About Taraporewala Aquarium
Taraporewala Aquarium is one of Mumbai's most beloved aquatic landmarks and stands as India's oldest public aquarium. Situated along the scenic promenade of Marine Drive, this popular attraction offers visitors a mesmerizing window into aquatic ecosystems from fresh waters to deep seas.
The aquarium houses hundreds of species of marine, freshwater, and brackish-water fishes. Highlights include exotic specimens like piranhas, butterflyfish, sea turtles, stingrays, and vibrant coral reef dwellers. The facility features a modern glass tunnel at the entrance where visitors can walk beneath swimming marine species, creating an immersive undersea experience.
It serves as both an entertaining family destination and an educational hub for marine biology enthusiasts, school tours, and tourists visiting South Mumbai.
History
Established in 1951, the aquarium was constructed at a cost of ₹800,000 and inaugurated by India's first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad. It was named after Dhanjisha Barjorji Taraporewala, a Parsis philanthropist who donated a generous sum toward its construction.
Over the decades, the facility underwent several major modernizations. In 2015, a comprehensive renovation upgraded the infrastructure, introducing a 12-foot long 180-degree acrylic glass tunnel, modernized filtration systems, and touch pools for interactive learning.