in Mumbai, Nehru Centre consists of a planetarium, an art gallery, a culture wing and the Discovery of India Exposition. Whether you want to learn about astronomy or our nation’s rich history through artefacts, you can find it all at Nehru Centre. Besides science and history, Nehru Centre is also home to an art gallery which promotes young artists and a cultural centre where you can enjoy drama, poetry, dance and other programs.
Address: Nehru Centre Dr. Annie Besant Road, Worli, Mumbai – 400018. India.
Timings: 10:15 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 150/- (For five years and above)
4. BEST Transport Museum
Red buses are an integral part of Mumbai’s legacy. You can best explore their history and evolution at the BEST Transport Museum. These buses were the first mode of public transport for the residents of Mumbai. Mini-models of the red bus, old bus tickets, black and white vintage photographs of buses, route maps and badges worn by conductors are just a few of the memorabilia put on display at this museum.
Address: Anik Bus Depot, Sion
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closes on Mondays & Tuesdays)
Entry Fee: Free
5. Mani Bhavan
Also known as the Gandhi Museum Mumbai, Mani Bhavan once served as a shelter for India’s most prominent freedom fighters. A famous museum in Mumbai, Mani Bhavan, is where Mahatma Gandhi carried out several freedom movements, including Satyagraha and Swadeshi. As you head to this museum, you can explore the rooms where Gandhi lived and worked from. It also has his spinning wheel and his pictures from different phases of life on display.
Address: 19 Laburnum Road, Gamdevi,Mumbai – 400 007
Timings: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 20/- | INR 10/- (For Students)
6. RBI Monetary Museum
As the financial capital of India, it is only right that you can learn about money minting in Mumbai. RBI Monetary Museum is the right place for it as it has all the information about Indian currency and its evolution. From coins that honoured Greek Emperors to rare ones with religious imagery, calligraphy and king’s emblems, you can find them all on display at this museum. Aptly located in the Reserve Bank of India’s building, the museum is a great place to learn about money!
Address: Amar Building, Sir Phirozshah Mehta Road, Fort, Mumbai
Timings: 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 10/-
7. Wax Museum Mumbai
A fun respite from history, Wax Museum Mumbai, also known as Red Carpet Wax Museum, has life-sized wax figures of renowned personalities. True to its name, this museum makes you feel like walking a red carpet amidst your favourite celebrities. You can also click pictures with your favourite celebrities as you visit this museum. It is one of the more fun museums in Mumbai and should be missed, especially if you love the glamour world.
Address: R City Mall, 1, Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg, Amrut Nagar, Ghatkopar West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400086
Timings: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 300/-
As you set out to explore the best museums in Mumbai, make sure to book your stay beforehand. The LaLiT Mumbai has got you covered with its top-notch and luxurious amenities. As one of the best hotels in Mumbai, The LaLiT Mumbai aims to deliver a memorable experience every time.
