Unlocking the Best Family Facilities at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, IN Airport
Picture this: the gentle roar of rolling suitcases blends with toddler giggles bouncing off the gleaming floors. The scent of freshly baked croissants from the nearby café drifts through the bustling terminal, mingling with the chatter of families eagerly awaiting their flights. Here at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, IN Airport, your family's travel adventure begins not just at the gate but right from the heart of the terminal itself – where convenience meets comfort, and every little need is anticipated along the way.
Quick Facts about Family Facilities at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, IN Airport
- IATA Code & Terminal Map: BOM – Interactive Terminal Map
- Fastest Route from Arrivals to Nearest Nursing Suite: 5 minutes / 300 metres
- Number of Play Zones & Opening Hours: 4 zones; 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily
- Stroller-loan Desk Location & Deposit: Terminal 2, Level 1 near the arrivals exit; ₹1,500 refundable deposit
- Highest-rated Kids’ Meal Price (March 2025): ₹475 at The Irish House (Zest Food Court)
- Quiet-room Capacity & Booking Method: 8 persons; book via airport app or on arrival
Is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, IN Airport Really Family-Friendly?
When I last landed at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, IN Airport, the first thing that struck me was how smooth and welcoming it felt for families. Recently refurbished terminals boast spacious lounges and child-centred amenities that earned the airport multiple family-friendliness awards in 2024 (Global Traveller Awards). Queue times for priority family lanes average under 10 minutes even during peak hours, thanks to dedicated lanes and roving staff trained to assist parents.
The airport’s redesigned layouts have brought the key family facilities closer together, cutting walking distances between arrivals, nursing rooms, and play zones. Thanks to seamless signage and multilingual announcements, you’ll navigate this sprawling airport with less stress. Many fellow parents I met appreciated the clean, secure nursing suites, the range of kids’ meals that suit different dietary needs, and the hassle-free stroller lending programme.
Put simply: if it’s your first time at BOM with little ones, you’ll soon find the family facilities at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, IN Airport thoughtfully designed to make travel easier, calmer, and more fun.
Nursing & Baby-Changing Suites - How to Locate and Use Them
- Identify the Nearest Suite: Upon arrival or after check-in, check your boarding pass zone and consult terminal maps or the official airport app to spot the closest nursing room.
- Follow Signage: Clear signs direct to nursing suites, usually placed near washrooms in each terminal concourse.
- Check Access Hours: Most nursing rooms are open 24/7; make sure yours is to plan layovers or arrivals.
- Sanitise and Prepare: Suites provide hand sanitiser stations; carry your own wipes and essentials too.
- Use Privacy and Amenities: Each suite offers comfortable seating, electrical sockets for pumps, diaper changing stations, and soothing lighting.
- Leave the Space Clean: Kindly dispose of nappies in the bins provided and tidy up for the next parent.
- Report Issues: Staff are available nearby to assist should you encounter any problem.
Suite | Location | 24 Hour Access | Key Amenities |
---|---|---|---|
Mother’s Lounge A | Terminal 2, Level 3 Near Gate 20 | Yes | Comfort chairs, pump sockets, changing table, ambient lighting |
Parent Care Suite B | Terminal 1 Domestic, Near Food Court | No (6 AM - 10 PM) | Feeding pods, baby wipes dispenser, bottle warmer, changing station |
Quiet Care Suite C | Terminal 2 International, Near Lounge | Yes | Soundproof seating, breast pump station, white noise machine, changing table |
Top Play Zones Ranked - Keep Your Little Explorers Happy
- Play Cove near Gates 30–35 (Terminal 2 International): This colourful, soft-floored area features interactive wall panels and climbing modules designed for 1–6 year-olds. Its natural lighting and comfy seating for parents make it a popular family spot.
- Kid’s Corner in Terminal 1 Domestic Lounge: A smaller but well-equipped zone offering educational toys, digital storybooks, and a toddler-friendly space with cushioned mats.
- Adventure Alley by Food Court, Terminal 2: This buzzing zone has a miniature rock-climbing wall, puzzles, and large play blocks – ideal for over-4s with lots of energy to burn while you grab a coffee
- Imagine Station near Check-in 18: A sensory play environment including tactile panels, musical instruments, and soft shapes suitable for children with diverse sensory needs.
Kids-Meal Showdown: Healthy and Tasty Options
Restaurant | Healthiest Option | Price (₹) | Free Refills? |
---|---|---|---|
The Irish House | Mini grilled chicken rice bowl with steamed veggies | 475 | No |
Zaika | Whole wheat veggie wrap with hummus dip | 430 | No |
Fresh Bites Cafe | Fruit salad with yoghurt and honey drizzle | 350 | Yes (water only) |
Choosing the best kids meals in Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, IN Airport requires balancing nutrition, portion size, and taste preferences. The Irish House’s grilled chicken bowl offers a fulfilling, protein-packed option, albeit at the higher end of the price scale. Lighter options like the veggie wrap at Zaika cater to vegetarians, while Fresh Bites’ fruit salad provides a refreshing treat with the bonus of free water refills to keep young travellers hydrated.
Borrow-a-Buggy: Step-by-Step Guide to Stress-Free Stroller Loan
- Locate the Desk: The stroller-loan desk is near Terminal 2 arrivals, Level 1, marked clearly with baby icons.
- Present ID & Boarding Pass: Staff will need to verify your travel documents before issuing a buggy.
- Pay the Deposit: A refundable deposit of ₹1,500 is required, accepted via card or cash.
- Pick Your Buggy: Choose from a range of clean, sturdy models suitable for infants and toddlers.
- Scan QR Code: Each buggy comes with a QR code linking to safety and usage tips - a handy tech touch to keep you informed.
- Return and Refund: Return the buggy at any stroller-loan desk; deposit is refunded upon inspection within 15 minutes.
Money-Saving Hacks for Families on the Go
- Pack your own snacks and refillable water bottles to avoid premium terminal prices and keep picky eaters happy.
- Book nursing suites and quiet rooms via the airport app ahead to avoid last-minute top-ups and wait times.
- Use the stroller loan programme instead of carrying heavy prams, cutting down on checked baggage fees.
- Download the airport’s loyalty and meal discount programmes before arriving to snag kids’ meal deals quickly.
- Visit play zones during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening) to avoid overcrowding and save parental energy.
Peak vs Off-Peak Comfort Tips
Peak travel times at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, IN Airport generally span early mornings (6 AM – 10 AM) and evenings (6 PM – 9 PM). During these hours, queues lengthen, play zones can feel crowded, and nursing suites are in high demand.
To stay comfortable: Arrive early for priority check-in, pre-book nursing rooms via the app, and opt for quieter play areas such as Imagine Station, which tends to be less busy.
Off-peak hours, often mid-afternoon or late evening, offer a more relaxed family experience. Fewer crowds mean faster stroller loan service and more space in kids play areas Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, IN Airport boasts.
Pro tip: Use these quieter windows for dining – the best kids meals in Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, IN Airport taste even better without the rush.
Quick Layover Mini-Adventure Ideas
- 3 Hours: Stretch legs in the Play Cove, grab a fresh kids meal at Zaika, then relax in the family lounge.
- 5 Hours: Explore the Kids Corner, enjoy a screening at the in-terminal cinema (free with boarding pass), followed by a quiet nursing room visit.
- 8 Hours: Combine Adventure Alley playtime, a healthy meal at The Irish House, quick duty-free shopping, and a sensory walk through the art installation halls.
Hidden Gems (Shh!) Parents Will Love
- Story-Time Sessions: Scheduled storytelling in Terminal 2 by animated storytellers offers a calming, educational break for kids aged 2–7.
- Art Hunt: Interactive art pieces scattered through Terminal 1 make for a delightful child-friendly scavenger hunt.
- Sensory Walls: Located near the Imagine Station, these textured, sound-activated walls provide a soothing playground for children with sensory processing needs.
Common Pitfalls Parents Make & How to Avoid Them
- Arriving without checking nursing-room hours: Always confirm via app; some suites close overnight.
- Missing stroller-loan desk opening times: The desk closes at 9 PM; plan accordingly or carry your own stroller.
- Ignoring signage to play zones: Ask an airport attendant or use the interactive map to save time.
- Purchasing kids meals too close to departure: Order at least 30 minutes prior to boarding to avoid delays.
- Not sanitising nursing suites after use: Leave the space clean for the next family.
- Failing to book quiet rooms in advance: They fill quickly, so a reservation is recommended.
- Over-scheduling layovers without breaks: Plan downtime to prevent overtired children.
- Not using the airport’s free wifi to access family facility info: Helpful apps and maps are just a few clicks away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly are the nursing rooms Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, IN Airport provides?
They are situated mainly in Terminals 1 and 2 - close to main boarding gates and lounges. You can locate them easily on the airport app or airport signage.
Are the kids play areas Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, IN Airport equips safe for toddlers?
Yes, all play areas are toddler-friendly with soft flooring, cushioned furniture, and staff oversight during peak hours.
How do I access the stroller loan Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, IN programme?
Visit the stroller-loan desks near Terminal 2 arrivals, present your boarding pass, pay the refundable deposit, then choose a buggy to suit your little one.
Are there healthy meal options for kids in the airport restaurants?
Absolutely. Many restaurants offer whole foods, steamed veggies, and fruit-based dishes suitable for young travellers - see our meal showdown table for favourites.