Bandra Walking Tour: Portuguese Forts, Churches & Village Sights

Summary

Portuguese forts, seaside churches and Bandra’s quiet village lanes

You’ll follow your guide through Bandra’s winding lanes, hear stories at Mount Mary Church, climb up to an old Portuguese fort for views over Mahim Bay, and wander through pastel villages tucked inside Mumbai’s chaos. Expect laughter, local tips, and moments where time feels slower than usual.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the sea breeze tangled with incense outside Mount Mary Church. Our guide—Rohan, who grew up nearby—waved us over just as a group of women pressed marigolds into a basket by the entrance. He told us about the church’s history in this part of Mumbai, how people from every background come here to light candles. I didn’t expect it to be so peaceful, honestly, even with all the city noise below.

We walked down towards the old Portuguese fort, dodging stray cricket balls and kids yelling in Marathi. The view from up there is wild—you can see Mahim Bay and that huge sea link bridge stretching off into the haze. Rohan pointed out Shah Rukh Khan’s house on Bandstand Promenade (I tried to snap a photo but my camera hand shook—too much chai maybe). The villas along here look like they belong in another century. There was a salty smell mixed with something sweet from a food cart nearby. I almost stopped for a snack but didn’t want to miss anything.

Later we wandered through these narrow lanes lined with pastel cottages—the Indo-Portuguese heritage village he called it. Some windows had lace curtains, some had drying laundry flapping above tiny gardens. It felt strange being in such a pocket of calm right in Mumbai; an older lady smiled at us when we hesitated at a crossroads (she pointed us left without saying a word). The oldest church here has these thick stone walls and blue tiles—I ran my hand along one just to feel how cool it was compared to the sticky air outside.

I still think about those mosaic steps—so bright against all that faded paint—and how everyone stopped for photos but lingered longer than they meant to. Maybe that’s what Bandra does: slows you down for a bit before you notice you’re smiling at strangers or talking to someone about Bollywood stars you’ve never met. Anyway, if you’re staying near Andheri or Bandra and want something more than traffic and shopping malls…this walk is worth it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Bandra's heritage and landmarks

• Visit old Portuguese Fort
• See Shah Rukh Khan's home
• Visit Mount Mary Church
• Walk historic mosaic steps
• Explore Indo-Portuguese Catholic village
• Visit oldest Bandra church

Top questions

How long is the Bandra walking tour?

The exact duration isn’t listed but expect several stops across Bandra including churches, fort, promenade, and village lanes.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is included but public transportation options are available nearby for easy access.

Is this private guided walking tour suitable for all ages?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

What are some highlights on the Bandra walking tour?

You’ll visit Mount Mary Church, an old Portuguese fort with sea views, Bandstand Promenade (with Bollywood celebrity homes), mosaic steps, heritage Catholic village streets, and historic churches.

Are infants allowed on this walking tour?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during the tour.

Can I join this day trip if staying in Andheri or Bandra hotels?

Yes—the walking tour is ideal for travelers staying in hotels around Andheri-Bandra belt due to proximity.

Is lunch included during this private walking tour?

No meals are included during the tour; you may find food carts along the route if you wish to purchase snacks separately.

What’s included

Your day includes guided walks through Bandra’s historic sites—from Mount Mary Church down to the old Portuguese fort—with plenty of time for photos and stories along village lanes; public transport is close by so getting there is simple even if you’re based around Andheri or Bandra hotels.