Navi Mumbai Maharashtra, India Travel Guide
Internet access and Wi-Fi are readily available. Most hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer Wi-Fi. Public Wi-Fi is limited. Mobile data connection is generally reliable and speedy.
India Post offices offer postal services. Courier services like DTDC, Blue Dart, FedEx, and DHL are accessible. Marathi is the official language; Hindi and English are widely spoken.
Basic phrases with pronunciation guides.
More usual sayings for daily interactions.
Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival. This brings reliable and affordable data and local calls.
Shops generally operate from 10:O'CLOCK IN the MORNING to 9:00 PM. Malls are open from 10:00 AM to 9:30 PM or 10:00 PM. Restaurants typically serve from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM or midnight. Government offices generally open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
Banks function 10 AM to 4 PM, Monday through Friday, with half-day Saturday operations. ATMs are widely available 24/7.
Major public holidays (Republic Day, Independence Day, Gandhi Jayanti) and holy festivals lead to closures.
Travel services may experience disruptions during major holidays and festivals.
Religious festivals like Diwali, Holi, Eid, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Christmas can also cause businesses to close.
Smaller establishments or street vendors may not accept digital payments. Always carry some physical cash.
Check for public holidays during your travel dates. This avoids unexpected closures of attractions or services.
"Namaste" or "Namaskar," with palms joined together, is a respectful greeting. A simple "hello" is also common, especially with younger generations.
Conservative dress is advisable, especially for women. Shoulders and knees remain covered. Remove shoes before entering temples, mosques, or gurdwaras. Women may need a head covering.
Eat with your right hand if consuming traditional Indian food. Avoid pointing with fingers. Do not waste food. Tipping 5-10% is customary in sit-down restaurants.
Always seek permission to photograph people, especially women and children. Some religious sites or museums prohibit photography or charge a fee.
Refrain from public displays of affection. Do not openly criticize Indian culture, religion, or politics. Do not touch people's heads or feet. Use an open hand gesture for pointing.
Observe local customs and follow the lead of local residents in public settings.
Infrastructure for disabled travelers is generally limited. Footpaths are uneven, and ramps or lifts are not universally available.
Newer developments (malls, modern hotels, Navi Mumbai Metro stations) present better accessibility. Navi Mumbai Metro Line 1 stations have lifts and escalators.
Specialized services for the visually or hearing impaired are limited. Apps or personal guides may assist. Online forums offer practical advice.
If you have mobility challenges, research specific hotels and attractions for their accessibility features before booking.
