This Place is the most underrated and hidden gem of Mumbai. Its one of the spirutal place in Mumbai. What comes to your mind Shiddhivinayak temple? Hajiali?  Mount Marry church? 
Well no! I would like to bring to your notice this hindu spiritual place named Banganga Talav or Banganga Tank which is located at one of the posh areas of South Mumbai Walkeshwar in Malabar Hill.
This place has its origin from the Mythological tales. Banganga Tank or Banganga Talav which is very close to seashore almost 100 or 200 meters from it, still is known for sweet water in tank same as River water and moreover it is under a ground water. Within five to ten minutes of descending from the main road, you are greeted by the serene oasis that is the Banganga — a rectangular tank
Often called the mini-Banaras of Mumbai, this freshwater tank, along with the neighboring Walkeshwar temple, Banganga is a beautiful stepped tank surrounded by 30 temples and 2 hermitages.


According to local legend, it sprang forth when the Lord Rama, the exiled hero of the epic Ramayana, stopped at the spot in search of his kidnapped wife Sita. As the legend goes, overcome with fatigue and thirst, Rama asked his brother Lakshmana to bring him some water. Laxman instantly shot an arrow into the ground, and water gushed forth from the ground, creating a tributary of the Gangas, which flows over a thousand miles away, hence its name, Banganga, the Ganga is created by a baan (arrow).The tank is spring fed, thus, its water remains sweet, despite being located only a few dozen meters away from the sea. Apart from being a cultural hub, the place over the years has provided inspiration to many artists, be it on film or on canvas. It was rebuilt in 1715 AD, Centuries since it was first built, Banganga and its vicinity — with its unique sights, sounds and aromas — still harkens back to a simpler, quieter time and remains a great spot to escape the city’s usual cacophony. As you make your way down one of the many narrow alleys branching out from the main road and leading to the tank, you are surrounded by a motley crew of temples and old houses bathed in vibrant hues of red, yellow, orange, pink and other colors.The walls on either side of the alley are in different states of disrepair, but still look quite alluring, thanks to the colorful murals that adorn them, depicting scenes from mythology, history and folklore. Due to its proximity to the shore, the air here is humid and thick with the smell of the sea, but often you catch a hint of scents emanating from incense sticks and flowers, or those of food being cooked from residential kitchens. The surroundings of the tank are relatively free of crowds, save for a smattering of people on the steps performing religious rituals or simply relaxing. The atmosphere is abuzz with the sounds of aarti, religious chants, the ringing of temple bells and the quacking of ducks, which far outnumber the people you find here.

Mostly seen lounging by the water or wading in the tank, they seem to be in a Zen-like state, as if they too have been touched by the peace and calm of the place. As you sit on the steps and watch the activities unfold in front of you, you find yourself far removed from the realities of this city that never sleeps.
Banganga also organizes a is a two-day music festival celebrated annually in the month of January ,conducted jointly by MTDC ((Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation) and Indian Heritage Society Mumbai, to protect the cultural heritage of the country.  The festival intends to promote awareness regarding preservation of the historical Banganga tank and its environment. The festival witnesses concerts and musical performances of renowned artists from all over India, enthralling the audience with their performances. Banganga festival is one of the most awaited festivals in Mumbai with millions of music lovers flocking the Malabar Hills. How to Get there: The closest railway station to Banganga is Charni Road (about 3-5 km away) from where you can easily find a taxi or a bus.


Best time to visit: The calming beauty of Banganga is best enjoyed during the early hours of morning when the sun isn’t too harsh and a gentle breeze keeps the surroundings cool and When the sun is about to set.