Top 10 Iconic Ganapati Pandals of Mumbai

By August end, you would hear chants of ‘Ganapati Bappa Morya’ reverberating all over for the next 10 days as the country celebrates the commencing of Lord Ganesha on Ganesh Chaturthi, one of the most important festivals in India. Although the festival holds nationwide significance, Mumbai takes the festivities a few notches higher than the rest of India.  

One of the major highlights of Ganesh Chaturthi’s celebrations in Mumbai is the establishment of big Ganapati pandals throughout the city. Just like individuals bring home Lord Ganesh, in Pandals, a group of people welcome the Lord by placing the idol on a makeshift/temporary stage/dais. The idol is open to the public, and people of all religion, caste, and community can visit the pandal, and seek the lord’s blessings.

Ganesh Pandals – How it Began? 

The idea of starting a Pandal was the brainchild of the legendary leader of India, Bal Gangadhar Tilak. It first started in Pune, and eventually spread to different parts of Maharashtra. It was a way to gather the people of all communities, and unite them in the fight against the British. Over the years, the Pandals became very popular, and in Mumbai, there are many iconic Pandals that attract huge visitors, devotees from all over India. 

Ganapati Pandals – What is in it for the tourists? 

Apart from seeking the blessings of the Lord, as a tourist, visiting these pandals tells you a lot about the undying spirit of Mumbai. During the 10 days of the festival, you would see the entire city lit up with colourful lights, showcasing Mumbai’s and Mumbaikar’s love for this beautiful festival and Lord Ganesh.  

As people/devotees stand in queues at the pandal for many hours till late night shows the spiritual and the devotional side of the city, that otherwise never stops. Also, near every popular Ganesh Chaturthi pandal, there are always rows of food stalls lined on either side of the road selling amazing Mumbai’s delicacies, giving tourists the chance to indulge in Mumbai’s Street food.

Top 10 Iconic Pandals in Mumbai:

Mumbai's iconic Ganpati pandals are a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage and vibrant festive spirit. Each pandal is a masterpiece of artistry and devotion, drawing countless devotees and visitors. Here are a few of the most notable ones:

• Lalbaugcha Raja 

The Grandest Ganapati pandal of all pandals in Mumbai, Lalbaughcha Raja is undisputedly the most famous pandal in the city. It was formed in 1934, and it is one of the most visited pandals in the city. Thousands of tourists, devotees from all over India visit Mumbai just to seek Lord Blessings here.  

Devotees stand in the queue for many hours, sometimes, overnight just to see the lord and touch his feet. There is an unbelievable faith in Mumbaikar's that this Ganesha fulfils all their wishes. Celebrities, politicians, sportspeople, they call come here to offer their prayers and bow their heads to the Lord.  

• Andhericha Raja 

The name literally translates to ‘King of Andheri’ and true to its name, during the 10 days of the festival, the Lord is treated like a true King. This Ganapati pandal in Mumbai was first started in 1966, and since then its popularity has grown manifold. Many people come to this pandal to offer their prayers and make wishes, and it is said that those who pray to Lord here, get their wishes granted.  

You may spot many celebrities who visit the Pandal during the festival who also come here to seek blessings. The grand decoration, and the overall festive atmosphere in and around the Pandal will surely leave you spellbound. 

• Khetwadicha Raja 

Located in south Mumbai, an interesting fact about this Ganapati Pandal is that the shape of the idol remains the same every year and only one family has been making this idol since it started. When you reach the location, you would see 13 lanes, each with its own Pandal. But the grandest and the most popular of them is on the 12thLane, Khetwadicha Raja, which has many awards for the best idol and pandal in Mumbai.  

• Girgaoncha Raja 

This popular Ganapati pandal in Mumbai is located close to the Girgaon Chowpatty, a popular tourist place. It is one of the few Ganapati pandals in Mumbai that has switched to having eco-friendly Ganesh idols since 2016 with a view to promote safe celebration. The pandal draws hundreds of visitors everyday till the last day, who celebrate it with full spirits. 

• GSB Seval Mandal 

One of the richest Ganesh pandals in the city, here the idol of the Lord is adorned with many gold and silver ornaments. When you visit the pandal, apart from the spiritual aura, the beauty of the decoration and the idol will give you a spectacle like you have never seen before. It is also the only pandal in the city where the rituals are performed round the clock for the entire festival duration.  

• Ganesh Galli Mumbaicha Raja 

This iconic Ganapati pandal in Mumbai in the Lalbaug area is well known for its many theme-based celebrations. Every year, they create a replica of the famous places in India. The pandal was started in 1928 for the benefit of the mill workers who worked at the mills in the nearby region. Since then, its popularity has grown tremendously and it is a must-visit pandal.  

• Chinchpokli Cha Raja

Chinchpokli Cha Raja pandal is a distinguished fixture in Mumbai's Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, celebrated for over a century. Known for its vibrant and intricate decorations, the pandal seamlessly blends tradition with contemporary themes. It attracts a vast number of devotees and tourists who come to seek blessings and marvel at the artistic displays. The fervour and devotion surrounding Chinchpokli Cha Raja make it a vital part of Mumbai's cultural and festive landscape, embodying the spirit of unity and celebration.

• Keshavji Naik Chawl

The Keshavji Naik Chawl pandal holds a special place in Mumbai's Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations as the city's first public Sarvajanik Ganpati. Established in 1893, this historic pandal is known for its traditional decorations and the warm community spirit it fosters. Each year, the Keshavji Naik Chawl pandal draws numerous devotees who come to participate in its rich cultural festivities and pay homage to Lord Ganesha.

• Kamathipura Cha Chintamani Ganesh

The Kamathipura Cha Chintamani pandal is a notable and revered Ganesh Chaturthi celebration in Mumbai. Known for its intricate and artistic decorations, this pandal stands as a beacon of devotion and community spirit. Each year, it attracts a multitude of devotees who come to offer their prayers and witness the vibrant festivities, making it an integral part of the city's rich cultural tapestry.

• Dongricha Raja

Dongricha Raja pandal is a prominent and cherished fixture in Mumbai's Ganpati celebrations. Renowned for its elaborate decorations and majestic idol of Lord Ganesha, this pandal draws throngs of devotees and visitors each year. The fervent devotion and artistic splendour showcased at Dongricha Raja make it a standout during the festive season, embodying the spirit and cultural heritage of Mumbai. It remains one of the most iconic Ganpati pandals in the city.

With Ganesh Chaturthi just around the corner, it's the perfect time to plan a trip to Mumbai and immerse yourself in the vibrant celebrations. The city's iconic Ganpati pandals, renowned for their artistry and devotion, offer a unique glimpse into Mumbai's rich cultural heritage. Many pandals now feature eco-friendly Ganesh idols, reflecting a growing emphasis on sustainability. Join the throngs of devotees and experience the spiritual ambiance and festive spirit that define Mumbai's Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.

Club Mahindra has a lot of resorts in Maharashtra where you can enjoy the Ganpati celebrations with your family. You can get access to these resorts and 140+ resorts if you have a Club Mahindra membership. Talk to our team about the best plan that you can choose based on your family travel plans. You can also check the positive member reviews from our members who have spent quality time at our resorts during these festivals.