Bandra Walking Tour

Introduction

Step into the past with our Bandra Walking Tour, where history comes alive through charming streets, ancient churches, and heritage villages. Travel back to the era when Mumbai existed as seven separate islands—each carrying its own stories and cultural identity. Bandra, once a modest settlement, is today a vibrant blend of old-world charm and contemporary energy.

Known as the “Queen of the Suburbs,” Bandra is a unique fusion of Indo-Portuguese architecture, local traditions, and modern lifestyle. The area came under Portuguese rule in 1534, and soon after, Brother Manuel Gomes—one of the earliest Portuguese missionaries—arrived and established the foundation of Christianity in the region. With time, multiple churches, forts, and Catholic villages emerged, leaving behind a rich architectural and cultural legacy.

The Bandra Walking Tour is the perfect experience for anyone who wants to dive into its historic roots—exploring ancient forts, charming colonial churches, and traditional villages that still retain the essence of the past. Today, Bandra’s creative and cosmopolitan aura attracts celebrities, artists, musicians, expats, and trendsetters. The neighbourhood thrives with boutique stores, stylish cafes, hip bars, and international cuisine, making it one of Mumbai’s most dynamic suburbs.

Join us to discover Bandra West’s fascinating evolution—from a quiet fishing settlement to a bustling cultural hotspot—and enjoy the perfect balance of heritage, culture, and modern-day sophistication on this guided walking tour.

Highlights Of The Bandra Walking Tour:

St. Andrew’s Church

Built in 1575 by Portuguese Jesuits, St. Andrew’s Church is one of the oldest standing churches in Mumbai. Located by the Bandra shoreline, it served as the only church in the area until the early 17th century and remains a significant religious landmark.

The Historic Villages of Bandra

In earlier centuries, Bandra was a small fishing and farming settlement primarily inhabited by the Koli community. While the British East India Company controlled Bandra, the rest of Bombay remained under Portuguese rule, shaping a unique cultural blend still visible today.

Ranwar Village

Ranwar is the oldest of Bandra’s original 24 heritage villages (pakhadis). When the British took over Bombay in 1661, control of Bandra was not immediately handed over, resulting in a rich mix of Portuguese and British influences that can still be seen in the architecture and alleyways of Ranwar.

Chimbai Village

Chimbai remains one of the last surviving fishing hamlets in Bandra. Despite being close to upscale Bandstand and modern high-rises, the area has retained its rustic charm. The Koli community, Bandra’s original inhabitants, still live here and preserve their traditional way of life.

Trace Bandra’s Portuguese Heritage

Bandra’s identity is deeply rooted in its Portuguese past. From colonial-style homes and ancient churches to Catholic villages, the influence of Portuguese settlers who arrived in 1534 is unmistakable. Many residents were converted to Christianity during this period, creating a strong Indo-Portuguese cultural legacy.

Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount (Mount Mary Church)

One of Mumbai’s most iconic religious structures, Mount Mary Basilica is a Roman Catholic church located on a hill overlooking the Arabian Sea. The Feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary is celebrated here annually after September 8, drawing thousands of devotees and tourists.

Bandra Fort & Bandstand

At the edge of Bandra West lies the 17th-century Bandra Fort, originally built by the Portuguese as a watchtower overlooking Mahim Bay. Today, it offers spectacular views of the Mumbai skyline and the famous Bandra–Worli Sea Link, making it a perfect stop for photography enthusiasts.

Price

Tour Cost for INR 1000/- Per Person Group Tour
Private Cost for INR 2000/- Per Person\

Time

Batches: Evening 4:00 pm
Duration: 2.5 Hours Walking

Extra Things to Add:

Lunch with Family: INR 200/- per person ( End of the tour, lunch with a nearby family home for a Vegetarian Meal. Get comfortable and feast the local way, sitting on the floor and eating with your hands )
Fishing Tour: INR 900 per Person ( Get a chance to fish on Elephanta Island with Locals and learn the technique of Fishing )

Inclusions:

Cultured, professional, highly qualified, and knowledgeable Female Guide
Water Bottel

Exclusion

Hotel pickup and drop-off
Gratuities

MEETING LOCATION:

We will meet at St.Andrews Church and end the tour at Land’s End.