Nestled in the bustling heart of South Mumbai, the Sodawaterwala Agiary in Marine Lines is a serene and sacred fire temple for the Parsi Zoroastrian community. Established in 1877, this temple stands as a symbol of spiritual devotion and cultural heritage. Despite being located amid the urban chaos, the Agiary offers a tranquil haven for religious rituals and reflection. Though entry is restricted only to Parsis, the temple's architectural elegance and historical significance make it a point of interest for those wishing to understand Mumbai's diverse cultural fabric.
Temple About:
The Sodawaterwala Agiary is a Parsi Zoroastrian Fire Temple consecrated with an Atash Dadgah (a lower grade of sacred fire). It is exclusively accessible to members of the Parsi faith and remains an important center for spiritual and community life.
Temple Description:
Built in 1877, this temple reflects colonial architecture blended with Zoroastrian symbols. Set within a peaceful compound, it offers a quiet, contemplative space for devotees. Rituals are performed daily, with utmost reverence for the fire, which is kept burning perpetually.
Temple Speciality:
One of Mumbai's oldest and continuously functioning fire temples.
Upholds traditional Zoroastrian fire rituals.
Located in a peaceful enclave despite being in a busy urban area.
Temple Address:
Sodawaterwala Agiary, Marine Lines East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400002, India.
Temple Location (Longitude, Latitude):
72.8286° E, 18.9449° N
Temple Timings:
Open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
(Entry restricted to Parsis only)
Temple Sevas:
Daily Kusti prayers
Maintenance of sacred Atash fire
Navjote initiation ceremonies
Ritual prayers for the departed
Traveling Facilities:
Accessible via road, rail, and air.
Taxis, autos, local BEST buses, and Mumbai suburban trains are readily available.
Located within walking distance of Marine Lines railway station.
Food Facilities:
No food is provided inside the temple.
Many nearby Parsi and Irani restaurants such as:
Kyani & Co.
Sassanian Boulangerie
Britannia & Co.
Multi-cuisine food options are available nearby.
Stay Facilities:
Plenty of nearby hotels:
Hotel Marine Plaza
Sea Green Hotel
The Ambassador Mumbai
Budget lodges and guesthouses also available in Churchgate and CST areas.
Nearby Railway Station:
Marine Lines Station (Western Line – ~2 mins walk)
Also close to Charni Road and Churchgate stations
Nearby Airport:
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) – ~21 km away
Nearby Bus Station:
Marine Lines Bus Stop
Nearby major BEST stops: Princess Street, Metro Junction, CST
Bus Routes to Temple:
BEST Bus numbers: 103, 123, 130, 138, 151 connect various parts of Mumbai to Marine Lines.
Train Routes to Temple:
Western Railway: Marine Lines Station
From outside Mumbai: arrive at Mumbai Central or CST, then travel via taxi or local train.
Air Ways to Temple:
Land at Mumbai International Airport (BOM)
Travel via taxi, cab (~40–50 minutes) to Marine Lines.
Nearby Cities to Temple:
Thane – 30 km
Navi Mumbai – 35 km
Pune – 150 km
Nashik – 170 km
Nearby Visiting Temples and Places:
Tower of Silence (Malabar Hill)
Mumbadevi Temple
Babulnath Temple
Marine Drive
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (Museum)
Gateway of India
Preferable Visiting Season:
November to February – Ideal time due to cooler weather
Avoid during June to September (monsoon season)
Shopping Famous For:
Crawford Market – Spices, fruits, dry fruits
Zaveri Bazaar – Gold and diamond jewelry
Fashion Street – Trendy clothes at bargain prices
Parsi Dairy Farm – Authentic Parsi sweets like mawa cakes, lagan-nu-custard
The Sodawaterwala Agiary is not just a place of worship, but a vital part of the Parsi community's spiritual and cultural identity in Mumbai. Surrounded by historic landmarks, bustling markets, and coastal charm, it offers both peace and a glimpse into Zoroastrian heritage. Whether you're a member of the community seeking divine connection or a history lover exploring South Mumbai, the area around this Agiary is sure to leave a lasting impression.
