The former administrative centre for the port of Mumbai, the Ballard Estate was constructed in 1914 by George Wittet, the architect responsible for the Gateway of India. Today the dockside gatehouse contains a small but interesting museum about the maritime history of Mumbai and the construction of the Ballard Estate, including some evocative B&W photos of colonial Mumbai.

Housed in a dramatic Indo-Saracen building at Kala Ghoda, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum was named for the Maratha hero who freed the region from Mughal control. Inside you can see a fabulous collection of religious statues, Mughal miniature paintings, Indian crafts, ancient arms and armor, and treasures from Tibet, Japan and China. The ticket for foreigners includes a free audio guide.

The Victorian building containing the Dr Bhau Daji Lad collection is a museum-piece all by itself. Wrought iron arches and brightly painted columns rise above a fascinating display of Indian crafts and artworks. Upstairs is an unusual collection of clay figurines showing the tribes, cultures and customs of the Mumbai area. The building and collection were brilliantly restored in 2006.

Mumbai's premier showcase for modern art, the Jehangir Art Gallery was founded in 1952 by the Parsi politician Sir Cowasji Jehangir. The gallery is managed by the Bombay Art Society and the four galleries display artwork by leading local painters, sculptors and other artists. Most of the artwork is for sale but prices reflect the quality of the work. Artists are often in attendance to talk you through their work.

Housed in the building where Mahatma Gandhi launched the concept of Satyagraha (non-violent resistance) in 1919, this museum charts the life and works of India's most famous Independence hero. Gandhi lived at 19 Laburnam Road between 1917 and 1934, and many pivotal events in Indian history took place inside these walls. Displays include photographs, letters and personal effects owned by the great peace campaigner.