Chor Bazaar, one of Mumbai's most famous flea markets, is located in the bustling area of Bhendi Bazaar in South Mumbai. Known for its eclectic mix of antiques, vintage items, and unique collectibles, it attracts tourists, bargain hunters, and locals alike. Whether you're visiting for shopping, photography, or exploring Mumbai's vibrant street culture, reaching Chor Bazaar is straightforward from various parts of the city.

This guide covers the main transport options to Chor Bazaar, including train, bus, car, and taxi rides. You'll find practical tips on timings, routes, and local travel nuances to help you plan your visit confidently and enjoy the market's lively atmosphere without hassle.

Getting from Mumbai to Chor Bazaar – Main Options

Train

Taking the local train is one of the most popular and cost-effective ways to reach Chor Bazaar, especially for those staying in Mumbai suburbs. The market is close to the Grant Road and Mumbai CST railway stations on the Western and Central lines respectively.

• Nearest stations:

  Grant Road (Western Line) is about 1 km from Chor Bazaar, while Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) on the Central Line is around 2 km away. Both stations are well connected to Mumbai’s suburban network.

• Travel time and cost:

  From major hubs like Bandra or Andheri, trains take 20–40 minutes, costing as low as ₹10–₹20. Trains run frequently, every 5–10 minutes during peak hours.

• Comfort and crowd:

  Local trains can be extremely crowded during peak hours (8–11 AM and 5–8 PM). For a more comfortable journey, travel outside these times or opt for first-class tickets if available.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Grant Road or CST station, you can walk (15–20 minutes) or take an auto-rickshaw or taxi to Chor Bazaar. Autos are plentiful but negotiate fares beforehand.

• Seasonal tips:

  Avoid traveling by train during monsoon peak hours due to heavy crowding and occasional delays caused by waterlogging on tracks.

Bus

Public buses operated by BEST provide a budget-friendly option to reach Chor Bazaar from various parts of Mumbai. However, bus routes can be complex for first-time visitors.

• Key bus routes:

  Routes 138, 139, and 151 pass near Bhendi Bazaar and Grant Road areas. Check the latest BEST route maps or apps like m-Indicator for real-time info.

• Travel time and fare:

  Depending on your starting point, buses can take 30–60 minutes. Fares range from ₹10 to ₹25. Buses can get crowded during rush hours.

• Bus stops:

  Alight at Grant Road or Bhendi Bazaar bus stops for the shortest walk to Chor Bazaar. These stops are well-marked and frequently serviced.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Buses are basic but air-conditioned Volvo buses are rare on these routes. Frequency is good during the day but reduces late evening.

• Challenges:

  Traffic congestion on major roads like DN Road and MG Road can delay buses, especially during festivals or peak hours.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Chor Bazaar is convenient if you prefer flexibility and comfort, but navigating South Mumbai’s narrow lanes and heavy traffic requires patience.

• Route details:

  From Western suburbs, take the Western Express Highway to Bandra-Worli Sea Link, then head towards Grant Road via DN Road. From the east, approach via CST or Byculla.

• Distance and time:

  Depending on your starting point, expect 10–15 km and 30–60 minutes travel time. Traffic jams are common during office hours.

• Parking:

  Parking near Chor Bazaar is limited and often expensive. Use paid parking lots near Grant Road station or opt for valet services if available.

• Navigation tips:

  Use Google Maps or local apps to avoid congested streets. Avoid driving during peak hours (8–11 AM, 5–8 PM) to reduce delays.

• Toll and fuel:

  No tolls on this route, but fuel stations are available en route. Keep change handy for parking fees and tolls if coming via expressways.

Taxi / Ride-Hailing

Taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber offer a hassle-free door-to-door option to reach Chor Bazaar, especially for visitors unfamiliar with Mumbai’s public transport.

• Booking:

  Use Ola or Uber apps to book rides directly to Chor Bazaar. Choose shared rides for budget options or sedans for comfort.

• Travel time and cost:

  Depending on traffic, rides can take 30–60 minutes from central locations. Expect fares between ₹150 and ₹400.

• Drop-off points:

  Request drop-off near the main entrance of Chor Bazaar on MG Road or Bhendi Bazaar Road for easy access.

• Safety and convenience:

  Cabs provide air-conditioned comfort and avoid the hassle of parking. Always check driver ratings and share your trip details.

• Peak hour challenges:

  Surge pricing can increase fares during festivals or rush hours. Booking rides in advance or during off-peak times helps avoid this.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time visitors to Chor Bazaar, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your train or taxi tickets in advance:

  Use IRCTC for train tickets or Ola/Uber apps for cabs to avoid last-minute hassles and secure the best fares.

• Reach your departure point early:

  Arrive at your local train station or bus stop at least 15 minutes before departure to avoid missing crowded trains or buses.

• Choose off-peak travel times:

  Plan your trip between 11 AM and 4 PM to avoid the heaviest crowds on trains and roads.

• Use prepaid taxis or auto-rickshaws for last-mile travel:

  At Grant Road or CST stations, opt for prepaid counters or negotiate fares before hopping into autos to Chor Bazaar.

• Carry small change and water:

  Street shopping involves bargaining and walking, so keep coins handy and stay hydrated, especially in summer.

• Wear comfortable shoes and keep valuables secure:

  Chor Bazaar is crowded and bustling; comfortable footwear and secure bags will enhance your experience.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety:

  Keep an eye on your belongings as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas like Chor Bazaar. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

• Food and water:

  Stick to bottled water and eat at popular stalls or nearby restaurants with good hygiene ratings to avoid stomach issues.

• Booking strategy:

  For trains, book tickets on IRCTC or via trusted apps. For buses, check routes on m-Indicator. For cabs, book through Ola or Uber for safety and fare transparency.

• Local commute:

  Use prepaid auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs for short distances within South Mumbai to avoid haggling and ensure fair pricing.

• Luggage:

  Travel light as navigating narrow lanes and crowded markets is easier without bulky bags.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Avoid visiting during monsoon evenings due to slippery roads and waterlogging in some areas near Chor Bazaar.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Chor Bazaar is during the cooler months from October to February when Mumbai experiences pleasant weather. Summers can be hot and humid, while monsoons bring heavy rains that may disrupt travel.

Planning your visit on weekdays or mid-mornings helps avoid the weekend rush and peak hour crowds, making your shopping experience more enjoyable.

• Avoid peak traffic hours (8–11 AM, 5–8 PM) to reduce travel time and crowd stress.

• Steer clear of festival weekends like Diwali or Ganesh Chaturthi when the market is extremely crowded and transport is slower.

• Travel during dry weather to avoid monsoon-related delays and slippery streets.

• Early afternoon (12 PM to 3 PM) is ideal for a relaxed visit when crowds thin out and shops are fully stocked.

Arrival at Chor Bazaar & What to Expect

On arrival at Chor Bazaar, you’ll be greeted by a vibrant, bustling market atmosphere filled with shops selling antiques, vintage items, electronics, and curios. The narrow lanes are crowded but full of character, offering a unique Mumbai shopping experience.

Local commute options include auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and app-based cabs. The area is well connected by foot from Grant Road and CST stations. Nearby attractions include Crawford Market and the iconic Gateway of India, making it easy to combine your visit with other sightseeing.

For accommodation, South Mumbai offers a range of hotels and guesthouses, especially near Colaba and Fort areas, providing convenient access to Chor Bazaar and other city highlights.

Conclusion

Among all options, taking the local train to Grant Road station followed by a short auto-rickshaw ride is the most efficient and budget-friendly way to reach Chor Bazaar. This route balances cost, convenience, and local experience, especially for first-time visitors.

With clear planning and awareness of peak hours and local transport quirks, you can confidently explore Chor Bazaar’s fascinating market. Embrace the vibrant chaos and unique finds, knowing you have the best travel information to make your visit smooth and memorable.