One of the most ancient temples in Mumbai, Lord Shiva in the form of a Babul tree is the presiding deity of the Babulnath temple. Situated at the end of Marine Drive and South of Malabar Hill, the temple is nearly 1000 feet above the sea level, overlooking the Arabian Sea. The temple was built in 1780 and is one of the most spacious temple complexes in the city. In 1900, a tall spire was added to the original construction. The temple is always abuzz with festivities, especially on Mondays, which is the main day of worship. A stone `lingam` of Shiva is worshipped in Babulnath temple. In the month of `Shravan` or August/September, which is associated with Lord Shiva, millions of devotees visit the Babulnath temple to offer milk to the `Shivling`. The `Shivling` is believed to be the head of Lord Shiva, and it is venerated amidst the holy chanting of the mantra "Om Namah Shivay".

According to the legend associated with the Babulnath temple, a cow named Kapila belonged to a prosperous goldsmith called Pandurang, had stopped giving milk. This becoming a daily affair, Pandurang became curious, on enquiry, it was found that before coming home Kapila, the cow, regularly gave away all milk at a particular spot. To Pandurang`s amazement there was a huge Shivling at that spot. This was primarily the inspiration behind the building of the Babulnath temple, on this sacred spot. People flock to this temple in search of peace and tranquility, because the sheer beauty of the architecture reminds one of Mount Kailash, the eternal home of Lord Shiva.

The Babulnath temple is well accessible from all corners of the city. The nearest station is Grant Road, and from there one can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.