Best Dharamshala in Mumbai
Mumbai, the vibrant metropolis pulsating with energy, often conjures images of towering skyscrapers, bustling marketplaces, and Bollywood glamour. But beyond the glitz and noise lies a quieter, more reflective side waiting to be discovered. Nestled amidst the urban landscape are havens of peace and tradition: the dharamshalas.
These havens, often overlooked by tourists and even some Mumbaikars, offer a unique window into the city’s soul. More than just budget-friendly lodging, they are cultural hubs, historical landmarks, and testaments to the city’s rich tapestry of communities.
Imagine waking up to the gentle murmur of prayers, the aroma of incense filling the air, and the warmth of communal living. In this blog, we embark on a captivating exploration of Mumbai’s dharamshalas, delving into their diverse offerings, fascinating histories, and the transformative experiences they hold.
Whether you’re a seasoned explorer seeking hidden gems or a curious local yearning for a deeper understanding of your city, this journey promises to unveil the hidden facets of Mumbai through the lens of its dharamshalas.
Top Dharamshala in Mumbai
I can help you narrow down your options by exploring some key factors and recommending options based on them:
Budget:
- Budget-friendly: Shree Gadge Maharaj Dharamshala:Offers clean and basic rooms at affordable prices, close to Lower Parel and known for its friendly atmosphere.
- Madhav Baug Dharmashala:Provides simple rooms with shared bathrooms at budget-friendly rates, situated near Mumbai Central and convenient for exploring various areas.
Mid-range:
- Sukhanand Ashram: Features spacious rooms with AC options, a beautiful garden, and a serene atmosphere in Mumbai Central, perfect for relaxation.
- Sheth Motisha Jain Dharamshala:Boasts well-maintained rooms with attached bathrooms near Marine Lines and offers various amenities.
- Luxury: Yogi InternationalProvides luxurious rooms with modern amenities, a rooftop pool, and stunning city views near Marine Lines, offering a comfortable and upscale experience.
- The Bombay Residency:Situated in South Mumbai, this heritage hotel offers unique charm, spacious rooms, and excellent service, though it might not technically be a Dharamshala.
Location:
- Central location: If you want to be close to major attractions and public transportation, consider options near Mumbai Central, Colaba, or Fort.
- Specific area: If you have a particular area in mind, like Bandra, Juhu, or Powai, search for Dharamshalas there.
- Peaceful surroundings: If you prefer a quiet and serene environment, explore Dharamshalas in more reserved areas like Malad or Kandivali.
Amenities:
- AC/non-AC: Decide if you need air conditioning based on your comfort preference and the season of your visit.
- Many Dharamshalas offer attached bathrooms for added privacy, while some have shared facilities.
- Meals: Some Dharamshalas have in-house restaurants or canteens, while others require you to eat outside.
Free Dharamshala in Mumbai
While finding a completely free Dharamshala in Mumbai might be challenging, there are options offering very affordable stays or limited free accommodation depending on your circumstances. Here’s what you can explore:
Government-run Dharamshalas:
- Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) Dharamshalas: MTDC operates several Dharamshalas across Mumbai, offering budget-friendly accommodations. Some, like the ones in Mahalaxmi and Parel, offer dormitories with minimal charges (around Rs.100-200 per night). Keep in mind that these are basic facilities and might require booking in advance, especially during peak season.
- Yatra Nivas: Located in Colaba, this Dharamshala run by the state government offers subsidized rooms for pilgrims and students at nominal costs (Rs.50-100 per night). However, availability might be limited, and specific eligibility criteria might apply.
Religious and community-run Dharamshalas:
- Certain community-run Dharamshalas, like those associated with specific religious groups or regional associations, might offer free or subsidized accommodation to individuals with genuine needs and belonging to their community. This might be based on religious affiliation, region of origin, or specific situations like medical treatment. It’s best to contact these Dharamshalas directly to inquire about their policies and procedures.
- Some Dharamshalas offer free stay in exchange for volunteer work: This could involve helping with chores, maintenance, or other tasks around the Dharamshala. If you’re open to volunteering, consider contacting Dharamshalas like Sewa Sadan in Dadar or Seva Niwas in Ghatkopar to explore such possibilities.
Cheapest Dharamshala in Mumbai
Finding the absolute cheapest Dharamshala in Mumbai requires flexibility and understanding that the “cheapest” might not translate to the most comfortable or convenient option. However, here are some tips to help you find a budget-friendly stay:
Location:
- Move away from the main attractions: Dharamshalas closer to popular areas like Colaba, Marine Lines, and Fort will be more expensive. Consider options further away, like in the suburbs such as Malad, Kandivali, Thane, or even Navi Mumbai.
- Explore lesser-known areas: Look beyond the tourist hotspots. Areas like Sion, Dadar, Ghatkopar, or even smaller neighborhoods away from the main train routes might offer more affordable options.
Type of Dharamshala:
- Community-run Dharamshalas: Many religious communities, such as Sindhi, Gujarati, or Jain, have their own Dharamshalas that are open to the public and offer very affordable rates. These often cater to pilgrims and prioritize functionality over luxury.
- Government-run Dharamshalas: The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) operates several Dharamshalas across Mumbai, offering budget-friendly accommodations. Some, like the ones in Mahalaxmi and Parel, have dormitories with minimal charges (around Rs.100-200 per night).
- Simple lodges or guest houses: While not technically Dharamshalas, some small lodges or guest houses offer basic rooms at very low prices. Be prepared for shared bathrooms and limited amenities.
Dharamshala in Mumbai for a stay
Choosing the right Dharamshala in Mumbai for your stay depends on your budget, needs, and preferences. Here are some options to consider:
Budget-friendly:
- Shree Gadge Maharaj Dharamshala: This Dharamshala offers clean and basic rooms at affordable prices, close to Lower Parel. It’s known for its friendly atmosphere and is a good choice for budget-conscious travelers.
- Madhav Baug Dharmashala: Provides simple rooms with shared bathrooms at budget-friendly rates, situated near Mumbai Central and convenient for exploring various areas.
- Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) Dharamshalas: MTDC operates several Dharamshalas across Mumbai, offering budget-friendly accommodations. Some, like the ones in Mahalaxmi and Parel, have dormitories with minimal charges (around Rs.100-200 per night). Keep in mind that these are basic facilities and might require booking in advance, especially during peak season.
Mid-range:
- Sukhanand Ashram: Features spacious rooms with AC options, a beautiful garden, and a serene atmosphere in Mumbai Central, perfect for relaxation.
- Sheth Motisha Jain Dharamshala: Boasts well-maintained rooms with attached bathrooms, located near Marine Lines and offering various amenities.
Luxury:
- Yogi International: Provides luxurious rooms with modern amenities, a rooftop pool, and stunning city views near Marine Lines, offering a comfortable and upscale experience.
- The Bombay Residency: Situated in South Mumbai, this heritage hotel offers unique charm, spacious rooms, and excellent service. While not technically a Dharamshala, it provides a luxurious experience.
Dharamshala in Mumbai Central
Finding a Dharamshala in Mumbai Central can be a great option, especially if you’re arriving or departing via train as it’s close to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT). Here are some options to consider, based on your budget and preferences:
Budget-friendly:
- Dakhibai Singhania Dharamshala: This Dharamshala offers clean and basic rooms at affordable prices, with AC and non-AC options available. It’s located within walking distance of CSMT and has a good reputation for cleanliness and helpful staff.
- Madhav Baug Dharmashala: This option provides simple rooms with shared bathrooms at budget-friendly rates. It’s also close to CSMT and offers a more traditional atmosphere.
- Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) Dharamshala, Mumbai Central: This government-run Dharamshala offers dormitories and basic rooms at very affordable rates. Keep in mind that facilities might be basic and booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
Mid-range:
- Sukhanand Ashram: This Ashram features spacious rooms with AC options, a beautiful garden, and a serene atmosphere. It’s slightly away from the hustle and bustle of CSMT, offering a peaceful stay.
- Sir J.J. Dharamshala: This Dharamshala boasts well-maintained rooms with attached bathrooms and various amenities like a restaurant and a library. It’s located near CSMT and offers a good balance of affordability and comfort.
Luxury:
- The Shalimar Hotel: While not technically a Dharamshala, this hotel offers luxurious rooms with modern amenities, a rooftop pool, and stunning city views. It’s located near CSMT and provides a high-end experience.
Jain Dharamshala in Mumbai
Here are some Jain Dharamshalas in Mumbai:
- Seth Motisha Jain Dharamshala: This Dharamshala is located in the heart of Mumbai, near Marine Lines and close to CSMT. It offers well-maintained rooms with attached bathrooms, a canteen, and prayer halls.
- Shree Jain Adeshwarji Maharaj Dharamshala: This Dharamshala is located in a quiet lane in Mahim West, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It offers basic but clean rooms at affordable prices.
- Kabutar Khana Jain Dharamshala: This Dharamshala is located in a heritage building in Bhendi Bazaar. It offers comfortable rooms with AC and non-AC options, as well as a canteen and a prayer hall.
- Agashi Jain Dharamshala: This Dharamshala is located in a scenic spot in Agashi, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills. It offers spacious and well-furnished rooms with AC and non-AC options, as well as a restaurant and a library.
- Rajasthan Hall: This Dharamshala is located in Borivali West and offers spacious and well-maintained rooms with AC and non-AC options. It also has a restaurant and a banquet hall.
When choosing a Jain Dharamshala in Mumbai, consider your budget, location preferences, and the amenities offered. Some Dharamshalas also have specific rules and regulations, so it’s important to check these before booking.
Swaminarayan Dharamshala in Mumbai
Here are some Swaminarayan Dharamshalas in Mumbai:
- BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Mumbai: This is the main Swaminarayan temple in Mumbai and it also has a Dharamshala attached to it. The Dharamshala offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices. It is located in Dadar, close to the Dadar railway station.
- Shree Mukta Jivan Swamibapa Dharamshala: This Dharamshala is located in Mahalaxmi West, near the Breach Candy Hospital. It offers spacious and well-maintained rooms with AC and non-AC options. It also has a canteen and a prayer hall.
- Shree Swaminarayan Akshardham, Mumbai: This is a grand Swaminarayan temple complex located in Thane. It also has a Dharamshala attached to it. The Dharamshala offers luxurious rooms with all modern amenities.
Sindhi Dharamshala in Mumbai
Sindhi Dharamshalas in Mumbai:
Mumbai boasts a vibrant Sindhi community, reflected in the numerous Sindhi Dharamshalas offering comfortable and affordable stays. Here are some popular options to consider, each with its own unique charm and amenities:
- Sukkur Bhavan Dharamshala:
- Location: Wadala West, near Rafi Ahmed Kidwai Road
- Highlights: Spacious rooms, dormitories, party hall, dispensary, temple, and excellent location.
- Website: https://www.sukkurpanchayat.com/
- Jawahar Sindhi Dharamshala:
- Location: Goregaon West
- Highlights: Clean and comfortable rooms, AC options, prayer hall, canteen, and convenient location near Goregaon railway station.
- K L Wadhwa Sindhi Dharamshala:
- Location: Ulhasnagar
- Highlights: Well-maintained rooms, AC options, party hall, prayer hall, and proximity to various markets.
- Sagar Darshan Guest House:
- Location: Goregaon East
- Highlights: Budget-friendly rooms, shared bathrooms, canteen, and lively atmosphere.
5: Atal Ram Sindhi Dharamshala:
- Location: Goregaon East
- Highlights: Affordable rooms, shared bathrooms, canteen, and convenient location near markets and restaurants.
Other Websites for Interesting info-
famousvaranasi.com– Book best hotels in Varanasi at cheap rates
incredibleindiaexplore.com – All info about Dharamshala, Temples, Tourist Places, Museum, Shaktipeeth
betterjankari.com – General info on hotels, dharamshala, movies
explorebuddham.com– All info about Buddhist tourism, Places and Temples
explorenationalpark.com– All info about national parks, jungle safari and sanctuary
foodjankari.com– Info about fruits, vegetables, nutrients, benefits
businesstrendo.com – Business related blogs
