Every August, Mumbai transforms into a living, breathing canvas of devotion, colour, and festivity as Ganesh Chaturthi arrives with its magnetic energy. The festival, marking the birth of Lord Ganesha, the beloved elephant-headed remover of obstacles, is celebrated with unmatched grandeur across Maharashtra. In 2025, the ten-day festival begins on August 27, 2025, and concludes with the spectacular immersion on September 6, 2025, when millions chant Ganpati Bappa Morya! as idols are carried to the sea.
But nowhere in the world does Ganesh Chaturthi come alive quite like Mumbai. From iconic pandals that attract millions of devotees daily to neighbourhood celebrations steeped in legacy, the city becomes a spiritual and cultural wonderland. If you’re planning to witness the magic this year, here’s your complete guide to the top Ganesh Chaturthi pandals to visit in Mumbai in 2025, complete with history, highlights, and aarti timings.
Lalbaugcha Raja
Location: Lalbaug Market, Central Mumbai
No discussion of Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai is complete without Lalbaugcha Raja. Established in 1934, this pandal is more than a festival hotspot; it’s a cultural institution. Known as the Navsacha Ganpati (the fulfiller of wishes), it attracts more than 1.5 million devotees daily during the festival. People from all walks of life, celebrities, industrialists, politicians, and common citizens, stand in long queues, some lasting up to 20 hours, just to catch a few moments of darshan.
The grandeur of Lalbaugcha Raja lies not only in the idol’s imposing design but also in the unshakable faith of its devotees. Many believe that once you visit the Raja, your wishes are destined to come true. The pandal itself is usually themed around cultural and social messages, making it visually captivating.
Aarti Timings
- Morning Aarti: 7:00 AM
- Midday Aarti: 12:00 PM
- Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM
- Night Aarti: 10:00 PM
Tip for Visitors: If you’re short on time, opt for the Mukh Darshan queue, which is shorter than the Navsachi Darshan line meant for offering prayers.
Ganesh Galli Cha Raja
Location: Ganesh Galli, Lalbaug
Just a stone’s throw away from Lalbaugcha Raja is Ganesh Galli Cha Raja, also called Mumbaicha Raja. Organized by the Lalbaug Sarvajanik Utsav Mandal since 1928, this pandal is famous for its thematic decorations that change every year. From recreations of temples like Kedarnath and Pashupatinath to innovative sets reflecting Indian heritage, the creativity here is unmatched.
In 1977, the mandal created history by unveiling a 22-foot idol, one of the tallest at the time, earning recognition across India. Today, Ganesh Galli continues to attract thousands daily, offering a blend of devotion and artistry.
Aarti Timings
- Morning Aarti: 7:00 AM
- Afternoon Aarti: 1:00 PM
- Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM
Visiting Hours: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Highlight: Don’t miss the themed décor; each year feels like stepping into a different world.
Chinchpokli Cha Chintamani
Location: Chinchpokli, Central Mumbai
Dating back to 1920, Chinchpokli Cha Chintamani is among Mumbai’s oldest Ganesh mandals. What makes it stand out is the artistic craftsmanship of its idols, which are both majestic and intricately detailed. This pandal is often referred to as a photographer’s paradise due to the visual grandeur of the deity.
The arrival procession of Chinchpokli Cha Chintamani on August 17, 2025, will itself be a spectacle, with dhol-tasha troupes, saffron flags, and thousands of devotees lining the streets in celebration.
Aarti Timings
- Morning Aarti: Around 9:00 AM
- Evening Aarti: Around 7:00 PM
Highlight: Known for its deeply emotional connection with locals, this pandal is often considered the true heart of Central Mumbai’s Ganesh celebrations.
Andhericha Raja
Location: Veera Desai Road, Andheri West
Established in 1966 by workers of the Golden Tobacco Company, Andhericha Raja is known as the wish-fulfilling Ganpati of the suburbs. Unlike other pandals, Andhericha Raja does not boast the tallest idol, but it’s the tradition that makes it special.
What sets it apart is its unique visarjan custom. While most idols are immersed on Anant Chaturdashi, Andhericha Raja is immersed five days later on Sankashti Chaturthi. This practice began in 1975, allowing factory workers more time to celebrate despite financial struggles. Today, it remains a symbol of resilience and devotion.
Aarti Timings
Will be updated on the official site: www.andhericharaja.com
Highlight: Expect temple-style decorations and elaborate themes each year.
Khetwadi Ganraj
Location: Khetwadi, South Mumbai
If there’s one pandal that consistently makes headlines for its towering idols, it’s Khetwadi Ganraj. Located in the narrow lanes of Khetwadi, this mandal is known for introducing 35- to 40-foot idols, making it one of the tallest Ganpatis in Mumbai.
The neighbourhood itself turns into a Ganesh Chaturthi hub, with over a dozen pandals competing for creativity. From mythological recreations to larger-than-life Vishnu swaroops, the artistry here is breathtaking.
Aarti Timings
- Morning Aarti: 9:00–10:00 AM
- Afternoon Aarti: 2:00 PM
- Evening Aarti: 8:00 PM
Highlight: Visiting Khetwadi is like walking through a mini exhibition of devotion, with each lane offering something unique.
GSB Seva Mandal’s Ganpati
Location: King’s Circle, Matunga
No list of Mumbai pandals is complete without mentioning the GSB Seva Mandal Ganpati, often called the Gold Ganpati. Founded in 1954 by the Gowd Saraswat Brahmin community, this idol is adorned with over 60 kilograms of gold ornaments and silver decorations, making it the richest Ganpati in India.
The pandal is also eco-friendly, with idols made of clay and immersed in tanks rather than the sea. Despite its opulence, the atmosphere remains deeply spiritual, with Vedic chants, homas, and cultural programs enhancing the experience.
Aarti Timings
- Morning Aarti: 8:30 AM
- Madhyan Aarti: 12:00 PM
- Evening Aarti: 7:30 PM
- Night Aarti: 10:00 PM
Highlight: If you want to witness both grandeur and devotion in harmony, this is the pandal to visit.
What You Need to Know?
About Ganesh Chaturthi in 2025
- Start Date: 27th August 2025
- Visarjan Date: 6th September 2025
- Duration: 10 days of devotion, celebrations, and cultural programs.
Cultural Events
Beyond the darshan, Mumbai hosts an array of cultural events, from classical dance performances and theatre shows to live music concerts. Streets come alive with food stalls, art exhibitions, and festive lights.
Food to Try
No Ganesh Chaturthi is complete without modak, believed to be Lord Ganesha’s favourite sweet. Other Maharashtrian delights like puran poli, shrikhand, poha, and sabudana khichdi are prepared in homes and served at pandals.
Dress Code
Opt for traditional attire. Women can wear sarees or salwar kurtas, while men often wear kurta-pyjamas. Modest dressing is appreciated in pandals.
Travel & Navigation Tips
- Public Transport First: Use Mumbai’s local trains, buses, and metro. Roads are heavily congested.
- Plan Ahead: Choose 2–3 pandals per day to avoid exhaustion.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry water bottles, especially if standing in long queues.
- Book Early: Hotels and transport get expensive closer to the festival dates.
Why Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai is Unmissable?
Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai is more than just a festival; it’s a living expression of faith, art, and community spirit. From the majestic Lalbaugcha Raja to the opulent GSB Seva Mandal Ganpati, each pandal tells its own story of devotion and resilience.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned devotee, witnessing Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai in 2025 will leave you with memories of chanting crowds, spectacular idols, and an overwhelming sense of unity. It’s an experience where devotion meets culture, and one that truly defines the heartbeat of the city.
Also Read: Ganesh Chaturthi 2025: Rituals, Puja Muhurat and Visarjan
About the Author:
Akanksha Sinha
I'm Akanksha Sinha, an expert in writing sports blogs, news, and various articles for entertainment and more. I bring a unique flair to my work, providing insightful perspectives on the world of sports.
My articles aim to inform and entertain, making me a go-to source for sports enthusiasts seeking a blend of information and enjoyment. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, I consistently deliver compelling narratives that resonate with a diverse audience.
