Mumbai, a city that never sleeps, is renowned for its high-rise buildings, the boundless energy of its people, bustling markets, and the majestic Arabian Sea. But beneath this urban rush lies a spiritual heartbeat. This is one of the most beautiful sides of Mumbai that has not been explored much. To connect with this side of the city, you must visit the revered temples here that are more than just places of worship. From Siddhivinayak to Walkeshwar, here’s a list of temples that you must visit.
Siddhivinayak Temple
Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai is one of the most revered temples in Prabhadevi. It is one of the most celebrated temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The temple was built in 1801 and draws thousands of devotees every day who seek blessings for the fulfillment of wishes. The idol of Lord Ganesha is carved from a single black stone and has his wives Riddhi and Siddhi beside him, signifying prosperity. The architecture of the temple is an example of the perfect blend of modern and traditional influences.
Where: SK Bole Rd, Prabhadevi, Mumbai
When: 5:30 am to 10 pm
View this post on Instagram
Mahalaxmi Temple
The Mahalaxmi temple is one of the oldest and most significant Hindu temples dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi. The temple was established in 1831 and houses idols of Goddess Mahakali and Goddess Mahasaraswati, which together represent Tridevi, the three aspects of Divine Mother. It is believed that the idols were retrieved from the sea following a divine vision. The temple is more vibrant during festivals like Navratri, which draws both tourists and worshippers.
Where: Bhulabhai Desai Marg, Mahalaxmi West, Cumballa Hill, Mumbai
When: 6 am to 11:45 pm and 12:20 pm to 10 pm
Mumbadevi Temple
The Mumbadevi Temple is situated in the southern part of the city, which is where Mumbai gets its name from. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mumbadevi, who is known to be the deity of this city and a form of Shakti. The temple was constructed in the 14th century in Bhuleshwar and was rebuilt in the 18th century. It houses a black stone idol of the goddess and is attended by a silver lion, her mount. Devotees visit this temple to seek blessings for protection and prosperity.
Where: 45/47, Dhanji St, Mumbadevi Area, Kalbadevi, Mumbai
When: 6:30 am to 8:45 pm
Babulnath Temple
The Babulnath temple is located on a small hillock near Girgaum Chowpatty, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple was built in 1890, and the main idol, the Shiva linga, is believed to have been discovered under a babool tree, giving the temple its name. Babulnath temple’s architecture is inspired by the temple traditions in the Himalayas and offers a peaceful atmosphere with panoramic city views. It attracts a huge number of devotees during the month of Shravan and Mahashivratri.
Where: 16, Babulnath Rd, Babulnath, Khareghat Colony, Gamdevi, Mumbai
When: 6 am to 9 pm
Iskcon Temple
The ISKCON temple in Juhu, officially called Sri Sri Radha Rasbihari Ji temple, is dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha. The white marble structure temple was established in the 1970s and houses magnificent idols. A huge number of devotees visit the temple from across the globe, especially during Janamasthami, to attend religious and cultural events here. They also have a vegetarian restaurant, guest accommodation, and bookshops, completing the spiritual experience.
Where: Hare Krishna Land, Sri Mukteshwar Devalaya Rd, Marg, Sainath Nagar, MHADA Colony, Juhu, Mumbai
When: 7 am to 1 pm and 4 pm to 9 pm
View this post on Instagram
Walkeshwar Temple
The Walkeshwar temple is one of the oldest temples in Mumbai, which was originally built during the 12th century by the Silhara dynasty and later reconstructed. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and stands adjacent to the Banganga water tank, which is believed to have been created by Lord Rama’s miraculous arrow. It offers a timeless serenity with the steps leading down to the ancient water tank, where the devotees actually perform rituals and seek blessings.
Where: 40, Banganga Cross Ln, Teen Batti, Malabar Hill, Mumbai
When: 9 am to 1 pm and 5 pm to 8 pm
Summing up
Your journey in Mumbai will always be incomplete without exploring the calm and spiritual side of the ever-busy city. From interesting legends to sacred architecture, visiting temples in Mumbai is an experience that quietly shapes the soul of Mumbai.
