Practical info Mumbai, India
Getting around the city
The streets of Mumbai are chaotic and difficult to negotiate, but most attractions are fairly central and can be reached on foot. However, visitors generally opt for hiring a car with a driver by the day. The city's public bus service is government-run and consists of a fleet of red single and double-decker buses. The bus service is cheap and extensive, but the buses are almost always hot and crowded and it is not generally a pleasant way to get around. Suburban electric trains connect to the outlying areas, but are crowded, particularly during rush hour. Auto rickshaws are not allowed to operate in the centre of the city, but are cheaper than taxis and good for short distances. Metered taxis are plentiful all over the city and its surrounds. A convenient and comfortable hydrofoil service connects central Mumbai to many surrounding suburbs.
Time
GMT +5.5
Electricity
230 volts, 50Hz. A variety of power outlets are used in India, but most plugs have two or three round pins.
Currency
The currency is the Indian Rupee (INR), which is divided into 100 paise (singular paisa). Major currencies can be changed at banks, and authorised bureaux de change. It is illegal to exchange money through the black market and it is advisable to refuse torn notes, as no one will accept them apart from the National Bank. It is best to change money into small denominations. Major credit cards are widely accepted, particularly in tourist orientated establishments. ATMs are available in large cities and airports but are not generally available in rural areas.
Communication
The international access code for India is +91. International calls are expensive and there are often high surcharges on calls made from hotels. Buying a local SIM card is a good option, as international roaming fees can be high. Internet cafes are available in main cities and resorts and free wifi is offered at cafes and hotels in major cities.
Emergency number
100 (Police), 102 (Ambulance), 101 (Fire)
Travel documents and health
Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport
Getting to the city
Taxis are the only direct transport from the airport to the city. Make sure to take a government licensed taxi with a fare conversion chart as unlicensed taxis are known to overcharge travellers. The Mumbai Suburban Railway Network consists of three lines, namely the Western, Central Main, and the Harbour Lines; all of which connect to various parts of the city. The closest station to Terminal 1 (Vile Parle), is located in Santa Cruz, while the nearest station to Terminal 2 (Andheri) is located in Sahar. Both may be reached via a quick bus or taxi trip from the airport. Buses also travel between the airport and the nearby railway stations of Vile Parle and Andheri. Auto Rickshaws are also available for transfers to public transport.
Car rental
Car hire, with or without a driver, can be arranged in the Arrivals terminal. Passengers are strongly advised not to try drive themselves around Mumbai.
Airport taxi's
Pre-paid taxis are available outside Arrivals, at both terminals. The journey time is approximately one hour to the city centre of Mumbai.
Transfer between terminals
The two terminals are connected by a free bus service which takes 10-15 minutes.
Facilities
Facilities at the airport include ATMs, currency exchange and a post office, left luggage services, executive lounges and a business centre, tourist information counters, duty-free shopping, childcare rooms, medical facilities, a prayer room and a smoking lounge. A variety of restaurants and fast food outlets are available.
Parking
CSIA has a car parking facility at both domestic and international terminals. Parking starts at about INR 130 for the first half hour and goes up to INR 1000 for a 24 hour period.
Internet
Free wifi is available in the airport, however a mobile phone is required.