Churchgate

The Basics

Churchgate is a fun area to explore, and many walking tours come here. While the outstanding architecture is reason enough to visit, there are also plenty of interesting sights in the area, particularly for those with an interest in India’s most beloved sport: cricket. Don't miss the Oval Maidan ground, with the imposing facade of the Bombay High Court in the background, or the Cricket Club of India’s Brabourne Stadium.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Churchgate is a must-visit for those with an interest in architecture.

• Churchgate is best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen.

• A stroll up Marine Drive through Churchgate and up to Chowpatty Beach is a fun and popular way to check out the sunset.

How to Get There

The Churchgate neighborhood is located in South Mumbai, a five-minute walk from St. Thomas Cathedral. The area is easy to get to via taxi or public transportation. The cheapest (and oftentimes fastest) way to get there is by taking the Western line to Churchgate railway station, a major terminus on Maharshi Karve Road.

When to Get There

Churchgate is a cool area to visit any time of day or year, though travelers may want to avoid the monsoon season (June to September), as it makes getting around on foot less fun. Early mornings are good for photography and for avoiding heat and crowds, but the area is most lively around sunset, particularly on weekends.

How Churchgate Got Its Name

In the 17th century, Catherine of Portugal married King Charles II of England, and the city of Bombay was presented to the British Crown as a wedding gift. The British then leased the southern part of the area to the East India Company, which in turn built a fort with three gates. One was in Churchgate, named for Saint Thomas Cathedral.