Tour Two Unique Mumbai Institutions - Dabbawalas & Dhobis

Mumbai , India

Tour Two Unique Mumbai Institutions - Dabbawalas & Dhobis

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About this experience

Visit with the Mumbai Dabbawalas - an organization operating a 100 years old delivery system that collects hot food in lunch boxes from the residences of customers and delivers them to their respective offices. The system operates with great precision but without computer technology. Dabbawalas use various modes of transports such as bicycles and operate irrespective of weather and climate. Following, visit the Dhobi Ghats, Mumbai’s famous ‘laundry’ service, row upon row of concrete wash pens, each fitted with its own flogging stone. Clothes are still cleaned manual here.

Highlights
• Dabbawala as a Unique Institution
• Logistical Supply Accuracy
• Ancientness of the Dhobi Ghats
• Clothes Cleaning Mechanism
• The People behind both Services

Available options

1-8 Travelers

Price per person for 1-8 travelers<br/>Pickup included

What's included

02 bottles of mineral water per person per day.

English Speaking Guide.

Hotel pick up / drop off within city.

Transport by private vehicle.

Detailed itinerary

You will be picked up from your hotel within city center and taken to Churchgate Station. Upon arrival a brief introduction will be given. You learn how the Dabbawalas sort their Tiffin boxes (lunch boxes) according to delivery area. The boxes are coded in an exact system to ensure that they are distributed and arrive at the right place at the right time. At Churchgate Station, Dabbawalas carry the boxes on their head and here the redistribution takes place based on destination and building. You will get the opportunity to meet dabbawalas, learn from them and witness their highly specialized service.

Stop 2

After finishing it, you will be driven to Dhobi Ghat. This is Mumbai’s second unique service feature. The Dhobi is a traditional laundryman, who will collect your dirty linen, wash them, and return them neatly pressed to your doorstep. The clothes are soaked in soap water, beaten on flogging stones, then tossed into huge vats of boiling starch and hung out to dry. Next they are ironed and piled into neat bundles. The activity takes place on the outside and is ancient in its appearance.

Upon completion of your tour you will be driven back to your hotel within the city center in a private air-conditioned vehicle.

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

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Dress code is smart casual

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, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

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.