When people think of Mumbai, they imagine the Gateway of India, Marine Drive, the glamour of Bollywood, and the bustling local trains. But the real charm of Mumbai often hides behind the obvious. Away from the touristy glare, there are quiet corners, secret gardens, old forts, and local treasures that even many Mumbaikars overlook.
🌿 1. Worli Fort — A Forgotten Colonial Sentinel
Tucked between fishing villages and skyscrapers is the 17th-century Worli Fort — a crumbling colonial outpost overlooking the Arabian Sea. Built by the British to keep an eye on pirates, this fort is now surrounded by the quaint Koli fishing community.
Why visit?
- Stunning view of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link.
- Sunset photography spot away from the crowds.
- A short walk through Koli Village feels like stepping back in time.
Local Tip: Visit early evening when local kids play cricket inside the fort walls — the vibe is raw and nostalgic.
🏞️ 2. Gilbert Hill — A 66-Million-Year-Old Monolith
Andheri is known for its bustling lanes, studios, and night markets — but hidden right here is Gilbert Hill, a 200-foot volcanic basalt rock formed during the Mesozoic era. Few tourists know you can actually climb to the top.
Why visit?
- A rare geological marvel in the middle of a city.
- Two ancient temples — Gaondevi and Durga Mandir — perched on the top.
- Panoramic view of the suburban skyline.
Local Tip: The stairs are steep — wear good shoes and try climbing before sunset for the best golden light.
🛕 3. Banganga Tank — Mumbai’s Sacred Oasis
Walk into Walkeshwar and you’ll find Banganga Tank, an ancient water tank surrounded by heritage temples and havelis. Built in the 12th century by the Silhara dynasty and rebuilt in the 18th century, it’s still used for rituals.
Why visit?
- Watch priests perform evening aartis on the ghats.
- Sit by the steps as locals feed fish in the sacred water.
- Listen to mystic stories about Lord Rama visiting here.
Local Tip: The narrow alleys around Banganga have old stone houses and secret shrines — wander without a map!
🎨 4. Khotachiwadi — A Heritage Village Frozen in Time
Hidden inside Girgaon is Khotachiwadi — one of Mumbai’s last surviving heritage villages. It’s a Portuguese-style hamlet with narrow lanes, colorful bungalows, wooden staircases, and quaint verandahs.
Why visit?
- Vintage architecture that tells the story of old Bombay.
- Meet the East Indian community that still lives here.
- A paradise for street photographers.
Local Tip: Visit during early morning or dusk — the pastel houses look magical in soft light.
🌳 5. Sewri Fort and Flamingo Point
Mumbai’s Sewri is an industrial zone, but it hides two surprises — a forgotten 17th-century fort and flamingos! From October to March, thousands of migratory flamingos flock to the Sewri mudflats.
Why visit?
- Climb Sewri Fort’s ramparts for a panoramic view of flamingos and mangroves.
- Birdwatching in the heart of the city.
- Great spot for nature photographers.
Local Tip: Bring binoculars and come at low tide — flamingos gather closer to the shore then.
🧿 6. Maharashtra Nature Park — A Jungle Inside Mumbai
Near Dharavi, an old garbage dump has been transformed into a 37-acre urban forest. Maharashtra Nature Park is a peaceful escape for nature lovers and a lesson in eco-restoration.
Why visit?
- 300+ species of plants and birds.
- Guided nature trails, butterfly garden, and bird hides.
- A refreshing green break amidst Mumbai’s chaos.
Local Tip: They often host eco-workshops and guided tours — check their schedule online before visiting.
🗝️ 7. Global Vipassana Pagoda — A Meditation Marvel
Near Gorai lies the Global Vipassana Pagoda, one of Asia’s largest meditation domes. Its architecture is inspired by the Shwedagon Pagoda in Myanmar. Tourists often skip it because of its remote location — but it’s worth every minute.
Why visit?
- World’s largest stone dome built without supporting pillars.
- Peaceful, free-entry meditation hall for visitors.
- Overlooks the Arabian Sea and Essel World.
Local Tip: Take the ferry from Gorai Jetty for a scenic ride, and remember — silence is golden here!
📚 8. David Sassoon Library — Mumbai’s Literary Hideaway
Tucked in the heritage precinct of Kala Ghoda, the David Sassoon Library is one of Mumbai’s oldest reading rooms, opened in 1870. Built with beautiful yellow Malad stone in Venetian Gothic style, this place is a hidden gem for book lovers and history buffs.
Why visit?
- Stunning old-world architecture with wooden staircases and iron balconies.
- Peaceful reading area that feels frozen in time.
- The garden courtyard where students quietly read under ancient trees.
Local Tip: Non-members can still explore the main lobby and garden, but if you love old books, pay for a day pass to access rare collections.
🏛️ 9. Ballard Estate — Mumbai’s Colonial Business District
Most tourists rush past Ballard Estate without noticing its elegant old buildings. Designed by George Wittet in the early 20th century, this business district is full of European-style architecture, wide roads, and hidden cafés.
Why visit?
- Explore grand Edwardian buildings like Port Trust Headquarters.
- Sip chai at Britannia & Co. — an old Irani café that still serves berry pulao.
- Quiet lanes for architectural photography.
Local Tip: Visit early on a Sunday when the area is empty — the silence makes you feel you’re in an old European quarter.
🕉️ 10. Babulnath Temple — A Temple in the Sky
Overlooking Girgaon Chowpatty is Babulnath Temple, one of Mumbai’s oldest Shiva shrines dating back to the 12th century. Climb over 100 steep steps and you’ll find yourself in a serene space high above city chaos.
Why visit?
- Peaceful spiritual spot with stunning city views.
- Unique architecture and intricate carvings.
- Devotees believe wishes come true if you tie a bell here.
Local Tip: Go during Maha Shivratri when the temple is beautifully decorated with thousands of lamps.
🎭 11. Prithvi Theatre — The Hidden Gem of Mumbai’s Performing Arts
While not a “secret” for theatre fans, many tourists never experience Prithvi Theatre — a cultural landmark in Juhu started by the legendary Kapoor family.
Why visit?
- Watch indie plays and experimental performances at pocket-friendly prices.
- Chill at the Prithvi Café with Irish coffee and bun maska.
- Meet Mumbai’s upcoming artists — actors, poets, musicians.
Local Tip: Check their website for play schedules — many shows sell out fast, so book in advance!
🗿 12. Mandapeshwar Caves — Forgotten Rock-Cut Wonder
Everyone knows Elephanta Caves, but have you heard of Mandapeshwar Caves? Located in Borivali, these 8th-century rock-cut caves are lesser known but equally fascinating.
Why visit?
- Ancient sculptures of Shiva, Nataraja, and other deities carved in basalt.
- Peaceful site inside a small park — perfect for quiet exploration.
- A hidden glimpse of Mumbai’s Buddhist and Hindu heritage.
Local Tip: Visit during weekdays to have the caves almost to yourself.
⚓ 13. Sassoon Docks — The Colourful Fish Market & Art Space
One of Mumbai’s oldest docks, Sassoon Docks in Colaba, is a living heritage site — a raw fish market by morning and an urban art hub by evening.
Why visit?
- Witness fishermen auctioning fresh catch before sunrise.
- Street art and murals by local and international artists on old dock walls.
- Photography heaven for capturing Mumbai’s working class life.
Local Tip: Go really early — 5 AM to 7 AM — for the real action, and carry strong shoes, the ground can be messy!
🧳 14. Chhota Kashmir — Mumbai’s Secret Garden in Aarey
Inside the Aarey Milk Colony hides Chhota Kashmir — a beautiful green patch with a peaceful lake and boat rides. Once a film shooting hotspot, it’s now a hidden picnic spot for families.
Why visit?
- Rowboats on a small serene lake surrounded by forested patches.
- Lush gardens, chirping birds, and zero city noise.
- Old Bollywood nostalgia — many vintage songs were shot here.
Local Tip: Avoid weekends if you want peace — weekdays are perfect for solitude and photography.
🎨 15. Chor Bazaar — Mumbai’s Iconic Thieves’ Market
No hidden places list is complete without Chor Bazaar — literally “Thieves’ Market.” Dating back over 150 years, Chor Bazaar is a maze of narrow lanes packed with antiques, old Bollywood posters, vintage gramophones, furniture, and random curiosities.
Why visit?
- Hunt for rare collectibles — coins, vinyl records, old cameras.
- Bargain with witty shopkeepers who have stories for every object.
- Get a peek into Mumbai’s old-world charm and street culture.
Local Tip: Go early morning to avoid the rush. Bargaining is an art here — don’t hesitate!
🗿 16. Mahakali Caves — Ancient Buddhist Heritage
Hidden in the Andheri East suburb, Mahakali Caves are rock-cut Buddhist monasteries from the 1st century BCE to 6th century CE. These caves served as cells for monks and have beautiful bas-reliefs.
Why visit?
- Explore 19 rock-cut caves surrounded by urban sprawl.
- See ancient inscriptions and sculptures that survived centuries.
- Peaceful vibe — a quiet heritage spot amidst Mumbai’s chaos.
Local Tip: Early mornings or evenings are best — it can get hot during the day. Wear shoes with good grip as the rocks can be slippery.
🎢 17. Shilonda Trail — The Secret Jungle Trail Inside Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is famous, but Shilonda Trail inside it is a lesser-known treasure. This guided trail lets you hike deep into the park’s core area through dense forests, streams, and ancient rock formations.
Why visit?
- Offbeat jungle trek without leaving the city.
- Spot butterflies, birds, and maybe even spotted deer.
- Perfect for nature walks and weekend escapes.
Local Tip: Book your trail pass at the park gate and hire a guide — the trail is not marked for solo explorers.
🧭 18. Gloria Church — The Forgotten Neo-Gothic Beauty
Tucked inside Byculla is Gloria Church — a stunning 100-year-old Neo-Gothic cathedral that many Mumbaikars don’t know exists. It’s one of Mumbai’s oldest Roman Catholic churches.
Why visit?
- Gorgeous stained glass windows and vaulted ceilings.
- Quiet sanctuary to sit and reflect away from city noise.
- Bollywood trivia: Several movies were shot here, including scenes from “Dhobi Ghat.”
Local Tip: It’s still an active church — be respectful and visit during non-service hours for photography.
🌊 19. Manori Island — A Mini-Goa Near Mumbai
Want Goa vibes without leaving the city? Take a short ferry ride to Manori Island, near Malad-Marve. It’s a sleepy fishing village with palm-lined beaches, beach shacks, and old Portuguese-style cottages.
Why visit?
- Less crowded beaches compared to Juhu or Aksa.
- Local seafood at simple shacks right on the sand.
- Sunset here feels like you’re on vacation miles away.
Local Tip: Catch the ferry from Marve Jetty — it’s a quick 15-minute ride but feels like entering another world.
🗺️ 20. Gilbert Trail — Mumbai’s Secret Urban Hike
Not to be confused with Gilbert Hill, the Gilbert Trail is an unofficial name locals give to a small, peaceful walking trail near Malabar Hill, winding through Hanging Gardens and Kamala Nehru Park.
Why visit?
- Quiet walking path under lush trees with spectacular views of Marine Drive.
- Find hidden corners for a perfect city sunset shot.
- Locals come here for early morning jogs — join them!
Local Tip: Stay until dusk — the Queen’s Necklace (Marine Drive) view lighting up is the perfect ending.
✅ Wrap-Up: Mumbai’s Secret Side
With these 20 hidden places, you’ve unlocked Mumbai’s secret map — forts, caves, hidden temples, quiet beaches, vintage markets, and secret gardens that reveal a side of the city most tourists never see.
When you explore these gems, travel responsibly:
- Respect local communities.
- Don’t litter.
- Bargain kindly with local vendors.
- Take nothing but memories.
Final Thoughts
Exploring these hidden places gives you a new lens through which to view Mumbai — a city not just of Bollywood and traffic but of forgotten forts, secret villages, and quiet escapes. Whether you’re a traveler, a photographer, or a local who’s lived here forever, these hidden spots in Mumbai will surprise and delight you in 2025.
Stay tuned on Instagram @TheGreatMumbai for visuals of these locations. Let’s uncover the city, one hidden gem at a time!
