It should come as no surprise that the largest city in India, Mumbai, also offers many attractions for visitors to explore. I'm not only talking about the delicious food in India. The list of things to do in Mumbai is longer than even the longest of arms, including strolling down Marine Drive, going through the Gate of India, and checking out the World Vipassana Pagoda. Yet, those who have visited Mumbai before or are looking for something slightly off the beaten path may appreciate a somewhat more atypical account of the city's attractions.

Admire Bandra's Graffiti

It's safe to say that Bandra is one of Mumbai's liveliest areas. Many new and exciting restaurants and cafés, but the city's unique street art culture draws most visitors from outside the country.

Graffiti ranging from depictions of Bollywood stars to satirical takes on societal issues, adds a vibrant splash of color and substance to a stroll around the neighborhood. Make this one of your Mumbai activities if you are interested in street art. The greatest places to see artwork are listed on The Wall Project.

Watch A Comfy Match

At some prominent sites men still gather to engage in the ancient sport of Kushti by engaging in a good, old-fashioned mud wrestling match. This is not simply another tourist trap when looking for things to do in Mumbai. There are akharas gyms throughout the country, but the Shree Laxminarayan Vyayam Shala on Arthur Road is a popular spot to see training and competition.

See A Movie

Fly across the world merely to sit in the gloom of a movie theater? Absolutely. Mumbai is the only city that truly understands how to make movies on the big screen. Classic movie theaters in Mumbai never fail to please, whether it's the quaint, shabby Gaiety Galaxy, the elegant Art Deco Eros Cinema, or the time-tested Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge.

Yet, if you want to experience the enchantment of the movies, you shouldn't miss a showing at the art deco Regal Cinema in the Fort neighborhood. Bollywood was founded in India and now produces more movies annually than in Hollywood.

Take A Culinary Trip

While there's more to Mumbai than delicious food, the city's culinary scene is undeniably one of its strongest points, and eating out is among the top activities here. Invigorate your taste buds by embarking on a Mumbai culinary tour.

You'll use the city's extensive public transportation system to hop from hotspot to hotspot while devouring curries, crunching chapatis, and licking clean ice creams. You'll get to hang out with the dabbawalas, the men transporting thousands of lunches around Mumbai, and learn about the city's rich film history.

Stop By A Parsi Café

Irani cafes in Mumbai, once a staple of the city's culinary scene, have fallen victim to growing competition from hipper, trendier venues. However, thankfully there are still many of these quaint hotspots scattered across the city. Their Parsi food is wonderful, attracting customers from all walks of life in the city. Britannia & Co. is well-known for its delicious berry palov.

Get Your Feet Wet In Elephanta

For generations, monks have made use of the city of Mumbai's many cave networks. Although the Mahakali and Kanheri Caves, located on the outskirts of the city center, receive more attention, the Elephanta Caves, located on Elephanta Island, are more impressive and worth the extra effort it takes to see them.

The elaborately carved cave temple was likely built in the 6th century BC and was worshiped by devotees of the Hindu deity Shiva. If you like, you may take a guided tour, but getting there alone isn't hard. Drop by the Gateway of India jetty and hop on one of the many departing ferries; round-trip tickets cost about INR 150.

Get Lost In Dhobi Ghat

Among the world's largest open-air laundry facilities is the Dhobi Ghat. Dhobi Ghat is home to about 200 families that use a time-consuming yet effective method to clean the garments of Mumbai residents. Most laundry is still done by hand, then hung to dry on lines, sorted, and ironed. It's a sight to behold and one of the most photogenic spots in Bombay.

Taking In A Day Of Horse Racing

You can spend a day at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse in Mumbai between November and April, watching the horses run. The 2.5-kilometer oval track is one of the most coveted in India and hosts weekly matches. You may wager on a race, enjoy a beverage in the classic racing clubhouse bar, and munch on numerous delicious Mumbai chaat offerings as you see the majestic horses up close.