Your ride guide to Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai

August 25 marks the beginning of the joyous festival of Ganesh Chaturthi. This 11-day festival of vibrant lights, life-size sculptures, modaks, and pandaals truly brings out the spirit of Mumbai. With the line-up of celebrations and immersions during the festival, commuting in Mumbai with family and friends can be a bit difficult, but with a few tips about what to expect and how to prepare, you’ll be well on your way to the ultimate festival experience.

Pandaals or temporary, fabricated structures are set up in each corner of the city during the festival. These pandaals host miniature to life-sized Ganpati idols. Read on for your list of 5 must-see pandaals in Mumbai.

The King of Lalbaug is undoubtedly the most famous and iconic pandaal in Mumbai. More than 1.5 million devotees wait for over than 24 hours to get a glimpse of the auspicious idol. 

Where: Lalbaug Cha Raja CoOp Housing Society, Ganesh Nagar, Lal Baug, Parel

An eco-friendly 22 feet long Maharashtrian- Kolhapuri style idol, Girgaon Cha Raja is one of the most prominent Ganesh idols in Mumbai. As this pandaal embarks on their 70th year in the city, it’s definitely a must-visit for you.

Where: Charni Road East, Kandawadi, Girgaon

This year, Parel Cha Raja is a 31 feet long standing Ganpati idol. This eminent pandaal sets new records for taller idols every year!

Where: Narepark Abhyasika, Bhivajirao Nare Udyan, Nare Park Walk, Parel

The well known Ganesh Galli pandaal is celebrating its 90th year in Mumbai with a unique Vishnu themed idol to mark the occasion.

Where: Ganesh Lane, Lal Baug, Parel

Notable for the idol’s glorious throne and poses, this pandaal provides an out-of-the-ordinary experience. As it completes its 98th year, it has adopted a magnificent theme of ‘Bahubali Maheshmati Darbar’, the royal court of King Bahubali.

Where: Chinchpokli, Mumbai

Due to heavy pedestrian and vehicular traffic during Visarjan or Immersion days, the Mumbai Traffic Police has released a route map to help riders navigate the city as the streets erupt in celebration. In all, there will be several road closures across Colaba, Pydhunie, Kalbadevi, Malabar Hill, Tardeo, Byculla, Bhoiwada, Dadar, Matunga, Chembur, Trombay, Ghatkopar, Mulund, Santacruz, Dindoshi and Kandivali. 

Certain traffic restrictions will be imposed on Visarjan days between 12 noon and 6 am. During these times, we expect a higher volume of requests and slightly longer wait times. Request uberPOOL, save up to 50% off and share your ride with Mumbaikars traveling in the same direction.