How to Book a Slumdog Millionaire Tour of Dharavi Slum in Mumbai

If you’re looking for a totally unique experience when visiting Mumbai, India, then a Slumdog Millionaire Tour of Dharavi Slum is a must. Aside from giving tourists an in-depth look at an area known as the world’s largest slum, Dharavi is also the very same place where the Oscar-winning movie Slumdog Millionaire was filmed. Of course, since the film’s release, the notorious slum area of Mumbai has experienced a surge of interest from people around the world — and this tour will take you right inside the heart of it.

If you’re considering taking the tour, here’s what you need to know, including everything from seasonal tips and advice on how to book one conveniently and safely.

What to Expect on a Slumdog Millionaire Tour of Dharavi Slum

Although there is no single tour experience with this activity, all tours will provide an insider look at what life is like in the world’s most famous slum. You will be able to see firsthand many of the same sites featured in the film, including some of its numerous jam-packed alleyways and bustling settlements.

The best tours are run by experienced guides, who will provide you with insight into the lives of Dharavi residents. Among other things, you’ll visit a variety of vibrant markets and learn about small-scale industries and businesses located inside the slum. You’ll also see how local businesses and artisans create items using recycling materials, in addition to a variety of interesting cultural tidbits along the way. The Dharavi area features an impressive 90,000 small businesses and an estimated 650,000 people living in what is officially designated as a “ghetto.’ It’s no wonder it has become one of the leading attractions of Mumbai.

Important Tips for Taking a Slumdog Millionaire Tour of Dharavi

Here are some useful tips to help ensure that you have the best experience possible:

Choose the Right Time to Go

We recommend visiting during the cooler months of December through February. Otherwise, it can be hot and muggy year-round. Also, although Sundays are more popular days to explore the slums, we suggest scouting it out on weekdays when it will likely be less crowded.

Dress Appropriately

It’s best to dress appropriately since you’ll be visiting some modest residential areas. Fewer layers are ideal so you won’t sweat too much in the heat. If clothing covers your shoulders and your ankles, you should be fine. Women should also consider wearing trousers rather than shorts or skirts.

Go With a Trusted Guide Only

The Dharavi slum consists of many small alleyways and streets that could easily make visitors feel disorientated or unsafe. We recommend that you opt for a visit with a knowledgeable and reliable guide to help you around. Doing this will give you an opportunity to find out more about the area’s social-political dynamics in an informed manner.

Bring Casino Cash

It’s also important to bring some cash along with you since most purchases you’ll make at the markets won’t accept credit cards (although we advise against buying anything illegal). Finally, bringing smaller denominations of cash is preferable to large notes as most local shop owners may not have change for bigger ones.

How To Book a Slumdog Millionaire Tour of Dharavi Slum

The easiest and safest way to book a Slumdog Millionaire Tour of Dharavi is through GetYourGuide — a reliable trip booking website that sets up sightseeing experiences for travelers around the world. If you want to make sure you optimize your slum experience with insider knowledge on whatever day and time works for you, then GetYourGuide is definitely your go-to option.

With GetYourGuide, you can view available tour options — and schedule one comfortably in advance. You can also select from knowledgeable guides who are fluent in different languages and skilled local experts who know the surrounding areas inside-out.

That said, there may also be other local tour companies offering packages around the slums. Again, though, we recommend booking through GetYourGuide — so you can have confidence that your activity provider is reputable and reliable.

Summary

Overall, booking a Slumdog Millionaire Tour of Dharavi offers tourists an incredible chance to experience a completely unique insight into one of India’s famous locations. Not only that but it can be an incredibly fascinating journey of discovery too — since it allows you to get up close and personal with another culture in all its glory. That being said, it is important to keep safety precautions in mind: know when to go, what to wear and, most importantly, where to book your trip for the best possible experience! To make sure your tour is 100% safe and reliable, you should book it through GetYourGuide in advance — giving yourself total peace of mind.

So if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind experience that will give you some valuable insight into the local culture and customs of India — plus provide some totally Instagram worthy shots — then a Slumdog Millionaire Tour of Dharavi could be just what you need! Visit GetYourGuide and book your guided trip today!