10 Best Outdoor & Indoor Games Played in Mumbai

Mumbai, a bustling metropolis, is not only famous for its fast-paced lifestyle and scenic landscapes but also for its rich tapestry of cultural and recreational activities. Among these indoor and outdoor Mumbai games, they hold a special place in the hearts of Mumbaikars, offering them moments of joy, relaxation, and camaraderie amidst their busy lives.

From the iconic maidans echoing with the sounds of cricket to the quiet corners of homes where board games like Ludo, Mumbai’s gaming culture is a vibrant mix of tradition, passion, and modernity.

Outdoor Games Played in Mumbai

The outdoor games played in Mumbai are activities and rituals that unite people from all walks of life, creating a sense of community and shared heritage. These Mumbai games range from cricket, the undisputed king of sports in the city, to beach football and cycling, each woven into the fabric of Mumbai’s culture and offering a glimpse into the city’s love for sports.

Cricket at the Maidans

Cricket is not just a sport in Mumbai; it’s a religion. The city’s maidans (open spaces) are the nurturing grounds for aspiring cricketers and have given the world some of its finest players. Iconic grounds like the Azad Maidan, Oval Maidan, and Shivaji Park are bustling with activity, hosting numerous daily matches. While most of these grounds are open to the public with no entry fee, the passion and dedication of the players are priceless for these games to play in Mumbai. Mumbai’s cricket scene is also home to top teams, such as the Mumbai Indians, reflecting the city’s undying love for the game.

Official Tournaments

• Ranji Trophy: This is India’s premier domestic first-class cricket championship, with the Mumbai cricket team being one of the most successful teams in the tournament’s history. Matches are played at various grounds, including the Wankhede and Brabourne stadiums.
• Vijay Hazare Trophy: A one-day cricket competition between state teams across India. The Mumbai team participates in this tournament, showcasing some of the best talents in the limited-overs format.
• Indian Premier League (IPL): The Mumbai Indians participate in the IPL, the most popular and lucrative T20 league globally. Wankhede Stadium is often awash with blue as fans gather to support their team, creating an electrifying atmosphere.

Beach Football at Juhu Beach

The sandy shores of Juhu Beach transform into lively football pitches as the sun sets, illustrating how beach football is intricately tied to Mumbai’s culture. Although no formal playing grounds or entry fees exist for these popular games to play in Mumbai, the beach becomes a spontaneous arena for football enthusiasts. Teams formed among friends and locals showcase the spirit of the game, turning the beach into a hub of energy and excitement.

Learn more about the football players role and position. 

How to Play Beach Football at Juhu Beach

• Organize a Game: You can play beach football at Juhu Beach by organizing a game with friends or joining in with locals who often play there. Games are typically informal, and players gather spontaneously, especially during the evenings or on weekends when the beach is most lively.
• No Formal Registration: Formal registration or affiliation with any club to play beach football at Juhu Beach is optional. It operates on a more casual, come-and-play basis.
• Equipment: Players usually bring their footballs and sometimes makeshift goals to set up a game. Since it’s on the beach, the equipment is minimal, focusing more on the game’s enjoyment than strict competition.

Ultimate Frisbee at Marine Drive

With its expansive seafront, the picturesque Marine Drive becomes the perfect backdrop for Ultimate Frisbee games to play in Mumbai, especially during the cooler months. This sport has gradually woven into Mumbai’s cultural fabric, attracting a dedicated following. The open spaces along Marine Drive serve as informal grounds where enthusiasts gather to play without entry fees, promoting the sport’s inclusive and spirited nature.

How to Play Here

• Casual Pick-Up Games: The most common way to play Ultimate Frisbee at Marine Drive is through casual pick-up games. These are informal gatherings where players of varying skill levels come together to play. Interested players can usually find these top games to play in Mumbai through social media groups or local Ultimate Frisbee communities.
• Organized Practice Sessions: Some of the established Ultimate Frisbee teams in Mumbai might organize regular practice sessions at Marine Drive or nearby areas. Joining a team or attending these sessions can be a great way to get regular playtime and improve skills.

Official Team 

Teams like the “Mumbai Ultimate” have actively promoted the sport in the city, participating in local and national tournaments. These teams typically welcome players of all skill levels, focusing on the spirit of the game and community building.

Street Soccer in Bandra

Bandra’s bylanes and open spaces come alive with the energy of street soccer, a testament to the city’s love for the beautiful game. While formal playing grounds are rare, the spirit of street soccer thrives, driven by local communities and soccer enthusiasts. Teams are often formed on the spot, and matches are played with an enthusiasm that mirrors the global passion for Soccer.

Playing Street Soccer in Bandra

• Finding a Game: Street soccer games played in Mumbai Bandra are typically informal, arising wherever space permits. Be it in quiet streets, open areas near the seafront, or in any available space within residential complexes, Soccer is one of the best games played in Mumbai. Locals, especially the youth, often organize these games, and it’s common to see groups gathering for a match in the evenings or over the weekend.
• Joining In: For those looking to join a game, it’s usually as simple as approaching a group and asking to play. The local football community is generally welcoming and a great way to meet people who share a passion for the game.

No Entry Fees

One of the beauties of street soccer in Bandra is its accessibility. No entry fees or formal membership are required to join these popular games to play in Mumbai. It’s a free-for-all, embracing the spirit of play and community.

Cycling Tours Around the City

Cycling has emerged as a popular way to explore and connect with the diverse facets of Mumbai. Some people consider this as one of the top games to play in Mumbai. Various groups organize cycling tours around the city, covering iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and scenic routes. These tours promote fitness and foster a sense of community among cyclists. While no specific “playgrounds” for cycling exist, the city becomes an open arena for these two-wheeled adventures.

Types of Cycling Tours

• Heritage Tours: These tours explore Mumbai’s rich historical and cultural sites, including colonial buildings, iconic landmarks, and traditional markets.
• Coastal Rides: Taking advantage of Mumbai’s coastal geography, some tours are designed to cover scenic routes along the Arabian Sea, offering breathtaking views and fresh sea air.
• Midnight Cycling Tours: Midnight tours are popular to escape the daytime heat and traffic, providing a cooler and quieter city experience under the night sky.

How to Participate

• Tour Operators: Several tour operators and adventure clubs in Mumbai organize cycling tours. These tours are typically guided and may include amenities like rental bicycles, safety gear, support vehicles, and refreshments.
• Social Media and Cycling Clubs: Joining cycling clubs or following social media groups dedicated to cycling in Mumbai can be a great way to stay informed about upcoming tours, routes, and tips from fellow cycling enthusiasts.

Indoor Games Played in Mumbai

The indoor Maharashtra games are just as vibrant, offering many options for those who prefer the comfort of shaded environments. Carrom, Ludo, Chess, and board games are not just pastimes but carry cultural significance, bringing families and friends together.

Ludo: A Modern Twist on a Classic Game

Ludo is one of those games played in Mumbai that has transcended generations and holds a special place in the heart of Mumbai’s indoor gaming culture. Its simple yet engaging gameplay has made it a favorite game among all age groups. The advent of online platforms like Zupee has introduced a modern twist, allowing people to play Ludo online with cash, further enhancing its popularity and accessibility.

Chess Clubs: Sharpen Your Strategy

Chess is one of the most popular games to play in Mumbai and is deeply ingrained in the cultural landscape, with numerous clubs and cafes dedicated to this strategic game. The city hosts several tournaments, offering amateurs and seasoned players a platform to sharpen their skills and compete at various levels. However, knowing the rules for playing chess is essential to winning.

Table Tennis in Community Centers

Table tennis is one of the best games to play in Mumbai. It finds its place in community centers and sports clubs across Mumbai, where enthusiasts gather to play and learn from each other. The Mumbai games‘ fast pace and competitive nature have made it a popular indoor sport, with several local tournaments fostering a spirit of healthy competition.

Carrom: A Nostalgic Favorite

Carrom, not Scrabble as initially mentioned, is one of the beloved and top games to play in Mumbai, evoking nostalgia and bringing together people of all ages. Known for their simple rules and engaging gameplay, carrom tournaments are standard, especially during festive seasons, highlighting their significance in Mumbai’s social and cultural fabric. However, you can also play Carrom online on your smartphone.

Board Game Cafés

The rise of board game cafés in Mumbai is a testament to the growing interest in strategic and social gaming. These cafés offer a wide array of Mumbai games, from classics to modern strategy games, providing a cozy ambiance for gamers to meet, play, and bond over their shared love for board games.

The Appeal of Board Game Cafés

• Diverse Game Libraries: Board game cafés typically boast extensive libraries of games, from classic favorites like Monopoly and Ludo to modern classics such as Catan and Ticket to Ride. This variety caters to all interests and age groups, making these cafés inclusive spaces for entertainment.
• Social Interaction: In an age dominated by digital entertainment, board game cafés offer a refreshing avenue for face-to-face interaction and real-world connectivity, fostering a sense of community and shared joy.
• Events and Tournaments: Many board game cafés host regular events, game nights, and tournaments, providing opportunities for gamers to challenge themselves, meet fellow enthusiasts, and even learn new games under the guidance of experienced staff.

Mumbai’s gaming culture is a rich mosaic of outdoor exhilaration and indoor contemplation. It reflectes the city’s dynamic spirit and diverse heritage. From the maidans echoing with the sounds of cricket to the quiet corners where board games unfold stories of strategy and luck, the city offers a playground for everyone.

Whether through the camaraderie in team sports or the shared silence of a chess match, games played in Mumbai are more than just leisure; they celebrate life.

FAQs – Mumbai Games