Chief Concierge at The St. Regis Mumbai, Nilesh Belapallu, shares with U his recommendations for must-visit cultural attractions in Mumbai.

Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum

The Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum is the oldest museum in Mumbai. Situated in Byculla East, it was originally established in 1855 as a treasure house of the decorative and industrial arts, and was later renamed in honour of Bhau Daji. This museum houses a large number of archaeological finds, maps and historical photographs of Mumbai, clay models, silver and copper ware and costumes. Its significant collections include a 17th-century manuscript of Hatim Tai. Outside the museum is the installation of the monolithic basalt elephant sculpture recovered from the sea, which originated from Elephanta Island.

Elephanta Caves Island

Offshore, the Elephanta Island holds ancient cave temples dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. Elephanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a collection of cave temples predominantly dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. They are located on Elephanta Island, or Gharapuri in Mumbai Harbour, 10 kilometres to the east of the city of Mumbai in the Indian state of Mahārāshtra.

Dhobi Talao

The famed Dhobi Talao which has appeared in many successful Bollywood movies is named after a washerman's pond which disappeared before the mid-17th century. The north-eastern part of Dhobi Talao is called Cavel, from the Koli name Kolwar. The Kolis of this village were converted to Christianity by the Portuguese in the 16th century.

National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA)

The National Centre for the Performing Arts is a multi-venue, multi-purpose cultural centre in Mumbai, India, which aims to promote and preserve India's heritage of music, dance, theatre, film, literature and photography. It also presents new and innovative work in the performing arts field.

Mahalaxmi Racecourse

Built in 1883 & modelled on the Caulfield Racecourse in Melbourne, it is spread over land facing the sea. It was originally donated by Sir Cusrow N Wadia and today it is on lease from the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) to Royal Western India Turf Club which runs the racecourse.

Gateway of India

The Gateway of India is an arch monument built during the 20th century in Mumbai, India. The monument was erected to commemorate the landing of King George V and Queen Mary at Apollo Bunder on their visit to India in 1911. The Gateway of India is a major tourist destination in Mumbai and a popular gathering spot for locals, street vendors and photographers.

With 395 of the city's largest guest rooms and suites, including 39 residential suites and 3 business suites, The St. Regis Mumbai is also home to 12 dining and nightlife venues, a collection of exquisite art adorning the walls, the special Mumbai Mary cocktail and the signature St. Regis Butler Service.

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Insider tips, cultural pursuits