Hanging Gardens, also known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens, is a popular terraced garden located on Malabar Hill in South Mumbai. It offers beautiful views of the Arabian Sea and the city skyline. This garden is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike who want to enjoy a peaceful green space in the bustling city.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Hanging Gardens using different transport modes. Whether you are traveling by train, bus, car, or taxi, you will find practical advice on routes, travel times, and local tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Mumbai to Hanging Gardens – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and cost-effective way to reach South Mumbai, where Hanging Gardens is located. The nearest railway stations are well connected to the rest of the city, making trains a convenient choice.

• The closest railway stations to Hanging Gardens are Charni Road and Marine Lines on the Western Line, and Churchgate on the Western Line terminus, all within 2-3 km. You can take a short taxi or auto-rickshaw ride from these stations to the gardens.

• Local trains run frequently from major hubs like Dadar, Bandra, and Mumbai Central, with trains every 5-10 minutes during peak hours. Travel time from Bandra to Churchgate is about 30-40 minutes.

• Train fares are very economical, generally between ₹10 and ₹30 depending on the distance and class. Trains can get crowded during peak hours, so plan accordingly if you prefer a comfortable ride.

• During the monsoon season, trains may experience delays and overcrowding, so allow extra travel time. Early morning or late evening trains are less crowded and more comfortable.

• From the railway stations, you can use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for the last mile, which usually takes 10-15 minutes depending on traffic.

Bus

Buses are an affordable and widely used option to reach Hanging Gardens. Mumbai’s BEST bus service connects many parts of the city to South Mumbai, including routes near Malabar Hill.

• Major bus depots like Dadar and Churchgate have buses heading towards Malabar Hill area. Routes 130, 132, and 133 serve the area near Hanging Gardens with stops close by.

• Bus fares are low, typically ₹5 to ₹20 depending on the distance. Buses run frequently, especially during the day, but can be crowded during peak hours.

• Travel time by bus varies from 30 minutes to over an hour depending on traffic, especially during office hours and weekends.

• BEST buses are generally reliable but can be slow due to Mumbai’s traffic congestion. Monsoon rains can cause delays and slippery roads, so plan extra time during this season.

• Bus stops near Hanging Gardens are within walking distance of the garden entrance, but be prepared for some uphill walking as Malabar Hill is a hilly area.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Hanging Gardens gives you flexibility and comfort, especially if you want to explore other nearby attractions in South Mumbai. However, parking and traffic can be challenging.

• The garden is accessible via Nepean Sea Road and Malabar Hill Road, connected to major highways like the Western Express Highway and Marine Drive. The distance from Mumbai Central is about 7-8 km.

• Travel time by car ranges from 20 to 45 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Peak hours (8-11 am and 5-8 pm) can cause significant delays.

• Parking near Hanging Gardens is limited and often crowded. It is advisable to park at nearby public parking lots or use paid parking facilities in Malabar Hill.

• Toll plazas are not applicable on this route, but be prepared for narrow roads and some steep inclines as Malabar Hill is a hilly area.

• Using GPS navigation apps like Google Maps or MapMyIndia helps avoid traffic jams and find the best parking spots. Ola and Uber also offer self-drive car rentals if you prefer not to drive yourself.

Taxi / App-Based Cabs

Taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are a convenient way to reach Hanging Gardens, especially if you want door-to-door service without worrying about parking or public transport.

• You can book a cab from anywhere in Mumbai, including the airport, railway stations, or your hotel. The fare from Mumbai Central to Hanging Gardens typically ranges between ₹150 and ₹300 depending on traffic and cab type.

• Travel time by taxi is usually 20-40 minutes, but can increase during peak traffic hours. Drivers are familiar with routes to Malabar Hill and can take shortcuts to avoid jams.

• Prepaid taxi counters are available at major railway stations and the airport, but app-based cabs offer more flexibility and fare transparency.

• During monsoon or festival seasons, demand for cabs increases, so book in advance or during off-peak hours to avoid surge pricing.

• Many cabs can drop you right at the garden entrance, which is helpful if you have luggage or mobility issues. Always check if the driver knows the exact location, as some may be unfamiliar with smaller landmarks.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers to Hanging Gardens, helping you navigate the journey smoothly and confidently.

• Step 1: Decide your mode of transport based on your budget, comfort, and time. Trains and buses are economical, while taxis and self-drive offer more convenience.

• Step 2: If taking a train, book your ticket via the IRCTC app or at the station. Check train timings for Western Line trains to Churchgate, Charni Road, or Marine Lines stations.

• Step 3: Upon arrival at the station, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs for the last mile. This ensures fixed fares and avoids haggling or overcharging.

• Step 4: If traveling by bus, check the BEST bus routes and timings on the official BEST website or app. Board the bus at major depots like Dadar or Churchgate and get off near Malabar Hill stops.

• Step 5: For self-drive, plan your route using GPS apps and check parking availability near Hanging Gardens. Start early to avoid traffic and find parking easily.

• Step 6: Carry a bottle of water and light snacks, especially if traveling during hot weather or monsoon. Wear comfortable shoes as there is some uphill walking involved.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety: Avoid traveling alone late at night in less crowded areas of Malabar Hill. Use app-based cabs for safer rides and share your trip details with someone you trust.

• Food and Water: Carry bottled water and light snacks, as food options near Hanging Gardens are limited. Nearby areas like Girgaum Chowpatty have street food stalls but check hygiene carefully.

• Booking Strategy: For trains, book tickets in advance via IRCTC to avoid last-minute rush. For cabs, pre-book during peak hours or festivals to avoid surge pricing and availability issues.

• Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws are not allowed in Malabar Hill, so rely on taxis or walking for local travel. Use prepaid taxis or app cabs for hassle-free rides.

• Luggage: Carry minimal luggage as the garden has no storage facilities and some uphill walking is required. Use backpacks or small bags for ease of movement.

• Seasonal Warnings: During monsoon, roads can be slippery and traffic slower. Carry rain gear and allow extra travel time. Summers can be hot, so travel early morning or late afternoon.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Hanging Gardens is during the cooler months from October to February when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for walking and sightseeing. Summers can be hot and humid, while monsoon brings heavy rains and slippery paths.

Traffic conditions in South Mumbai vary throughout the day. Early mornings and late evenings are less crowded, making travel easier. Avoid weekends and public holidays if possible, as the garden and surrounding areas get crowded.

• Avoid visiting during Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali festivals when South Mumbai experiences heavy traffic and crowding.

• Monsoon season (June to September) can cause delays due to waterlogging and slow traffic; carry rain protection and plan extra time.

• Early morning visits (7-9 am) offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, ideal for photography and peaceful walks.

• Late afternoon (4-6 pm) is also good for sunset views and cooler weather, but expect more visitors during weekends.

Arrival at Hanging Gardens & What to Expect

When you arrive at Hanging Gardens, you will find the main entrance on Malabar Hill Road. The garden is well-maintained with terraced lawns, hedges shaped like animals, and benches to relax. The view of the Arabian Sea and the city skyline is a highlight.

Local commute options from nearby railway stations include prepaid taxis and app-based cabs. Auto-rickshaws are not permitted in this upscale residential area. Nearby neighborhoods like Malabar Hill and Walkeshwar have several hotels and guesthouses if you plan to stay overnight.

Conclusion

Reaching Hanging Gardens in Mumbai is straightforward with multiple transport options to suit different budgets and preferences. Trains and buses offer economical travel, while taxis and self-drive provide comfort and flexibility. Planning your trip during off-peak hours and cooler months will enhance your experience.

By following this guide’s practical tips and step-by-step plan, you can confidently navigate Mumbai’s busy transport system and enjoy a relaxing visit to Hanging Gardens. Whether you are a local or a tourist, this green oasis on Malabar Hill awaits your discovery.