Home to nearly 1 million residents, Dharavi is the third-largest slum dwelling in the world and one of the most densely populated areas on the earth. This slum became famous following the release of the 2008 hit movie Slumdog Millionaire.

During this half-day guided tour you will get to go inside the slum to see how the residents live and work. There is a palpable sense of community that exists in Dharavi, a patchwork of people from all parts of India; marvel at the diversity as you see temples, mosques, and churches erected side by side.

Starting at the Mahim Railway Station, you will wind through the slum’s narrow alleyways and be greeted by friendly locals. The smells of bakery goods and exotic soaps will entice you as you walk past dime-sized cyber cafes, tailoring shops, and various vendors offering a wide range of handmade products including embroidered and leather goods.

Dharavi has a sizable recycling compound and a notable melting and molding industry making plastic toys. Some may call this area an eyesore in the middle of India’s financial capital, but the entrepreneurial spirit and creative industries that have been a result of the most diverse of slums is arguably the most diverse neighborhood in Mumbai.

In Kumbharwada, a large settlement set up in the 1930s, you will see beautiful clay pots crafted by traditional potters hailing from Gujarat. This area of narrow, winding roads in Dharavi is probably Mumbai’s unique way of holding on to its past. Because modernization is slow here, you will find rows of houses with dozens of hands covered in clay working in unison in an old art form attracting tourists, filmmakers, and photographers from all over the city.

Dharavi’s hub of innovative entrepreneurs and strong sense of spirit will break stereotypical beliefs about poverty and slum life and will leave you feeling inspired and hopeful for the resourceful people you meet here. Sign up for this popular tour today and you will leave this experience with a new-found appreciation of the human spirit.

Please Note: A tourist visa is required to debark in India. Cruise lines do not usually provide this visa, therefore, you will need to obtain one before your cruise.

India’s principal seaport, Bombay is “Mumbai” in Marathi. The Portuguese acquired the city from Bahadur Shah in the 15th century and called their new possession Bom Baim, mean “good bay”. With a population of over 20.5 million people, it’s also called the City of Dreams. You will discover the essence of the city on this comprehensive panoramic half-day tour.

See landmarks such as the Gateway of India, a colossal structure built-in 1924 overlooking the Mumbai harbor bordered by the Arabian Sea in the Colaba district. Learn about the most distinguished High Courts in India and observe the gothic style architecture of the University Bombay.

Discover the modest 2 storied building, Mani Bhavan, once serving as the nerve center for Gandhiji’s activities, now as his memorial. Also, see the sculpted greenery of the Hanging Gardens and the Kamla Nehru Park, containing the giant Old Woman’s Shoe.

Check out the world’s largest open-air laundromat of Mumbai, Dhobi Ghat. This vision will leave a lasting impression on you for the next time you do your own laundry. The gothic style Victoria Terminus Train Station, now known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) is located in the heart of Mumbai and is a ‘World Heritage Site’ declared by UNESCO in 2004. Built-in 1888, the station is a grand reminder of the British Raj pre-independence period and still one of the most historical landmarks within the central business district of Mumbai.

There are so many unusual facets of the city you will discover on this culturally immersive Mumbai tour. Don’t wait, book this tour now and let this tour truly make your trip memorable!

Please Note: A tourist visa is required to debark in India. Cruise lines do not usually provide this visa, therefore, you will need to obtain one prior to your cruise.

Feel the bustling energy Mumbai is known for, traveling to the city’s most noteworthy destinations. The famous Gateway of India landmark and the singular Taj Mahal Palace Hotel will amaze you. Visit the former residence of legendary activist, Gandhi. In between destinations, stop for some local food and tea, interacting with the local community to sense what it’s like living in the city. This Mumbai tour is ideal for newcomers to India, photographers, and anyone looking for a rich cultural experience.

The adventure begins by meeting your professional guide and enjoying comfortable transportation between your port and first destination. You’ll pass through the Gateway of India, Mumbai’s most famous landmark. This striking monument is a basalt arch overlooking the Arabian Sea. In older times, the Gateway of India would be the first thing visitors traveling by boat would see. After passing through the imposing arch, you’ll see the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, a picturesque five-star establishment praised for offering the highest level of service in India.

Driving along, visit Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a historic railway station with captivating architecture. Then, visit Dhobi Ghat, where you will see row upon row of colorful clothing hung to dry in the sun at the world’s largest outdoor laundromat.

Next, move on to Gandhi’s former residence. Mani Bhavan acted as the focal point of Gandhi’s political activities in Mumbai between 1917 and 1934. Inside, there’s an interesting museum and library commemorating Gandhi. Departing from Mani Bhavan, you will see a mosque located on an islet off the coast of Mumbai called Haji Ali Dargah, a Jain temple, and Kamala Nehru Park.

One of your tour’s final destinations is Malabar Hill, the highest point on the island, offering scenic views of Mumbai’s breathtaking skyline. Enjoy a ride through Marine Drive, a C-shaped concrete boulevard also known as “Queen’s Necklace,” due to its street lights resembling a string of pearls at night. You’ll end your tour with a visit to the Crawford Market, a lively merchant center providing the opportunity to fill your spice rack at home with flavorful authentic Indian spices.

Please Note: A tourist visa is required to disembark in India. Cruise lines do not usually provide this visa, therefore, you will need to obtain one prior to your cruise. A ship card and photo identification are also required to participate.