Gaffar Market is a popular shopping destination located in the bustling area of Bandra West, Mumbai. Known for its wide range of clothing, accessories, and street food, it attracts locals and tourists alike. This market is easily accessible from various parts of Mumbai and nearby suburbs.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Gaffar Market using different modes of transport. You will learn about trains, buses, driving routes, and taxi options, along with practical tips to make your journey smooth and hassle-free.

Getting from Mumbai to Gaffar Market – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is one of the most popular and economical ways to reach Gaffar Market, especially if you are coming from other parts of Mumbai or suburbs. The nearest railway station is Bandra West on the Western Line.

• Bandra Station is approximately 1.5 km from Gaffar Market, and you can take an auto-rickshaw or walk depending on your luggage and comfort.

• Local trains on the Western Line connect Bandra with Churchgate, Virar, and Borivali, running frequently every 5-15 minutes during peak hours.

• Train fares range from ₹10 to ₹30 depending on the distance, making it a budget-friendly option for daily commuters and tourists.

• During monsoon season, trains may face delays due to waterlogging, so plan extra travel time between July and September.

• Evening trains can be crowded, so avoid peak rush hours if possible for a more comfortable journey.

Bus

Buses are a convenient option for those who prefer surface travel and want to experience Mumbai’s local transport. Gaffar Market is well connected by several BEST bus routes.

• Major bus stops near Gaffar Market include Bandra West and Bandra Station bus depot, served by multiple routes from different parts of Mumbai.

• Bus travel time varies from 30 minutes to over an hour depending on traffic, especially during peak hours and weekends.

• Fares typically range between ₹10 and ₹25, making it an affordable option for budget travelers.

• BEST buses run frequently from early morning till late night, but buses can get crowded during office hours and festival seasons.

• Keep an eye on traffic jams on Western Express Highway and Linking Road, which can cause delays during monsoon and holiday seasons.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Gaffar Market is suitable if you prefer flexibility and comfort. The area is accessible via major roads like Linking Road and Hill Road.

• The distance from Mumbai city center (Churchgate) to Gaffar Market is about 15 km, usually taking 30-45 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

• Parking near Gaffar Market is limited and can be expensive, so plan to park a little farther and walk or use local transport.

• Be prepared for heavy traffic during evenings and weekends, especially on Linking Road and surrounding streets.

• Toll plazas are not on the direct route, but watch for narrow lanes and one-way streets near the market area.

• Using GPS apps like Google Maps or Ola’s navigation helps avoid traffic jams and find the best parking spots.

Taxi / App-Based Cabs

Taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber offer a convenient door-to-door option to reach Gaffar Market, especially if you carry heavy shopping bags or travel in a group.

• Booking a cab from anywhere in Mumbai to Gaffar Market is easy using Ola or Uber apps, with fares generally ranging from ₹150 to ₹350 depending on distance and traffic.

• Prepaid taxis are available at major railway stations like Bandra and can be used if you prefer fixed fares and no bargaining.

• During peak hours and festival seasons, cab availability may reduce and fares can surge, so book in advance or share rides to save costs.

• App-based cabs provide safety features like driver details and live tracking, which is helpful for first-time visitors.

• Drop-off points are usually near the main market entrance, but some narrow lanes may require walking a short distance.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are visiting Gaffar Market for the first time, this step-by-step plan will help you reach the market smoothly and enjoy your shopping experience.

• Step 1: Decide your preferred mode of transport based on your budget, comfort, and starting location to plan your route effectively.

• Step 2: If traveling by train, book your ticket via IRCTC or buy at the station; check train timings to avoid peak crowd hours for a comfortable journey.

• Step 3: On reaching Bandra Station, take a prepaid auto-rickshaw or app-based cab to Gaffar Market to avoid confusion and ensure fair pricing.

• Step 4: If using bus, check BEST bus routes online or at the depot; carry exact change as conductors may not always have change for large notes.

• Step 5: For self-drive, use GPS navigation to avoid traffic jams and find parking; carry change for parking fees and tolls if any.

• Step 6: Carry a small backpack or bag for your purchases and keep your valuables safe while exploring the busy market area.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your belongings close and be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded market areas and local trains.

• Drink bottled water and avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach; try popular stalls only after checking hygiene.

• Book train tickets or bus passes in advance during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi when Mumbai sees heavy travel traffic.

• Use prepaid auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs for last-mile connectivity to avoid haggling and ensure safety.

• Carry light luggage and wear comfortable shoes as the market area involves walking on uneven pavements and narrow lanes.

• During monsoon, carry an umbrella and expect delays due to waterlogging on roads and railway tracks.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Gaffar Market is during the cooler months from October to February when Mumbai’s weather is pleasant. Avoid the peak monsoon months for smoother travel.

Traffic conditions vary throughout the day, so early mornings or late evenings are ideal for less crowded journeys and comfortable shopping.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals and weekends when the market and roads are extremely crowded.

• Monsoon season (June to September) can cause waterlogging and train delays, so plan extra travel time.

• Summer months (March to May) can be hot and humid, making daytime travel tiring.

• Early morning departures help avoid Mumbai’s heavy traffic and crowded trains or buses.

Arrival at Gaffar Market & What to Expect

On arriving at Gaffar Market, you will find a vibrant and busy shopping area with narrow lanes filled with shops selling clothes, accessories, and street food stalls. The market is lively and colorful, reflecting Mumbai’s local culture.

Local transport options include auto-rickshaws, shared taxis, and app-based cabs for onward travel. Nearby areas like Bandra West and Khar offer many accommodation options ranging from budget hotels to guesthouses.

Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cab stands are available near Bandra Station and main roads, making it easy to plan your return journey or explore other parts of Mumbai.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Gaffar Market depends on your starting point and travel preferences. For budget travelers, local trains combined with auto-rickshaws offer a quick and economical option. If you prefer comfort and convenience, app-based cabs or self-driving are good choices.

Planning your trip with knowledge of train timings, bus routes, and local traffic conditions will help you avoid delays and enjoy your visit. With these practical tips and step-by-step guidance, you can confidently navigate your way to Gaffar Market and have a memorable shopping experience in Mumbai.