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Sassoon Docks Mumbai

4.3
·7k reviews·Mumbai, India

Mumbai's historic fishing port, alive with a bustling fish market and vibrant street art. A sensory journey into local life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings (before 7 AM)

Peak fish market activity

CrowdHigh
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Boats in the docks loading to head out again

Sassoon Docks Mumbai

Best Time

Early mornings (before 7 AM)

Peak fish market activity

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Mumbai's historic fishing port, alive with a bustling fish market and vibrant street art. A sensory journey into local life.

4.3
(7k reviews)

"A wonderful place to visit in South Bombay and one time experience of visiting one of the largest fishing market in Mumbai."

Vertical photo
TIP

👃 Brace for the Smell

The fish market is pungent! Wear old clothes and be prepared for a strong odor that might linger.

📸 Capture the Action

Early mornings are best for photographers. Look for the vibrant colors of the fish and the fishermen's activities.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Bustling Fish Market

The Bustling Fish Market

Sassoon Docks Pier

Witness the energetic morning auction and trade of fresh seafood. A true sensory experience!

Vibrant Street Art

Vibrant Street Art

Walls around Sassoon Docks

Discover colorful and thought-provoking murals adorning the dock's walls. A photographer's delight.

Historic Dock Architecture

Historic Dock Architecture

Sassoon Docks

Explore one of Mumbai's oldest and most significant fishing ports, built in 1875.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Early Morning Hustle

For the most vibrant experience at Sassoon Docks, aim for an early morning visit. This is when the fish market is at its peak, with fishermen bringing in their catch and auctions in full swing. Be prepared for a lively, albeit pungent, atmosphere.

Art Meets the Sea

Beyond the bustling fish market, Sassoon Docks is also a canvas for incredible street art. Look out for vibrant murals and installations that transform the dock's industrial landscape into an open-air gallery. It's a unique juxtaposition of urban creativity and maritime life.

Best Times

When
Early mornings (before 7 AM)
Why
Peak fish market activity
Crowd
High
When
Late mornings
Why
Art viewing, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Best things to capture at sassoon docks

👃 Brace for the Smell

The fish market is pungent! Wear old clothes and be prepared for a strong odor that might linger. Reddit

📸 Capture the Action

Early mornings are best for photographers. Look for the vibrant colors of the fish and the fishermen's activities. Reddit

reddit.com

Went shopping for fish @ Sassoon Docks

reddit.com

Anyone who already went or planning to go to Mumbai Urban Arts festival (Sassoon Dock, Colaba) explain the difference between these two events?

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The ground can be wet and slippery. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must. Reddit

🎨 Admire the Art

Don't miss the impressive street art that transforms the dock walls into an outdoor gallery. Instagram

Tips

from all over the internet

👃 Brace for the Smell

The fish market is pungent! Wear old clothes and be prepared for a strong odor that might linger. Reddit

📸 Capture the Action

Early mornings are best for photographers. Look for the vibrant colors of the fish and the fishermen's activities. Reddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The ground can be wet and slippery. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must. Reddit

🎨 Admire the Art

Don't miss the impressive street art that transforms the dock walls into an outdoor gallery. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.3
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Sassoon Docks offers a raw, authentic glimpse into Mumbai's fishing industry and a vibrant display of street art. Visitors praise the energetic fish market and the colorful murals, though many caution about the strong, lingering smell and the unhygienic conditions. It's a unique experience, best enjoyed with an open mind and sturdy shoes.

"A Wonderful place to visit in South Bombay and One time experience of visiting one of the largest fishing market in Mumbai. Beautiful street Art fishing boats are the main attraction of the place"

Tripho India

"If you're up for exploring the place and have some pics then you'll find this place boring. I visited in morning 7am and nothing was there which could make me feel lively there. You can definitely get some good fresh seafood. This place stinks so bad and quite unhygienic."

Ankit Gupta

"The fish market is located at the Sasson Pier. The pier is named after the Jewish merchant and philanthropist David Sasson, who also built a large library, a synagogue, and more. The fish market is very

busy, it is very difficult to walk on the pier due to the crowding. The fishermen bring their fish to the pier and merchants of all kinds buy and sell the fish. The hustle and bustle is very big. Very colorful and interesting. We arrived before six in the morning."

Yossi Gabay

What People Like

Vibrant fish market
Impressive street art
Authentic local experience

What People Dislike

Strong fish odor
Unsanitary conditions
Crowded pathways

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sassoon Docks is located in the Colaba area of South Mumbai. You can easily reach it by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus. The nearest local train stations are CSMT and Churchgate, from where you can take a taxi or bus. Reddit

Parking can be challenging in this busy area. It's advisable to use ride-sharing services or public transport if possible. If driving, look for paid parking lots in the vicinity. Reddit

The docks area is best explored on foot. Be prepared for crowded pathways, especially during market hours. Reddit

Sassoon Docks is close to several South Mumbai attractions, including the Gateway of India and Colaba Causeway market. Reddit

Yes, Mumbai's extensive bus network connects various parts of the city to Colaba. Local trains are also an option, followed by a short taxi or auto-rickshaw ride. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Sassoon Docks is generally free. It's a working port and public access is permitted. Reddit

Sassoon Docks is accessible at most times, but the fish market is most active in the early morning. The street art is visible throughout the day. Reddit

The street art is part of the public space and there is no separate entry fee to view it. Instagram

As it's a working port, visitors are advised to be mindful of ongoing operations and fishermen's activities. Avoid interfering with their work. Reddit

Yes, you can visit on weekends, but expect it to be even more crowded, especially on Saturday and Sunday mornings due to the fish market. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The fish market during the morning auction offers incredible photo opportunities. The vibrant street art on the walls also makes for great shots. InstagramReddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed. However, be respectful of the fishermen and their work. Always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals. Reddit

Early morning, just before sunrise and during the morning auction, provides the best light and most dynamic scenes for photography. Reddit

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for capturing both wide scenes and details. A wide-angle lens can be great for the street art. Reddit

While not always advertised, local guides or photography enthusiasts sometimes offer informal tours. It's worth inquiring locally or checking online forums. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Absolutely! Sassoon Docks is a prime location to buy fresh seafood directly from the fishermen. Be prepared to bargain. Reddit

While you can buy fresh fish, there aren't many formal restaurants within the docks themselves. However, you can find local eateries and street food vendors in the surrounding Colaba area. Reddit

You'll find a wide variety of fish, prawns, crabs, and other shellfish, depending on the season and catch of the day. Reddit

The market itself can be unhygienic. If you plan to cook the seafood, ensure you buy from reputable vendors and handle it properly. Eating directly from street vendors within the docks might carry risks. Reddit

There are usually small stalls where you can get your purchased fish fried or grilled, but options can be limited and hygiene varies. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sassoon Docks offers a unique educational experience for families, showcasing a working fishing port. While the early morning fish market can be intense with its smells and crowds, it's a vivid lesson in local commerce. Consider visiting slightly later in the morning when the intensity might lessen, but the art is still vibrant. Focus on the street art as a more universally appealing aspect for children, and point out the colorful boats and the process of unloading fish. Be prepared for a potentially overwhelming sensory experience for very young children and ensure they are supervised closely due to the busy environment. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Sassoon Docks is a dream for photographers, especially those interested in documentary and street photography. The early morning light during the fish auction is unparalleled for capturing raw, authentic moments. Bring a versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, and be ready to shoot quickly. Don't forget to explore the vibrant street art that offers a different, colorful aesthetic. Remember to be respectful and ask permission before photographing individuals. InstagramReddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

For art lovers, Sassoon Docks is a must-visit due to its impressive street art installations. The murals transform the industrial landscape into an engaging outdoor gallery. Spend time wandering through the docks to discover the diverse artworks, many of which carry social and environmental messages. The Urban Art Festival Mumbai has left a lasting legacy here, making it a unique cultural hotspot. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heartbeat of Mumbai's Fishing Industry

Sassoon Docks, established in 1875, is not just a picturesque spot but a vital hub for Mumbai's fishing community. It's one of the oldest and most significant fishing ports in the city, playing a crucial role in the supply of fresh seafood to the metropolis. The lively fish market is the main draw, where the daily auction and trade of catch create a chaotic yet fascinating spectacle. Fishermen arrive with their boats laden with the day's haul, and merchants eagerly bid for the best quality produce. This raw, unadulterated glimpse into a traditional industry is a powerful experience for visitors. Reddit

Visiting early in the morning, before sunrise, is highly recommended to witness the full intensity of the market. The air is thick with the smell of the sea and the sounds of bargaining and activity. While the pungent aroma is undeniable and can be off-putting for some, it's an intrinsic part of the authentic experience. Photographers find a goldmine of subjects here, from the colorful boats and nets to the weathered faces of the fishermen and the glistening scales of the fish. InstagramReddit

Beyond the market, the docks themselves hold historical significance. Named after David Sassoon, a prominent Jewish merchant and philanthropist, the area reflects Mumbai's diverse past. The historic architecture of the docks, though weathered, speaks to its long-standing importance. It's a place where commerce, tradition, and a touch of urban grit converge, offering a unique perspective on Mumbai's coastal life.

A Canvas of Urban Art

In recent years, Sassoon Docks has transformed into an unexpected open-air gallery, thanks to vibrant street art festivals. These events have brought together local and international artists to adorn the otherwise utilitarian walls of the dock with stunning murals and thought-provoking installations. The art often reflects themes related to the sea, marine life, and the lives of the people who work at the docks, creating a powerful dialogue between the urban environment and its inhabitants. Instagram

Exploring the docks now involves not just witnessing the bustling fish market but also embarking on a treasure hunt for these colorful artworks. Each corner turned can reveal a new masterpiece, adding a layer of visual delight to the sensory experience of the docks. The vibrant murals provide a stark and beautiful contrast to the gritty reality of the fishing port, making it a popular spot for photographers and art enthusiasts alike. Instagram

The Urban Art Festival Mumbai has been instrumental in this transformation, turning Sassoon Docks into a destination that appeals to a broader audience. It's a testament to how art can revitalize public spaces and create unique cultural experiences. The juxtaposition of the ancient fishing traditions with contemporary art makes Sassoon Docks a truly dynamic and memorable place to visit.

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