Mumbai, famously called the City of Dreams, is commonly known as a major metropolitan city with the best of urban society. While it is true that Mumbai is a modern city with all the glamour, etc., there is also a deeply religious and spiritual side to the city. The city’s religious belief runs deep, as can easily be witnessed during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, Navratri, etc. It is a city which celebrates its modern and religious sides equally, blended in perfect harmony. The ancient temples in Mumbai, like the Gokuldham temple in Goregaon East, will leave a lasting impression on you. The history, architecture and religious significance of these temples are core to Mumbai and its culture. Read on for more about the iconic temples of Mumbai.
Here are some must-visit temples in Mumbai
Iskcon Temple, Juhu
Fondly called the Hare Rama Hare Krishna Mandir, Juhu, this temple is a sight to behold. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the temple’s intricate carvings, elaborate architecture and pristine marble exterior attract people from all corners of the city. The temple is located at a scenic place near the Juhu beach. Visit the Hare Rama Hare Krishna Mandir, Juhu, to feel the pure spirituality and divinity of the temple.
Where: Hare Krishna Land, Juhu, Mumbai
When: 4:30 am – 1 pm and 4:15 pm – 9 pm
Siddhivinayak Temple
The Siddhivinayak Temple, Dadar, might be the most famous in Mumbai. Dedicated to Lord Ganesh, the God most prayed to in Maharashtra, the temple attracts thousands of devotees, every day, from all corners of the country. More than 200 years old, the Siddhivinayak Temple, Dadar, holds great significance for the people.
Where: S.K.Bole Marg, Prabhadevi, Dadar West, Mumbai
When: 5:30 am – 9:50 pm (Monday, Wednesday – Sunday) and 3:15 am – 12:30 am (Tuesday)
Mahalakshmi Temple
This temple, overlooking the Arabian Sea, is one of the oldest temples in Mumbai. Dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, it also houses idols of Goddess Kali and Goddess Saraswati, making up the trio of the divine Goddesses. The architecture of the temple and the beautiful idols, decked to their full glory, make for a magnificent sight. If you are visiting for the first time, visit the temple during Navratri or Diwali, when the temple gets decorated beautifully.
Where: Bhulabhai Desai Marg, Mahalaxmi West, Breach Candy, Cumballa Hill, Mumbai
When: 6 am – 10 pm
Mumba Devi Temple
Dedicated to Goddess Mumba, after whom the city gets its name, this is one of the most famous and oldest temples in Mumbai. Devotees visit the temple in significant numbers daily with sincere devotion. The colourful exteriors and the divine interiors, including the stunning all-black idol of the goddess will leave you speechless.
Where: Mumbadevi Area, Mumba Devi Marg, Zaveri Bazar, Mumbai
When: 6 am – 9 pm (Monday closed)
Babulnath Temple
This temple was originally built in 1700 and was re-constructed to its full glory when three idols from the original five idols were re-discovered. Today, the temple houses four out of the five idols and is dedicated to Lord Shiv. The temple is famous for its picturesque location and houses a unique idol of Lord Shiv, showing him in the form of a Baul tree, hence giving the temple its name.
Where: 16, Babulnath Road, Charni Road Near, Chowpatty, Malabar Hill, Mumbai
When: 5 am – 9 pm
Swaminarayan Temple
The temple is part of the Swaminarayan global community and is dedicated to Lord Narayan. It is a beautiful temple with its intricate architecture, leaving visitors impressed. The temple is a beacon of spirituality and devotion to God and is a must-visit temple.
Where: Mumbai Marathi Granth Sangrahalaya Road, Dadar, Mumbai
When: 6 am – 9 pm
Walkeshwar Temple
This ancient temple holds great religious significance for devotees. It is said to be the place where Lord Ram stopped while on his way to Lanka. The Shiv ling here was said to have been made by Lord Laxman, giving the temple even more religious importance. It is part of a charming complex, complete with a little pond at the centre, making for a lovely visit to the temple.
Where: 40, Banganga Cross Lane, Teen Batti, Malabar Hill, Mumbai,
When: 9 am – 1 pm and 5 pm – 8 pm