The Haji Ali Dargah in Mumbai is a revered Islamic shrine with the tomb of Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari and a mosque. It is located on a small islet off the coast of Mumbai and is renowned for its iconic design, attracting devotees and visitors worldwide.
Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, originally a rich businessman from Uzbekistan, abandoned his wealth to become a saint. He settled in Mumbai, dedicating his life to spreading the religion.
The Haji Ali Dargah, the most famous dargah in Mumbai, established near his tomb, has gained fame as a significant religious site and a popular tourist spot. It is about 500m off the coast of Worli, Mumbai and is accessible by a narrow causeway.
The Haji Ali Dargah history is replete with ancient stories turned beliefs.
One story recount Pir Haji Ali encountering a poor lady who spilled the oil she was selling, causing her distress. Haji Ali pressed the spot, and the oil miraculously oozed out, refilling her pot. But later, he regretted harming the Earth, suffering greatly from remorse.
Before his death, he instructed his followers to throw his casket into the ocean and bury him where it washed ashore. His followers obeyed the instructions and found his casket on a mound in Worli and built the Haji Ali tomb and mosque there in 1431, following his directions.
This sacred Mumbai Mosque embodies the legend and teachings of Pir Haji Ali.
Haji Ali is a divine place for worship. You can offer your prayers, participate in rituals, and pay your respects at the tomb of Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari.
The Haji Ali Dargah’s location offers a calm and peaceful atmosphere. Immerse yourself in tranquillity to experience your inner self at its best.
The minute, intricate carvings, and the blend of Indo-Islamic and Arabian styles on the architecture is a treat to watch and appreciate. The sight of the Haji Ali Dargah image floating on the water offers a beautiful scenic experience in the early mornings or late evenings.
The URS festival at the Dargah is an annual celebration that commemorates the death anniversary of the Saint. The exact date varies every year and is determined according to the Islamic calendar. Haji Ali Dargah at night is blissful with Qawwali, devotional Sufi music, vibrant festive activities, and colourful decorations.
Haji Ali Dargah is open from 5:30 AM to 10 PM for tourists all seven days a week throughout the year.
You can reach Mumbai at any popular station, such as Mumbai Central, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, etc., and take a local train.
Many flights connect to the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport from different places throughout the country and worldwide. Once you reach the city, you can take a cab or a B.E.S.T city bus to Haji Ali Dargah. The Mumbai Airport to Haji Ali Distance is only 20 km.
Some of the nearest railway stations to the Haji Ali Dargah are Mahalaxmi, Byculla, Mumbai Central, Curry Road, Lower Parel, etc. You can get off the Western line at Mumbai Central Station or Mahalaxmi Station or the Central line at Byculla Station and take a cab or a B.E.S.T city bus to Haji Ali Dargah.
To get to Haji Ali from the Western Suburbs or the Airport, you can travel via the Sea-link to Worli and then to the Lala Lajpat Rai Marg or via L.J Road, Prabhadevi, Worli.
If you are travelling from the Central suburbs or Navi Mumbai, you can take the Eastern Express Highway through Ghatkopar, Chembur, and Kurla or via the Sea-Link to Worli. From South Mumbai, to reach Haji Ali, you can choose Peddar Road, Breach Candy, Tardeo or Byculla.
Some of the bus lines to Haji Ali are 33, 63, 83, 84 LTD, A-124, A-357, A-92, 351, etc.
The causeway to the Haji Ali Dargah is submerged during high tides, making accessibility difficult. So, inquire about the tide during your visit and reach the Haji Ali Mosque at the appropriate time.
As Haji Ali Dargah is a renowned place for worship, it is essential to dress modestly and cover your head while entering the mosque.
As the causeway to the Bombay Haji Ali Dargah often gets sprayed with water, it is slippery. Wear appropriate footwear to protect yourself and be comfortable.
Haji Ali Dargah is generally more crowded than usual on Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
To beat the heat on a scorching afternoon, hydrate yourself, and carry sunglasses, caps, etc.
Haji Ali Dargah is open every day throughout the year. However, the best time to visit this magnificent monument is from October to March.