Getting Around in Mumbai

Metered Taxis

Getting around in Mumbai can be challenging to say the least.  There are about a million vehicles on the congested streets, and each week, a thousand more join the chaos.  Taxis are the only practical option for visitors, and thankfully, they are always in plentiful supply. Mumbai is one of the few places in India where the taxi meter reading is strictly adhered to. Price cards, however, may be outdated or missing vital information, especially regarding the different fares applicable for day and night.  Ask the driver for a conversion chart.  If all this seems too stressful, ask your hotel doorman to calculate the correct fare for you.  Once you’re in the taxi, don’t expect a plush riding experience.  Mumbai’s taxis still come in the old battered black and white Fiat variety and are sorely lacking in comfort or leg room.  That being said, drivers are courteous and chances of your driver speaking English are actually pretty high.  The blue “cool cabs” are up to forty percent more expensive but are air conditioned and more spacious. 

Private Taxis

For longer trips around the city, you’ll find it more convenient to hire a private cab and driver.  Negotiate the price beforehand and ask for an English speaking driver.  Getting around in Mumbai involves endless traffic jams, and shelling out some extra cash for an air conditioned taxi is more than worth the price.   

Train

Close to 6 million people use Mumbai’s train system every day.  Keep in mind, however, that train travel in Mumbai is not for the faint hearted, although it may seem like a great forum for people watching.  If you must include a train ride in your Mumbai experience, avoid peak hours and leave all valuables behind. 

Buses

Mumbai’s red double decker Routemaster buses are remnants from colonial times.  Again, a great platform for experiencing life Mumbai style but not very practical for foreigners since most signs are in Hindi.  They are extremely affordable though, and if you do deicide to hop on one, buy a route guide (easily available), carry lots of change, and remember that many roads and neighborhoods in Mumbai have been renamed.  Luckily, Mumbaikars are more than happy to help out visitors.  So just speak up, and you’ll immediately attract a small crowd eager to help you out!