About this experience
Mumbai has it all: millionaires and the impoverished, Muslims and Buddhists, traditionalists and modernists. We know the city like the back of our hand and will show you all its secrets. You will see the skyscraper of India's richest man, visit the world's largest outdoor laundry, and gaze at the gate through which the British left the city. To top it off, you will have lunch at an authentic cafe from the novel 'Shantaram'.
What to Expect
City of Contrasts
Mumbai, still referred to as Bombay by locals, is a city of contrasts: where you can witness slums and grand hotels, women in traditional sarees and young people in luxury brand attire, Portuguese cathedrals, Muslim mosques, and Hindu temples. Let's unravel the secrets of this unique metropolis. In one day, we will visit key attractions: the 'Taj Mahal Palace' hotel, Dhobi Ghat laundry, the Hanging Gardens, the sacred Banganga tank, the Bandra area, and other places. Tell me your preferences, and I will tailor a program specifically for you. Where shall we go?
Gateway of India and 'Taj Mahal Palace' Hotel
After Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata was denied a meeting with partners in a European hotel due to his 'unsuitable' skin color, he built the most extravagant palace in the world, where anyone could stay regardless of race. Thus, the 'Taj Mahal Palace' was born. The building was crafted by the world's best architects, including Gustave Eiffel. In 1947, Lord Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of India, proclaimed India's independence within the halls of the 'Taj Mahal'. Near the hotel stands a grand basalt arch known as the Gateway of India, where the British departed from India. It's one of the best photo spots in the city.
Dhobi Ghat Laundry
Remember how you slept on fresh linen in a hotel? See where they achieve such crystal cleanliness. Dhobi Ghat is the world's largest open-air laundry. 7000 people here manually wash, dye, and hang clothes to dry for the entire city. Family recipes of cleansing powders are passed down from grandfather to grandson.
Cafe 'Leopold'
We can stop for lunch at a local street food cafe or a luxurious hotel restaurant, but for 'Shantaram' enthusiasts, I have a special suggestion. Let's visit Cafe 'Leopold' on Colaba Causeway – where the main character spent much of his time. This place is considered the most authentic 'Bombay' cafe in the city.
Logistics
- We will meet you at your hotel in Mumbai and drop you off afterward; for an additional fee, we can arrange transfers from the suburbs (ranging from $10 to $20 depending on the distance). Alternatively, you can reach Mumbai on your own, e.g., by booking an Uber.
- This is a car tour (typically in a Toyota Innova). Part of the tour will be on foot (approximately 2 hours).
- We can accommodate tours for groups of 8 people or more (in which case, a minibus will be used for an extra charge).
- Remember to wear comfortable shoes and clothing that covers your knees and shoulders.
- We plan to visit a temple where shoes must be removed. You can remain in socks, but there's a chance of getting them wet (water is used in rituals at the temple).
- Entrance to the Dhobi Ghat laundry area is an additional fee (you can choose not to enter) – 600 rupees per person.
- Also, prepare 10-20 rupees for shoe storage at the temple (as a voluntary donation).
