The Original Mumbai by Dawn - Recommended by Nigella Lawson & Nat Geo Traveller!
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This 3-hour long tour pioneered by No Footprints gives you an insider's access into the soul of Mumbai! You will be prive to the backbone of the city's trade and what makes it truly tick. From exploring community trade and auction of 50 tonnes of fish at the docks, to the sorting of 7 different languages of newspapers; from flower markets to the story of the mills; this tour pays homage to the people of Mumbai- restless, hardworking and affluent.
From the markets to the communities who make it possible, get a chance to see all the action for yourself.
Witness a unique side of Mumbai, almost like secret, unfold as you you explore the city at Dawn.
Needless to say, it comes at a price – Waking up at 5.15 for one!
.
Available options
The Original Mumbai by Dawn - Recommended by Nigella Lawson & Nat Geo Traveller!
Pickup included
What's included
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Bottled water
Private tour
Professional guide
Driver and private transport
Coffee and/or Tea
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Shoe Covers at docks
A fruit
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Possibly the most architectural stunning building in India, Victoria Terminus Railway Station, now CST, sees a record of six hundred and sixty thousand footfalls daily, making it the busiest station in Mumbai.
At dawn, the CST station also serves as the city's largest newspaper sorting area.
2
Travelers understand the life of the Koli fisherfolk (the original inhabitants of Mumbai) and also witness the arrival and grading of 50 tonnes of fish. They also witness a one-of-its-kind fish auction of the famous Bombay Duck.
3
Witness the early morning colour and fragrance of this market.
4
In the middle of night, when the sky is pitch black and the rest of Mumbai is fast asleep, the wholesale produce market in the neighbourhood of Byculla is a hive of frenetic activity.
What's not included
Gratuities
Additional transport cost for pick-up from suburban Mumbai hotels
Additional cost for the services of a language guide (besides English)
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
15 reviews
5★
14
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
549 reviews
5★
542
4★
6
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
The docks are shut in June and July
The newspaper vendors are not available on the day after a public holiday
We do not conduct this tour on the day of the Mumbai Marathon
The sequence of the tour is at the discretion of No Footprints and its guide on-ground
The tour can be cancelled based on the discretion of No Footprints, the guests will be informed in advance of the same
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
