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Whether you need to know local public holidays or highlights through the seasons, we hope you will find the facts gathered below useful tools for your travel planning. Please feel free to contact us if we can assist you further.

General information

Mumbai is a vibrant, bustling city situated along the western coast of India, on the edge of the Arabian Sea. Formerly known as Bombay, the city is made up of seven connected islands and boasts a population that exceeds 13 million; it is among the world's fastest-growing cities. As the business and financial capital of India, all the major financial institutions, banks and stock exchanges are based here. Mumbai is also home to the glamour and intrigue of India's renowned movie industry, "Bollywood."

To truly experience Mumbai, all one has to do is wander through the myriad neighbourhoods and markets, alive with the sights and sounds of this unique city. This multicultural metropolis is characterised by an eclectic mix of traditional huts and skyscrapers, age-old customs and modern traditions – capturing the spirit of change and diversity that is India today.

From distinctive shopping experiences and exotic dining to an exhilarating afternoon of cricket or sightseeing, Mumbai offers something for everyone. At Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai, with its desirable location in the emerging Worli district, unparalleled service and hospitality will shape your visit to India.

Time zone

GMT +5.5 hours

Language(s) spoken

Marathi is the language indigenous to the state of Maharashtra, where Mumbai is located. However, Hindi, Gujarati and English are also spoken.

Electrical system

Local voltage is 230 volts AC, 50 Hz; three-point round-pin sockets. Adapters are available; please request through the Concierge.

Shopping hours

Most shops in the city centre are open six days a week, Monday to Saturday, 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.

Working hours

Official business hours are 9:30 am to 5:30 pm.
Banks are open 10:00 am to 2:00 pm Monday to Friday and 10:00 am to 12:00 noon on Saturdays.
Post offices are open from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm Monday to Friday and 9:30 am to 3:30 pm on Saturdays.

Time and distance to city centre

The Hotel is located in the city centre of Mumbai.

Time and distance to shopping

Atria, The Millennium Mall at Worli: 5 minutes' drive/1.3 kilometres (0.8 mile)
Raghuvanshi Mills: 5 minutes' drive/0.5 kilometre (0.3 mile)
Phoenix Mills at Lower Parel: 5 minutes' drive/1 kilometre (0.6 mile)

Time and distance to financial district

Worli (centre): 5 minutes' drive/1.3 kilometres (0.8 mile)
Nariman Point (south): 25 minutes' drive/7 kilometres (4.3 miles)
Bandra Kurla Complex (north): 25 minutes' drive/8 kilometres (5 miles)
Note: Travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions.

View in–depth travel advice from Frommers.com

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Seasonal highlights

January

The Banganga Music Festival is a two-day event celebrated at the historic Banganga Tank. Artists from across the country perform live music for everyone to enjoy.

February

The Indian Derby is held annually at Mahalaxmi Racecourse. The country’s most popular horse race is considered to be the highlight of the year's racing calendar in Mumbai.

The Elephanta Festival involves a 90-minute boat ride from the Gateway of India to the Elephanta Islands. During the festival, renowned classical dancers and musicians perform outside the caves of Elephanta.

March

Holi marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring. It is a joyous celebration where people throw coloured water (gulal) at each other, singing and dancing throughout the occasion.

May

Maharashtra Day is held at the Shivaji Park in central Mumbai with a ceremonial parade featuring the governor of the state, members of the state reserve police force, Brihanmumbai Commando Force, home guards, civil defence, fire brigade and city police.

August

Nariyal Poornima is a festival where the fishermen of Mumbai make offerings of coconuts and flowers to the sea god Varuna, in an effort to calm the turbulent monsoon waters. Held on the last day of the rainy season, freshly painted boats are launched and a new fishing season kicks off. This festival is best experienced at fishing communities in Colaba and Versova.

August–September

Ganesh Chaturthi is Mumbai’s largest annual festival. It is a 11-day celebration of the elephant-headed deity, Lord Ganesh.

October–November

The exciting Navaratri Festival is marked by nine nights of dancing, making it one of the liveliest Hindu festivals. Symbolising the triumph of good over evil, Mumbai's clubs and stadiums come alive each night throughout this event.

Diwali is the popular and illuminating five-day festival of lights. Decorative oil lamps are lit at night and placed in the waters of the Banganga Tank. On the third day, fireworks light up the sky.

November–January

The Kala Ghoda Fair brings the sights and sounds of rural India to Mumbai. Held on every Sunday from November to January, the fair makes the pedestrian plaza alive with a colourful celebration of music, arts and crafts.