Shore excursions with pick-up and drop from Mumbai port - Cruise terminal
Head onshore onto Mumbai on this half day tour designed specifically for cruise travelers that have docked onto this vibrant city! Don't just see it from aboard a boat – immerse yourself in an exploration of the amazing culture and life in Mumbai! You'll meet your professional English speaking guide who will arrange for a pick up in an air conditioned vehicle that will be waiting for you on the Mumbai Port terminal. You will then proceed the Gateway of India, built during the visit of King George V and his Queen. You will then visit the first stop: the Taj Mahal Hotel, an illustrious 5-star structure of ornate architecture. Your next stop is at a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus train station, which is renowned for it unique gothic architecture. You can't visit Mumbai without exploring its amazing, fast paced markets, and you'll see thousands of wares, from produce and spices to souvenirs and textiles, coloring the streets and dazzling the eye. After this glimpse of everyday life in Mumbai, you'll head to the largest open air laundry in Asia, the Dhobi Ghaat, and see how such a place is so important to the millions of people in the city. Next you will visit Mani Bhavan, Mahatma Gandhi's residence, from here we go to Marine Drive. It's an amazing adventure through Mumbai, and you won't regret coming ashore here!
Elephanta Caves is a must-see destination for history buffs or archaeology afficionados who would like to see true excavations pertaining to the ancient histories of India. From the Gateway of India, your tour will ride a ferry to the island where the Elephanta Caves are found. You will climb 120 steps to the plateau where these caves can be entered. There are seven major excavations in the area, and you'll be able to explore the history behind the artifacts and structures found therein. There is a spacious hall supported by huge pillars, which are characteristic of architecture of the 6th and 7th centuries. A massive three-headed Shiva sculpture stands therein, which is one of the major attractions in the caves. You will be able to explore 3 caves, each with a unique feature: one is a large Hindu Cave, the other is a Buddhist cave, and the final one is a cave dedicated to the God Shiva. You will discover a beautiful cultural heritage site and gain deeper understanding of India's religious history.
Mumbai's Dharavi Slum is more than what meets the eye. Once your initial apprehensions are cast aside, you can open your eyes to a growing hive of life, living, and small businesses. Upon meeting your guide, you will head into Dharavi, where you will be able to experience the every day ongoings of this unique area. Numerous small businesses are thriving in every corner, from exotic soaps and handmade cosmetics, to pottery and textiles. Throughout your walk, you'll see how everyday life plays out with the members of the community within it. You'll see how they go to work, make their food, go home, and interact with everyone around them in this community. Along the way, you'll also learn the value of recycling. You'll see sourcing, treatment and reselling in the recycling process. It's a truly eye-opening experience in Mumbai.