India : Safety by City
- Agra
- Ahmedabad
- Bangalore
- Chandigarh
- Chennai
- Delhi
- Gurgaon
- Hyderabad
- Jaipur
- Kochi
- Kolkata
- Kolkatta
- Mangalore
- Mumbai
- Navi Mumbai
- Noida
- Pune
- Surat
- Thiruvananthapuram
- Vadodara
Mumbai is India’s sprawling, energetic financial and cultural hub.
It’s located on the west coast of India along the Arabian Sea, and is home to over 20 million people.
It’s also a magnet for tourists, business travelers, and dreamers alike.
The city blends colonial architecture, Bollywood glamour, busy markets, seaside promenades, and chaotic local trains.
From the Gateway of India to Marine Drive, Bollywood studios to vibrant street food culture, Mumbai offers worlds to explore.
But its size and density also bring safety considerations you won’t find in smaller, quieter cities.
Pickpockets thrive in crowds, and traffic doesn’t flow as smoothly as in Western cities.
Not only that, but Mumbai’s rapid pace can catch unprepared travelers off guard.
Here’s what you should know about the real risks, along with some practical advice to help you enjoy Mumbai confidently.
Knowing what’s typical, what’s avoidable, and what’s simply part of the city’s rhythm is an excellent way to experience the area as safely and enjoyably as possible.
Warnings & Dangers in Mumbai
OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
Mumbai earns a medium overall risk score for travelers. Violent crime against tourists is relatively uncommon, but petty crime, especially theft and pickpocketing in crowded areas, is relatively frequent. Traffic and road safety also contribute to the overall travel risk, and are important parts of the equation for visitors to the area.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
Traffic in Mumbai is dense and often chaotic, and road conditions vary from smooth expressways to congested local roads. Crossing streets can be dangerous and requires vigilance, even at marked crossings. Unmetered taxis or autorickshaws sometimes overcharge travelers, especially near airports and stations, and it's often best to avoid them. Rideshare apps and pre-paid taxi stands at major hubs are generally safer options, as they're more regulated and less likely to try to scam tourists.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
Mumbai’s crowded settings, including markets like Chor Bazaar, Colaba Causeway, and local trains during peak hours, are hotspots for pickpocketing. Thieves can be skilled, and they use distraction tactics and dense crowds to snatch valuables. Keeping items close to your body and staying aware and vigilant dramatically reduce your risk.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
Severe seasonal weather can affect your safety when traveling to India. Mumbai’s monsoon season (June through September) can bring heavy rains, flooding, and transport disruptions, along with significant alerts from meteorological authorities. The heat and humidity in Mumbai are also notable, so hydration and weather-aware planning matter. You don't want to end up with heatstroke or other weather-related illnesses, but preparation and the right clothing can make a big difference in your level of risk.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Muggings targeting tourists are less common than petty theft, but they can occur in isolated or poorly lit areas at night. Staying in busy zones and using trusted transportation at night reduces this risk significantly and is one of the most important things you can do as a tourist.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
Mumbai has experienced high-profile attacks in its past, but security measures have significantly increased since then. Current tourism risk from terrorism remains low compared to broader regional concerns, but staying alert in crowded public areas is still prudent. If something or someone makes you uncomfortable, tell authorities and/or relocate to a location where you feel safer. Trusting your gut is generally always wise, especially in unfamiliar surroundings.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
Scams in Mumbai range from overcharging for transportation to fake tour guides and unofficial donation requests in tourist zones. Tourists are particularly vulnerable around train stations and markets if they’re not cautious. Knowing what types of scams to expect can help you avoid them and stay away from untrustworthy individuals.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Many women travel safely in Mumbai, but caution is advised, especially at night or in less populated areas. The cultural norms vary, and street harassment can occur. Staying with groups and using trusted transport after dark can increase your comfort and safety, as can dressing more modestly to blend in.
TAP WATER RISK: MEDIUM
Tap water quality can vary, and many travelers prefer bottled or filtered water to avoid the risk of stomach issues. In some areas, the tap water is better than others, but it's generally advised not to take the risk. Hydration is very important due to the heat and humidity in the region, but it’s safer to choose sealed water bottles or other types of prepackaged drinks.
Safest Places to Visit in Mumbai
Many areas in central and South Mumbai are widely considered safer and more tourist-friendly.
Colaba, which is home to the Gateway of India and iconic hotels, has frequent police patrols and heavy foot traffic.
Marine Drive and Carter Road are also good choices, as they’re lively seaside promenades that stay populated well into the evening.
Bandra and Juhu are well-connected, vibrant districts with cafes, shopping, and nightlife, offering plenty to explore throughout the day and well into the evening.
These neighborhoods all feel welcoming and busy, which naturally enhances your safety through visibility and crowds.
Places to Avoid in Mumbai
Some areas have higher risks, especially at night or for unfamiliar visitors.
As an example, places like Dharavi are culturally rich but less safe without a guide due to narrow alleys and low infrastructure.
Kurla East, Govandi East, and some industrial outskirts can feel sketchy after dark, especially late at night, and quiet docks, alleys near railway tracks, and poorly lit side streets are also best avoided at night.
If you need or want to go into any of these areas, do so with a group (such as on a guided tour) and during the day.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Mumbai
- Keep Valuables Close and Secured: Pickpocketing thrives in crowds like local trains, markets, and around major stations such as CST, so you’ll want to use zipped or anti-theft bags, and carry wallets and phones in front pockets or inside compartments. Avoid showing any expensive jewelry or electronics in busy areas to reduce unwanted attention and help blend into the crowd.
- Use Official Transport Options: Avoid unlicensed taxis and autorickshaws, especially those offering rides without meters or pre-negotiated fares. Instead, use rideshare apps like Uber, hotel-arranged transfers, or pre-paid airport cabs for safer journeys. Metered auto and taxi fares are regulated and more transparent.
- Stay in Well-Lit, Populated Areas at Night: Evening strolls along Marine Drive or Colaba Causeway are usually safe, but quieter residential lanes can feel deserted after dark. To reduce your risk, stick to main roads with visible activity and people, and avoid dark alleys late at night.
- Blend In Respectfully With Local Culture: Mumbai is cosmopolitan, but modest dressing helps you fit in, especially at religious sites like Haji Ali Dargah. Bright, flashy clothing or overt displays of wealth can unintentionally draw attention that you don’t want. Instead, choose simpler, more muted and modest clothing, and don’t wear a lot of jewelry.
- Be Alert With Crowded Transport and Trains: Mumbai’s local trains are fast and congested during peak hours. You can reduce your chances of being a pickpocketing victim if you stand near other passengers, keep your bag in front of you, and consider traveling in women-only compartments if you’re female and feeling uncomfortable.
- Beware of Common Scams: Scammers may pose as “helpful locals” or offer discounted tours or souvenirs with inflated prices. Even if they seem friendly, don’t engage with strangers who approach you unsolicited, and always negotiate through official channels.
- Avoid Street Food Until You’re Comfortable: Local cuisine is delicious, but street food can be risky with unfamiliar spices and hygiene standards. Start with cooked dishes at established eateries and stick to bottled drinks to reduce the risk of stomach issues, so you don’t end up spending your vacation in your hotel with digestive upset.
- Stay Hydrated and Weather Prepared: Mumbai’s tropical climate can be hot and humid, especially in the summer months. Being prepared is important, such as carrying sealed water, using sunscreen, and planning rest breaks in the shade to avoid heat exhaustion. This is especially important if you’re visiting from a climate where you don’t experience a lot of heat and humidity.
- Know Local Emergency Numbers and Contacts: Save 100 (police) and 112 (all-in-one emergency) in your phone, and also store your hotel’s contact and your country’s embassy or consulate number before arriving. That will help increase your peace of mind, and you won’t have to try to look up numbers if something goes wrong.
- Trust Your Instincts and Act Quickly: If something feels off about a situation, location, or person you’re interacting with, don’t be afraid to trust your gut and remove yourself from the area. You can walk to a busier location, go inside a shop, or call for transport, but don’t hesitate. Believe what your gut is telling you.
So... How Safe Is Mumbai Really?
Mumbai is a city of contrasts.
It’s bustling, energetic, and full of life, and its safety profile reflects that vibrancy.
Violent crime targeting tourists is relatively low, but petty theft and scams are the most common issues visitors face.
Additionally, traffic and road safety contribute significantly to your overall risk, so staying alert while crossing streets or using transport is essential.
Mumbai’s monsoon weather and crowded infrastructure also present natural challenges that aren’t crime-related but still worth planning around.
If you’re traveling during the monsoon season, for example, you’ll want appropriate rain gear and an awareness of the potential for flooding and severe storms.
Many travelers find Mumbai surprisingly approachable because people are often friendly, public spaces stay busy even late at night, and locals are accustomed to tourists.
By using official transport options, safeguarding your personal items, and applying the safety tips above, most travelers enjoy their trip without significant problems.
Mumbai’s blend of culture, history, food, and seaside charm makes it worth the journey.
Just prepare well and respect your surroundings, so you can have a great time and feel comfortable and safe while you’re there.
How Does Mumbai Compare?
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Mumbai |
55 |
| Ahmedabad |
67 |
| Kochi |
70 |
| Thiruvananthapuram |
71 |
| Hyderabad |
60 |
| Vadodara |
71 |
| Delhi |
50 |
 Elephant Butte | 73 |
| Yorktown | 82 |
| Chicago | 65 |
| Prairie Village | 74 |
| Hialeah | 52 |
 Beirut | 45 |
Useful Information
Visas
Most international tourists need a visa to enter India, and this is often obtained in advance or through an electronic travel authorization (e-visa). You must confirm the latest requirements for your location with official Indian government sources before booking your trip.
Currency
The local currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). ATMs are plentiful throughout Mumbai, but always use machines in well-lit, secure areas like banks or shopping centers to reduce risks. Credit cards are widely accepted in urban restaurants and hotels, and it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors who may prefer it.
Weather
Mumbai has a tropical climate with hot, humid summers and a pronounced monsoon season (June through September). Rain can cause flooding and travel disruption during monsoon months, so if you're traveling during that time, you'll want to keep a close eye on the weather. Light, breathable clothing and rain gear are essential.
Airports
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) is Mumbai’s main airport. Prepaid taxi counters and rideshare app pickup zones are available at arrivals, and you should always use official transport to reach your hotel. That reduces the risk of being scammed or overcharged by unlicensed transportation.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended, as it protects against medical expenses, theft, trip interruption, and weather-related delays. That adds a lot of peace of mind to your trip and makes exploring Mumbai a better experience.
Mumbai Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
29 | 30 | 31 | 33 | 33 | 31 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 32 | 32 | 31 |
| Low °C |
19 | 20 | 22 | 25 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 22 | 20 |
| High °F |
84 | 86 | 88 | 91 | 91 | 88 | 82 | 84 | 86 | 90 | 90 | 88 |
| Low °F |
66 | 68 | 72 | 77 | 81 | 79 | 77 | 77 | 75 | 75 | 72 | 68 |
India - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Agra | 50 |
| Ahmedabad | 67 |
| Bangalore | 60 |
| Chandigarh | 77 |
| Chennai | 50 |
| Delhi | 50 |
| Gurgaon | 71 |
| Hyderabad | 60 |
| Jaipur | 53 |
| Kochi | 70 |
| Kolkata | 49 |
| Kolkatta | 48 |
| Mangalore | 75 |
| Mumbai | 55 |
| Navi Mumbai | 80 |
| Noida | 71 |
| Pune | 74 |
| Surat | 80 |
| Thiruvananthapuram | 71 |
| Vadodara | 71 |
Bombay is wonderful to visit!!!
Any part of India especially Mumbai is SAFE so safe is not 49 but way higher
Completely misleading
Weird how you say such things. Mumbai is a vigilant city. Not a single Terrorist attack has happened since 2006. Mumbai is as safe as New York minus the gun violence.
This is a city of honorable men and women, and Pick-pocketing is common yes but doesn’t travel with loose pockets. Carry a backpack and always keep your belongings in them while traveling.
The city ranks 3rd in one of the most honest cities in the world.
Taxi fraud has reduced tremendously, and who uses regular cabs anymore? get an UBER!
Public transport has seen a revolution and an extensive metro system with very good security systems will be in place soon.
Night risk is very low. Mumbai is a 24hr city. Malls are open at all times and cops are always in place. South Bombay may get a bit deserted yes. But in all advice, stay in Bandra West as a tourist as those neighborhoods have livelier nightlife.
For female travelers. Chances of being sexually assaulted are not any higher than that of Rome or Paris.
Overall it a wonderful city and a safe city. a city built by businessmen and merchants and hard-working individuals with dreams to succeed.
Beautiful city
I’ve been to Bombay multiple times and I love it so so so much! It’s one of my favorite cities and I never felt unsafe. Just like most cities there is always the chance of getting pickpocketed but as long as you remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings you will be fine.
Stop putting mumbai down
Mumbai is a very safe beautiful city. I hv got lost in Mumbai must say people were wonderful. I always find the most beautiful, kind hearts live in Mumbai. Do not simply make stories and make Mumbai seems dangerous. Whoever edited this article shd be ashamed of urself. I love my India.
Agree. I have been travelling to Mumbai as a single woman since 1974 and have never had a problem. Love the city.
Thanks for motivation. I was scared reading this article
Completely agree. I travelled several times all over India and never had uncomfortable situations or issues anywhere!!
Poor safety, Corrupt politicians,Police helpless
Mumbai is unsafe for tourists and common people because of the political connections between mafia of drugs and terrorists.It is unsafe as Mumbai Police will not give a hand of help unless politicians allow them to do so.A city where underworld,politics,buisness lobbies,local goons,drugs, rapists,corruption everything is in symbiosis
seems you have watched too many Bollywood movies and based on the same wrote this review. I feel like laughing after reading your comments. lol lol lol.
I am going to mumbai despite the review, ty
Hi Ajay please stop telling rubbish and don’t talk like a crack person about Mumbai
Mumbai is the safest place in India for every person, because here there is no mafia of drugs and terrorist or and also there is no bad element at all in Mumbai and also the Mumbai police is the best police in the whole India.
Mumbai
Mumbai is 100% safe. 1000s of women work, travel and stay alone in Mumbai. One has to have a common sense and be a little vigil, thats all it takes to be safe.
Misleading
This is a very misleading post and whoever wrote this has probably not experienced Mumbai the right way. Mumbai is a lot safer than New York City.
Mumbai is the safest city in India..
Its an economical hub, surrounded with well cultured people , plenty of variety of food, festivals, beautiful weather and list is on..
So visit this amazing place so that you will cherish the memories lifetime…
Taxi scams are still a thing ? Get an UBER or OLA y’all. Grrrr… This post is at least 3 decades old.
Best City in India
Mumbai is Best and Safe city. You can have a verity of food and historic places to visit. If you want to experience heavy Rush with personal space, then Welcome to Mumbai
.
Safest city in India
Mumbai is a vibrant city with some of the most helpful people. Very safe for women too at least till midnight. Mumbai never sleeps.
Complete Misleading information about Mumbai. Very safe for women and coming to Pick-pocketing, yes it is still common.
It’s 2020 and Mumbai is safe for travelers. Pls do not trust this website lot of fake stories written here.
Totally bullshit information this website itself giving misleading information
Totally bullshit blog.
Best City To Explore
After reading this article I feel like slapping the writer. It seems you have never visited Mumbai and wrote this article based on some fake information especially about the risk factor. Let me tell you that Mumbai is always safe to travel and people over here are very helpful who likes to share their culture with each and every individual who visit this city. A women can travel any where within the Mumbai even in the middle of the night. Rickshaw and Taxi drivers are very humble and they make sure if there is a solo female traveler they drop them to their destination safely. People are very welcoming and the treat the visitors with utmost respect which you don’t find in many countries. There are so many good things about Mumbai and it’s people that one article is not enough to describe the beauty of this city and it’s people. So get your facts right before you write these kind of stupid articles.
Highly uninformed
I have been living in Mumbai since the last 30years. This is the worst review I have ever read or heard. Mumbai is a 24×7 buzzing city. Safety in the city is top notch and has always been. There are no second thoughts of even stepping out late night. As someone pointed earlier, public transport has become much better over the years.
I have no clue of what natural disasters you speak about. If you’re talking about minor flooding, that’s normal as Mumbai’s flood water drains, drain into the sea and during high tide cause flooding in certain parts.
As for terrorist attacks, we haven’t seen one since 2008. Mumbai is a very safe city, industries work 24 hours, people move around 24 hours, food available 24 hours, certain stores open 24 hours.
I’m sure the author of the article has never visited Mumbai or lived here long enough to write a review. I would urge each person visiting India to experience Mumbai. Its one of the finest city where everyone is there for everyone.
Totally Misleading. I’m living in Mumbai since birth
Mumbai is really safe for travellers
Take an uber and no-one can scam you
Girls are safer here in the night even compared to Goa (Goa is like my second home) but Goa is overall safer but can’t say about the night.
Foreigners are always welcomed by Mumbaikars
There are less chances of get pickpocketed here
If the monsoon hits us hard, we do facing floods in some areas but thats about it when it comes to natural disasters
The Last terrorist attack was 12 years ago
The only bad thing about Mumbai is the Summer heat and over crowding in some places
Misleading
Who even wrote this BS
Mumbai is the safest city in the whole of India. I’m living here since birth
The only thing that sucks here is the summer heat and over crowding in some places
Misinformation at best
Mumbai is one of the safest city in India. If someone considers Paris as a High Risk city for Tourists for scams and New York as a High Risk City for mugging then I agree with the gentleman’s view. London/Paris has seen more terrorist activities then Mumbai in recent years but would not dare to put them under High Risk city. Mumbai as any other city has its own challenges and as a tourist you need to be careful and vigilant as you would do outside your home city. People are friendly but you should not ask anyone on the street but reach out to shopkeepers for any assistance. It is crowded so as any other city in India. Do not flash cash and digital wallets and credit cards are accepted by most of the shops. For Cab, do not fall trap to local taxis and hire OLA or UBER for convenience. Do not enter crowded places like public transport (unless you thrill ) which you may have a bad experience as a tourist sheerly because of crowd. Tourist Women should Wear decent and proper clothing in public places as you could be target of constant harmless gazing which could make you uncomfortable. All in all you can be safe as long as you are vigilant as any touristy places
Mumbai is one of the safest city in India one of the best public transport availability just lil crowded thats it even if you tavel by taxi or rikshaw there is meter reading for your payment so no chance to fool and for nightlife there lot of pub bar restaurant which serve you late night or you can enjoy your night drive at Marine drive
Read a majoity of reviews. Really, when you step out of your house, anything can happen. You are aware of your surroundings, you know the do’s and don’t’s. It’s call “common sense”. Apply this when you travel, regardless where. No city is perfect, nowhere. So, with that in mind, Mumbai sounds Great 👍 thank you.
My beloved India and my boloved Bombay. ‘ say Bombay and not Mumbai, because, when ‘ went there for the first time ( 50 years ago) was Bombay and my memories are and will remain Bombay. Many things are changed, ‘ remember hours to reach the airport from Colaba; now just 30 minutues more or less. Bombay is so beautiful, so glamour; friendly people, Santo Domingo, a taxi driver, so gentle and helpful; remembering sweet Nuthan, a beautiful lady; was very fond of me and very fond of Her. She is a part of my memories of the glorious days there. Bombay is SAFE, yes, the slums, some areas poor but always found good people. Miss India so much, this damn covid !!!
Colaba, Nariman Point, Bandra, Juhu, Chowpatty, Gamdevi, Malabar Hill; any place must be seen and really hope to be there again
What? MUmbai risk is higher than London, New York and Paris? Really?
Why don’t you guys say that some cities in South Africa and Mexico are safer than my city?
Mumbai is the best
Completely fake, mumbai is one of the safest
It is one of the best city in the world.
They are really spreading rumours
#Noob website
City you will fall in love with!!
Mumbai is one of the most safest cities in India. People are friendly. If you are not getting any particular place, they will go out of the way to help you.
Risk of Terrorism??!! Really what is writer speaking about apart November 2006 there is nothing, that way even New York is unsafe as well.
Please do not follow the reviews given in the article. Once you visit the place you will fall in love with it!!!
I love traveling worldwide; I’ve already been to Germany, Italy, Spain, Egypt. There are a lot of exciting places in Egypt. I’ve been to the red sea, swam there, and conquered this underwater world. The most dangerous thing is the sun. You can quickly get sunstroke there. But Egypt was the last place I went. Because of this pandemic, I didn’t go anywhere for a long time. But I came across the website https://www.travelsafe-abroad.com/india/mumbai/. And after what I saw, I got the idea to visit this beautiful place. And I think shortly I will go there. After all, because of the pandemic, I got bored of sitting at home.
Bombay
Mumbai is safe. Follow the usual safety rules ( anywhere in the world) and you should be ok. eg. Dont flast too much money, expensive stuff, roaming in quite areas, giving out too much information. Avoid the monsoon season and if possible, too crowded areas like the railways etc. during working hours. Do your research before you arrive. Keep alternative hotels etc. Contact numbers and locations, incase your reservation gets cancelled. Drink bottled water, Aquafina. Avoid eating anything that has any liquid, in it. Unless it’s from a good restaurant. Hospitals and visiting a Doctor is generally a walk-in or you could call in advance. Ask directions from shopkeeper. Google maps work well, so you can download an offline one too. Surrounding can be a bit dirty and infrastructure a bit chaotic but overall it’s generally a safe city
The energy in Mumbai is just infectious, especially near the Gateway of India when the sun sets – it’s like the city comes alive!
There’s something so electric about Mumbai, especially when you stand by the Gateway of India; it really captures the spirit of this city.
Navigating through the chaos can be a bit overwhelming, but there’s something exciting about the energy here that keeps you coming back for more. Just keep your wits about you, especially in crowded spots!
Navigating those busy markets can feel like an adventure in itself, especially when you suddenly find yourself dodging pickpockets while trying to snag the best street food!