The Shalimar Hotel, Kemps Corner

The best time to visit Mumbai is from November to February, when temperatures are pleasant and rain is rare. March and April are hot and dry, while May brings the start of the monsoon. The rainiest stretch is June through September, with heavy downpours and high humidity. October is a transitional month with some rain but improving conditions.

Colaba suits first-time visitors, close to the Gateway of India and Marine Drive, with the Taj Mahal Palace and Taj Mahal Tower nearby. Bandra Kurla Complex is a central business district with easy access to the airport and the Sofitel Mumbai BKC and Trident Bandra Kurla. Lower Parel is a modern area with upscale hotels like The St. Regis Mumbai, good for those wanting a contemporary base. Nariman Point offers a sea-facing, business-oriented stay, with the Trident Nariman Point as a convenient option.

Start at the Gateway of India, the city's iconic waterfront arch. Walk along Marine Drive for sea views and the Art Deco skyline. Take a ferry to the Elephanta Caves, ancient rock-cut temples on an island. Sanjay Gandhi National Park offers a green escape with lions and ancient stupas. The Hanging Garden provides a quiet hilltop retreat with views of the city.

The full-day tours from Mumbai go to the Taj Mahal and Agra, where you can see the iconic monument and the historic city. The private sightseeing tour covers Mumbai itself, so for a day trip beyond the city, consider visiting the Elephanta Caves, a short ferry ride away, or the hill station of Lonavala and Khandala for a scenic escape.

Plan 3 to 4 days for Mumbai. In 3 days, you can see the Gateway of India, Marine Drive, the Elephanta Caves, and the Hanging Garden, plus a day for the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. If you want to add a day trip, such as to the Taj Mahal, plan for an extra day. Two days would feel rushed for the main sights.