Mumbai is a lively coastal city filled with street food, colonial landmarks, colourful markets, Bollywood energy, and stunning sunsets over the Arabian Sea.
Each season brings a different side of the city from breezy seaside evenings to dramatic monsoon showers that transform the city’s vibe.
Whether you're planning to explore Marine Drive, wander through Colaba, or enjoy Mumbai’s café culture, knowing the best time to visit helps you plan comfortably and experience the city at its best.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Mumbai?
The best time to visit Mumbai is between November and February.
These winter months bring pleasant weather ranging from 17°C to 30°C, ideal for walking tours, shopping streets, outdoor attractions, and enjoying seaside spots like Juhu Beach and Bandra Bandstand.
Winter also offers clearer skies, lower humidity, and a lively festival season perfect for sightseeing, food hunting, and soaking in the city’s coastal charm.
Weather and Seasons in Mumbai
Mumbai has three main seasons Winter, Summer, and Monsoon each giving a different travel experience.
Winter in Mumbai (November to February)
Winter is the most comfortable time of the year, with pleasant days and cool evenings.
Temperature: 17°C to 30°C
What to wear 🌿
- Light clothing for the day
- A thin jacket or shawl for the evening
- Comfortable shoes for sightseeing
Best things to do 🎉
- Stroll along Marine Drive and Bandra Promenade
- Explore Colaba and Fort heritage sites
- Join festivals like Diwali, Christmas, and Kala Ghoda
Summer in Mumbai (March to May)
Summer is hot and humid, with temperatures rising above 32°C. Days can be warm, but evenings by the sea are breezy.
Temperature: 25°C to 34°C
What to wear 🌿
- Breathable cotton clothing
- Sunglasses, sunscreen
- Comfortable sandals
Best things to do 🌊
- Visit air-conditioned attractions like museums and malls
- Enjoy sunset views at Marine Drive
- Try refreshing street drinks like nimbu soda and sugarcane juice
Monsoon in Mumbai (June to September)
Monsoon is dramatic, refreshing, and iconic in Mumbai. Heavy rains can slow the city, but the lush greenery and cooler weather appeal to some travellers.
Temperature: 24°C to 29°C
What to wear 🌿
- Quick-dry outfits
- Waterproof footwear
- A light raincoat or umbrella
Best things to do 🍛
- Enjoy monsoon foods like bhajiya and hot chai
- Visit indoor attractions like Gateway of India museums and Prithvi Theatre
- Watch the waves at Worli Sea Face
Peak, Shoulder, and Off-Peak Seasons in Mumbai
Peak Season (November to February)
The most pleasant weather and major festivals attract the most visitors.
Pros:
- Perfect weather for outdoor sightseeing, night markets, rooftop restaurants, and cultural walks
- Clear skies, cooler nights and lower humidity
- Vibrant cultural events
Cons:
- Higher hotel rates during the festive period
- Popular spots and shopping districts get busy
Shoulder Season (March & October)
Warm but manageable weather, especially in the evenings.
Pros:
- Fewer crowds so better pricing on accommodation, tours, and activities
- Better hotel prices with fewer tourist
- Great for evening walks and markets
Cons:
- Daytime can feel hot which may affect outdoor plans
- Events like Navratri and Durga Puja make certain areas busier
Off-Peak Season (June to September – Monsoon)
Rainy season with lush greenery and fewer tourists.
Pros:
- Lowest and flight hotel prices
- Romantic monsoon atmosphere perfect for photography
- Quiet attractions make the experience calmer and slower.
Cons:
- Flooding, traffic slowdowns and heavy rain can disrupt plans
- Some outdoor tours may be closed for safety reasons.
Flights to Mumbai
Best Time to Visit Mumbai Based on Travel Style
Travel Style | Best Time | Why It’s Ideal | Tips |
Budget Travellers | June–September | Low hotel prices and fewer tourists | Stay near metro/rail lines for easy travel during rain |
Luxury Travellers | November–February | Best weather for rooftop bars, fine dining, and private tours | Book sea-view rooms early |
Sightseeing Lovers | November–February | Comfortable for exploring Gateway of India, Colaba, markets | Start early to enjoy cool mornings |
Families | December–February | Pleasant weather and kid-friendly outings | Visit museums, beaches, and parks |
Cultural Enthusiasts | October–February | Festival season: Diwali, Christmas, Republic Day events | Check festival dates before planning |
Travel Tips for Your Mumbai Trip
Booking 🏨
Hotels in Mumbai fill fast during festivals so book early, especially around December and major events.
Connectivity 📶
Use a local SIM or eSIM for smooth travel, maps, and ride-hailing apps like Uber or Ola.
Payments 💳
Mumbai is very card-friendly, but keeps small cash for street food and local markets.
FAQs About the Best Time to Visit Mumbai
What is the cheapest month to visit Mumbai?
The most budget-friendly months are June to September, during the monsoon season. Hotel and flight prices drop significantly, making it the best time for travellers looking for lower costs.Is monsoon a good time to travel to Mumbai?
Monsoon (June–September) can be beautiful and refreshing, but heavy rains may cause delays. It's ideal if you enjoy rainy weather, lush scenery, and cheaper travel—but outdoor plans may need flexibility.What is the coolest month in Mumbai?
January is usually the coolest month, with temperatures between 17°C and 28°C. It’s one of the most comfortable periods for sightseeing.When is Mumbai the busiest with tourists?
Mumbai is busiest from December to January, especially around Christmas, New Year, and major festivals when the weather is perfect and events fill the city.When should I avoid travelling to Mumbai?
Avoid travelling during extreme monsoon days (July–August) if you prefer stable weather. Heavy rains may cause waterlogging and slow transport.