About Mumba Devi Temple
Mumba Devi Temple is in Bhuleshwar, a busy old neighbourhood of south Mumbai near Zaveri Bazaar. It is dedicated to Goddess Mumba Devi, the patron goddess of the city, and Mumbai's name is widely believed to come from 'Mumba Aai', meaning Mother Mumba. She was first worshipped by the Kolis, the original fishing community of the islands. The temple remains a cherished place of prayer for Mumbaikars of all backgrounds.
The original shrine of Mumba Devi is said to have stood near the area of today's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, close to the old Bori Bunder. During the British period, as the fort area expanded in the eighteenth century, the shrine was moved, and the present temple was built at Bhuleshwar, beside what was once a large water tank. Over time it has become one of the oldest surviving temples in the city.
The goddess is shown with an orange-coloured face and a silver crown, nose ornament and gold necklace. Near her are images of other goddesses, including Annapurna, and a stone tiger, the goddess's vehicle, stands near the entrance. The temple is small and simple, surrounded by the lively lanes, shops and markets of Bhuleshwar and Zaveri Bazaar.
Mumba Devi Temple timings & aarti
Usually open from early morning till late evening (roughly 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM). Times may vary; check locally before visiting.
| Aarti / ritual | Time |
|---|---|
| Morning Aarti | Early morning, at opening |
| Evening Aarti | Around sunset |
Timings change on festivals, eclipses and special days. Please confirm locally before you travel.
How to reach Mumba Devi Temple
By air
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport – about 22 km.
By train
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) – about 2 km; Marine Lines and Charni Road on the Western line – about 1.5 km.
By road
Taxis and BEST buses reach Bhuleshwar and Kalbadevi; lanes are narrow and crowded, so it is easiest to walk the last stretch.
Festivals at Mumba Devi Temple
- NavaratriSep/Oct
- Chaitra NavaratriMar/Apr
- DiwaliOct/Nov
Visitor tips
- Dress code
- Modest traditional clothing recommended.
- Entry
- Entry is free and open to all devotees.
- Use local trains or taxis, as parking around Bhuleshwar is very difficult.
- Visit on a weekday morning when the market lanes are quieter.
- Keep valuables safe in the crowded market area.
- Combine your visit with a walk through Zaveri Bazaar and Crawford Market.
Places to visit near Mumba Devi Temple
- Zaveri BazaarHistoric jewellery market, a short walk
- Crawford Market (Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Mandai)Colonial-era market, about 1.5 km
- Babulnath TempleOld Shiva temple on Malabar Hill, about 3 km
- Mahalaxmi TempleFamous goddess temple by the sea, about 6 km
- Siddhivinayak TempleMumbai's most famous Ganesha temple, about 11 km
Frequently asked questions
Is Mumbai named after Mumba Devi?
Yes, it is widely believed that Mumbai's name comes from Mumba Devi, the city's patron goddess, often called Mumba Aai.
Where is Mumba Devi Temple located?
It is in Bhuleshwar, south Mumbai, near Zaveri Bazaar and Kalbadevi.
What are the Mumba Devi Temple timings?
It is usually open from early morning till late evening. Check locally for exact hours, especially during festivals.
Which is the nearest station to Mumba Devi Temple?
Marine Lines and Charni Road on the Western line, and CSMT on the Central line, are all about 1.5–2 km away.
What is the aarti time at Mumba Devi Temple?
Morning Aarti: Early morning, at opening; Evening Aarti: Around sunset. Times can change on festivals and special days, so please confirm locally before you go.
Is there a dress code at Mumba Devi Temple?
Modest traditional clothing recommended.
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