Navi Mumbai Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Navi Mumbai. Find information on transportation options, food, culture, and more in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Navi Mumbai

Navi Mumbai is a planned city located in the Konkan region of Maharashtra, India. Developed in the 1970s to ease the pressure on Mumbai, it has grown to become one of the largest planned cities in the world. The city is known for its well-planned infrastructure and public transportation system, making it easy for travelers to explore. Navi Mumbai is home to a diverse population and offers a mix of culture, nature, and modernity. This travel guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Navi Mumbai.

List of Places to Visit in Navi Mumbai

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Khargar Hill: An ancient site with rock-carved temples and caves offering a panoramic view of the city.
  • Belapur Fort: Built-in 1560, this fort is located near the sea and offers a stunning view of the skyline.
  • Pandavkada Falls: Located in Kharghar, this waterfall is a popular hiking spot.
  • Central Park: A large park in Kharghar that features a musical fountain, an amphitheater, and several food and beverage outlets.
  • Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum: An art and history museum located in Mumbai with a vast collection of Indian art and artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Navi Mumbai: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Elephanta Caves: Located on Elephanta Island, a short ferry ride from Mumbai, these caves feature intricate carvings and sculptures from the 5th to 8th centuries.
  • Karnala Bird Sanctuary: A birdwatcher’s paradise and home to over 150 species of birds, including the endangered Great Indian Hornbill.
  • Parsik Hills: A popular hiking spot that offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
  • Khandala Point: A scenic viewpoint in Belapur that offers a stunning panoramic view of the city and the surrounding hills.
  • Gadeshwar Dam: Located in Panvel, this dam offers a serene escape from the bustling city life.

Best Things to Do in Navi Mumbai: Activities and Tours

  • Water Sports: Enjoy various water sports like jet skiing, banana boats, and parasailing at Vashi beach.
  • Take a Heritage Walk: Explore the architectural wonders of the city like the CIDCO Exhibition Centre and the Utsav Chowk.
  • Nerul Balaji Temple: The temple is a prominent religious landmark and an architectural masterpiece that attracts thousands of devotees and tourists.
  • Mall Culture: Shop and dine at different malls in Navi Mumbai like Seawoods Grand Central, INORBIT, and Raghuleela Mall.
  • Bike Riding: Hire a bike and ride around the city exploring the landmarks and scenic routes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Navi Mumbai

Day Activity
1 Visit Elephanta Caves, village tour of Navi Mumbai
2 Spend the day at Vashi beach, indulge in water sports
3 Take a heritage walk, visit the temples and forts
4 Go hiking at Parsik Hills
5 Mall hopping in Navi Mumbai
6 Take a bike ride, visit natural attractions
7 Visit the Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum, enjoy the nightlife

Food and Drink Scene of Navi Mumbai

Must-Try Dishes

  • Vada Pav: A popular street food of Mumbai, consisting of a potato fritter served on a bun.
  • Misal Pav: Spicy sprout curry served with bread rolls.
  • Fish Curry: The coastal city is well known for its seafood.
  • Bhel Puri: A crispy snack made by mixing puffed rice, vegetables, and different chutneys.

Local Beverages

  • Kokum Juice: A refreshing beverage made from kokum fruit.
  • Solkadhi: A refreshing drink made from kokum and coconut milk.
  • Chai: A staple beverage of India, prepare with tea leaves, milk, sugar, and spices.

Where to Stay in Navi Mumbai: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Park Navi Mumbai: A luxurious five-star hotel located in Belapur.
  • Hotel Yogi Midtown: A three-star hotel located in Kharghar.
  • Royal Tulip Navi Mumbai: A four-star hotel located in Kharghar.
  • Mango Hotels Navi Mumbai: A budget hotel in Navi Mumbai.

What to Buy in Navi Mumbai: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Kolhapuri chappals: Handmade leather sandals.
  • Tribal Art: Traditional tribal paintings and handicrafts are popular with tourists.
  • Khadi clothes: Khadi is a hand-woven cloth that is a symbol of India’s fight for independence.
  • Alphonso Mangoes: A popular variety of mangoes grown in the Konkan region.

Local Culture and Customs of Navi Mumbai

Navi Mumbai is a cosmopolitan city that embraces diversity. Respect the local customs and dress conservatively, covering your shoulders and knees. Remove your shoes before entering religious places, and avoid public display of affection.

Best Time to Visit Navi Mumbai

The best time to visit Navi Mumbai is between November and April, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Navi Mumbai

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and dress appropriately.
  • Explore the city on foot to get a real sense of the culture.
  • Try the local cuisine, including street food.

Don’t:

  • Engage with touts and freeloaders.
  • Disrespect religious places and customs.
  • Litter public spaces.

Safety and Health

Safety in Navi Mumbai

Navi Mumbai is a relatively safe city, but take precautions like avoiding unlit areas at night, protecting your valuables, and traveling with trustworthy companions.

Health in Navi Mumbai

Drink bottled water, avoid uncooked food, and carry mosquito repellent to prevent mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and malaria.

Getting to Navi Mumbai: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Navi Mumbai

  • Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport: The nearest international airport is located in Mumbai, approximately 28 km from Navi Mumbai.
  • Navi Mumbai International Airport: The city is currently constructing a new airport, expected to be completed in 2023.

Bus Stations Near Navi Mumbai

  • Vashi Bus Terminal: Located in Vashi, it is the busiest bus station in Navi Mumbai, connecting it to several parts of the city and the surrounding towns.
  • Panvel Bus Station: Located in Panvel, it is a major bus station connecting Navi Mumbai with the rest of Maharashtra.

Other Options

  • Train: There is local train service within the city and to Mumbai and other neighboring cities.
  • Cab Service: Visitors can use cab services like Ola, Uber, and local taxi services to explore the city.

How to Get Around in Navi Mumbai

Navi Mumbai has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, local trains, auto-rickshaws, and taxis. Visitors can also hire private cars or motorbikes to explore the city.

Where to Go Next from Navi Mumbai: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Matheran: A picturesque hill station located approximately 50 km from Navi Mumbai.
  • Lonavala: A popular hill station located approximately 70 km from Navi Mumbai.
  • Mahabaleshwar: A beautiful hill station located approximately 230 km from Navi Mumbai.

Conclusion

Navi Mumbai is a beautiful blend of modernity and nature. From the beautiful rock-cut temples to the panoramic views, everything about the city is fascinating. This travel guide has covered all the information you need to plan a trip to Navi Mumbai. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this hidden gem of India.