Babulnath Temple

Babulnath Temple is one of the oldest places of worship in Mumbai. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is also known as Great God, the 18th-century temple is a peaceful place full of limestone and marble where figures from Hindu mythology are intricately carved into the interior. 
Overlooking Chowpatty Beach atop a small hill in South Mumbai, Babulnath Temple was built in 1780 after five buried idols were discovered in the area. Come on Mondays to see devotees of Shiva come to obtain blessings at this holy site. Pilgrims also flock to Babulnath Temple for the annual Maha Shivratri (Great Night of Shiva) Festival. Maha Shivratri is celebrated on the night before a new moon because it’s said that Lord Shiva saved the world from darkness and sin — a darkness symbolized by the new moon. 

Practical Info

Opposite Bombay International School on Babulnath Road in the ritzy Malabar Hill district, Babulnath Temple is open Tuesday through Sunday from 5am to 10:30pm. Hours are extended to 4:30am to 11.30pm on Mondays for Somvar, the auspicious day of Lord Shiva when most devotees visit. If you don’t fancy making the pilgrimage up the hundreds of steps that will take you up to this sacred site, the elevator (halfway up the hill) to the temple costs 2 rupees.