The Haji Ali Dargah is one of Mumbai’s most photographed and most visited holy places. It is the tomb of the Sufi saint Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, and it stands on a small rocky islet about 500 yards offshore, joined to the city by a narrow causeway that visitors walk along, with the Arabian Sea on both sides. The white complex of a mosque, a tomb with marble domes and minarets reflects Mughal-period architecture, and on a clear evening the dargah seems to float over the water. The Trust says that visitors of every faith are welcome. Pilgrims arrive all day, carrying chadors and flowers, and the walkway fills with vendors, people asking for alms and the sound of qawwali, so the atmosphere is intense and devout rather than quiet. For many visitors the walk out and back is as memorable as the shrine itself.
How to visit
The dargah is in Worli, beside the Lala Lajpat Rai Marg seafront, about 20 to 40 minutes by taxi from Colaba depending on traffic. The Trust’s own site lists ziyarat hours from 5:30 in the morning to 10 at night, and describes the structure as standing about 500 yards from the shore. There is no admission fee, although donations are usual. The Trust also warns that impostors claim to represent it, online and in person, so deal only with the Trust’s own staff.
What to expect
Dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered, and carry a scarf if you wish to cover your head. Shoes are removed before the mosque and tomb, and there are shoe stands on the way. The causeway is only accessible when the tide allows: it can be covered at high tide, and the Trust has issued advisories about visiting windows, so check the tide times and the Trust’s notices before you go.
Inner access rules, particularly for women at the tomb, are for the Trust to set, so follow the instructions at the entrance. Photography is usually tolerated on the causeway but not near the tomb.
Making the most of it
Visit in the late afternoon for sea light and fewer crowds than on Fridays or festival days, when pilgrims number in the tens of thousands. Treat the visit as a visit to a place of worship, move calmly and watch your belongings in the crowd.
What to expect
The experience
A walk along a sea causeway to a white-domed mosque and tomb complex, entered barefoot, with pilgrims and vendors around you.
Best time
Late afternoon, at a safe tide, for soft light and thinner crowds than on Fridays or festival days.
How long
An hour to an hour and a half including the causeway walk each way.
Tips
Check tide times and the Trust’s notices, dress modestly, remove shoes at the entrance and deal only with the Trust’s own staff.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers interested in living religious culture and architecture in an extraordinary setting.
- Families
- Free and welcoming, but crowded and intense for small children.
- Couples
- A memorable sunset walk if the tide allows, with respectful dress.
- Pair with
- Marine Drive and Mahalaxmi, both on the same stretch of coast.
- Time needed
- A short outing of an hour or two.
Good questions
Can non-Muslims visit Haji Ali Dargah?+
Yes, the Trust says the dargah welcomes visitors without restriction of caste, creed or religion. Dress modestly and follow the instructions at the entrance.
What are the Haji Ali Dargah timings?+
The Trust lists ziyarat timings from 5:30 in the morning to 10 at night. Check its notices on the day, as tide advisories can change access.
Is the causeway covered at high tide?+
Parts of it can be, and the Trust has issued advisories for high tide windows. Check tide times and local notices before walking out.
Is there an entry fee at Haji Ali Dargah?+
No, there is no admission fee, although pilgrims often make donations. Be wary of anyone claiming to represent the Trust and asking for money.
What should I wear to Haji Ali Dargah?+
Cover your shoulders and knees, and bring a scarf if you wish to cover your head. You will remove your shoes before entering the mosque and tomb.
