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Mumbai, formerly called Bombay, is the financial capital of India.
The city offers several attractions for children, and in this post, we list the best places to visit in Mumbai with kids. Visiting these attractions with family enhances your child’s knowledge and creativity and strengthens family bonds through shared experiences.
From museums to eateries, beaches, and magnificent architectural marvels, a tour of Mumbai city is sure to be a memorable one for your children. So, if you have a trip planned to Mumbai and are preparing an itinerary for visiting some cool tourist spots with your children, give this post a read and learn about the must-visit destinations that are worthy of exploring with your family.
Key Pointers
- Situated on India’s west coast, Mumbai is the financial capital of India.
- The city has several water parks, such as Essel World, Adlabs Imagica, and H2O Water Complex.
- It is also known for its rich architectural heritage, including the Gateway of India.
- Places like Mumbai Zoo, Nehru Planetarium, Snow World, and Taraporewala Aquarium are great places to explore with children.
- A visit to Siddhivinayak temple and Juhu beach will make the Mumbai visit more memorable.
16 Best Places To Visit In Mumbai For Kids
1. Essel World
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Take a roller-coaster ride with your children at the one and only Essel World amusement park. Essel World is the most famous theme park, not just in Mumbai, but also in India. With a plethora of thrilling rides, this entertainment destination appeals to kids of all ages. It is one of the best kid places in Mumbai, and your children can get lost in the Hedge Maze, get crazy in the “Aqua Dive Ride,” go bonkers with the Crazy Cups, or enjoy a summer Sunday at the water kingdom, which is Essel world’s fun water park. Besides the fun-filled rides, Essel World also has a plethora of attractions to keep children delighted throughout the day. The ice-skating rink, cricket grounds, a massive killer ship converted into a science museum and bowling alleys are major crowd pullers. Essel World will also take care of your tyke’s hunger pangs with its array of eateries.
Vidhya Ram, a blogger, recounts his visit to Essel World in Mumbai with his kids. He shares, “Essel world is one of the most famous theme parks in Mumbai with more thrilling rides for the people of all ages. The roller-coaster ride in this park seems to be more enjoyable when you are with your children. This entertainment destination consists of various thrilling rides in which your children will get crazy in the “Aqua Dive Ride” and with Crazy Cups. The most favorite one for my children is to get lost in the Hedge Maze and they have enjoyed it a lot (i).”
2. Nehru Planetarium
Image: nehrucentremumbai.in
Nehru Planetarium is one of those few places that make science fun for kids. Located at the Nehru Center, the planetarium will enthrall your kids with breathtakingly beautiful images of planets, stars, and day and night cycles. The planetarium is not just an excellent tourist spot for the kids, but also one of the best places to visit in Mumbai with family. The auditorium here hosts screens shows on astronomy. Make sure you check out the Children’s Science Park, an area with mechanical stuff like an old tramcar and loads of things to push and pull. Kids will have a whale of a time here!
3. Adlabs Imagica
Image: imagicaaworld.com
Located two hours away from Mumbai, Adlabs Imagica is the latest addition to the endless list of theme parks and places for kids in Mumbai. This fantastic realm has redefined entertainment not just in India, but in the entire subcontinent and is also one of the best kids’ birthday party places in India. From magic carousel for the tiny tots to crazy teacup rides for the whole family, Adlabs Imagica has it all. If your child can brave the adventurous, high-speed rides or the massive roller-coasters, then he can try out the Gold Rush, Nitro or the Scream Machine. You will also find many cyclists, clowns, magicians and stilt walkers walking around the park, giving it a street-carnival kind of feel.
4. Juhu Beach
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Juhu Beach in Mumbai is arguably the most loved beach in India. From beach lovers to morning joggers, to kids who love playing beach cricket or volleyball, Juhu Beach is loved by people of all age groups. The weekends are uncomfortably crowded here. So take out some time from your weekday morning to explore the beauty of the beach. The tempting food stalls, Bollywood music played at a loud volume and the umpteen of happy people around you, Juhu Beach has its own charm. And do not forget to indulge with your child in the classic Juhu beach snacks, ‘pani puri,’ ‘bhel puri’ and of course, ‘gola.’
5. Sanjay Gandhi National Park
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Go wildlife spotting with your children in the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. The forest reserve in North Mumbai is the place to visit in Mumbai for kids. It has the perfect temperature that you would want from a city getaway. The National Park authorities believe that the park is too sprawling to be explored on foot. So you have to hire a car for your exploration. And we think it’s safe too, considering you are traveling with children. We’d suggest you visit this place in the monsoon when the forest divulges its secret waterfalls. It’s mesmerizing.
6. Chhatrapati Shivaji MaharajaVastu Sangrahalaya
Image: csmvs.in
Formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya is the primary history and art museum in Mumbai, and one of the places to visit in Mumbai for kids. The museum was made with the aim of spreading knowledge and creating awareness of the rich cultural heritage of India. It has a vast collection of Buddhist and Hindu scriptures, Indian miniature paintings, terracotta figurines and vicious looking weaponry. There are also audio guides in seven different languages, including English. Visit the Natural History section of the museum with your kid to check out the beautiful exhibition of animals and birds native to the region.
7. Taraporewala Aquarium
If your child is enthralled by the marine life, then you can take him to Taraporewala Aquarium, the oldest aquarium in the country. It houses a variety of marine and freshwater fishes, which will capture the attention of the little ones. The Fish Spa will appeal to your kid, where he can dip his feet deep in the water. Touch Pool is another popular attraction, where children can dip their hands into the water and touch the inhabitants, under supervision, of course. If you want to avoid the long queue stretching up to the road, then visit the museum on weekdays, in the afternoon.
8. Mumbai Zoo
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Spread over 48 acres, Mumbai or Bombay Zoo or Veermata Jijabai Bhonsle Udyan as it is officially called, is another great place to check out with the kids. The zoo houses elephants, monkey, deer, peacocks, snakes, hippopotamus, flamingoes and so on. The lifelike stone elephant statue at the entrance garners a good amount of attention from the visitors. There’s also a dedicated play area for kids. Children will be delighted to see the little minnows in the lush gardens and chasing butterflies.
9. Elephanta Caves
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Elephanta Caves, located on Elephanta Island are one of the two UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Mumbai. The cave houses magnificent cave temples built between the 5th to 8th centuries, which make it one of the most popular tourist places in Mumbai for kids. It has five Hindu Caves, with carved statues of Hindu deities, and two Buddhist caves. But the most compelling attraction of the caves is the 20-foot-tall “Trimurti” sculptor. The three heads of Lord Shiva represent protection, creation, and destruction.
Quick tip10. Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum
Image: en.wikipedia.org
If you wish to acquaint your kid with this history of Mumbai, but not in a boring way, then head to Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum. Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum is the oldest museum of Mumbai and the second oldest museum in India. If you want your kid to learn more abou the history of Mumbai, then this is one of the places to visit in Mumbai for kids. Built in typical Renaissance style, this gorgeous museum is a treasure trove of the world gone by. It contains over 3500 artifacts and objects centering on the Mumbai history. The museum also organizes exhibitions and shows that you can catch up with your kiddos. You can even take a stroll at the Rani Bagh once the sun sets. It’s magical!
11. H2O Water Complex
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Wondering how to beat the heat in Mumbai? Then head to the H2O water complex park. Located at Girgaon Chowpatty, H2O Water Complex is one of the most fun places in Mumbai for kids. The water park offeris beach and water related activities like water skiing; jet skiing, parasailing, beach volleyball, kayaking, surfing, and many more. Safety is one of the top most priorities of this park. The theme park has employed certified and well-trained lifeguards for the safety of kids. It also has a multi-cuisine restaurant to feed the kids when sets in.
12. Mani Bhavan
Image: commons.wikimedia.org
If you want to give your kid a first-hand account of the freedom struggle, then you must take him to the Mani Bhavan. Mani Bhavan was Mahatma Gandhi’s headquarters in Mumbai from 1917 to 1934. It was the focal points of several pre-independence era activities, including the Non-Cooperation Movement, Satyagraha, Khadi, Khilafat, Swadeshi and so on. In 1955, the building was allocated as a memorial to Gandhi.
13. Smaaash
Image: smaaash.in
Smaaash is a first of its kind activity center for kids. Along with the Jungle Safari and a huge play area, Smaaash also offers indoor games for older kids and teens. During weekends, Smaaash holds sumo wrestling, inflatable slides, cricket, and bowling games. Besides, Smaaash also conducts various workshops and activities to help kids explore their creative side. And the food at the Bazinga Café will appeal to kids even with the fussiest taste buds.
14. Snow World
Image: Snow World, Phoenix Marketcity
Mumbai has a variety of entertainment zones for kids. But a snow-based theme park was missing from the buzz. Hence, Snow World was launched soon after. Spread over 18,000 square feet, Snow World is one of the most interesting places to visit in Mumbai for kids. It is located in Phoenix Marketcity and is one-of-a-kind snow park in Mumbai. It maintains the temperature at minus 10 degrees Celsius and offers fun activities like sliding, sledding and skating. And after playing in the snow, children can relax in an Igloo with a fire camp. And since it is located in a mall, you can shop around while your little ones are exploring the snow world.
15. Gateway Of India
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Gateway of India is a must-see place in Mumbai. A visit to this place will give you and your children memories that you will cherish forever. Gateway of India is one of the most historically important places to visit in Mumbai for kids. Early evening would be the best time to visit Gateway of India if you want to beat the maddening crowd. Do not forget to feed the pigeons, take instant photos with the photo wall as and have some coconut water at Getaway of India. Kids will even enjoy watching the boats go by in the harbor.
Trivia16. Siddhivinayak Temple
The Siddhivinayak Temple dedicated to the Hindu Lord Ganesha, is a symbol of devotion and spirituality. Located in the Prabhadevi area of the city, this temple was built in 1801 by Laxman Vithu and Deubai Patil. Hundreds of devotees visit the temple daily. What makes this temple so special is the devotees’ firm belief that prayers offered here will be fulfilled by Lord Ganesha. The magnificent idol of Lord Ganesha made of single black stone is believed to be self-manifested and not a creation of man. The temple’s architecture is also beautiful, featuring a gold-plated inner roof and traditional carvings. Visiting this temple is a good way to instill faith for the Almighty in your child.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many days are enough in Mumbai?
Mumbai has a lot to offer. While it depends on your interests and the places you would like to visit, you may cover the city in three to five days. Within three days, you may visit renowned sites such as The Gateway of India, The Taj Mahal Palace, Marine Drive, and famous cafes. However, you can explore more leisurely if you plan a five-to-seven-day trip.
2. Is Mumbai expensive to visit?
The costs may vary depending on the length of your stay, the type of accommodation, and your personal expenditure on shopping or food. You can also save money by booking a package through a reputable travel agent.
3. Are there any children’s play areas or indoor activity centers in Mumbai?
Mumbai has several children’s play areas or indoor activity centers like Yaya Playzone, Happy Planet, Purple Panda, Zoom, and Kidzania, that are quite popular among children.
4. Can you suggest any kid-friendly beaches in or around Mumbai?
You can take your little one to Aksa Beach, Manori Beach, or Gorai Beach, which are less crowded, and your child can play unhindered. The Gorai and Manori beaches are considered clean for swimming and other water-based activities.
5. Can you suggest any kid-friendly movie theaters or cinemas in Mumbai?
Almost all movie theaters in Mumbai are believed to be child-friendly, among which Inox in R City Mall, Cinepolis spread across Andheri, and PVR cinemas in the whole of Mumbai are good options.
6. Are there any toy stores or shopping malls in Mumbai that cater to children’s interests?
Hamleys is a toy store chain spread across Mumbai to entertain children of all ages. Their stores house a wide variety of toys and games from reputed brands for children, which are worth exploring. Additionally, Phoenix Market City in Kurla and Oberoi Mall in Andheri house a variety of shops. They also have a play area for children.
7. Can you recommend any kid-friendly walking tours or sightseeing activities in Mumbai?
The famous Gateway of India walking tour, Colaba Causeway Walking Tour, Marine Drive Walk, and the Elephanta Caves Tour are popular child-friendly sightseeing walking tours in Mumbai that you can try when visiting the city.
Mumbai is the city of dreams and houses some of the most magnificent infrastructures and exciting places that you would not want to miss. Exploring places to visit in Mumbai with kids will help them get an insight into the country’s history and the finesse of craftsmanship that existed in those days. You could also take them to the beaches and entertainment parks for a fun day in the sun. But remember to keep them hydrated and carry enough snacks to munch when hungry.
Illustration: Best Places To Visit In Mumbai With Your Kids
Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team
Personal Experience: Source
MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.
i. My adventurous experience at an amusement park in Mumbai;https://medium.com/@vidhya.ramjev/my-adventurous-experience-at-an-amusement-park-in-mumbai-7f65f1375037
References
- Elephanta Caves.
https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/244/ - Gateway of India.
https://mumbaicity.gov.in/tourist-place/gateway-of-india/
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