Mumbai's Beating Heart - A Walking Tour Of The Dharavi Slum

Mumbai , India

Mumbai's Beating Heart - A Walking Tour Of The Dharavi Slum

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Dharavi is one of the largest slums in Asia. It is known as Mumbai’s beating heart. On this guided two and half hour walking tour, you will see the residential areas of Dharavi and see how this diverse group of people co-exist in tight spaces. Also, explore the narrow lanes, shops and industries in this unique part of Mumbai. You’ll visit a local community center that is funded by the proceeds of your tour.

Highlights
• 2.5-hour walking tour of the famous Dharavi .
• Visit a local community center, funded by proceeds from your tour
• Tour the residential areas
• Explore the narrow lanes, shops, and industries

Available options

1- 8 Travelers

Cost based on per person basis<br/>Pickup included

What's included

English Speaking Local Guide

Snacks

02 bottles of mineral water per person per day

Dharavi Slum factories visit

Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle

Hotel Pick up / drop off from a city hotel in Mumbai

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The tour starts with a pick up from your hotel in Mumbai in a private air-conditioned vehicle. You will be driven to Dharavi, one of the largest slums in Asia. We prefer to think of this area as Mumbai’s beating heart. It houses about one million of Mumbai’s inhabitants and its industries have an annual turnover of approximately US $665 million.

On this two and half hour guided walking tour, you will visit the residential areas of Dharavi. People from all over India have come to live in Dharavi, making it a microcosm of the country. This diversity is apparent in the temples, mosques, churches and pagodas that stand side by side. You’ll also visit a community center for the residents. While touring, see a wide range of business activities: recycling, pottery-making, embroidery, baking, leather tanning, poppadom-making and more done by locals. Upon conclusion of the tour, you will be driven back to your hotel in Mumbai.

What's not included

Gratuities

Food and drinks, unless specified

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Pickup reconfirmation is required upon booking.

Your tour guide is sensitive to the issues and concerns surrounding slums and understands that this tour may not be suitable for everyone. Guides strongly believe that the purpose of this tour is for educational reasons alone and allows for a better understanding of Indian life inside Dharavi.

Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult

Meeting point

We will pick up traveler from their hotels / fixed point within city center.

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

About Mumbai

Mumbai, India's bustling financial capital, is a vibrant metropolis where tradition meets modernity. Known for its Bollywood industry, historic landmarks, and bustling street life, Mumbai offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and economic opportunities.

Top Attractions

Gateway of India

A historic arch monument built during the British Raj, located in the Apollo Bunder area.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Elephanta Caves

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient rock-cut temples and caves.

Historical Half-day trip 600 INR (including ferry and entry)

Marine Drive

A scenic promenade along the Arabian Sea, popular for evening strolls and views.

Scenic 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Vada Pav

A popular street food item consisting of a spiced potato fritter sandwiched between two slices of bread.

Snack Vegetarian

Pav Bhaji

A thick vegetable curry served with buttered bread rolls.

Dinner Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Sanjay Gandhi National Park Water sports at Juhu Beach Yoga and meditation at various centers Spa treatments at luxury hotels Visiting art galleries and museums Attending Bollywood dance classes Boating at Powai Lake Fishing at Girgaon Chowpatty

Best Time to Visit

November to February

The best time to visit Mumbai is during the winter months when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

18°C to 32°C 64°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Marathi, English
Widely spoken: Hindi, Gujarati
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

IST (UTC+5:30)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Mumbai is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid scams and pickpocketing.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable taxi services or apps like Uber and Ola.
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
• Keep your belongings secure in crowded areas.

Getting there

By air

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus

By bus

Mumbai Central, Bandra Terminus

Getting around

Public transport

The Mumbai Metro is a fast and efficient way to travel, but it currently covers only specific routes.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Colaba Bandra

Day trips

Alibaug

50 km from Mumbai • Half-day to full-day trip

A coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and historic forts.

Lonavala

80 km from Mumbai • Full-day trip

A picturesque hill station known for its lush greenery and scenic viewpoints.

Festivals

Gudi Padwa • March or April Ganesh Chaturthi • August or September

Pro tips

Visit the Elephanta Caves early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat.
Try local street food like vada pav, pav bhaji, and pani puri for an authentic culinary experience.
Explore the city's Art Deco architecture in the Colaba and Oval areas.
Take a Bollywood dance class for a fun and unique cultural experience.
Visit the Dharavi slum on a guided tour to learn about the local community and their innovative recycling practices.