How to Travel Like a Local in Mumbai: Train, Taxi, Auto
Mumbai — a city that never sleeps, yet never stands still. If you truly want to experience Mumbai like a Mumbaikar, forget plush cabs with tinted windows and five-star hotel cars. The real magic of Mumbai lies in its local trains, the ever-zipping autos, and its iconic kaali-peeli taxis. These three modes of transport form the veins and arteries of this mega-city, pumping life into millions of daily journeys.
So, how do you travel like a local in this bustling urban maze? Let’s start by understanding why public transport here is not just about getting from A to B — it’s an emotion, a culture, and for many, a way of life.
🚆 The Lifeline: Mumbai Local Trains
The Mumbai local train network is the heartbeat of the city. With more than 7.5 million passengers using them every day, the locals connect every corner of this vast metropolis — from the posh high-rises of South Mumbai to the far-flung suburbs stretching into Navi Mumbai.
A Brief History
The Mumbai suburban railway is Asia’s oldest local train network, dating back to 1853 when the first train ran from Bori Bunder (now CST) to Thane. Today, three major lines — Western, Central, and Harbour — form a massive spiderweb that carries everyone: students, dabbawalas, traders, office-goers, and tourists.
Buying a Ticket
Travel like a true Mumbaikar:
- Skip the long queues and get a Smart Card or use the UTS mobile app.
- Buy a first-class ticket if you want a bit of space, but the real local experience is in second-class compartments.
Train Etiquette
If you want to blend in:
- Stand in a queue — yes, even when it looks chaotic, there’s an invisible system at play.
- Let passengers alight first. Jumping in before people get off is a big no.
- Don’t block the door if you’re not getting down at the next station.
Pro Tips
- Avoid peak hours if you’re new: 8–10 AM and 6–8 PM are packed like sardine cans.
- Always hold onto the metal handles — sudden jerks and crowds can knock you off balance.
- Ladies can use the Ladies Compartment, which is reserved and safer for women.
🚖 Kaali-Peeli Taxis: Mumbai’s Moving Heritage
Next up, the iconic kaali-peeli taxi. These black-and-yellow Fiat taxis were once the only way to zip around Mumbai before app cabs flooded the streets.
Why Choose a Kaali-Peeli?
- Available 24/7 — unlike some autos that disappear late at night.
- They know every tiny lane, shortcut, and chhota galli.
- Many drivers have been plying the same route for decades — they are unofficial city guides!
How to Hire
- Look for taxis parked near railway stations, markets, or busy junctions.
- Always insist on a meter fare — it’s the law.
- If a driver refuses or quotes a flat rate, just find another. There are thousands on the road.
Meter Math
The meter starts at a minimum fare, and old mechanical meters are still common. Many taxis now have electronic meters too. Carry cash and small change — paying with big notes sometimes invites grumbles.
Insider’s Secret
Want to chat with the driver? Ask about Bollywood shoots, cricket, or politics — taxi drivers are walking encyclopedias of Mumbai gossip!
🛺 Auto Rickshaws: The 3-Wheeler Kings
Beyond Bandra, towards the suburbs and eastern parts of Mumbai, you’ll see thousands of black-and-yellow autos buzzing around like bees. They’re cheap, quick, and sometimes more reliable than taxis.
Auto Culture
Unlike in some Indian cities, Mumbai’s autos are generally honest — they run by meter, and refusing a ride is illegal.
Where you’ll find them:
- Autos are not allowed in South Mumbai (Colaba, Marine Drive) — you’ll see them only from Bandra onwards and all over the suburbs.
- Major auto stands near stations, malls, and markets.
Riding Tips
- If you’re new, ask locals about approximate fares — the meters are calibrated but sometimes old.
- Avoid rush hours unless you’re used to zig-zagging through traffic jams.
- Autos are ideal for short hops: ₹20–₹200 rides are common.
🏙️ What Makes Local Transport So Special?
The best thing about travelling by train, taxi, or auto in Mumbai is not just the convenience — it’s the stories you overhear, the lives you witness. You’ll see a college kid revising notes in a packed local, an elderly man with his tiffin, a chatty auto driver telling you about the monsoon potholes, and taxi drivers with photos of their families or gods taped to the dashboard.
Each ride is a mini window into the soul of this massive city.
📅 When to Travel: Mastering Mumbai’s Peak and Off-Peak
The first rule of travelling in Mumbai: Timing is everything. The same journey can take 20 minutes at 11 AM and 90 minutes at 7 PM.
Local Train Rush Hours:
- Morning Peak: 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM
- Evening Peak: 5:30 PM to 9 PM
If you’re a visitor, avoid these times unless you want to experience the ultimate local adventure — shoulder-to-shoulder in a packed coach!
Taxis & Autos:
- Rush hour traffic jams are brutal. Short distances can take forever.
- Best time: Late morning (11 AM–1 PM) or mid-afternoon (2–5 PM).
- Night: After 9 PM, roads clear up but finding autos in far suburbs may be tricky.
🚊 Local Train Hacks for First-Timers
Mumbai locals are a legend for a reason — they’re fast, frequent, cheap… and crowded!
1️⃣ First Class or Second?
- First Class: Less crowded (sometimes) but costlier.
- Second Class: Where you meet the real Mumbai — but be ready for the push and squeeze!
2️⃣ Ladies Compartment:
- Safe and convenient for women, especially during rush hour.
- Ladies-only compartments are marked on platforms.
3️⃣ Where to Stand:
- For Western Line (Churchgate-Virar): The left side has better views of the sea.
- For Harbour Line: Sit near the doors for quick exits at busy stations.
4️⃣ Missed the Train?
- Don’t worry! Trains come every few minutes. Just relax and wait for the next.
🛺 Autos & Taxis: Dos and Don’ts
✅ Always Check the Meter
- Legit autos and taxis will always go by meter. If the driver refuses, move on — another one will appear in seconds.
✅ Use Ride-Hailing Apps as Backup
- Apps like Uber, Ola, Rapido can be useful if you can’t find an auto late at night.
✅ Carry Change
- Coins and ₹10 notes are gold. Many drivers ‘never have change’ for big notes.
✅ Be Polite but Firm
- Bargain only if the meter is off. Otherwise, trust the meter.
🗺️ Iconic Local Travel Routes
Want to see Mumbai like a local? Try these routes:
🚆 Marine Drive to Churchgate by Local
- The short stretch on the Western Line is lovely — sea breeze, glimpses of Art Deco buildings.
🚆 CST to Dadar
- Busy and historic, perfect for watching daily life unfold.
🛺 Bandra to Carter Road by Auto
- Pass by quaint bungalows, cafes, street murals, and the sea.
🚖 Taxi to Haji Ali
- A classic drive — especially at sunset, the city skyline glows gold.
⚡ Mumbai Local Travel Survival Kit
Here’s what every smart local commuter carries:
- Hand Sanitizer & Tissues: Always!
- A Small Backpack: Big bags get in the way in packed coaches.
- Earphones: Music or a podcast makes crowded rides bearable.
- Water Bottle: Mumbai’s humid weather can drain you.
- Cash: Many autos/taxis don’t take cards.
👮 Staying Safe
Mumbai is one of India’s safer metros, but stay street-smart:
- Keep your bag zipped. Pickpockets exist, especially in rush hours.
- Avoid displaying expensive gadgets openly.
- Use official prepaid taxi counters at airports & stations.
- At night, prefer taxis or trusted ride apps over walking in unknown lanes.
🧭 Must-Know Local Phrases
Want to impress your driver or co-passenger? Use these lines!
- “Meter se chalo bhaiya!” — Please go by meter.
- “Kitna hua?” — How much is the fare?
- “Station kidhar hai?” — Where is the station?
- “Thoda jaldi chalo.” — Please go a bit faster.
- “Left lena.” — Take a left turn.
- “Bhaiya, seedha chalo.” — Go straight.
🌆 Why Locals Love Public Transport
Despite the crowds, sweat, and chaos, ask any Mumbaikar why they still choose the local train over a private car, and they’ll smile — because it works.
Traffic can choke roads, but the local train never stops. Autos zip through lanes where no car dares go. Taxis become your refuge when the rain gods flood the streets.
Public transport is Mumbai’s social equalizer. In the same coach, you’ll see office-goers, students, delivery boys, aspiring actors — all sharing the same few square feet of space. Strangers strike up conversations, share snacks, and help each other navigate the city.
📅 How to Plan a Local Commute Day — The Mumbaikar Way
Morning:
- Start with a train ride. If you’re near Western Line, hop on at Churchgate and get off at Dadar — grab a cutting chai at the station.
- Explore local street food stalls nearby. Try a vada pav or misal.
Midday:
- Take a kaali-peeli taxi to your next stop — maybe Gateway of India or CST station.
- Walk around heritage lanes. Click photos, but keep an eye on your bags.
Afternoon:
- Catch an auto rickshaw for a short hop to a popular café or street market.
- Bandra Linking Road or Colaba Causeway are must-visits for street shopping.
Evening:
- Return by train to Marine Drive.
- Sit by the sea, sip coconut water, and watch the sunset behind Art Deco buildings.
☔ What to Avoid During Mumbai Monsoon
Mumbai monsoon is magical but unpredictable.
- Flooded Roads: Avoid low-lying areas like Sion, King’s Circle during heavy rain.
- Auto Rickshaw Shortage: Be ready to wait. Carry an umbrella.
- Slippery Platforms: Railway stations get slippery. Wear shoes with grip.
- Waterlogging: Always check weather alerts and local news if a cloudburst is forecasted.
💙 Enjoy the Quirks: Tapris, Bookstalls & Chai
- Tapri Stops: Small roadside tea stalls are where Mumbaikars bond over politics, cricket and dreams.
- Books at Churchgate & CST: Railway platforms double up as mini book markets.
- Train Vendors: From spicy peanuts to pocket diaries, everything is sold inside locals.
🤝 Respect Mumbai’s Lifelines
Local transport is the soul of Mumbai. Always let people alight before you board. Give priority to elderly commuters and women with kids. Don’t block doors — locals need quick exits.
A smile, a polite “Bhaiya” or “Didi”, and a sense of calm will make you a welcome guest on any local ride.
🌟 Final Local Travel Hacks
✅ Carry cash and change — digital payments don’t work in all taxis/autos.
✅ Download Mumbai Local Train app or M-Indicator — it’s a lifesaver for train timings.
✅ If lost, ask a local — Mumbai people love to help.
✅ Don’t get frustrated in traffic — breathe, look around, and enjoy the chaos.
🧳 Bonus: What Not to Do
❌ Don’t litter — use dustbins at stations and stops.
❌ Don’t argue unnecessarily with auto or taxi drivers. Politely move on.
❌ Don’t stand too close to the edge of train platforms.
❌ Don’t carry large luggage on crowded local trains.
“मुंबई का सफर कभी अकेला नहीं होता — यहाँ हर सवारी, हर स्टेशन एक कहानी सुनाता है।”
(“In Mumbai, no journey is ever lonely — every ride and every station tells a story.”)
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