Journey Through Mumbai's Unmapped Streets To Find Historical Gems

India.com

01-06-2025

Mumbai is known as the city of dreams and has skyscrapers, the iconic Gateway of India, Marine Drive, and other landmarks that are loved by everyone. But behind all that, there exists a set of unmapped alleys that tell a story of their own. Not everything is modernized, and these roads are the oldest in Mumbai, and need to be preserved. For a long time, these roads have kept the history, culture, and the citizens' pulse.
1.The Lost Alleys of South Mumbai
South Mumbai, the city's oldest region, conceals some of the most fascinating untouched alleys. One of these alleys is located behind the very energetic Crawford Market. The din of the market diminishes as you walk deeper into this alley, leaving you with an unexplained stillness. The walls here tell the story of the area, adorned with graffiti and murals of when it was a flourishing center for traders. It further leads to a neglected old Parsi fire temple, which is almost incognito at the entrance among all the surrounding buildings. This majestic temple, which is one of the oldest in the city, showcases the Parsi community's stronghold in Mumbai.
Framing the iconic Flora Fountain, another hidden treasure lies in the Fort section. A passage between two colonial structures is what leads to this hidden courtyard. This courtyard is truly untouched and the spaces invite relaxation. The courtyard is surrounded by dilapidated buildings, their rest already covered with sculptures signifying an ancient beauty. It was first inhabited by British officers and Indian merchants. Today, it is a dignified retreat for those who need to escape the hectic pace of life in the city.
2.The Magical Alleys of Bhuleshwar
Bhuleshwar, is a savory and fragrant neighborhood in Central Mumbai that is an untapped goldmine of alleys showcasing the city's cultural and spiritual roots. At the center of Bhuleshwar lies an alley. While walking down, one can find small shops that sell incense, temple bells, Indian sweets, spices, and religious items. All of which creates a perfume-like fragrance and the soothing sound of temple bells heightens the experience. Mumbadevi Temple, which is small compared to other temples, is quite historical and stands at the tail end of this alley. It is believed that the goddess who the temple is dedicated to is the namesake of the city from which Mumbai derived its name from.
Another alley leading in the opposite direction gives access to the Walkeshwar Temple. It's a majestic temple that is married intimately with nature having burnt down our banyan trees growing around it. This temple is a 'must visit' for anyone who adores Turbo and is dedicated to the Enlightened God known as Shiva and is believed to have been erected in the twelfth century AD by the Silhara dynasty for their love of nature. Stand grateful as the nature further nourishes Walkeshwar Temple with serenity as they burn with compassion the alley leading to it makes you fall in love with Mumbai with each step.
3.Rustic Alleys of Girgaum
Girgaum is one of the oldest parts of Mumbai. It is heavily uncharted so it is quite easy to get lost, but what you see makes the exploration worth it. One of the alleys is quite literally home to 'wadas' or traditional houses that are even more majestic from the inside. These walls are built in a traditional style and were owned by affluent Marathi families in the past. This style of architecture is slowly changing due to the conversion of these houses into small shops and cafes, but these places still capture the hearts of those who see them.
One more alley goes to the renowned Kalbadevi Temple which is dedicated to the goddess Kali. Although the temple is not large, it is very famous and quite crowded on special days of the year. On the way to the temple, you pass one of the most beautiful and full of life alleys as people burst into devotional songs, children make colourful rangoli and you smell delicious prasad being served.
4.Mazgaon's Secret Alcoves
Located in South Mumbai is Mazgaon, a neighbourhood with some of the most breathtaking alleys in the city. These alleys stand out in comparison to the wider parts of the city as they are vibrant and often peaceful. One such maze stretches out into the old Portuguese houses whose richly coloured pastel walls clash beautifully with the more modern buildings around. Their construction dates back to the 1600s and acts as a symbol for the colonial times. At times, the maze leads to a quaint chapel, which feels as if it has been pulled from a story book, and sits peacefully with beautifully crafted walls and stained glass windows.
Yet another alley leads to the rustically named Dockyard Road, which used to be a commercialised region of shipbuilders and international traders. With time, it transformed into a more quiet region where vividly colourful alleyways are scattered across. Abandoned big sturdy wooden warehouses with rusty gates and decaying walls serve as a reminder to the city's port history.
5.The Heart of Mumbai
The essence of Mumbai beats through these municipal lanes. Walking through them feels as if you have ventured into a magical land where the soul of the city thrives, waiting to be uncovered.
These lanes remind us of Mumbai's culture, in a city that is 'in progress' all the time. They stand as proof for how Mumbai, and its citizens, have succeeded in maintaining their history, despite sweeping developments. Hence, when you are in Mumbai the next time, go a little off track, and investigate some of these unmapped paths. There's a chance you might find a tale that is unexplored and is looking for its narrator.