Bookmakers at the 1st enclosure during McDowell Signature Indian Derby horse race

Mahalaxmi Racecourse

Mahalaxmi Racecourse Mumbai: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Attractions Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Mahalaxmi Racecourse, a 225-acre expanse in the heart of South Mumbai, is a living testament to the city’s colonial legacy and its thriving urban culture. Since its establishment in 1883 on land donated by Sir Cusrow N. Wadia, it has grown into one of Mumbai’s largest green spaces, blending equestrian sport, architectural heritage, and vibrant cultural events. Managed by the Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC), the racecourse remains a key landmark—hosting prestigious races, global music festivals, wellness activities, and more (Royal Western India Turf Club, India Today).

This guide details Mahalaxmi Racecourse’s visiting hours, ticketing, major attractions, and practical visitor tips. It also explores the venue’s historical evolution, architectural highlights, key events, accessibility, and its ongoing role as a green oasis within Mumbai’s ever-evolving cityscape (Indian Holiday, Mid-Day).

Audi luxury sports car test drive at Mahalaxmi racecourse parking lot

Concert skit performance at McDowell Indian Derby 2009 in a makeshift air-conditioned hangar in the Members Enclosure

African acrobats performing gymnastic skills

Amateur Riders Club polo and horse riding class showing riders on horseback in action

Racehorse BE SAFE with jockey Suraj.Narredu in paddock before Indian Derby race

Beer bar restaurant in the first enclosure at McDowell Signature Indian Derby

French author Olivier Lapont signing books at Woofs and Hoofs carnival in Mahalaxmi racecourse

Betting ring members enclosure with individual bookie stalls

Carnival dancers performing at Kingfisher Ultra Indian Derby 2017 Mahalaxmi racecourse

Actor Randeep Hooda with his adopted stray dog Kandy and actress Tara Sharma Saluja with her kids at Woofs and Hoofs carnival

Cliff Richard performing live at Mc Dowell Indian Derby 2009 in a festive carnival atmosphere

Las Vegas Style Showgirls performing at McDowells Indian Derby 2008

The Cuban Brothers performing live on stage at the 75th anniversary of Kingfisher Ultra Indian Derby 2017 at Mahalaxmi racecourse member's enclosure

Cuban Brothers performing live on stage at the 75th Anniversary of Kingfisher Ultra Indian Derby in Member's Enclosure

Racehorse Dancing Prances ridden by jockey Srinath winning 1200 meters race

Horses parading in front of the grandstand at McDowells Indian Derby 2011

Closed bookmakers trading ring on Indian Derby Day 2019 after police and income tax raid

Floodlights illuminating the Mahalaxmi racecourse during the first night race in India

Group playing cricket on the polo grounds of the racecourse in the morning

Horses being transported in a horse van from Mahalaxmi racecourse stables to Pune Racecourse

Joggers track and exercising garden in Mahalaxmi Race Course

Jockeys riding horses during Indian Derby carnival race day

Mr Vijay Mallya, Mr Cyrus Poonawalla, and Mr Vivek Jain seated in a royal horse carriage on the way to Indian Derby presentation ceremony

Indian Derby Trophy known as Kingfisher Ultra Million awarded to winning horses

Polo player preparing to start match at Silverstick Polo Tournament

Women wearing innovative and stylish hats at McDowell Indian Derby 2012 horse race

Marathi folk theatre Lavani dancers performing at Night Racing Carnival

Grey horse leading racehorses onto track from paddock

Hindi rock band Madhyam performing live at Kingfisher Ultra Indian Derby 2017

Helipad next to the 2nd Enclosure at Mahalaxmi Racecourse

Heritage Members Grandstand building at a racing event

View from the heritage grandstand building in the members enclosure

Members enclosure on Derby Day at McDowell Indian Derby 2008

Entertainer Robin Parson performing Michael Jackson tribute at McDowell Indian Derby Day 2010

Presentation ceremony in the paddock during NIGHT RACING event at an Indian racecourse

Jockey Trevor Patel riding horse Zarar during paddock parade under floodlights at India's first night racing event

Police patrolling in the 1st enclosure at McDowell Signature Indian Derby

Qasar the best Indian racehorse of 2015 with jockey Yash.Narredu returning to paddock after winning Deltin Stayers cup 2400 meters

R.W.I.T.C members holding an Extraordinary General meeting inside a temporary air-conditioned hangar in the members enclosure

Giant television screen at the Racecourse betting ring displaying live horse racing

Horse race 'N.M.Trophy Div - 1' won by favorite MELINDA with jockey A.Sandesh but lost in court after objection by second place Draco with jockey Dashrath Singh

Racehorse heading to unsaddling enclosure after a 2400 metres round on sand track

Bollywood fashion designer Rocky S with his models walking on the ramp at Indian Derby fashion show

The Rolling Stones performing live at McDowell Indian Derby 2009 in an air-conditioned hangar with a carnival atmosphere

Strict security check at racecourse entrance

Broadway dance performance at McDowells Signature Indian Derby 2014

Shaolin Monk tribe demonstrating Kungfu skills at McDowells Indian Derby 2011

Racehorse Juliette ridden by jockey Colm O'Donoghue in the parade ring before Indian Derby 2020

Elvis Presley impersonator Neil Barnes with showgirls at McDowells Indian Derby 2008

Historical Overview: From Colonial Roots to Cultural Landmark

Founded in 1883, Mahalaxmi Racecourse is among India’s oldest horse racing venues. Its original design was inspired by Melbourne’s Caulfield Racecourse, while the grandstands, remodeled in 1922 by Theodore John Marks, took cues from Sydney’s Randwick Racecourse. These heritage-listed stands offer panoramic views of the track and the Arabian Sea, reinforcing the venue’s architectural and historical significance.

Over the decades, the racecourse has transformed from a colonial gathering place for British officials and Indian royalty to a truly cosmopolitan venue. Post-independence, it adapted to Mumbai’s evolving social scene, becoming a hub for racing, concerts, festivals, and community events.

Key Attractions and Events

1. The Racing Season

Season: Mid-November to April
Marquee Event: The Indian Derby—held the first Sunday of February, attracting top horses, jockeys, and a glamorous crowd.
Other Classic Races: 1,000 Guineas, 2,000 Guineas, Oaks, and St. Leger, echoing British traditions (India Today).

2. Cultural Festivals and Concerts

Mahalaxmi Racecourse has become a favored venue for international music festivals and cultural events. Highlights include:

Lollapalooza India: Major global music festival with a focus on inclusivity—offering sign language interpreters, gender-neutral washrooms, and safe spaces (Mid-Day).
Art Mumbai: Art fairs, theater performances, and wellness events regularly take place on the racecourse’s sprawling lawns (Art Mumbai).
Concerts: Hosting renowned artists like Ed Sheeran, The Chainsmokers, and Guns N’ Roses (WanderOn, Eastern Eye).

3. Wellness and Fitness

On non-race days, the racecourse’s 2.4-kilometer outer track is open for walking, jogging, yoga, and fitness sessions. The Amateur Riders’ Club offers horse riding lessons and pony rides for all ages (Amateur Riders’ Club).

Visiting Information

Location & Getting There

Address: Royal Western India Turf Club, Mahalaxmi Racecourse, Mahalaxmi, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400034
Nearest Station: Mahalaxmi (Western Line), 5-minute walk from the entrance
By Road: Accessible by car, taxi, or bus; 20 minutes from Mumbai Central, 30–40 minutes from the airport (traffic dependent)
Map: View Map

Visiting Hours

Race Days: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM (mostly weekends, Nov–Apr)
Non-Race Days: 5:30 AM – 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM (walking tracks and lawns; hours may change for events/maintenance)

Ticketing

Race Days: ₹100–₹500 for general stands. Premium and member areas cost more.
Non-Race Days: Walking tracks and gardens are generally free; race stands may be restricted.
Purchase: At the venue or online via the RWITC website.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible entrances, ramps, and seating
Designated restrooms for differently-abled visitors
Assistance available on request

Facilities & Amenities

Seating: Heritage grandstand, members’ enclosure (formal attire), general stands
Food & Drink: Food stalls and kiosks on race days; Gallops Restaurant offers colonial-era ambiance and diverse menu (Gallops Restaurant)
Restrooms: Clean facilities throughout the venue
Parking: Limited paid parking on-site; additional public lots nearby

Additional Activities & Nearby Attractions

Walking & Yoga: Morning and evening exercise groups welcome all
Horse Riding: Lessons and pony rides via Amateur Riders’ Club
Nearby Sites:
- Haji Ali Dargah (3 km)
- Worli Sea Face promenade
- Nehru Planetarium
- Kamala Nehru Park and Hanging Gardens

Dress Code & Etiquette

Members’ Enclosure: Collared shirts/trousers for men; smart dresses/sarees for women
General Stands: Casual wear permitted, but smart dressing is encouraged, especially on major race days
Photography: Allowed in public areas; restricted in members’/paddock zones
Betting: Legal betting through official counters; minimum bets start at ₹10
Pets: Not allowed

Safety & Visitor Tips

Security checks at all entrances
CCTV surveillance throughout
On-site first aid and medical facilities
Arrive early on race days for best seats and parking
Carry sunscreen, hats, and water for day events
Supervise children near tracks and stables

Current Developments

In 2025, proposals for redevelopment and preservation of Mahalaxmi Racecourse are under discussion, with the Municipal Corporation and Bombay High Court reviewing future plans. The RWITC’s recent 30-year lease renewal underscores a commitment to balancing heritage conservation with modernization (Construction World, Magzentine).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Mahalaxmi Racecourse visiting hours?
A: Race days: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM; non-race days: 5:30 AM – 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM (subject to change).

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: At the venue or online via RWITC website.

Q: Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with dedicated ramps and seating.

Q: Can I bring pets?
A: No, pets are not permitted.

Q: What is the dress code?
A: Formal in the Members’ Enclosure; smart casual elsewhere.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Occasional tours during special events—check RWITC announcements.

Summary & Travel Tips

Mahalaxmi Racecourse embodies Mumbai’s history, sporting spirit, and cultural vibrancy. Its heritage architecture, expansive green space, and diverse events make it a must-visit. With accessible hours, affordable tickets, well-maintained facilities, and proximity to other historic sites, it welcomes both locals and tourists. Stay updated on visiting hours and events through the RWITC website and consider downloading the Audiala app for real-time updates and exclusive content (Agoda).