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Bombay, or should I say Mumbai, is a city buzzing with energy! Skyscrapers pierce the sky while flea markets overflow with crazy trinkets and enough colours to make your eyes spin. Old and new collide in Mumbai, creating a unique charm. But tucked away in the madness, there’s a secret society – these exclusive clubs called gymkhanas. Forget your average gym; these places are like time machines to the fancy days of old, with a sprinkle of Bombay’s high rollers on the side. And the coolest part? They’ve got all the top-notch amenities, swimming pools, tennis courts – the whole shebang – but only for members, of course! Among the most exclusive are the Top 5 Gymkhana in Mumbai, blending old-world charm with modern luxury.
Gymkhanas were originally established during the British Raj as social and sporting clubs primarily for the colonial elite. Imagine cricket matches played on manicured lawns, gentlemen in crisp whites sipping gin and tonics under the shade of palm trees – a quintessential scene from a bygone era. Today, these exclusive clubs have evolved, reflecting the changing demographics of the city. While retaining their air of prestige, they now cater to a broader spectrum of Mumbai’s social and business elite, especially in the Top 5 Gymkhana’s in Mumbai.
1Bombay Gymkhana (Established in 1875)
Image Credits: Architectural Digest
The undisputed crown jewel, the Bombay Gymkhana boasts a legacy intertwined with the development of Mumbai itself. Designed by the English architect Claude Batley, it’s a haven for cricket enthusiasts. Whispers in the corridors claim that the legendary Amitabh Bachchan, Bollywood’s “Shehenshah,” is a member here. Fun Fact: In 1933, the legendary Sir Donald Bradman etched his name in cricket history by scoring a record 414 runs on the Bombay Gymkhana cricket ground.
Membership fees: The primary registration membership fee for new members is ₹50 lakhs per person.
Things2do at the Bombay Gymkhana:
Spa and Wellness: Pamper yourself with spa services, massages, and beauty treatments including a hair salon, manicure, and pedicure at Preening Point.
Dining: Enjoy meals at the in-house restaurants like Verandah, Palm Court, and The Pavilion, each offering a unique culinary experience.
Sports and Fitness: Engage in various sports such as cricket, tennis, and squash. Utilize the well-equipped gymnasium and swimming pool for a complete workout regimen.
Social Events: The Bombay Gymkhana hosts a variety of exciting social events. Members can participate in the exhilarating PUSH India Push Challenge, enjoy a vibrant EDM Night, be entertained by the Magic Show and Circus, or dance the night away at the DJ & VDJ Night. These events offer a wonderful opportunity for members to socialize and enjoy unique experiences.
Location: Bombay Gymkhana is centrally located at Mahatma Gandhi Road, Opp Fashion Street, Azad Maidan, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city.
2Wodehouse Gymkhana (Established in 1907)
Image Credits: Wodehouse Gymkhana
Exuding a charming, old-world aura, the Wodehouse Gymkhana is renowned for its cricket history. Did You Know? This gymkhana was originally called the “Hindu Gymkhana” but was later renamed after its patron, Sir Frederick Wodehouse.
Cricket royalty, Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar are said to have graced the Wodehouse Gymkhana with their presence on numerous occasions. Beyond cricket, it offers excellent sporting facilities and a well-regarded restaurant known for its traditional Indian fare.
Membership fees: Membership is currently closed, and pricing details are disclosed only to selected individuals.
Things to do at Wodehouse Gymkhana:
Sports: Engage in various sports such as tennis, table tennis, billiards, and a functional training centre.
Dining & Bar: Enjoy meals and drinks at the Wodehouse Verandah, Family Lounge, Front Lawn, Wodehouse Chambers (Party Hall), Bar (Center Court), Wodehouse Courtyard, and the Wodehouse BBQ Hut.
Facilities: Utilize the card room, children’s play area, Wodehouse Lounge, and conference room.
Social Events: Participate in live bands, jazz and piano concerts, DJ music, and housie (bingo) nights.
Location: The Wodehouse Gymkhana is situated at 182, Maharshi Karve Road, Mumbai – 400 021.
3Royal Western Indian Turf (Established in 1880)
Image Credits: RWITC
The thunder of hooves and the electrifying thrill of the racecourse define the Royal Western India Turf Club, synonymous with horse racing in Mumbai. Imagine the pomp and circumstance of a race day, the anticipation building as thoroughbreds vie for victory.
While membership primarily caters to horse owners, the club offers a taste of this world through guest passes for specific race days. A Rare Fact: Queen Elizabeth II herself graced this prestigious club during her visit to India in 1961, even presenting a trophy at the races.
Membership fees: The lifetime membership fee is ₹10 lakhs plus GST.
Things2do at Royal Western India Turf Club:
Horse Racing:
Experience the excitement of live horse racing events held regularly at the club, including major events like the Indian Derby and other seasonal races.
Place bets and enjoy the thrill of watching the races from the grandstands or private boxes.
Dining:
Dine at the Gallops Restaurant, which offers a fine dining experience with a view of the racecourse, featuring a menu of Indian and international cuisine.
Enjoy casual dining and beverages at the Turf Club’s various cafes and lounges, perfect for a relaxing day at the races.
Social Events:
Attend exclusive social events organized by the club, such as themed parties, gala dinners, and member-only gatherings.
Participate in special race day events, which often include live entertainment, fashion shows, and gourmet food stalls.
Membership Benefits:
Gain access to the club’s luxurious lounges and private boxes, providing a premium viewing experience and a comfortable environment to enjoy the races.
Network with other members and enjoy the club’s hospitality services, including valet parking and concierge assistance.
Recreational Activities:
Engage in fitness and wellness activities offered at the club, such as yoga classes, fitness training sessions, and wellness workshops.
Enjoy a leisurely walk or jog around the beautifully maintained racecourse grounds, taking in the scenic views and tranquil atmosphere.
Equestrian Activities:
Participate in horse riding and equestrian training programs available for members.
Attend equestrian shows and events held at the club, showcasing skilled riders and well-trained horses.
Location: The Royal Western India Turf Club is located at Mahalaxmi Racecourse, Dr. E Moses Rd, Mahalakshmi, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400034.
4Willingdon Catholic Gymkhana (Established in 1928)
Image Credits: Willingdon Catholic Gymkhana
This vibrant gymkhana pulsates with life and is known for its active social calendar. Intriguing Fact: The Willingdon Catholic Gymkhana was once a military base used by the British during World War I.
Today, it features a swimming pool, squash courts, badminton courts, and various social events throughout the year, making it a popular choice for families and social butterflies. Rumours abound that the Ambani family, a leading industrial dynasty, and Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty are members of this exclusive club.
Membership fees: The admittance fee is ₹15 lakhs, with an additional annual fee applicable.
Things2do:
Sports and Fitness: Play tennis on well-maintained clay and hard courts, enjoy badminton in air-conditioned indoor courts, swim in the Olympic-sized pool, and use the modern gym with personal training services. Join yoga and aerobics classes for flexibility, strength, and relaxation.
Dining:
Temptation Restaurant: Experience intimate dining at Temptation, known for its culinary artistry and the Hall of Fame wall honouring sports legends.
Starlight: Enjoy the latest addition to WCG, Starlight, with its memorable ambience and all-new menu.
Palm Spritz Restaurant & Lounge: Designed for the young and young at heart, Palm Spritz offers an intimate dining experience with a fresh menu in a vibrant setting.
Recreation and Leisure: Spend time in the well-stocked library, which features a diverse collection of books, magazines, and newspapers for all age groups. Engage in card games such as bridge and rummy in the dedicated card room, a popular spot for members to socialize and compete. Let children have fun in the safe and vibrant play area equipped with slides, swings, and other play structures.
Location: The Willingdon Catholic Gymkhana is located at Santacruz East, Willingdon Colony, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400055.
5Matunga Gymkhana (Established in 1950)
Image Credits: Matunga Gymkhana
A favourite for its central location, the Matunga Gymkhana offers a range of sporting facilities, including a cricket ground, swimming pool, and tennis courts. Local Legend: The cricket ground at Matunga Gymkhana is rumoured to have been a training ground for some of Mumbai’s cricketing legends. It’s a popular choice for aspiring cricketers and fitness enthusiasts alike, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and nurturing young talent. Imagine the thrill of playing on the same ground where legends like Sachin Tendulkar might have honed their skills.
Membership fees: The lifetime membership fee is ₹20 lakhs plus GST.
Things to do at Matunga Gymkhana:
Sports and Fitness: Play on well-maintained tennis courts, suitable for both casual games and competitive matches, and swim in the pool with options for lessons, perfect for all ages.
Recreation and Leisure: Enjoy a collection of books and periodicals in the serene library and engage in card games like bridge and rummy in a cosy environment.
Dining: Experience vibrant dining with a diverse menu at Flames and Savor a blend of Indian and international cuisines at Flavour and Spice.
Social Events: Attend events such as dance performances, music concerts, and theatre plays, and join art and craft workshops, dance classes, yoga sessions, and cooking classes organized by the gymkhana.
Location: Matunga Gymkhana is located at 579, King’s Circle, Matunga East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400019.
A Peek into Membership:
Securing membership in one of the Top 5 Gymkhana in Mumbai is an elusive dream for many. Traditionally, membership is by invitation or nomination from existing members, creating a sense of exclusivity and maintaining a tight-knit community. However, some gymkhanas offer temporary memberships, or guest passes for special occasions, allowing a glimpse into this privileged world.
Here are some tips for aspiring members:
Network: Building relationships with existing members is a crucial step. Attending social events hosted by business or social circles where gymkhana members might be present can open doors.
Inquire about guest passes: Some of the Top 5 Gymkhana’s in Mumbai offer guest passes for specific events or days. This allows a taste of the facilities and social scene before committing to full membership.
Inquire about guest passes: Some of the Top 5 Gymkhana’s in Mumbai offer guest passes for specific events or days. This allows a taste of the facilities and social scene before committing to full membership.
Consider corporate memberships: Some companies offer corporate memberships for their employees in select gymkhanas. This can be a great way to gain access if your employer has such a partnership.
Whether you dream of someday gaining membership in one of the prestigious Top 5 Gymkhana’s in Mumbai or simply want a glimpse into this fascinating world, this guide has equipped you with the knowledge to navigate Mumbai’s hidden gem – the realm of gymkhanas.
Don’t forget to follow @things2doinmumbai for more exclusive insights and hidden gems to explore in Mumbai! From experiencing the vibrant street food scene to uncovering historical treasures, we’ll guide you through the best experiences Mumbai has to offer.
Don’t forget to follow @things2doinmumbai for more exclusive insights and hidden gems to explore in Mumbai! From experiencing the vibrant street food scene to uncovering historical treasures, we’ll guide you through the best experiences Mumbai has to offer.
Feature Image Credits: Linkedln
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