Some travelers have inquired about lounge options at Mumbai International Airport, particularly at Terminal 2. The GVK Lounge in T2 is available but can be costly unless accessed via business or first-class tickets. Additionally, the Adani Lounge at Terminal 2 is noted for being exclusive to business and first-class passengers.

For general passengers, the Loyalty Lounge provides an alternative, accessible through various lounge programs or credit cards. Details on booking these lounges were not explicitly provided, but contacting Mumbai Airport directly or checking their official website are recommended for the most accurate information.

Travelers have expressed that while there are lounge options, the quality and availability might not meet everyone's expectations, labeling Mumbai as a challenging airport in terms of lounge comfort. For longer waits, considering a transit hotel like the Niranta Airport Transit Hotel & Lounge might offer a more comfortable and convenient stay.

Some travelers recommended staying at hotels like Bawa International, Hotel Wego, Regale by Tunga, and Hotel Transit near Mumbai Airport for their cleanliness and convenience. These hotels are within a 30-minute taxi ride from the airport.

For those seeking luxury or boutique experiences, the Taj Mahal Palace, Abode Bombay, and The Oberoi Mumbai are highly praised. The Taj Mahal Palace offers colonial architecture and is ideally located for sightseeing and shopping.

For families, the Lakeside Chalet Apartments by Marriott and ITC Grand Central are suggested, with the latter allowing up to four guests in one room. Both provide good access to South Mumbai attractions.

Travelers have called out the Ambassador Mumbai and Hotel Residency Fort as good mid-range options in South Mumbai, offering easy access to major tourist spots and comfortable accommodations.

According to forum posts, travelers can use a free shuttle bus service to transfer between Terminal 2 and Terminal 1 at Mumbai Airport. This service operates 24/7, making it convenient for passengers at any time of the day.

Some travelers mentioned that for connections within Terminal 2, from international to domestic sections (such as for Air India flights), the process is straightforward with no additional transfer required. Signage within the terminal guides passengers to domestic departures.

Travelers have called out the availability of prepaid taxi services at Mumbai Airport, providing a reliable and straightforward option for transfers to various locations in the city. The prepaid counter allows passengers to pay a fixed price before boarding the taxi, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

For a more comfortable option, some users suggest arranging a private vehicle through various service providers. This can be more costly but offers direct and personalized service to your destination.

According to forum posts, must-see attractions in Mumbai include the Gateway of India, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, and Victoria Terminus. These landmarks are steeped in history and are central to Mumbai's identity.

Travelers have called out the Haji Ali Dargah, Mahalaxmi Temple, and the Siddhi Vinayak Temple as significant religious sites that are also worth visiting. These locations offer insights into the spiritual and cultural fabric of the city.

For unique experiences, some travelers suggested visiting the Dharavi slum for a guided tour and the Elephanta Caves, accessible by a short ferry ride. These tours provide a deeper understanding of Mumbai's diverse social landscape and historical heritage.

Travelers have recommended Marine Drive for a relaxing stroll along the seafront and Juhu Beach for a taste of Mumbai's bustling beach scene. These areas are perfect for visitors looking to enjoy some downtime while soaking in local vibes.

According to forum posts, local trains and buses are prevalent options for local transportation in Mumbai. Travelers can purchase a daily, 3-day, or 5-day tourist pass at local train stations for convenient access. Buses are also available, with the BEST buses offering daily passes that require an original photo ID to purchase.

Some travelers have suggested taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Ola as efficient means to navigate the city. Prepaid taxis are available at the airport, providing a reliable service to various parts of Mumbai. Ride-sharing apps offer the convenience of booking through mobile applications, with options for different vehicle types depending on the travelers' preference.

For those preferring a more personalized travel option, hiring a private car with a driver is recommended, especially for intercity transfers or late-night travel, ensuring safety and comfort.

According to forum posts, if you're transferring within the same terminal (Terminal 2) at Mumbai Airport, a minimum of 3 hours and 40 minutes is generally considered sufficient for self-transit on separate tickets, assuming there are no delays.

For transfers between different terminals, some travelers have suggested a minimum of 4 hours to account for travel time between terminals, check-in, security, and potential delays. This is especially relevant when moving from Terminal 2 to Terminal 1, as this involves additional transportation time.

Travelers have called out that even with these minimum times, such transfers can still be risky. Factors such as flight delays, baggage collection, and traffic between terminals can further complicate tight schedules.

According to forum posts, travelers looking for lodging options near the Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai have several choices. Some travelers have recommended hotels like the Taj Mahal Tower, which is part of the same complex as the Taj Mahal Palace, offering a convenient and luxurious stay with historical significance.

For a more boutique experience, travelers have called out Abode Bombay as a great option. It is appreciated for its historical credentials, unique styling, and proximity to key locations in Mumbai. Additionally, the Gordon House and the Suba Palace were mentioned as good alternatives, providing a blend of comfort and convenience near the Taj Mahal Palace.

For those seeking a different ambiance, the Marine Plaza and the Intercontinental Marine Drive were suggested. These hotels offer scenic views and are also not far from the Taj Mahal Palace, making them viable options for travelers looking to explore Mumbai's heritage district.

According to forum posts, the Elephanta Caves are accessed via a ferry from the Gateway of India, which offers a scenic 1-hour ride each way. Speedboats are also available for those looking for a faster option. The caves are on Elephanta Island, requiring a climb up stone steps that are unaided by handrails, which could be challenging for some visitors.

Travelers have called out that the best time to visit the caves is during the winter months from November to February due to pleasant weather. It's advised to avoid the monsoon season from June to August, as ferry services can be disrupted by rough seas and heavy rain.

Some travelers said that there is an official free guided tour provided by the Government of India at the caves, which operates at hourly intervals depending on visitor numbers. This could be particularly beneficial for those looking to gain a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the site without additional cost.

For many users, it's recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the climb to the caves can be tiring. Visitors should also be cautious of monkeys around the cave area.