Nestled amidst the bustling cityscape of Mumbai, Babulnath Temple stands as a testament to Mumbai’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. As one of the oldest temples in the city, it has witnessed the transformation of Mumbai from a small fishing village to the metropolis it is today. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Babulnath Temple offers a blend of history, spirituality, and tranquility, making it a unique spot for both devout pilgrims and curious travelers alike. My visit to this temple was an unforgettable experience, full of divine reverence and an appreciation for India’s rich heritage.
Babulnath Temple Location & Getting There
The temple is situated in Charni Road area of Mumbai. The location is also near the iconic Marine Drive and hence Babulnath Temple is quite accessible. I chose to start my journey in the early morning to avoid Mumbai’s notoriously heavy traffic and to catch the first rays of sunlight illuminating the temple. The temple is only a short distance from popular locations like Girgaon Chowpatty, and reaching it by cab was simple enough.
The other alternative is to take a Mumbai local train up to Charni Road Railway Station, and walking up from there. This is a pleasant option, especially in the cool morning hours when the area is less crowded. Or you can take a cab from the station.
Pro Tip : If you are coming down by your own car, remember parking options are scarce here, so you will need to be mindful of the same.
The temple entrance is easily recognizable due to the ornate gate and the string of small shops selling puja items such as flowers, milk, and bilva leaves — each an integral part of Hindu worship. On reaching, there was an unmistakable sense of excitement, yet an air of tranquility lingered, as if the temple itself were a world away from the hectic city that surrounded it.
Pro Tip: You do not need to leave your shoes here, there is a separate shoe rack inside where you can remove shoes before entering temple.
The Climb Up
One of the unique features of Babulnath Temple is the approach. Unlike some temples where the deity is housed at street level, Babulnath sits on a small hillock, which requires a brief ascent. There are about 100 steps leading up to the temple, a climb which only added to the anticipation of reaching the shrine. Along the way, the path is flanked by small shops selling religious items, incense, and even refreshments for visitors. The climb is not overly strenuous, but it instills a feeling of reverence, reminding pilgrims that reaching something divine often requires effort and dedication.
So after entering through the gate, you will need to walk up a ramp until you reach an elevator. It is a small elevator operated by a liftman who charges Rs. 2 per person. However the elevator is small, and can take only 4-5 people at once. And during rush hours, the queue can be never ending. Hence, it is best if senior citizens are allowed to use this service. For the rest there are stairs. After a 2 floor climb, there is a long winding ramp that leads to the temple.
During the climb, I noticed a growing peace in my mind. There’s something deeply calming about the way the hustle of Mumbai gradually fades as you approach the temple. It felt as though each step led me not only higher in elevation but also deeper into a world of spirituality.
The Architecture of Babulnath Temple
On reaching the top, the temple’s architecture took my breath away. Built in the traditional Maratha and Gujarati style, the temple is a stunning sight, with intricate carvings adorning its walls and pillars. Originally constructed in the late 18th century by a Hindu merchant named Raja Bhuleshwar, Babulnath Temple has been renovated multiple times over the centuries. Despite these changes, it has retained its classic design and spiritual essence, offering visitors a glimpse into ancient architectural techniques and symbolism.
The temple’s shikhara, or spire, reaches high into the sky, visible from various points in South Mumbai, creating an iconic silhouette against the city’s skyline. Each pillar and wall is adorned with elaborate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. These intricate details bring the temple to life, telling stories of Lord Shiva’s might and benevolence. The artisanship is awe-inspiring, and I spent several minutes simply admiring the dedication and skill that went into every detail of this beautiful structure.
The Main Sanctum and the Idol of Lord Shiva
The heart of Babulnath Temple lies in its sanctum, where a majestic shivlinga (a symbolic representation of Lord Shiva) is enshrined. The sanctum has a serene ambiance, filled with the fragrance of flowers and incense. Devotees offer milk and water to the Shivlinga, a ritual believed to bring blessings and good fortune. I observed as people approached the deity with utmost reverence, each lost in personal prayers and silent communion with the divine.
Unlike some crowded pilgrimage spots, Babulnath Temple has a peaceful vibe. There’s a sense of order here; despite the number of people, the atmosphere inside the sanctum remains calm and composed. I offered my own prayers, feeling a deep sense of inner peace. The silence of the temple, punctuated only by the soft chants of priests and the gentle rustling of offerings, was mesmerizing. For a moment, I felt entirely removed from the outside world, connected only to the divine presence embodied in the Shivlinga.
Are mobiles and bags allowed inside Babulnath Temple?
Yes, mobiles & bags are allowed. You can remove shoes in the big shoe rack before entering the temple. However note, you are prohibited from taking pics of the Shivlinga.
Exploring the Surroundings
Outside the main sanctum, there are smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, including Parvati and Ganesha, Lord Shiva’s wife and son, respectively. These smaller shrines are also beautifully adorned, and I found it interesting how each deity had a distinct atmosphere around their shrine. Each corner of the temple seemed to hold its own unique energy, giving visitors a well-rounded spiritual experience.
From the courtyard, I was able to take in a panoramic view of South Mumbai. The temple’s elevated position offers a fantastic perspective, with the Arabian Sea shimmering in the distance and the bustling city below. Watching the sea from a temple dedicated to Shiva, the god of creation and destruction, felt poetic — a reminder of nature’s power and the transient nature of life itself.
The Spiritual Significance
Babulnath Temple is more than just a place of worship; it’s a historical and cultural landmark that has endured through the centuries. The temple’s significance goes beyond religion — it serves as a reminder of Mumbai’s pluralistic heritage, where people of all backgrounds live together in harmony. Throughout its history, the temple has been a place where Hindus from all over India come to seek blessings and connect with their faith, and it continues to play this role even as the city around it grows and changes.
The deity Babulnath is said to represent Lord Shiva in his form as the Lord of the Babul tree, which has deep roots in Indian spirituality and mythology. This connection to nature adds another layer of meaning, as it encourages devotees to respect and revere the natural world. The temple, therefore, becomes not only a place for personal prayer but a symbol of ecological balance and the timeless relationship between humanity and nature.
A Lasting Impression
As I left the temple, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Visiting Babulnath Temple was a powerful reminder of the deep spiritual roots that run through India, binding people to their heritage, beliefs, and the natural world around them. The experience was humbling, a journey that left me with a renewed sense of inner peace and reverence for Mumbai’s spiritual side.
If you’re planning to visit Mumbai, I would highly recommend a trip to Babulnath Temple. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker or simply a traveler curious about India’s cultural heritage, this temple offers a tranquil escape and a profound experience. Babulnath is more than just a landmark — it’s a place where history, spirituality, and the vibrant culture of Mumbai converge, offering a rare glimpse into the soul of this dynamic city.
My Other Posts
If you are looking for options in Kashmir, check out my posts on Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Snowfall in Kashmir, and Best Time to Visit Kashmir. If you are looking for options in Ladakh, check out Ladakh Weather, Nubra Valley, 5 Days Kashmir Itinerary, Best Packing tips for Ladakh & best tourist places in Ladakh.
If you are looking for something in Sikkim, check Tsomgo Lake and Batasia Loop. If you are looking for some jungle safari read Gir Safari, or Bandipur Safari, feel blessed at Sri Venugopala Swamy Temple in Mysore.
If you are looking for places to visit in the Andaman Islands, please check my posts on Radhanagar Beach & Ross Island.
If you are looking for other options, check my posts on Murud Janjira, Kashid, Pirwadi Beach and Kihim Beach in Maharashtra or Malshej Ghat, Matheran Resorts, Kailash Temple Ellora, Vandri Lake, Kelwa Beach in Palghar & Mahabaleshwar.
Alternatively, if you are interested in some Religious tourism, please check my posts on Golden Temple, Kamakhya, Trimbakeshwar, Somnath Temple and Kashi Vishwanath. If you are looking for North East Adventure tours, check my posts on Shillong, Meghalaya, Dawki, Double Decker Living Root Trek, and 7-Day North East Itinerary.
For some adventure tours in the south check out Mandalpatti Trek, Discovering 10 Coorg Tourist Places, Coorg Weather & Best Time and Madikeri Fort.
If you are looking for some spirituality, you can check out Ganga Aarti in Dashashwamedh Ghat or Ghats in Varanasi.