Best Bus Mumbai

BEST Bus Mumbai is the authority that provides public bus services throughout Mumbai. There are a whole fleet of buses which can get you to every corner of the city. Some even cater specifically to tourists and sightseers. This extensive network of buses is just one option for travellers; there are a number of other public transport options which are cheap, efficient and a cultural experience in and off itself.

The buses that are most tourist friendly are Bus Rapid Transit System or BRTS buses which are air conditioned and very comfortable. These buses are a great way to beat the heat and take in the Mumbai sites. There are four main routes that cover all the main destinations and attractions in the city and the buses arrive on regular timed intervals.

The acronym of the BEST Bus Mumbai organisation stands for Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport. Back in the old days before the city changed its name, the B used to stand for Bombay, its moniker at the time. A quick internet search will give you a detailed list of bus routes; these however are not always up to date so it is best to check with the place where you are staying for directions.

There are local railway lines called the Suburban Electric Trains that run within the various districts in the city. These are a great way to venture off the beaten track and get a feel of how the locals live, work and play. One interesting fact is that there are regular ladies only trains and ladies only compartments in regular trains. These were initiated by the city to make it easier and safer for women to commute to work and to get around in general.

Taxis are another way to get around within the city. They are not very expensive but most will not run on the meter for foreigners and tourists. Catching a cab would be a great way to develop your haggling skills, useful for when you are out bargain hunting at the shops. The iconic black and yellow fiat taxis are a regular feature in any and every movie shot in the city. Radio taxies are the ones that need to be booked ahead; you can do so by simply making a call to the call centre.

Auto rickshaws are those black and yellow scooter-like taxis that you will see weaving between traffic. If it is your first time in Mumbai make sure to get on one of these if just for the experience and the colourful drivers that man these vehicles. They tend to be a little cheaper than regular taxis but bargaining is still necessary.

If you are travelling out of the city a popular route would be the city's waterways. There are ferries that run from various spots within Mumbai to nearby attractions like the Gateway to India, Elephanta Caves, Manori Creek and Madh Island.

Exploring the different transport mediums is a great way to get to know a city. Whether it is one of the BEST Bus Mumbai tourist friendly buses or an exciting ride on an auto rickshaw, get on and start exploring today.