The cacophony of sounds and pungent aromas, not to mention a burgeoning population of nearly 15 million, can make Mumbai, India overwhelming to a foreign visitor. The city suffers from growing pains with pollution and poverty, but it remains India’s city of dreams. Mumbai is India’s center of business and one of the most important commercial hubs between Singapore and Europe, as well as home of the prolific Bollywood film industry. These DOs and DON’Ts will help smooth any cultural shock of this swarming city so you can have a productive visit.

Mumbai Sightseeing

During Mumbai’s meteoric growth over the last 50 years, the city has developed many upscale hotels and restaurants to support the thriving business community, but there are not many tourist attractions or cultural offerings.
DO take a stroll along the waterside promenade near Mumbai’s most recognizable icon, the Gateway of India. This arch has welcomed visitors from around the world to one of the best-protected natural harbors in the world.

DO take a boat from the arch to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Elephanta Island, whose rock-cut temples dedicated to Shiva date from the seventh-century Hindu dynasties. Travel Maestro Tip: DO keep any food out of sight of the resident monkeys.

Also off-shore is the Haji Ali Mosque that becomes an island when high tide submerges the causeway. DO time visits with the tides – a red or green flag indicates accessibility. Travel Maestro tip: Remember when visiting this or any religious site DON’T wear revealing clothing and ladies, DO have a scarf to cover your hair.

For one of the best people-watching spot of Mumbai, DO visit Chowpatty Beach with many merchants and peddlers, but no beggars. Or if you want to recreate India’s wonderful curries at home, DO take one of the many culinary tours of Mumbai, complete with a market shopping trip for ingredients. Other tours of interest include architectural heritage walks, a Ghandi tour and a Worli fishing village walk.

You’re likely to see a stirring religious ceremony called the aarti, where Hindu priests chant hymns as devotees worship with flowers, candles and sing with cymbals. If you happen on one at a temple, DO make a wish – it may come true.

Hotels

Nariman Point is the city’s modern business center where most of the luxury hotels are clustered. DO make reservations at least two weeks in advance – further during the festival of lights (Oct. – early Nov) and winter holidays. Travel Maestro tip: To increase your chance of good service, DO provide a tip at the beginning of your stay.

A bandh is India’s version of a strike when a political party calls for everyone to stay at home. DON’T step outside your hotel if a bandh is declared.

Transportation in Mumbai

DO take a taxi from and to the airport. The largest and most reliable operator is Meru Cabs and they have a smartphone app for booking. Blue air-conditioned taxis charge about 33% more, but they are newer and the air-conditioning can be worth the difference.

DON’T drive yourself in Mumbai. Traffic is chaotic and accident rates are high. Some taxi drivers try to take advantage of tourists, so DO always insist on using the meter – they are required by law – and DO be sure it has been cleared from the previous fare. Travel Maestro tip: DO consider hiring a car and driver to make your visit even easier.

If you can avoid it, DON’T travel anywhere during the peak rush hours of 7-11 am and 4:30-8:30 pm. Traffic jams can last for hours. If you are in the suburbs north of Mahim Creek, DO travel by three-wheelers or auto rickshaws. The ride can be noisy, scary and less safe, but quicker and cheaper and definitely more exhilarating than a taxi.

DON’T tip taxi or rickshaw drivers, but if you hire a driver for a day, DO provide meals (up to 100Rs per meal) and tip 100 – 200 Rs at the end of the day.

What to Wear

Mumbai is India’s fashion capital and locals, especially women, dress trendily. DO wear a suit for business meetings and DO wear something smart for evening outings.

Mumbai is hot and humid year-round, so DO pack light clothes and a hat if you’re fair complexioned. Ladies, DO pack a lightweight silk scarf for sun protection and to cover your hair in temples and mosques.

Business Etiquette

DO make business appointments as far in advance as possible, DO greet with a handshake and DO use professional titles or Mr. / Ms. with the person’s last name.

DON’T point with your fingers and definitely not with your feet. Indians typically point with their chins. DON’T motion someone to you with your palm up – DO keep your palm down and move your fingers in a scooping motion. DON’T stand with your hands on your hips, as this is seen as aggressive. DON’T touch any Indian on the head, even children.

Women enjoy (near) equal status in business and can pay for meals, etc., but DON’T address women who are walking alone or whom you don’t know.

Health Considerations

DON’T drink the tap water! DO buy bottled mineral water and DO double check that the bottle is sealed. Travel Maestro tip: the safest brand (and more expensive) is Himalaya Water.

No vaccinations are required to visit India, but DO make sure your boosters for tetanus, measles and polio are up-to-date. Mumbai and other parts of India pose a slight malarial risk, so consider taking antimalarial treatments. Travel Maestro disclaimer: I am not qualified to dispense medical advice, so DO seek your physician’s advice for specific or personal health considerations for travel to India.

The profusion of sensory stimulus in Mumbai can deluge a first-time visitor like a monsoon, but follow these DOs and DON’Ts to help navigate the cultural differences for a successful trip. For more information on planning a trip to India, contact Covington Travel’s expert travel advisors.