Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport
Mumbai, IN · 8 km (5 mi) N of Mumbai
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Auto Rickshaw Other · Frequent | Varies by destination | Often ₹30–200 for nearby suburbs/railway stations |
| BEST Bus Route 308 Bus · /entries | /entries | /entries |
| BEST Bus Route 321 Bus · /entries | 20–30 min T2–Vile Parle station in traffic | On the order of ₹10–20 |
| BEST Bus Route A-336 Bus · /entries | /entries | /entries |
Insider notes
Opt for Terminal 2 if shopping and dining are priorities; its high-end offerings beat Terminal 1's basics hands down, particularly around Gates 40–45.
Allocate extra time for security during peak hours at both terminals; plan to arrive 2.5 hours (domestic) or 3–3.5 hours (international) ahead of your flight.
Don’t exit T2’s airside if transferring from international to domestic flights; this can add an hour's delay due to immigration and re-entry lines.
Welcome
Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) stands apart as an amalgamation of art and air travel, especially at Terminal 2 (T2). The airport’s “Jaya He” art project stretches across the terminal, often likened to a design museum with a vibrant collection of Indian art that makes T2 more than just a transit point. However, this artistic haven contrasts sharply with the kerbside chaos and the notorious bottlenecks of security and check-in lines that travelers often face.
At a glance
Mumbai’s airport processes 52.5 million passengers annually and serves as a hub for major airlines like Air India, Vistara, Go First, and IndiGo. Located only 8 km north of Mumbai, BOM features two major terminals—Terminal 1, catering primarily to GoAir and SpiceJet, and the more expansive Terminal 2, which hosts a plethora of international carriers like Lufthansa alongside Air India and Vistara.
Terminals & layout
Terminal 1 is functional, serving domestic flights with basic facilities including a few fast-food chains such as Burger King and KFC. Terminal 2, on the other hand, is a grand, multi-level structure that offers a suite of services, including premium lounges and extensive shopping options. The terminal's infrastructure promotes seamless connections between check-in, security, and gates, although escalator and elevator transitions can prove cumbersome.
Getting to and from the city
The airport is accessible via a variety of transport modes, with Mumbai’s local train network offering quick and affordable transit options. The Mumbai Metro serves various parts of the city, with fares typically ranging from ₹10 to ₹40. Taxis are a common choice for travelers; however, expect rates between ₹500 and ₹1,500 to South Mumbai, with potential issues related to driver availability and pricing.
Traveller essentials
Parking at BOM is tiered, with valet options at ₹1,200 per day and more economical long-stay parking at ₹250. If you’re navigating between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, the inter-terminal shuttle only takes about 5 to 10 minutes. However, allow ample time for security checks; domestic flyers often arrive at least 2.5 hours before departure, while international travelers are advised to allocate 3–3.5 hours.
Dining & shopping highlights
Terminal 2 offers an array of dining options from regional outlets like Haldiram's to international names like Starbucks. For a sit-down experience, consider AJ 1881 or Street Foods by Punjab Grill. Shoppers can explore high-end retail at stores like Armani Exchange and Montblanc, or grab last-minute electronics at Croma. Terminal 1’s options are comparatively limited but sufficient for a quick meal stop.
Lounges
Lounge access varies per terminal, with the Adani Lounge available in both T1 and T2. Premium choices like the GVK Lounge in Terminal 2 cater to first and business-class travelers, while the AMEX Lounge provides facilities for cardholders. A standout for many frequent flyers includes the GVK Lounge’s spa service, ideal for unwinding during a layover.
Insider tips
- Insider: Opt for Terminal 2 if shopping and dining are priorities; its high-end offerings beat Terminal 1's basics hands down, particularly around Gates 40–45.
- Time: Allocate extra time for security during peak hours at both terminals; plan to arrive 2.5 hours (domestic) or 3–3.5 hours (international) ahead of your flight.
- Avoid: Don’t exit T2’s airside if transferring from international to domestic flights; this can add an hour's delay due to immigration and re-entry lines.
- Local: The “Jaya He” art wall at Terminal 2 is a must-see; allocate 20-30 minutes for a walk along the multi-kilometer installation.
- Quiet: For calm seating, avoid areas near T2's food courts, and instead head to the ends of the piers for peace and more power outlets.
- Money: Consider T2’s duty-free for beauty and liquor; periodic promotions can yield deals better than city stores.
- Insider: T2’s spa options provide a refreshing alternative to a full hotel room during long layovers.