Mumbai Travel Answers

Sorry, I know nothing of the airport in Mombai, but couldn't you check your luggage in with the airlines you'll be flying out on? Sometimes the luggage is automatically transfered to the next plane, I'm guessing this isn't the case. Still it seems that it could be a solution for you.

You could check your luggage through to final destination at point of departure. Carry a small backpack with you with necessary stuff for the day in MUmbai. I MUST warn you about the MUmbai traffic, though. It can sometimes take a very long time to get from airport into Mumbai, and back again. For instance, you would not actually get out of airport until 9am (hopefully)because customs are notoriously slow, and then another 90 mins to get Colaba area, where the attractions are. Same going back to airport- Because you would have to be there at least 2-3 hours before your flight leaves. Allow enough time.

I can not help in answering your question regarding luggage. But yes, you can certainly have a small tour of Mumbai. From the International airport, just walk straight of the airport and look for a taxi which will drive you to Victoria terminus Railway station. From there you can ask for a road that leads to Gateway of India. that road is nice and you can have a look at historic buildings. Its just an half an hour walk. You can easily spend 3-4 hours roaming near Gateway, on the Taj road etc.

It is very unlikely that you will be able to check your luggage early. Most of the check-in counters do not even open until between 2-3 hours of your flight. You might want to make arrangements for a private tour where you'll be able to take the luggage along. Check with Deepa of Mumbai Magic (just google Mumbai Magic). She comes highly recommended and she'll make sure that you get back to the airport in time for your flight. You can also get an inexpensive day room near the airport where you can leave your luggage but be sure to get some recommendations from other travellers so you know it's safe.

Donna- the OP could easily check through their luggage to final destination from UK. We have done this many times,from Australia, and I don't think that there would be a problem doing it from UK. They can keep a backpack with necessary items for the day in MUmbai with them.

Lynne - your scenario would depend on whether or not it is the same airline or an affiliate (assuming both are international flights). If the OP is flying into Mumbai from within India and then out internationally, the luggage would not be checked all the way through.

Well....one would presume that (coming from UK) they will be flying VIA Mumbai to somewhere. Maybe the OP could clarify.

Thank you for your suggestions. Do you know of a day room near the airport that you can recommend? I will look into the tour. Bit afraid of getting held up in traffic and missing my plane!

I cannot remember the name of the place a friend of mine stayed - but so many hotels have come up since then. You do not have to worry about missing your flight. You should be at the airport around 11:30 p.m. If you go into the "city" you can start your drive back by 7-7:30 - and possibly stop at one of the hotels near the airport (plenty of very nice ones) for dinner or just to relax in a lounge - since you should arrive by 9 or so. I would send Deepa an email and see what she recommends. As far as looking for a room - you can check www.cleartrip.com or www.makemytrip.com - check the reviews. The areas near the airport include Andheri (W/E), Juhu, Vile Parle. Bandra & Santa Cruz are also fine. If you find any you like, send them an email to inquire about day rates. You can also decide to skip going into the "city" and visit some of the suburbs - Juhu, Lokhandwala, Bandra, Vile Parle. Lots of markets, shops, etc. - not too much in the way of "sights" though. But I think you'll be fine going into the city - and would recommend doing that.

Thank you very much for your very informative help. I feel lots better now. I will get onto your suggestions. Best wishes, Vicki

Hi Vicki, I hope you have made your arrangements, if not, I would suggest you book a room at beach-side hotel in Juhu. You will be within a 25-40 minute taxi ride of the airport. There are several 3 star, 4 star and 5 star properties depending on your budget.

Hi, I am also in a similar position, only i need somewhere in Mumbai (preferably near the international airport, else near the main train station) to leave a suitcase for about 10 days! Does anyone know of any options/companies that do that sort of thing? Thanks Guy

If you are staying at a hotel in Mumbai before you leave for the 10 days, the hotel may hold it for you. We've left bags for a few days before and will be doing it again on our upcoming trip.

Hi Guy, Just back from Mumbai it was a great place to explore. When I got off the Domestic flight from Goa I was told that there was a place to store the luggage at the airport. I didn't need it in the end as I hired a tour guide and a driver for the whole day. I don't know how long this place does store the luggage but the facility is definitely available. Good luck Vicki

I took your advice and contacted Deepa of Mumbai Magic and ended up taking one of her tours and hiring a driver for the day. It was a memorable experience. Thank you Vicki

Hi Vicki, Thanks for letting us know how it went for you! I'm delighted you had such a good time.