The city of dreams is a haven for history buffs. Museums like the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, previously the Prince of Wales Museum, are popular hotspots. Displaying the rich and varied heritage of the country, the CSMVS is home to thousands of exhibits. However, this is not all that Mumbai has to offer. Go off the beaten track and make your way to these offbeat museums in Mumbai to relive the rich history of the city and make the most of your day.
Did you know that India is one of the first countries in the world to issue coinage? A number of currency experiments have been conducted in the country’s history, too. This currency tells the story of the political and economic history of India in a unique way.
The RBI Monetary Museum of Mumbai displays interactive exhibits that trace the design of coins and notes through the annals of Indian history. Get a look at now-defunct currency issued by the RBI, coins dating back to the 6th Century, and myriad financial curiosities.
Address: Reserve Bank of India, Amar Building (Ground Floor), Sir Pherozeshah Mehta Road, Fort - 400 001
Opening Hours: 10:45 am to 5:15 pm, closed on Mondays
Email: museum@rbi.org.in
Contact: +91 (22) 22614043
The structure of the Bombay High Court is Victorian architecture at its best. This multi-dimensional space is more than an integral cog in the judicial system of the country. Nestled within the court is room number 17 which houses the Bombay High Court Museum. Though it was inaugurated in 2015, not many people know about this hidden jewel.
Explore a wide selection of well-curated legal scrolls, a model of the Bombay High Court, and British court memorabilia. The entire space is designed to mimic a courtroom. Some gems include the law certificates of Mahatma Gandhi and Vallabhbhai Patel.
Address: Bombay High Court, Dr. Kane Road, Fort, Mumbai
Opening Hours: 10.30 am to 5.30 pm
Email: museum-bhc@gov.in
Contact: +912222673090
Living primarily in Mumbai, the East Indians are a community comprising of Kulbis, Wadvals, Salsette Christians, Samavedi Christians, and Koli Christians. This unique ethnic group boasts a rich culture, distinctive clothing, and delicious culinary marvels.
Located at Manori in Mumbai, the East Indian Museum is housed inside a slightly-rundown villa. Learn about the first inhabitants of Mumbai – the Kolis, and explore numerous East Indian artefacts including clothes, old texts, sculptures, pictures, and more. Stop by Manori beach to enjoy a gorgeous sunset and a bite of local dishes after your museum run.
Address: Manori - Gorai Road, Puttupatti, Manori, Mumbai
Opening Hours: 10:00 am to 12.30 pm, 3:00 pm to 5.30 pm
Contact: +919820087771
Welcome to a rare museum that is in a class by itself – the BEST Transport Museum at Anik Depot. Located opposite IMAX Wadala, this quaint museum is placed on the third floor of the depot.
Containing a number of BEST bus models as well as parts of old trams, logos of buses, tickets, and old photos, the museum also boasts several remote-controlled buses for the young and the young-at-heart to play with.
Address: Anik Depot, Opposite IMAX Wadala, Wadala, Mumbai
Opening Hours: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm from Wednesday to Sunday
Contact: +9102224074336