On a budget? Stuck in Mumbai? Why would anyone want to leave the city that has everything from Bollywood to beaches? Plan your staycation with these 10 ideas by Skyscanner.
1. Place a bet at Mahalaxmi Racecourse
Racing season runs from November to April. Watch a race and remember to walk up to one of the counters and place a bet. You’ll enjoy the atmosphere more when you join in the fun of cheering for your horse!
Read more from this series of articles: Holiday break in your city: Ahmedabad, Holiday break in your city: Delhi
2. Try Yoga
It’s not too late to cross out that New Year’s resolution to take up Yoga. Try a walk-in class with Deepika Mehta whose show – Yoga City – is on NDTV Good times. INR 650 for a walk-in Ashtanga Vinyasa class in Pali Hill, Bandra.
Read more: The best massage therapies in Asia
3. Study the city’s architecture
You’ve walked past these buildings plenty of times, but have you really looked at them? Discover the unique blend of local and Victorian Gothic styles called ‘Bombay Gothic’ at Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Rajabai Clock Tower and the University of Mumbai. Also, did you know that Mumbai is the largest hub of Art Deco style buildings in India? See Regal, Metro and Eros cinemas for the bold geometric lines that are signatures of Art Deco.
Read more: Best sunset points in India: in pictures
4. Take a ferry ride
Get on a boat from Ferry Wharf near the Gateway of India and visit Elephanta Caves, a group of stone Hindu and Buddhist rock-cut sculptures. Remember to take a selfie at the famous gateway to commemorate the visit of King George the Fifth in 1911.
Love nature and animals? Read more about the top 8 waterfalls in India.
5. Go for a walk
The best time to walk on Marine Drive is at sunset, when they light up the gentle curve of the coastline promenade that is called the Queen’s Necklace because it resembles a pearl necklace in aerial view. Have a Malai Kulfi at the Kulfi Centre across the road.
Read more: Top 10 streetfoods in India you simply must not miss
6. Explore a book-lover’s paradise
Kitab Khana bookstore in Fort, with its quaint cafe at the back, is a nice change from the growing number of chainstores coming up. If you’re in the area, wander around Flora Fountain in search of the pavement booksellers who have some great gems for your coffee table.
Read more: 10 real travel destinations made famous in Literature
7. Bargain hunt
Binge shop for clothing bargains on Fashion Street opposite Azad Maidan in Churchgate, accessories on Colaba Causeway and shoes on Linking Road, Bandra.
Read more about what to do in Bangkok if you love shopping and more.
8. Discover your hidden love of art
Chemould Prescott Road – Contemporary Art Gallery has been showcasing modern artists for decades in the city and Jehangir Art Gallery hosts shows by local artists and students. Both galleries are free to wander around in. For more traditional styles, visit Prince of Wales Museum’s gallery of Indian miniature painting.
Read more: 10 newly revamped airports in India
9. Love to jog?
Go for a run along the beach in the Bandra Bandstand area. If you want a taste of Bollywood madness, don’t miss the hordes of fans milling around Shah Rukh Khan’s and Salman Khan’s residences in the area.
Read more: A long weekend in Sri Lanka
10. Have Sunday brunch
Enjoy a five-star hotel breakfast without paying for accommodation! Treat yourself to a luxury all you can eat buffet brunch at the JW Marriott Hotel on Juhu Tara Road. INR 1258 for a Buffet breakfast.
Read more: Best places for nightlife Mumbai
Not local? Then get onto Skyscanner and book your flight to Mumbai now!
Read more from this series: Holiday break in your city: Ahmedabad, Holiday break in your city: Delhi
