Experiencing Slumdog Millionaire in Mumbai, India With A Tour of Dharavi Slum

Though the 2008 movie Slumdog Millionaire presented India in a memorable way, the film is just loosely based on the reality of life within the country. For those looking to experience the actual reality of Slumdog Millionaire, a tour of Dharavi slum in Mumbai could be the perfect way to do so. However, before participating in a tour, it is necessary to have a better understanding of what to expect.

What is Dharavi Slum?

Dharavi Slum is one of the largest slums in the world, and is also recognized as the largest slum in Asia. Located in Mumbai, India, the slum is known for its densely populated area, which is often difficult for foreigners to navigate due to its lack of planning.

In Dharavi Slum, those living there make their living off of employment in the outer community. For example, many citizens live off of recycling plastic and leather products, while others are a part of other small businesses such as pottery-making and soap-making.

Though garbage and pollutants have always been an issue in this slum, it still is home to some of the country’s most culturally diverse populations, consisting of migrants from Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and numerous other states- who are primarily from Hindu and Muslim backgrounds.

Learn more about life within the slums on a guided tour with GetYourGuide

If you are interested in learning more about Dharavi Slum and how its populations live their daily lives, then there is no better way to do so than to take a guided tour with an experienced local tour operator as a part of GetYourGuide. The tour is immersive and informative, allowing visitors to witness firsthand how those living within Dharavi Slum make their livings within an area that’s much different than the “average” city life.

On this tour, you’ll learn more about life within India’s slums, including typical living conditions and occupations of those living there. You’ll also be able to take part in talks with experts on the cultural, social, and economic opportunities within this unique area– one that is currently home to over 700,000 people.

Additionally, you’ll be able to explore the varies aspects of this slum as a part of a larger project that aims to improve safety and welfare of those living in Dharavi Slum. This project provides financial help for those in need, as well as seeds for small businesses and education exemptions for children.

You’ll also explore the hubs of the slum such as mushroom farms, laundries, lower-level bookstores, recyclables management centers, and vocational training centers. Seeing these everyday components of this city will allow visitors to gain a true understanding of the vibrant economic culture that exists within the walls of Dharavi Slum.

See Dharavi Slum From All Sides During A Variety Of Modes Of Transportation

To explore this slum properly, you’ll be utilizing a variety of transportation methods throughout your tour. In order to engage with people living within the slums first-hand, you’ll be taking insulated auto rickshaws and buses throughout the city. This will provide visitors with an up-close view of this chaotic slums from streetside level. Additionally, since some areas within the slum are harder to reach by foot due to large amounts of garbage on the ground and narrow alleyways– service rickshaws and bikes will be provided (at no extra cost) to traverse these areas safely.

The Professional Guide Makes All The Difference On The Tour

The tour will also be accompanied by an experienced local guide who will provide some insight into current situations within Dharavi Slum as well as brief history lessons. Additionally, they will also help communicate with locals who may not speak English– providing visitors with a unique experience that they may not find whilst independently navigating these streets on their own.

A Unique Opportunity To Experience India Through A Firsthand Tour Of Dharavi Slum

Though movies such as Slumdog Millionaire offer insight into this world within India– nothing can truly top experiencing first-hand what Dharavi Slum is all about. For those looking for an exciting and eye-opening experience during their travels in India– a guided tour of Dharavi Slum through GetYourGuide could not be more perfect.

Ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience? Then book your tour through GetYourGuide now before it’s too late!

Insider’s Guide to Exploring Mumbai Like a Local

Mumbai, the city of dreams, is a melting pot of people, cultures, and experiences. Fondly known as Bombay, it is a city that never sleeps and offers a range of unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Here is an insider’s guide to navigating Mumbai like a local.

Local Attractions: Uncovering Hidden Gems

While iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India, Crawford Market, and Marine Drive are worth a visit, there are several other places in the city that offer a unique perspective of Mumbai. Try exploring the lesser-known Chor Bazaar, a bustling market that sells antiques, vintage items, and bric-a-brac. For history buffs, a visit to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must. The Elephanta Caves, located on a small island off the coast, are also worth exploring. They are a series of beautifully designed rock-cut temples dating back to medieval times.

Dining Spots: Savoring Local Cuisine and Culture

Mumbai is famous for its street food, and exploring local eats is a must-do for foodies. Try some vada pav, a local vegetarian burger, at Ashok Vada Pav, near the Kirti College in Dadar. For seafood, head to Trishna in Fort, where you can savor a range of dishes like butter garlic crab, tandoori pomfret, and prawn curry. Mumbai is also home to several Irani cafes, which are known for their chai, bun maska, and cheese omelets. One such iconic cafe is Kyani & Co, in Marine Lines, which has been around for over a century.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in the City’s Rich Heritage

Mumbai is a city of contrasts, where ancient and modern coexist in perfect harmony. Witness the city’s cultural diversity by visiting the temples, churches, and mosques that dot its landscape. Watch a play at the iconic Prithvi Theatre, or attend a concert at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), which hosts a range of events throughout the year. Visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum) to learn more about the city’s rich history and heritage.

Local History: The Stories That Shaped the City

Mumbai has a rich and fascinating history, shaped by the various dynasties, empires, and colonial powers that ruled over it. Learn more about the city’s past by visiting places like the Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum, which has a collection of over 12,000 artifacts related to Mumbai’s history. Take a walk along the city’s old fort walls, which still stand tall in some areas and catch a glimpse of medieval times. Visit the heritage homes of the Parsis in Dadar and discover their contribution to the city’s growth.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Creating Unforgettable Memories

Mumbai has a lot to offer beyond its usual sights and sounds. Try taking a ferry ride to the nearby Elephanta Island, and explore the caves at your leisure. Or, go for a walk in the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, which is home to leopards, deer, and several bird species. For an adrenaline rush, try hand gliding at Kamshet, located a few hours outside the city. Mumbai also has several book clubs, art galleries, and cinema clubs that conduct regular events and discussions and can make for a unique experience.

In conclusion, Mumbai is an enchanting and intoxicating destination that holds a world of surprises for those willing to explore beyond the obvious. With its rich cultural heritage, melting pot of people, and endless possibilities, it truly is a city like no other.