Mumbai Express

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~~$725~~

$692

Mumbai Express

4 Days Starting and ending in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Visiting: Mumbai, Gateway Of India Mumbai, Dhobi Ghat

Tour operator:

Encounters Travel

Tour code:

642

Group Type:

Private

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 12

Physical rating:

All Ages / Not applicable

Age range:

8-95

Special diets catered:

Request dietary needs

Tour operated in:

English

From:

$725

$692 (USD) Exclusive Tourhub Members Discount: -$33

NB: Prices correct on 16-May-2024 but subject to change.

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Tour Overview

Get ready to experience the heart and soul of India's most dynamic metropolis! From vibrant street life to the glittering world of Bollywood, your Mumbai adventure awaits. Kick things off by stepping into the iconic Gateway of India, the city's grand welcome on the waterfront. Feel the pulse of the city as you cruise past Mumbai's heritage treasures - colonial-era architecture, bustling bazaars, and grand landmarks. Your next stop is a Bollywood extravaganza! Step behind the silver screen, witness live shoots buzzing with energy, explore elaborate sets, and be dazzled by mesmerizing dance performances. Get ready to feel the rhythm of Mumbai as you join the iconic Dabbawalas, the lifeline of the city's workforce, on a local train ride. Immerse yourself in the colors and chaos of Dhobi Ghats, the world's largest open-air laundry, and then stroll through a fragrant symphony of blossoms at the flower market. Finally, take a walk through Dharavi, a slum pulsating with life and inspiration, famously showcased in the movie "Slumdog Millionaire". This tour is designed as a sample tailor-made tour itinerary. As such we do not offer set group departure dates that you can join. Rather, the tour is available for you to do privately starting on any date of the year. Guideline seasonal prices are provided, based on 2 people travelling. If you would like to adjust the tour itinerary, or there will be more or less people travelling, please contact us and we will customise a price for you. We can operate most of our India tours throughout the year, however you should take the monsoon months of May to September into consideration when choosing your travel date as it can get very hot and wet during this period. Please note that the Dabbawalas tour operates only between Monday and Friday. Please consider this when selecting your tour start date.

Highlights

Gateway of India
Bollywood Studio Tour
Dabbawalas to see the Tiffin deliveries
Dhobi Ghats
Flower Market
Dharavi Slum

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Itinerary

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Day 1 : Welcome To Mumbai, Transfer To Hotel Included

Location: Mumbai

Accommodation: Hotel, Mumbai hotel

Meals Included: No Meals

Once you arrive in Mumbai, you'll be met by one of our local staff, who will transfer your hotel. Once you're settled in, we'll run through the tour itinerary for the next few days, brief you on the local area and arrange a time to collect you tomorrow.

Day 2 : Gateway Of India, Heritage Driving Tour And Bollywood Studios Tour

Location: Gateway Of India Mumbai

Accommodation: Hotel, Mumbai hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your day begins at Mumbai's majestic symbol, the Gateway of India. Stand in awe of this grand archway built overlooking the Arabian Sea, a legacy of the British Raj. Take some pictures and soak in the bustling energy around this landmark.

Next we embark on a scenic drive through the heart of Mumbai's heritage district. Admire the architectural marvels that speak of the city's rich history. You'll witness gems such as the the Flora Fountain (A beautifully sculpted fountain in the vibrant Fort area), Rajabai Clock Tower (a Big Ben-inspired clock tower, a prominent landmark of Mumbai), High Court (An imposing Victorian Gothic structure of the Bombay High Court) and the Victoria Terminus.

In the afternoon, prepare to be immersed in the enchanting world of Hindi cinema! On your studio tour, you might get lucky and witness a live shooting in progress. Explore elaborate film sets that transport you to different worlds and get a behind-the-scenes look at the filmmaking process. To top it all off, be dazzled by lively Bollywood dance performances that will get your feet tapping! This action-packed day offers a wonderful insight into Mumbai's historical grandeur and the magic of its film industry. Get your cameras ready, you'll be making memories to cherish!

Day 3 : Experience The Efficiency Of The Dabbawalas, Visit Dhobi Ghat And The Dharavi Slums

Location: Dhobi Ghat

Accommodation: Hotel, Mumbai hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning we'll board a local train to witness the extraordinary efficiency of Mumbai's Dabbawalas, an intricate network of lunchbox delivery men. Marvel at their precision and teamwork as they navigate the city's chaotic streets to ensure thousands of hot meals reach office workers on time.

Later, we'll visit Dhobi Ghat, the world's largest open-air laundry. Be amazed by the sheer scale of operation, where thousands of clothes are washed, dried, and pressed with meticulous care each day. The next stop is the Flower Market where you'll witness the bustling trade of blooms and garlands, a testament to the city's rich cultural traditions.

Our last stop is the Dharavi Slums, which became famous after being featured in Slumdog Millionnaire. Embark on a walking tour of Dharavi, one of Asia's largest slums. Challenge the stereotypes portrayed in "Slumdog Millionaire" as you discover a self-sustaining community filled with industriousness, resourcefulness, and incredible human spirit.

Day 4 : Bon Voyage! Airport Transfer Included

Location: Mumbai

Meals Included: Breakfast

You have some free time to buy any gifts for your loved ones back home before we transfer you to the airport to catch your flight back home.

What's Included

Mumbai Accommodation 4-star
All transport and transfers in AC vehicles
24-hour airport arrival and departure transfer service
Sightseeing tours and activities as per the itinerary
Mumbai City Tour featuring Gateway to India, Flora Fountain, the Rajabai Clock Tower, the High Court, Mumbai University and the Victoria Terminus
Bollwood Studios Tour including live shooting, Rehman Wall, SJ Wall of Fame, Bollywood Gallery, Bollywood Dancing, Bollywood Famous Costumes and a Set Tour
Take a short train ride to see the Dabbawalas delivering tiffins to the workers of the city
Visit the Dhobi Ghats, thought to be the largest laundry in Asia.
Walk through the Dharavi Slums, made famous on Slumdog Millionnaire.
Services of a local tour leader and specialist local guides
Entrance Fees for the included sightseeing
Meals as indicated in the itinerary

What's Not Included

International flights (available on request)
Visa fees
Travel insurance (compulsory, available on request)
Meals not indicated in the itinerary
Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
Tips for driver and/or tour guide
Any other items not mentioned above

Mode of Transport

A/C minivan/minibus

Accommodation

4-star hotel

Check out our Q&As

What currencies are required for this tour?

Rupee (INR; symbol Rs) = 100 paise. Notes are in denominations of Rs 2,000, 1000, 500, 200, 50, 20, 10 and 1 Coins are in denominations of Rs 10, 5, 2 and 1, and 50 paise (Rs 0.5). Note: The import and export of local currency is prohibited. Sometimes smaller vendors will not take bills larger than Rs 500. It is best to carry a range of rupee notes if you are shopping at bazaars and local markets. Note: You must present your passport whenever you change currency or travellers cheques. Commission for foreign exchange is becoming increasingly rare; if it is charged, the fee is nominal. Credit cards: In major cities, the full cadre of banks cards are generally accepted including debit cards, American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa. However, in smaller towns and villages, choice is generally narrowed to cash or MasterCard and Visa. ATM: 24 hour ATM machines can be found in all the major cities and most large towns. Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus, Maestro and Plus are amongst the most commonly accepted cards. Travellers cheques: These are gradually getting less accepted but may still be changed at larger banks and some larger hotels. The most widely accepted currencies include US Dollars and Pounds Sterling. Some banks may refuse to change certain brands of traveller's cheques whilst others may exchange quite happily.
Are vaccinations required for this tour?

You should ensure you are fully insured for medical emergencies including emergency evacuation and repatriation. Recommended vaccinations and other health protection measures vary according to the country you are visiting and where you are travelling from. We recommend you contact your GP/medical practitioner or a travel clinic for current information on vaccinations needed for your destination. You should ensure that you are up to date with vaccines and boosters recommended for your normal life at home, including for example, vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions. In addition, additional courses or boosters normally recommended for the countries in this region are: India: Additional vaccinations: Diptheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Yellow fever rules for India are quite complicated and lengthy. Please read the WHO guidance. Malaria: Vaccinations are not available against Malaria, which is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes that can be very serious and sometimes fatal. You should avoid mosquito bites by covering up bare skin with clothing such as long sleeves and long trousers and applying insect repellents to exposed skin. When necessary, sleep under a mosquito net. Mosquitoes are most active during and after sunset. You should consult with your GP/medical practitioner/travel clinic about the most appropriate malaria prophylactic medication to take for the regions you are visiting. In general the north eastern regions of India including Assam and Orissa are considered high risk,while the rest of India is generally considered low enough risk that anti-malarial tablets are not necessary for most travellers doing relatively short tours. Yellow Fever: This disease is spread by infected mosquitoes that bite during the day. A Yellow Fever Certificate of vacinnation may be required as a condition of entry depending on which country you are arriving from, or that you have travelled or transitted through recently (including connecting flights with stopovers of over 12 hours). You can view this US CDC information about where the virus is present and follow the links to further information detailing which countries need you to have a Yellow Fever vaccination as part of their entry requirements. Please ensure you have this certificate with you and to hand if necessary. Please inform us of any pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or asthma and any prescription medicine you may be taking. We also need to know about any food allergies or physical disabilities that you may have.
Do you require a visa for this holiday?

Most nationalities (including UK, USA, European, Australian, Canadian) will need to arrange their Indian tourist visa in advance. A new online e-visa system is available which makes the process more straightforward than before. You can make your application online at indiavisaonline. Visa requirements for India can and do change regularly and we suggest that you arrange your Indian visa early and re-check your specific visa requirements prior to travel for any changes.
What is the tipping policy?

Haggling is a traditional necessity, so its wise not to pay too much regard to initial prices. Instead fix an items value in your mind then negotiate towards it unhurriedly and don't be afraid to simply walk away if the price isn't right. Once you have offered a price though, you should be prepared to pay it as you may cause offence if you then back out. While an accepted part of the culture and customs in India, tipping is always optional, and the amounts paid should reflect excellent service. We are often asked for advice on common amounts, and for assistance with tipping. Some suggested guidelines are given below. Restaurants and taxis: Local markets and basic restaurants - leave the loose change. More up-market restaurants we suggest 5% to 10% of your bill. Local guides: Throughout your trip you may at times have a local guide in addition to your tour guide. We suggest USD 5-10 per person per day for local guides. Drivers: You may have a range of private drivers on your trip. Some may be with you for a short journey while others may be with you for several days. We would suggest a higher tip for those more involved with the group, for example if you don't have an extra accompanying guide. However USD 3-6 per person per day is generally appropriate. Tour Guides: To answer your next question. . . as a guideline for tour guides who accompany you on the entire tour, we suggest you allow around USD 5-10 per person per day, but ultimately, as with all the tipping descrbed above, its up to your satisfaction with their service and your personal budget. You should not feel pressured to tip any particular amount.
Is travel insurance compulsory?

Yes! Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event).

What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

You are always able to change your travel date. However, some charges may apply depending on how long before your departure you make the change. Our flexible booking conditions and reduced charges will apply if you are changing date because of a Covid-19 reason or because your government is advising against travel to your destination. Please check our detailed booking conditions for full details.
When is my balance payment due?

60 days prior to departure
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

On most of our group tours, solo travellers may choose to form a temporary 'tour bubble' and share a room with another traveller of the same sex in the group. If a room share is not available then a single room supplement may be payable, with the costs for these kept as low as possible. We have also removed compulsory single supplements from many of our tours, and are reducing the cost by 50% on s
Can I transfer my booking to someone else?

Customers may transfer their booking or any Credit on File to another person who satisfies all the relevant conditions to the tour, provided that we are notified not less than 7 days before departure, and the transferee agrees to these booking conditions and all other terms of the contract between us. The Client and new booker are jointly and severally responsible for any outstanding payments and a transfer administration fee of GBP50 / USD75 / CAD100 / AUD100 / NZD100 / EUR75 / ZAR1000 / INR5000 or GBP100 / USD150 / CAD200 / AUD200 / NZD200 / EUR150 / ZAR2000 / INR10,000 if the transfer is made less than 60 days before departure. Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended or transferred after they have been confirmed (for example flight tickets, Gorilla Permits) and any alteration could incur a cancellation and rebooking charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

EdinburghBlair

Tailor made tour of India

February 2017

This is our fifth trip orgainsed by Encounters and the very efficicient and thougtful Anthony Horrobin and his colleages in India. We travelled in Rajastan and the Punjab. All the key sites eg Taj Mahal, Amber Foort etc are amazing of course but sometimes people do not go further afield. You should! Johdpur and Udaipur have beautiful sites and very attractive hotels and restaurants. They are also excelllent for shopping! Udaipur's lake setting is utterly beautiful. The Amet Haveli on its shores is one of the lovelies hotels I have every stayed in Amritsar and the Golden Temple are too little visited. They are extraordinary and so full of history. The Encounters arrangements went without a hitch. Two of the gudes were quite outstanding but all were good. The cars and drivers superb and attentive.

ccollins2015

India express tour with ranthambore extension

November 2014

My husband and I went on this tour in November 2014. It was an amazing experience. We had never been to India before and I think this was the perfect introduction to the country. Everyone involved with the tour were friendly, informative and helpful. Our driver throughout the nine day india express portion was a consummate professional and lovely person. Everyone has their own idea of what they want in a hotel and in my opinion all the hotels were great and very different from each other. I would say the Jaipur hotel we stayed in was the winner for charm and the Churu hotel the winner for quirkiness. It was certainly a whirlwind nine days and I loved that the company gave us the option to see rural life as well as the more tourist heavy areas( or touristic as the locals called it). The Ranthambore extension gave us another view of the country. We travelled by train and and although we were most interested in seeing tigers, they did not cooperate with us. Everyone said this was a sign that we had to return....and we agreed! We will return to India and it will definitely be through Encounters. We had only ever travelled in Europe and North america before and were nervous about how well organized this trip would be but it ran like clockwork and we quickly relaxed into enjoying the experience. This was the best trip we've ever been on.

EdinburghBlair

Encounters Travel - India Temples and Palaces

January 2015

We have just returned from a 15 day tour of Rajastan, Varanasi, Khajuraho and Orcha organised by Encounters. This was brilliantly organised and planned. The staff in the UK (Anthony Horrobin in particular) and India could not do enough to help us. For eg when we were disappointed with one hotel they arranged another heritage one for us. The briefing material was also impeccable. We were met all over India by helpful courteous people; everything ran like clockwork. The excellent drivers (who have to negotiate some mad traffic and some difficult roads) looked after us as if we were part of their family eg checking we were happy with our hotel, making sure we were not too tired (we are quite old!) They would also show us some of their favorite spots not on the itinerary; special thanks to Man Singh who was with us for a week. Our guides were also excellent. Of course some were more skillful than others in picking up what we already knew and tailoring their accounts accordingly - (special credit to Vikram Singh Rathore in Jaipur) but all were informative. In response to our questions we also learned a lot about contemporary politics, their own families and aspirations. We particularly enjoyed this and it added to our admiration of this extraordinary country which is achieving so much and has so much still to do. We were sorry to say goodbye to all these people who had helped and entertained us; and we wish we could meet them again. The hotels we stayed in (some of which we will review separately) were all comfortable and all had excellent staff. Some were beautiful and/or extraordinary eg the Amar Mahal in Orcha (a new hotel built in Mughal style in the enchanting little town of Orcha) and the Malji ka Kamra ( a converted palace) in Churu. We had booked to go on a group tour but in the end we were the only people on it. So we appreciate we had the huge bonus of exclusive treatment and all the flexibility of a private car. However, even without this all the basic components of the holiday would have been the same. We will definitely travel with Encounters again (and had already traveled to Egypt with their sister firm Uncover the World). In fact so enthused have we been by this trip that we are asking Encounters what additional trip they can organise to India before our visas run out! Go for it! You will not be disappointed.

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Dates & Availability

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May
2024 Jun
2024 Jul
2024 Aug
2024 Sep
2024 Oct
2024 Nov
2024 Dec
2024 Jan
2025 Feb
2025 Mar
2025

Sunday - Wednesday

May 19, 2024 - May 22, 2024

~~$725~~ $692 (USD)