How to Plan Your Private City Slum and Dabbawala Tour in Mumbai

If you’re planning to explore Mumbai, the Private City Slum and Dabbawala Tour is one that you won’t want to miss. This tour offers a unique perspective on the city’s daily life, culture and history. Follow our guide with this step-by-step guide to planning the perfect day out.

Step 1: Book your Tour

To start your tour, you’ll need to book your spot. Firstly, go to https://www.viator.com/tours/Mumbai/Private-City-Slum-and-Dabbawala-Tours/d953-85379P6?pid=P00070472&mcid=42383 and make your booking. This Private City Slum and Dabbawala Tour is a full-day experience with a knowledgeable local guide by your side.

Step 2: Get Ready to Explore Mumbai

The Private City Slum and Dabbawala Tour is a private tour for a personalized experience. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the city at your own pace while taking in the most popular sites.

Step 3: The Tour Itinerary

The tour includes stops at Mumbai’s most famous landmarks such as Gateway of India and Chowpatty Beach. You will also witness the Dabbawallas (lunchbox delivery people) at Churchgate Railway Station. This experience offers a chance to understand how the Dabbawallas work in coordinating the lunch delivery process. During the tour, you will also explore Dharavi, a slum community that is at the heart of Mumbai’s recycling industry. The local guide will show you around, and you will get a chance to interact with locals to know about their daily lives.

Step 4: What’s Included in the Tour

The Private City Slum and Dabbawala Tour includes plenty of opportunities to learn about the culture of Mumbai. During the tour, bottled water and snacks will be provided, adding to the comfort of your journey. Hotel transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle will be provided to and from the tour.

Step 5: What to Expect on the Tour

On the day of your tour, one of our guides will pick you up from your Mumbai location, and head straight for Churchgate Railway Station. Here you will witness the dabawallas sort thousands of lunches in a short time span. The tour will then continue to explore the iconic Gateway of India and the famous Chowpatty Beach. The final stop is Dharavi, where you will experience the heart and soul of Mumbai.

Step 6: Additional Information

It’s essential to know what to expect before going on a tour like this. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a hat or sunscreen. There are no specific dress codes, but please be respectful of the cultural and religious beliefs of the locals.

What’s Included:

• Private tour with an English-speaking guide
• Bottled water and snacks during the tour
• Lunch
• Hotel transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle

What’s Not Included:

• Personal Expenses
• Gratuities (recommended)

Meeting and Pickup:

Pickup points can be flexible, check with the operator soon after booking. Pick up and drop off from your location in Mumbai are included.

Book Your Tour Now

The Private City Slum and Dabbawala Tour is a unique and extraordinary experience that allows you to explore the heart and soul of Mumbai in a fascinating way. This tour includes everything you need to make your journey enjoyable and comfortable. Don’t forget to book your tour here to make sure that you don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about the City of Mumbai

Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is the economic capital of India and the most populous city in the country. It is a vibrant metropolis that attracts millions of tourists each year. The city is known for its iconic landmarks, rich history, bustling streets, diverse culinary scene, and vibrant nightlife. If you’re planning to visit Mumbai, read on to find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the city.

1. What is the best time to visit Mumbai?

The best time to visit Mumbai is between November and March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. During this time, the temperature ranges from 10°C to 35°C, and the humidity is low. If you visit Mumbai between June and September, you’ll experience the monsoon season, which can be quite heavy and unpredictable.

2. How to get to Mumbai?

Mumbai is well connected by air, road, and rail to all major cities in India and the world. The city has two airports, Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport and the domestic airport, which provide connectivity to most Indian and international destinations. You can also reach Mumbai by train, as it is a major railway hub, with trains connecting all parts of the country.

3. What are the top tourist attractions in Mumbai?

Mumbai has a plethora of tourist attractions that cater to all kinds of travelers. Some of the top attractions in the city include:

• The Gateway of India: This iconic structure is located at the entrance of the Mumbai harbor and is a popular spot for tourists due to its impressive architecture and historical significance.
• The Elephanta Caves: Located on an island off the coast of Mumbai, these caves contain ancient rock-cut temples that are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus: This railway station is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its Victorian Gothic architecture and historical significance.
• The Marine Drive: This 3.6-kilometer-long promenade is called the Queen’s Necklace and is a popular spot to enjoy the beautiful views of the Arabian Sea.
• The Juhu Beach: This renowned beach is located in the suburbs of Mumbai and is a popular spot for evening walks and delicious street food.

4. What are some popular festivals celebrated in Mumbai?

Mumbai is known for its vibrant cultural scene and hosts many festivals throughout the year. Some of the popular festivals celebrated in Mumbai are:

• Ganesh Chaturthi: This 10-day festival celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha and is one of the most important festivals in Mumbai. It is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm, and the city comes alive with colorful processions and music.
• Durga Puja: This festival celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over evil and is celebrated with great pomp and show in Mumbai.
• Diwali: This festival of lights is celebrated with great gusto in Mumbai, with people lighting up their homes with diyas and bursting crackers.
• Mahashivratri: This festival celebrates Lord Shiva’s marriage to Goddess Parvati and is celebrated with great devotion by the people of Mumbai.

5. What is the local cuisine of Mumbai?

The local cuisine of Mumbai is a delightful blend of flavors and spices, with street food being a major highlight. Some of the popular dishes include:

• Vada Pav: This is a popular street food that consists of a deep-fried potato dumpling served in a bun.
• Bhel Puri: This is a popular snack that consists of puffed rice, sev, and vegetables tossed in a tangy tamarind sauce.
• Pav Bhaji: This is a popular street food that consists of a spicy vegetable curry served with buttered bread.
• Misal Pav: This is a spicy dish that consists of moong dal, vegetables, and spices served with bread.
• Mumbai-style Pizza: This is a unique version of pizza that uses local spices and toppings such as paneer, chicken tikka, and tandoori chicken.

6. What are some popular shopping destinations in Mumbai?

Mumbai is a shopper’s paradise, with a wide range of shopping destinations catering to all kinds of budgets and preferences. Some of the popular shopping destinations in Mumbai include:

• Colaba Causeway: This is a popular street market that sells a wide range of items such as clothes, accessories, and souvenirs at bargain prices.
• Linking Road: This is a popular shopping destination that is known for its trendy clothes, shoes, and accessories at affordable prices.
• Chor Bazaar: This is one of Mumbai’s oldest markets that sell a wide range of items such as antiques, vintage items, and souvenirs.
• Palladium Mall: This is a luxury mall located in the heart of the city that houses some of the world’s top brands.
• Phoenix Marketcity: This is one of the largest malls in Mumbai that houses some of the top Indian and international brands.

7. What are the safety precautions one should take while traveling in Mumbai?

Mumbai is a relatively safe city, but it’s always better to take necessary precautions to ensure a hassle-free trip. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind while traveling in Mumbai:

• Avoid traveling alone at night: It’s always better to travel in a group or with a guide, especially at night.
• Be vigilant in crowded places: Pickpocketing and thefts are common in crowded places, so keep an eye on your belongings at all times.
• Use licensed taxis and autos: Always use licensed taxis and autos, as unlicensed ones may be unsafe.
• Be respectful of local customs: Mumbai is a cosmopolitan city, but it’s always better to be respectful of local customs and traditions while traveling.

Book Your Tour Now

Mumbai is a city that has something to offer for everyone, be it history, culture, food or shopping. With its vibrant energy and bustling streets, Mumbai is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to India. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, keep these FAQs in mind to make the most of your trip to this amazing city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Mumbai

Mumbai, also known as Bombay, is a city with an abundance of surprises that no travel guide can ever capture fully. It’s known as the city of dreams because it provides opportunities to those who come here to make a better life. But besides the daily hustle, Mumbai is also home to historical landmarks, architectural wonders, street foods, beaches, and recreational venues. This guide will take you on a tour of some of the must-visit places in Mumbai.

1. Gateway of India

One of the most iconic landmarks in Mumbai is the Gateway of India, built-in 1924. It is an excellent spot for taking photos and enjoying a beautiful sunset while observing the Arabian Sea. From here, you can boar a ferryboat and visit the Elephanta Caves, located on Elephanta Island, one hour away from the Gateway.

2. Elephanta Caves

The Elephanta Caves are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, famous for the intricate carvings, rock-cut temples, pillars, and tombs. These ancient caves attract thousands of tourists every year, and it’s worth taking a day trip to visit them.

3. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST)

CST, formerly known as Victoria Terminus, is a world-famous railway station that represents India’s colonial heritage. CST was built in 1887 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Check the timetable for long-distance trains and make sure to book your seat in advance if you plan to travel across India by train.

4. Marine Drive

Marine Drive is a seafront promenade in South Mumbai, with Arabian Sea on one side, and the city’s skyline on the other. It’s known as the Queen’s Necklace because the lights of the buildings resemble pearls sparkling at night. The best time to visit Marine Drive is in the evening, when locals come here to walk, jog or sit on the rocks, enjoying street food and the sea breeze.

5. Chor Bazar

Chor Bazaar is a crowded marketplace in South Mumbai that sells second-hand items, antiques, plus the latest tech gadgets. You can find anything here, from vintage cameras, watches or coins, to designer clothes and high-end electronics. Don’t forget to bargain, because that’s how the game is played here.

6. Crawford Market

Built in 1869, Crawford Market is a historic market in South Mumbai that sells everything from fresh fruits and vegetables, spices, poultry, to household items and pet food. The architecture of the building is a fusion of Gothis and Norman styles, and it’s worth visiting if you want to experience the diversity and colors of Mumbai.

7. Juhu Beach

Juhu Beach is a famous spot for locals to gather in the evenings to enjoy street food, cold drinks, and the view of the Arabian Sea. You can try local street foods like Pav Bhaji, Bhel Puri, or Vada Pav, while kids can enjoy horse-riding or playing games on the beach.

8. Sanjay Gandhi National Park

The Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a green oasis in the middle of the city, located in Borivali. It offers a sanctuary to various species of animals, such as leopards, tigers, and lions, and has one of the highest densities of trees in India. You can go hiking, cycling, or just take a stroll on the forest trails and observe the wildlife.

9. Haji Ali Dargah

Haji Ali Dargah is a popular mosque and tomb located in the Southernmost part of Mumbai. The shrine is built on a small island in the sea and can be accessed by a narrow pathway during low tide. It attracts people of all faiths who come here to seek blessings and pay their respect to a Muslim saint buried inside.

10. Siddhivinayak Temple

The Siddhivinayak Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh (the elephant god). It’s located in Prabhadevi and attracts hundreds of thousands of devotees every year. It’s said that the idol inside the temple is self-manifested (swayambhu), and it has the power to fulfill your wishes if your heart is pure.

Book Your Tour Now

Mumbai is a city that never disappoints those who seek adventure, culture, history, and good food. The list mentioned here is far from exhaustive, but it’s a good starting point for exploring this magical city. Remember to be respectful of the local customs and traditions, and don’t be afraid to ask locals for help or recommendations. Bon voyage!