Mumbai is a compact city, catering to an ever-growing population. Transport options are many and varied, though public systems can prove to be mighty trying. The transport infrastructure for the city of Mumbai is rather out of date, and those that are new, are not supported enough by the backward systems. It is a wonder to imagine how so many people travel in and around Mumbai everyday getting from one destination to the other. There are millions of cars, bikes, and heavy transport vehicles chugging through slow moving traffic, but at the end of the day, everyone reaches work, and gets back home to their happy families.
Our Mumbai transportation guide below will tell you all you need to know about travelling to and getting around Mumbai. Taking a local tour is a great way of getting around this vast and exciting city. We also have general transport information if you want to know more about travelling to and around India.
Mumbai Transportation Guide
By Air
Mumbai has one of the country’s busiest airports and has international flights to almost all countries around the world. Air India and the world’s leading airlines operate out of Mumbai’s international airport and Indian (formerly known as Indian Airlines) connects the city to tourist destinations within the country. There are also several private sector airlines such as Jet Airways, Kingfisher, JetLite (formerly known as Sahara Airlines), SpiceJet, Go Air and Air Deccan that fly to domestic locations across the country. Mumbai airport has two terminals,
Sahar International Terminal which is now called Chhatrapati Shivaji Airport and the domestic terminal at Santacruz.
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By Rail
The city is the headquarters for the Central and Western Railways and is connected to all the major cities in the region like Aurangabad, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta, Bhopal, Delhi, Hyderabad, Goa, Jaipur, Nagpur, Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram.
By Road
Driving in Maharashtra offers a lovely way to see the state, which is largely agricultural; there are miles of green fields and local brick kilns wherever you go.
Mumbai is well connected by road to all main tourist destinations in the country. The National Highways criss-cross the country and are a good option if you prefer to drive to Mumbai. Driving in the Ghats (mountains) can be tricky, so get a local driver to help you.
By Sea
There is a regular catamaran service between Mumbai, Goa and Ratnagiri which is operated by Damania Shipping Ltd. Trip durations are approximately 8 hours. There are no services during the monsoon season though.
Getting Around Mumbai
Tourist Taxis or Cool Cabs (Blue and Silver)
Rates vary according to the make of the car. Cars of Foreign Origin: Rs. 1500/- for 8 hrs or 80 km, extra Rs. 15/- per km or Rs. 100/- per hour. Airconditioned Ambassador: Rs. 1000/- for 8 hrs or 80 km. Non-airconditioned Ambassador: Rs. 650/- for 8 hrs or 80 km.
Metered Taxis (Black and Yellow)
Rates are Rs. 15.00 for the first 1.6 km. Additional fare to be paid as per tariff card available with the driver. Always ask to read the fare yourself. In fact check if the driver is carrying the tariff card 'before' you hire his cab.
Auto Rickshaws, the Indian version of the tuk-tuk
These are three wheelers, with bad shock absorbers, and definitely not guaranteeing a safe and smooth ride. It is still the easiest way to get around Mumbai suburbs (north of Mahim Creek). Rates are Rs. 10 for first 1.6 km. Additional fare to be paid as per tariff card available with the driver.
BEST Operated local buses
BEST operates the local buses in most of Greater Mumbai and the suburbs. Although the routes are well covered, it is best to avoid them during the peak hours, when they are jam-packed with lots of jostling passengers.
Suburban Local Trains
Running on three separate lines: Central, Western and Harbour, this form of transport is the spine of Mumbai's transport. Over 5 million people use these services every day. Though the frequency of trains is great, the crowds will simply not allow an inexperienced and un-seasoned traveller to travel in comfort (or safety!). So avoid trains and train stations during office hours. About 2-3 pm is safest to ride the train. They are fast and economical, though ticket queues may be a mile-long! Buy a coupon booklet instead and punch out the fare before you board your train. Starting points for the Western suburbs is from Churchgate, and for the Eastern and Harbour Line suburbs from Mumbai CST. (formerly Bombay V.T.).
Rental Cars
Renting a car is the best way to explore the city and its environs. It is preferable to get a driver, so you can sit back and enjoy the view while your driver tackles the city’s congested lanes and confusing roads. A good option is to book a car and driver from a good car hire company for the entire length of your stay, so you can get accustomed to having the same driver.
