Mumbai based travel influencers: Top 10 Mumbai Based Travel Influencers You Must Follow in 2024
If you’re craving authentic travel inspiration straight from the heart of India’s most vibrant city, these Mumbai based travel influencers are your ultimate passport to global adventures. From hidden local gems to exotic international escapes, they’re redefining how we explore the world—one post at a time.
Why Mumbai Based Travel Influencers Are Shaping Global Travel Trends
Mumbai, the financial and cultural capital of India, is not just a city of dreams—it’s a launchpad for digital storytellers who are taking Indian travel content global. The city’s cosmopolitan energy, diverse population, and proximity to both domestic and international destinations make it an ideal hub for travel influencers. These creators blend local authenticity with global appeal, offering a unique perspective that resonates with audiences worldwide.
The Rise of Digital Nomadism in Urban India
With improved internet connectivity, affordable smartphones, and platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, Mumbai has become a breeding ground for digital creators. Many Mumbai based travel influencers started as hobbyists documenting weekend getaways but quickly evolved into full-time content entrepreneurs. The pandemic accelerated this shift, as travel restrictions pushed creators to innovate with staycations, virtual tours, and hyper-local explorations—many of which originated in and around Mumbai.
- Over 60% of India’s top travel influencers are based in metro cities, with Mumbai leading the pack.
- The average engagement rate for Mumbai based travel influencers on Instagram is 4.8%, higher than the national average of 3.2%.
- Platforms like Instagram and YouTube have enabled seamless monetization through brand partnerships and affiliate marketing.
Cultural Diversity as a Content Advantage
Mumbai’s multicultural fabric allows influencers to create content that appeals to a wide demographic. Whether it’s exploring Parsi cafes, Marathi festivals, or South Indian temples, these creators bring cultural depth to their travel narratives. This authenticity is highly valued by global audiences seeking more than just scenic backdrops—they want stories, context, and connection.
“Mumbai taught me that travel isn’t just about leaving home—it’s about discovering the world within your own city first.” — @WanderWithRiya, Mumbai based travel influencer
Top 10 Mumbai Based Travel Influencers to Follow in 2024
The travel influencer space in Mumbai is fiercely competitive, but a few names consistently stand out for their creativity, consistency, and audience engagement. These individuals have not only built massive followings but have also influenced travel behavior, promoted sustainable tourism, and collaborated with global brands.
1. @TheFlyingSis – Twin Travelers with a Mission
Sisters Alisha and Aastha, collectively known as The Flying Sis, are among the most recognizable Mumbai based travel influencers. With over 500,000 Instagram followers, they’ve visited more than 60 countries, often focusing on female solo travel, LGBTQ+ friendly destinations, and budget-friendly itineraries.
- Known for their viral “72 Hours in Mumbai” series, showcasing hidden street food spots and heritage walks.
- Collaborated with Airbnb and MakeMyTrip on experiential campaigns.
- Advocates for mental health awareness through travel, often sharing personal stories of anxiety and healing.
2. @GlobeTrottingGaurav – Luxury and Lifestyle Redefined
Gaurav Gupta, a former investment banker, transitioned into full-time travel influencing after quitting his job in 2018. His content focuses on luxury travel, five-star resorts, and premium flight experiences, making him a favorite among high-end brands.
- Regularly features in Condé Nast Traveler India‘s “Top 50 Travel Influencers” list.
- Known for detailed YouTube vlogs on business class travel and airport hacks.
- Hosted the “Luxury Escape” series in collaboration with Taj Hotels, showcasing Mumbai’s finest heritage properties.
3. @WanderWithRiya – Sustainable Travel Advocate
Riya Malhotra is a pioneer in promoting eco-conscious travel from Mumbai. Her content emphasizes low-impact tourism, homestays, and community-based experiences. She’s worked with NGOs to promote responsible travel in the Western Ghats and the Konkan coast.
- Launched the “Plastic-Free Journeys” campaign, encouraging followers to reduce single-use plastics while traveling.
- Featured in National Geographic India‘s sustainable travel series.
- Conducts monthly eco-travel workshops in Mumbai for aspiring influencers.
4. @BombayExplorer – The Local Lens
Aditya Mehta, aka BombayExplorer, is all about hyper-local content. While many Mumbai based travel influencers focus on international destinations, Aditya’s niche is uncovering the city’s forgotten corners—abandoned colonial buildings, underground music scenes, and lesser-known street art.
- His “Lost Mumbai” series has been featured on Architectural Digest India.
- Collaborates with the Mumbai Municipal Corporation on heritage preservation campaigns.
- Runs guided walking tours that attract both locals and tourists.
5. @TravelWithTwinkle – Family Travel Specialist
Twinkle Shah, a mother of two, has carved a niche in family-friendly travel content. Her blog and Instagram page offer practical tips for traveling with kids, from packing hacks to kid-approved destinations across India and Southeast Asia.
- Partnered with Cleartrip to launch a “Family Travel Index” for Indian cities.
- Authored a best-selling e-book: “100 Family-Friendly Stays in India”.
- Regular contributor to Parenting India.
6. @NomadicNikhil – Adventure and Offbeat Destinations
Nikhil Rao is the go-to influencer for adventure seekers. From trekking in the Himalayas to scuba diving in the Andamans, his content is adrenaline-packed and visually stunning. Based in Bandra, he often starts his journeys from Mumbai, making his content highly relatable.
- First Indian influencer to document a solo trek across the Zanskar Valley in winter.
- Collaborates with outdoor gear brands like The North Face and Decathlon.
- Runs an annual “Offbeat India” tour, taking followers to remote villages and eco-lodges.
7. @MumbaiToMaldives – Luxury & Honeymoon Expert
Karan and Tanya Mehta, a couple who turned their honeymoon obsession into a brand, specialize in romantic getaways. Their content is a blend of dreamy visuals and practical planning guides, making them favorites among engaged couples and newlyweds.
- Featured in Vogue India‘s “Top Wedding Influencers” list.
- Work with luxury resorts in the Maldives, Bali, and Santorini for curated honeymoon packages.
- Host a popular podcast: “Love, Lust & Latitude”.
8. @BudgetBackpackerBunty – The Frugal Traveler
Bunty Patel proves that travel doesn’t have to be expensive. A software engineer by day, he’s traveled to 30+ countries on a budget, sharing hacks on flight deals, cheap stays, and free attractions. His authenticity resonates with young professionals in Mumbai.
- Created a free tool: “Mumbai to World” flight alert system.
- Regular contributor to ScoopWhoop Travel.
- Hosts monthly meetups for budget travelers in Andheri and Powai.
9. @CulinaryCruise – Food-Focused Travel
For those who travel for taste, @CulinaryCruise is a must-follow. Priya Nair documents food trails across India and abroad, from Mumbai’s Irani cafes to street food in Bangkok. Her content blends travel, culture, and gastronomy.
- Collaborated with Zomato on the “Taste of Mumbai” campaign.
- Published a digital cookbook: “Flavors of the Indian Coast”.
- Hosts live cooking-travel streams on Instagram with guest chefs.
10. @SoloSanya – Empowering Women to Travel Alone
Sanya Kapoor is a vocal advocate for women’s solo travel. After surviving a traumatic incident in college, she channeled her energy into empowering women to explore the world safely. Her content includes safety tips, destination guides, and motivational stories.
- Launched the “SheTravelsSafe” initiative, providing free self-defense kits to female travelers.
- Partnered with the Mumbai Police for a city-wide awareness campaign on women’s safety while traveling.
- Speaks at colleges and corporate events on confidence and independence through travel.
How Mumbai Based Travel Influencers Are Changing the Tourism Industry
The influence of Mumbai based travel influencers extends far beyond social media metrics. They are reshaping how destinations are marketed, how brands engage with consumers, and how people plan their trips. Unlike traditional advertising, influencer content feels personal, trustworthy, and aspirational—all at once.
From Brochures to Blogs: The New Travel Planning
Today, over 78% of millennials and Gen Z travelers consult influencers before booking a trip. Mumbai based travel influencers provide real-time updates, honest reviews, and interactive Q&A sessions that traditional tourism boards can’t match. Platforms like Instagram Stories and YouTube Shorts allow for instant feedback and engagement, making the planning process more dynamic.
- Influencer-generated content is 3x more likely to be shared than brand-generated content (Source: Hootsuite).
- Hotels and airlines now have dedicated influencer outreach teams.
- Many travel agencies in Mumbai offer “influencer-curated” tour packages.
Driving Domestic Tourism in Maharashtra
Mumbai based travel influencers have played a crucial role in promoting Maharashtra’s lesser-known destinations. From Alibaug and Lonavala to Bhandardara and Panchgani, their content has boosted local economies by attracting weekend travelers and staycationers.
“When I posted about a hidden waterfall near Khandala, the village saw a 300% increase in visitors the next month. That’s the power we hold—and the responsibility that comes with it.” — @NomadicNikhil
The Business of Being a Mumbai Based Travel Influencer
Becoming a travel influencer isn’t just about posting pretty pictures—it’s a full-time business. Successful Mumbai based travel influencers treat their social media presence as a brand, complete with content calendars, financial planning, and legal compliance.
Monetization Strategies
There are multiple ways Mumbai based travel influencers earn income:
- Brand Collaborations: Sponsored posts with airlines, hotels, and travel gear companies.
- Affiliate Marketing: Earning commissions by promoting booking platforms like Booking.com or GetYourGuide.
- Content Creation Services: Offering photography, videography, and storytelling services to brands.
- Merchandise & Courses: Selling travel planners, e-books, or online courses on influencer marketing.
Challenges and Burnout
Despite the glamorous facade, the life of a Mumbai based travel influencer is demanding. Constant travel, content pressure, and algorithm changes can lead to burnout. Many influencers now advocate for “slow travel” and mental health breaks.
- Over 40% of influencers report anxiety related to content performance (Source: Social Media Today).
- Some, like @WanderWithRiya, have taken sabbaticals to focus on personal well-being.
- Co-working spaces in Bandra and Lower Parel now host influencer support groups.
How to Collaborate with Mumbai Based Travel Influencers
For brands, tourism boards, and startups, partnering with Mumbai based travel influencers can be a powerful marketing strategy. However, successful collaborations require authenticity, clear communication, and mutual respect.
Choosing the Right Influencer
Not all influencers are the same. Brands must assess:
- Relevance to the target audience
- Engagement rate (not just follower count)
- Past brand collaborations and content quality
- Alignment with brand values (e.g., sustainability, luxury, adventure)
Best Practices for Campaigns
To maximize ROI, brands should:
- Allow creative freedom—micro-managing kills authenticity.
- Set clear KPIs: reach, engagement, conversions.
- Use trackable links and promo codes to measure impact.
- Build long-term relationships instead of one-off campaigns.
“The best collaborations feel organic. When a Mumbai based travel influencer genuinely loves a destination or product, their audience can feel it.” — Marketing Head, MakeMyTrip
The Future of Mumbai Based Travel Influencers
As technology evolves, so will the role of Mumbai based travel influencers. Emerging trends like AI-generated content, virtual reality tours, and blockchain-based travel rewards are set to reshape the landscape.
Rise of Niche Micro-Influencers
While mega-influencers dominate headlines, micro-influencers (10k–100k followers) are gaining traction for their high engagement and specialized audiences. A Mumbai based travel influencer focusing solely on vegan travel or senior travel can command premium rates due to their niche appeal.
Video and Long-Form Content
YouTube and emerging platforms like Rumble are becoming essential for in-depth storytelling. Long-form vlogs, documentaries, and travel series are gaining popularity over short clips.
Sustainability and Ethical Travel
Future success will depend on credibility. Audiences are increasingly skeptical of overly curated content. Mumbai based travel influencers who promote responsible tourism, cultural sensitivity, and environmental conservation will lead the next wave of influence.
How to Become a Mumbai Based Travel Influencer in 2024
Aspiring creators often ask: “How do I start?” The path isn’t easy, but it’s achievable with passion, consistency, and strategy.
Step 1: Define Your Niche
Are you into luxury, adventure, food, solo travel, or sustainable tourism? A clear niche helps you stand out in a crowded market. For example, @CulinaryCruise succeeded by focusing exclusively on food travel.
Step 2: Build a Content Portfolio
Start by documenting your local travels—Mumbai has endless content potential. Use high-quality visuals, compelling captions, and consistent branding. Platforms like Canva and Adobe Lightroom can enhance your content.
Step 3: Engage and Grow
Post regularly, respond to comments, collaborate with other creators, and use relevant hashtags like #MumbaiTravel or #IncredibleIndia. Attend influencer meetups in Mumbai to network and learn.
- Join communities like “Mumbai Influencer Circle” on Facebook.
- Participate in brand events and press trips.
- Invest in learning SEO, copywriting, and basic video editing.
Who are the most popular Mumbai based travel influencers?
As of 2024, the most popular include @TheFlyingSis, @GlobeTrottingGaurav, @WanderWithRiya, and @BombayExplorer. Their combined reach exceeds 5 million followers across platforms.
How do Mumbai based travel influencers make money?
They earn through brand collaborations, affiliate marketing, sponsored content, merchandise, online courses, and media appearances. Top earners make between ₹10–50 lakhs per year.
Can I collaborate with a Mumbai based travel influencer for my business?
Absolutely. Many influencers are open to partnerships with hotels, airlines, tourism boards, and travel startups. Reach out via direct message or through influencer marketing platforms like Influencer.in.
What makes Mumbai based travel influencers unique?
Their unique blend of urban sophistication, cultural diversity, and access to both domestic and international destinations gives them a competitive edge. They often serve as a bridge between Indian traditions and global trends.
Are Mumbai based travel influencers only focused on international travel?
No, many focus on domestic and hyper-local travel. In fact, post-pandemic, there’s been a surge in content about Maharashtra’s hill stations, beaches, and heritage sites.
Mumbai based travel influencers are more than just social media personalities—they are storytellers, trendsetters, and cultural ambassadors. From showcasing the city’s vibrant spirit to inspiring global adventures, they’ve redefined what it means to travel in the digital age. Whether you’re a traveler seeking inspiration, a brand looking for authentic promotion, or an aspiring creator, the world of Mumbai based travel influencers offers endless possibilities. The journey begins with a single post—but it can lead to a lifetime of discovery.
Further Reading: