Accommodations - Luxury Hotels
- Aj
- Feb 27
- 7 min read
If you've set your sights on Mumbai, and let me tell you, you're in for one wild ride. This place is so much more than just another city - it's a sensory overload wrapped in a colourful sari, served with a side of spicy street food. So, you're probably wondering where to lay your head in this concrete jungle, huh? Well, finding a place to stay in Mumbai is about as straightforward as understanding cricket rules after a few rounds of bhang lassi. But don't worry, I've got your back.
First off, let's address the elephant in the room - or should I say, the cow on the street? Mumbai isn't exactly known for being budget-friendly. If you were hoping for dirt-cheap digs like you might find in other parts of India, prepare for your wallet to let out a tiny whimper. This city's real estate prices could make a New Yorker blush.
But here's the thing: Mumbai's got range. You could be sipping chai in a swanky hotel overlooking the Arabian Sea one day and the next, bonding with fellow backpackers in a hostel where the Wi-Fi is more temperamental than Mumbai's monsoons. It's all part of the charm, really.
You don't have to sell a kidney to afford a room here unless you consider staying over at the Ambani's (though if you did, Mumbai's got some top-notch hospitals). There are options for every budget, from "I just won the lottery" to "I'm surviving on vada pav and dreams." Just be prepared for some, let's say, interesting trade-offs. Like, do you want air conditioning or do you want to be able to afford food for the rest of your trip?
Remember, this is a city where Mukesh Ambani's 27-story personal skyscraper stands not far from some of Asia's largest slums. Of course, it's a place of all heights (I mean literally), and your staycation options reflect that diversity. If you want to experience this city like a true Mumbaikar, it wouldn't really matter if you end up in a luxurious hotel that makes you feel like a star...Bollywood star, or in a cute home-like Airbnb where you'll be dodging pigeons on your balcony, live your moment! Just don't forget to pack your sense of humour and a good pair of earplugs. Trust me, you'll need both!
1. The Taj Mahal Palace
If you’re coming from the US and want to experience the epitome of luxury with a side of history, the Taj Mahal Palace is the hotel for you. It’s not just a place to stay; it’s an iconic symbol of Mumbai's grandeur.
The facilities here are world-class, featuring a lavish spa, temperature-controlled outdoor swimming pool, fine dining restaurants (including Wasabi by Morimoto and The Zodiac Grill), a state-of-the-art fitness centre, and 24-hour butler service. For those interested in wellness, the Jiva Spa offers holistic treatments using Indian herbs and ancient therapies.
The Taj has been a host to royalty, dignitaries, and celebrities for over a century. With 560 rooms and 44 suites, you'll have a plethora of room options, from classic heritage rooms to ultra-luxurious sea-facing suites.
What makes the Taj stand out is its timeless heritage. Opened in 1903, it was the first hotel in India to have electricity, American fans, German elevators, and Turkish baths. Staying here is like stepping into a historical monument with all the modern comforts of the 21st century. Plus, the stunning view of the Arabian Sea and Gateway of India right outside your window is something you won’t forget.
The hotel was built by Jamsetji Tata, a prominent industrialist, after being denied entry to a European-only hotel in the city. Over time, it became a symbol of Indian hospitality and resilience, surviving the 2008 Mumbai attacks and emerging stronger. A guided heritage tour within the hotel is available to guests, offering fascinating insights into its rich past.
Nearby Attractions:
Gateway of India (50 meters away)
Colaba Causeway (300 meters for street shopping)
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya Museum (1 km)
Leopold Café (200 meters, a popular tourist café)
Address: The Taj Mahal Palace, Apollo Bunder, Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001, India.
Prices: Rooms start from approximately ₹25,000 per night ($300), depending on the season and room type. The higher-end suites can go up to ₹3,00,000 ($3,600) per night.
2. The Oberoi, Nariman Point
Overlooking the Arabian Sea and the famous Marine Drive, The Oberoi is the ultimate luxury spot for tourists who crave modern sophistication. Its floor-to-ceiling windows give you breathtaking views, making sunsets here a genuinely magical experience. Facilities include a 24-hour spa and fitness centre, an outdoor temperature-controlled pool, a luxury retail arcade, and a 24-hour business centre. For food lovers, the hotel offers three signature dining experiences: Ziya (modern Indian cuisine), Fenix (multi-cuisine), and Vetro (Italian). The service is impeccable, with Oberoi’s legendary personalised attention ensuring that even the smallest of details are taken care of. If you’re visiting for work or leisure, The Oberoi has a perfect balance of both.
The hotel's prime location in Nariman Point makes it an ideal choice for tourists wanting to stay near the heart of the financial and cultural district. Its seamless blend of luxury and convenience means you can explore the city during the day and relax in serene comfort at night.
While The Oberoi is a modern marvel compared to The Taj, it has its own legacy of over four decades. Opened in the late 1970s, it helped establish Nariman Point as a prime business district and set the benchmark for luxury hotels in Mumbai.
Nearby Attractions:
Marine Drive (Queen's Necklace) (right in front of the hotel)
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya Museum (3 km)
Gateway of India (3.5 km)Fashion Street (2 km for shopping)
Address: The Oberoi, Nariman Point, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400021, India.
Prices: Rooms start from ₹20,000 per night ($240), while suites can range from ₹75,000 to ₹2,00,000 ($900 to $2,400).
3. Trident, Nariman Point
The Trident is Oberoi’s sister property and offers a more accessible yet equally luxurious experience. It shares the same great location on Marine Drive and offers many of the same perks as its neighbour, The Oberoi.
Facilities include a large outdoor pool, a modern fitness centre, spa services, and three fantastic dining options: Frangipani (Mediterranean), India Jones (Pan-Asian), and Verandah Lounge (for cocktails and tea). The service is renowned for being warm, professional, and attentive. Whether you’re here for business or pleasure, the rooms are sleek, and many offer breathtaking sea views.
The Trident’s prime selling point is its proximity to the best of Mumbai while offering slightly more affordable luxury than some of its peers. The views are phenomenal, especially during sunset when Marine Drive lights up and the sea turns golden.
Trident opened in the late 1970s and quickly became a top choice for business travellers due to its excellent location and competitive pricing for luxury standards. Today, it offers a mix of traditional Indian hospitality with international standards.
Nearby Attractions:
Marine Drive (Queen's Necklace) (right in front of the hotel)
Gateway of India (3 km)
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya Museum (3.5 km)
Churchgate Railway Station (1 km)
Address: Trident, Nariman Point, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400021, India.
Prices: Rooms start at ₹18,000 per night ($215), with suites ranging up to ₹1,00,000 ($1,200).
4. The Leela Mumbai
The Leela Mumbai is an oasis of calm and luxury, set amidst 11 acres of lush greenery, right in the heart of Mumbai’s busy commercial district near the airport. If you’re a tourist seeking a hotel that offers a resort-like experience while still being close to the city’s hustle and bustle, The Leela is a fantastic option. The hotel offers a massive swimming pool surrounded by palm trees, a 24-hour gym, and the renowned ESP Salon & Spa, which offers both Ayurvedic treatments and international therapies. For dining, you can enjoy everything from traditional Indian at Jamavar to international cuisines at Citrus.
The Leela’s lush gardens and serene environment are unlike anything you’d expect in a city as fast-paced as Mumbai. It’s a great pick for travellers who want a luxurious escape without being too far from the city centre or airport. The hospitality here is impeccable, and many visitors note that the serene gardens and waterfalls offer a resort-like atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Leela Hotels were founded by the prominent Nair family in 1986, and The Leela Mumbai opened in 1988. This hotel, one of the oldest Leela properties, is known for its traditional Indian architecture and opulent interiors that exude timeless charm.
Nearby Attractions:
Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (2.5 km away)
Phoenix Market City Mall (4 km)
Powai Lake (8 km)
Juhu Beach (10 km)
Address: The Leela Mumbai, Sahar, Andheri East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400059, India.
Prices: Rooms start at ₹14,000 per night ($170), with suites going up to ₹1,00,000 ($1,200).
5. JW Marriott Mumbai
JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu is where Bollywood glam meets luxury beachfront living. Located right on Juhu Beach, this hotel is a favourite for those looking to combine luxury with beach vibes. With 5-star facilities, including a sprawling pool that overlooks the Arabian Sea, multiple award-winning restaurants (like the famous Mezzo Mezzo for Italian cuisine and Saffron for Indian delicacies), and a renowned Quan Spa offering Ayurvedic treatments, the JW Marriott is the place for both relaxation and indulgence. For fitness enthusiasts, there’s a 24-hour gym with sea views, while business travellers can take advantage of extensive meeting and event spaces. You’ll likely spot a Bollywood celebrity or two hanging out by the pool or grabbing a bite at the Lotus Café.
The Juhu Beach location makes JW Marriott stand out from the rest. Imagine waking up, grabbing a cup of coffee, and taking a morning stroll on Mumbai’s most famous beach—no car rides necessary. If you're visiting from the US, staying here feels like combining a vacation with luxury while being close to the city’s top attractions.
JW Marriott opened in 2002 and quickly became one of the top choices for the Bollywood elite and international tourists alike. Its proximity to the homes of many celebrities and the Bollywood Film City has solidified its glamorous reputation.
Nearby Attractions:
Juhu Beach (direct access from the hotel)
Prithvi Theatre (1 km away, famous for plays and performances)
ISKCON Temple (2 km)
Bollywood Film City (15 km)
Address: JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, Juhu Tara Road, Juhu, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400049, India.
Prices: Rooms start at ₹22,000 per night ($265), with suites ranging up to ₹2,00,000 ($2,400).