A friend of mine asked me if I was interested in coming for a ‘Heritage Walk’ this weekend, through the lanes of Mumbai.

At first I was a bit amazed on hearing this concept of a Heritage walk, and that too in an overcrowded city like Mumbai. But a bit of research and few interactions with people made me realise that it actually is a very absorbing concept.

Such walks basically take you to some of the specific areas of Mumbai, and show the architectural heritage, historic significance, religious importance or the living culture of Mumbai.

How many of us know that, besides the Gateway of India, Mumbai has several places with heritage value attached to it. Have you heard of the East Indian settlement at Khotachiwadi or Old Womens’ Island? Most answers would be ‘NO’.

Well, here’s your chance. The group by the name – Bombay Heritage Walks – has been conducting these guided tours around the city since 1999.

I am in no way connected to this group or society, nor have I been on any their tours, so this post shouldn’t be considered as a PR article or publicity for this group. Its just about enlightening and passing on the knowledge, remember.

Conducted once a month, except the monsoon season, walks are held in different locations and they go on for about 90 minutes, with a small fee of Rs 100. Few of the routes are listed below -

- Flora Fountain – DN Road – VT – BMC HQ
- Bandra Village Walk
- A sacred walk around Banganga including Walkeshwar temple
- Asiatic Library – RBI – Mulji Fountain – P D’Mello Road - GPO – VT
- Walking around Bhuleshwar
- Walking to Crawford Market from Capitol Cinema
There has been a dearth of information on the architectural value of the heritage sites in Mumbai and these walks not only help know your city better but also gain knowledge about the architectural intricacies and styles, as you are accompanied by a guide.

In fact these walks are conducted in most cities like Delhi, Bangalore, Ahmedabad etc., through private or government bodies.

So what you waiting for, a heritage walk might just enliven your memories of this vibrant city, and in my case, help change the deplorable impression I’ve formed of the city.

Image Sources:



Flora Fountain

Asiatic Library

Gateway of India Source