A Roman Catholic basilica perched on a hill overlooking the Arabian Sea, famous for its annual Bandra Fair and stunning sea views.
Mount Mary Church, officially the Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount, sits atop a hill in Bandra West overlooking the Arabian Sea and the Bandra-Worli Sea Link. The current Gothic-style structure dates largely from a 1904 rebuild, though a shrine has existed on the site since the 16th century. The church is home to a statue of Our Lady believed to have miraculous powers, drawing worshippers of multiple faiths, particularly during the annual Bandra Fair (Mount Mary Feast) held each September, which turns the surrounding streets into a lively festival with stalls and processions. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of the coastline from the church grounds and nearby Bandra Bandstand.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM daily |
| Typical visit | 30-45 minutes |
| Best time | Morning or weekday evenings; September for the Bandra Fair (Mount Mary Feast) |
| Getting there | Nearest railway station is Bandra (Western Line), roughly 2 km, followed by a taxi or auto-rickshaw up the hill |
| Address | Mount Mary Steps, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050, India |
Good to know
- Best for
- spiritual travellers, sea views, quiet stops
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Location
Mount Mary Steps, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050, India
19.0433, 72.8203 View on map
Highlights
- Hilltop basilica with Arabian Sea views
- Annual Bandra Fair (Mount Mary Feast) each September
- Statue of Our Lady venerated across religious communities
- Gothic-style architecture from the early 1900s
- Close to Bandra Bandstand and Sea Link viewpoint
Tips for visiting
- September's Bandra Fair draws huge crowds; visit outside fair days for a quieter experience
- Dress modestly when entering the church
- Combine with a walk to nearby Bandra Bandstand for sea views
- Parking is limited during festival periods
When to visit
Weekday mornings for a peaceful visit; the September Bandra Fair week following the feast of the Nativity of Mary fills the surrounding streets with stalls and pilgrims.
Accessibility
Located up a hill with some stepped approaches; vehicles can reach close to the entrance
Frequently asked questions
What is the Bandra Fair?
It is the annual feast of Mount Mary Church held each September, featuring stalls, processions, and large crowds of devotees from all communities.
Is Mount Mary Church open to visitors of all faiths?
Yes, the church and its shrine are visited by people of many religious backgrounds, especially during the annual feast.