Perched atop a small hillock near Girgaum Chowpatty in South Mumbai, the Babulnath Temple is one of the city’s oldest and most revered Hindu shrines, dedicated to Lord Shiva . The temple derives its name from the Babul (acacia) tree under which the sacred Shiva Lingam was discovered. The name also honors a cowherd named Babul, who first noticed a cow pouring its milk at a particular spot daily, leading to the excavation of the ancient Lingam .
The temple’s history dates back to the 12th century, with the present structure built in 1780 and its iconic tall spire added around 1900 . Rising approximately 150 feet above ground level, the temple requires climbing about 110 steps, though an elevator is available for the elderly and those with mobility challenges .
Babulnath Temple becomes especially vibrant during Mahashivratri and the holy month of Shravan (July-August), when thousands of devotees flock to offer prayers and participate in special rituals . The temple’s serene atmosphere, combined with breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and Marine Drive, offers a perfect spiritual retreat amid Mumbai’s bustling city life.
Babulnath Temple Overview Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Shri Babulnath Temple |
| Location | 16, Babulnath Road, Charni Road, Mumbai, Maharashtra – 400004 |
| Primary Deity | Lord Shiva (Babulnath – Lord of the Babul Tree) |
| Historical Era | 12th Century (original); current structure built in 1780 |
| Architectural Style | Traditional Hindu with limestone and marble carvings |
| Entry Fee | Free for all devotees |
| Lift Service | ₹1 per person (for elderly and disabled) |
| Steps to Temple | Approximately 110 steps |
| Nearest Railway Station | Charni Road Station (Western Line) – 1.2 km |
| Nearest Landmark | Girgaum Chowpatty, Marine Drive |
| Official Website | https://www.babulnath.com/ |
| Contact Number | 022 2367 8367 / 022 2367 3602 |
| info@babulnath.com |
Babulnath Temple Darshan Timings 2026
The temple welcomes devotees every day, with extended hours on Mondays (considered highly auspicious for Lord Shiva). Below are the complete darshan timings for 2026 based on multiple official sources :
| Day | Opening Time | Closing Time | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 6:00 AM | 10:00 PM | Extended hours for Shiva devotees |
| Tuesday | 6:00 AM | 9:00 PM | Regular schedule |
| Wednesday | 6:00 AM | 9:00 PM | Regular schedule |
| Thursday | 6:00 AM | 9:00 PM | Regular schedule |
| Friday | 6:00 AM | 9:00 PM | Regular schedule |
| Saturday | 6:00 AM | 9:00 PM | Regular schedule |
| Sunday | 6:00 AM | 9:00 PM (some sources: 9:30 PM) | Weekend visits |
Alternative Timings from Some Sources:
Some sources indicate slightly different opening and closing times:
- Sunday: 5:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- General Daily: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM (Tuesday–Sunday)
It is advisable to confirm with the temple office for festival schedules, as timings may be extended during Shravan month and Mahashivratri.
Special Timings During Shravan Month (July–August 2026)
| Event | Timings |
|---|---|
| Temple Opens | 5:30 AM |
| Temple Closes | 10:30 PM |
| Morning Aarti | 5:30 AM – 6:30 AM |
| Evening Aarti | 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM |
Mahashivratri 2026 Special Timings
During Mahashivratri, the temple remains open overnight:
| Event | Timing |
|---|---|
| Temple Opens | 4:00 AM |
| Special Aartis & Pujas | All day and night |
| Temple Closes | Next day, 6:00 AM |
During this festival, it is advisable to arrive early and consider booking VIP or group darshan due to extremely heavy crowds .
Babulnath Temple Aarti Schedule 2026
The aartis at Babulnath Temple are spiritually uplifting experiences. Below is the complete daily aarti schedule :
| Aarti Name | Timing | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Mangala Aarti | 4:45 AM – 5:00 AM | First prayer of the day; peaceful and serene |
| Pratah (Morning) Aarti | 6:30 AM – 7:15 AM | Morning worship with Vedic chants |
| Madhyan (Noon) Aarti | 12:00 PM – 12:15 PM / 12:30 PM | Midday offering; quick darshan opportunity |
| Sandhya (Evening) Aarti | 5:15 PM – 6:00 PM / 6:30 PM – 7:00 PM | Evening prayer; vibrant atmosphere |
| Shringar Aarti | 8:30 PM – 9:00 PM | Adornment ceremony of the deity |
| Shej (Night) Aarti | 9:45 PM – 10:00 PM | Final prayer before the temple closes |
Note on Timings: Different sources cite slight variations in aarti timings. For example, the evening aarti is listed as both 5:15 PM–6:00 PM and 6:30 PM–7:00 PM . It is recommended to arrive early for the desired aarti to secure a good spot.
Best Aarti to Attend
- Morning Aarti (6:30 AM – 7:15 AM): Ideal for those seeking a peaceful, uncrowded experience
- Evening Aarti (5:15 PM – 6:00 PM or 6:30 PM – 7:00 PM): Most popular; the temple is beautifully lit and draws large crowds
- Mangala Aarti (4:45 AM): For early risers who wish to witness the deity being awakened
Babulnath Temple Abhishekam, Pooja Offerings & Price List 2026
Devotees can perform various rituals at Babulnath Temple to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings. Below is the comprehensive price list for darshan types, Abhishekam, and special poojas :
Darshan and Entry Options
| Service Type | Price (INR) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| General Darshan | Free | Regular entry for all devotees |
| VIP Darshan | ₹200 | Priority access; faster entry; recommended during festivals |
| Group Darshan | ₹100 per person | For groups of minimum 10 people; coordinated entry |
Abhishekam and Special Pooja Offerings
| Pooja / Offering | Price (INR) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Jal Abhishek | ₹2,000 | Ritual water offering to Lord Shiva; includes special blessings |
| Special Pooja | ₹1,000 | Includes personalized rituals and priest blessings |
| Rudrabhishek | Donation-Based | Vedic ritual chanting of Rudram hymns |
| Mahamrutyunjaya Laghurudra | Donation-Based | Powerful healing and protection mantra ritual |
| Mahamrutyunjaya Jaap (1001) | Donation-Based | Chanting of 1001 Mahamrutyunjaya mantras |
| Naivedhya Thaal | Donation-Based | Offering of food to the deity |
| Maha Naivedhya Thaal | Donation-Based | Grand offering of food to the deity |
| Dhwaja Ropan (Silk Flag Hoisting) | Donation-Based | Ceremonial hoisting of a silk flag |
| Navgrah Shanti | Donation-Based | Pacification of nine planetary influences |
| Kaalsarpa Shanti | Donation-Based | Remedy for Kaalsarpa dosha |
| Nakshatra Shanti | Donation-Based | For peace of affected birth stars |
| Hawan | Donation-Based | Fire ritual for purification and prayers |
Important Note on Booking Poojas
- Timings for special poojas are mentioned on the booking details when you register
- You can book poojas by visiting the temple’s office or by contacting the temple directly
- For donation-based offerings, you can contribute any amount as per your wish and spiritual inclination
Lift Service: A lift is available for a nominal fee of ₹1, making it easier for elderly and differently-abled devotees to reach the main shrine without climbing the 110 steps .
How to Reach Babulnath Temple
Address
16, Babulnath Road, Charni Road Near, Chowpatty, Mumbai, Maharashtra – 400004
By Train (Most Convenient)
- Nearest Station: Charni Road Station (Western Line) – approximately 1.2 km
- Walking Distance: 15–20 minutes uphill
- Auto/Taxi: 5–10 minutes ride
- Other Nearby Stations: Marine Lines (2.5 km), Grant Road (approx. 3 km), Churchgate (3 km)
By Bus
BEST buses running towards Girgaum Chowpatty or Charni Road are convenient. From the bus stop, it is a 10–15 minute walk to the temple .
By Taxi / Cab
Taxi and app-based cabs (Uber, Ola) can drop you at the base of the temple hill. From there, you can either climb the steps or use the lift .
By Car
Limited parking is available near the temple. Public transport is recommended, especially during festivals like Mahashivratri or weekends .
Facilities Available at Babulnath Temple
| Facility | Details |
|---|---|
| Lift Service | Available for ₹1; recommended for elderly and disabled |
| Footwear Stand | Available for safe storage of shoes |
| Drinking Water | Available within temple premises |
| Prasadam | Available at temple counters |
| Seating Areas | Benches and resting spots for devotees |
| Gardens | Beautifully maintained gardens, especially vibrant during festivals |
| CCTV Security | Ensures safety of devotees |
| Parking Lot | Limited parking available |
Nearby Attractions
After your temple visit, consider exploring these nearby attractions:
| Attraction | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Girgaum Chowpatty | 2 km | Famous beach; street food, sunset views |
| Marine Drive | 3 km | Iconic “Queen’s Necklace” promenade; evening walks |
| Malabar Hill | 3 km | Banganga Tank, Hanging Gardens, Jain Temple |
| Mani Bhavan | Walking distance | Gandhi Museum; historic building |
| Kamala Nehru Park | 2 km | Boot House; panoramic city views |
Best Time to Visit Babulnath Temple
Season Guide
| Season | Months | Weather | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | November – March | Pleasant, 15-25°C | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best time; comfortable for climbing steps |
| Summer | April – June | Hot, humid (30-35°C) | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ Visit early morning or evening |
| Monsoon | July – September | Heavy rainfall | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ Shravan month; vibrant but crowded |
Best Time of Day
| Time | Crowd Level | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| 5:30 AM – 7:30 AM | Low | Most peaceful; ideal for meditation |
| 7:30 AM – 11:00 AM | Moderate | Regular darshan |
| 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM | High | Noon aarti draws crowds |
| 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM | High | Evening aarti; vibrant atmosphere |
| 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Moderate | Quieter after evening aarti |
Best Months for Festival Experience
| Festival / Occasion | Time | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Mahashivratri | February/March | Grand overnight celebrations; heavy crowds |
| Shravan Month | July – August | Special aartis; extra rituals; crowded |
| Mondays | Weekly | Higher footfall; special significance for Lord Shiva |
Important Visitor Instructions
Dress Code
- Traditional and formal clothing is recommended
- Modest attire covering shoulders and knees is expected
- Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing clothing
- Remove footwear before entering the temple premises
Photography
- Photography and videography are not allowed inside the sanctum
- Photography is permitted in outdoor areas; always be respectful of worshippers
- If unsure, check with temple staff before photographing
Temple Etiquette
- Maintain silence and decorum inside the temple
- Follow queue instructions, especially during aartis and festivals
- Keep mobile phones on silent mode
- Do not touch the deities or sacred relics
- Deposit footwear at the designated stand before entering
What to Carry
- Small cash for offerings and lift service (₹1)
- Water bottle (especially during summer)
- Valid ID proof (if booking special poojas)
- Modest clothing as per dress code
Prohibited Items
- Large bags and luggage
- Non-vegetarian food and alcohol
- Tobacco products
- Leather items (in some areas)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What are the Babulnath Temple darshan timings for 2026?
A: The temple is open daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with extended hours on Mondays (6:00 AM – 10:00 PM) . During Shravan month, timings extend to 10:30 PM .
Q2: Is there an entry fee for Babulnath Temple?
A: No, entry to the temple is completely free for all devotees . The lift service costs ₹1 per person .
Q3: What is the cost of VIP darshan at Babulnath Temple?
A: VIP darshan costs ₹200 per person, offering priority access and faster entry .
Q4: What is the price of Abhishekam at Babulnath Temple?
A: Jal Abhishek (water offering) costs ₹2,000 . Special pooja services start at ₹1,000 .
Q5: What are the aarti timings at Babulnath Temple?
A: Mangala Aarti: 4:45 AM; Morning Aarti: 6:30 AM – 7:15 AM; Noon Aarti: 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM; Evening Aarti: 5:15 PM – 6:00 PM / 6:30 PM – 7:00 PM; Night Aarti: 9:45 PM – 10:00 PM .
Q6: How many steps are there to reach Babulnath Temple?
A: There are approximately 110 steps leading up to the temple . A lift is available for those who cannot climb.
Q7: What is the nearest railway station to Babulnath Temple?
A: The nearest station is Charni Road Station on the Western Line, approximately 1.2 km from the temple .
Q8: Is Babulnath Temple open on Mondays?
A: Yes, the temple is open on Mondays with extended hours (6:00 AM – 10:00 PM) as Mondays hold special significance for Lord Shiva .
Q9: What is the best time to visit Babulnath Temple?
A: The best time is from November to March when the weather is pleasant. For peaceful darshan, visit early morning (5:30 AM – 7:30 AM) .
Q10: Can I book special poojas online?
A: You can book poojas by contacting the temple office directly or by visiting the official website at www.babulnath.com .
Q11: Is the temple accessible for elderly and disabled devotees?
A: Yes, a lift service is available for a nominal fee of ₹1, making the temple accessible for those who cannot climb the steps .
Q12: What is the significance of Babulnath Temple?
A: The temple is one of Mumbai’s oldest Shiva shrines, dating back to the 12th century. It is believed that a cowherd named Babul discovered the ancient Shiva Lingam here, giving the temple its name .
Temple Contact Information
| Purpose | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Website | https://www.babulnath.com/ |
| Phone Numbers | 022 2367 8367 / 022 2367 3602 |
| info@babulnath.com | |
| Address | 16, Babulnath Road, Charni Road, Mumbai, Maharashtra – 400004 |
| Nearest Railway Station | Charni Road Station (Western Line) – 1.2 km |
| Nearest Landmark | Girgaum Chowpatty, Marine Drive |
| Official Website | https://www.babulnath.com/ |
Conclusion
The Babulnath Temple in Mumbai is not just a place of worship but a living testament to the city’s rich spiritual heritage. With its ancient Shiva Lingam, stunning architecture, and serene hilltop location, it offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city below. For your 2026 visit, plan your darshan during early morning hours for a quiet experience, or attend the vibrant evening aarti to witness the temple come alive with devotion. If visiting during Shravan month or Mahashivratri, book VIP or group darshan in advance to avoid long queues. May Lord Babulnath bless your journey with peace and spiritual fulfillment.