It’s true. If you have the will, you can make the best of everything. Even the monsoon. After all the sighs, comes the joy of seeing the city dance to the beat of the rains. The weather is cooler, most places aren't too crowded and if you ask us, it's the best time to discover or rediscover your city. Here are some activities you can do and places you can visit to make the best of of it.
Eat At Rooftop Cafe Or Visit A Fort: Here's How To Make The Most Of Mumbai Rains
Visit Sion Fort
It’s a blessing in disguise for those looking to hear the chirping of birds, feel the gush of clean air and a bird’s-eye view of the city. The garden has numerous arched bridges/staircases leading to greener patches. It’ll be even more beautiful during monsoon. Post this, enjoy a plate of chhole bhature from Chawla’s, or Sion Lunch Home!
Make sure you dress right for this, though. Wear proper shoes, full-length tracks and loose clothing. If it's really pouring, do wear a raincoat and carry a cover to protect your phone.
Rooftop Cafes
There's quite a few in the city that are absolutely lovely. Get a hot chocolate, or a hot toddy, depending on your company and your mood. It's wonderful, especially when there's a view to boot! Choose from options such as Jamjar Versova, Bonobo in Bandra, Versova Social, The Marina Upper Deck in Colaba, The Terrace in Andheri, or Rike, at Veera Desai.
All of these spots also offer indoor seating too, in case you'd prefer that.
To The Galleries!
On a rainy day, most people stay in and prefer to WFH, or sleep in... But if you've got cabin fever and want to flex about how cultured you are, rush to the numerous art galleries our city has to offer. It won't be crowded, and you'll have a ton of time to dissect paintings, photographs and installations with your date, with no disapproving looks when you're staring at a piece for over 10 minutes. Here's a handy list.
Go For A Run To Bandra Fort
The Bandstand stretch is a witness to how beautiful the seaside looks during monsoon. We’re not talking about running during a heavy downpour day but taking it easy on a fairly dry day. Soak in the view, meet some dogs along the way and end your walk/run at the fort. You can even sit in the park and spend some time doing nothing.
If it's pouring, park yourself along the walls of the fort. The drama of the sea is a sight to behold. Just don't try to step on the rocks!
Head to SGNP (and Kanheri Caves)
One of the most beautiful places in the city to enjoy the monsoons is SGNP. The forest is untouched, and if you have a car you can take in, it's a beautiful drive through the wilderness...with buildings in view if you squint hard enough. Carry a flask filled with chai, and score some samosas on the way. You'll thank us later.
Alternatively, try to go for a trek to Kanheri caves! The region comes alive with several mini waterfalls during the monsoons, and the trek becomes FAR more fun than it is during the summer.
PS: There aren't as many monkeys during the rains! Win-win, isn't it?