Dharavi

धारावी

One of the largest slums in Asia, yet also a handicraft district with annual output worth over US$1 billion. Join a community tour to understand the real Mumbai.

Dharavi lies between Mahim Bay and the Western and Central railway lines in central Mumbai. It covers about 2.4 square km and is home to nearly 1 million people. It was the filming location for *Slumdog Millionaire*. Contrary to stereotypes, it is a highly self-organized production community. It recycles and sorts plastic (most of Mumbai's plastic recycling takes place here), with leather workshops, a pottery area (Kumbharwada, where Gujarati potters live), textile and embroidery workshops, and bakeries and snack workshops. Its annual output is estimated at over US$1 billion. The only recommended way to visit is through a community-run tour that is operated locally and returns its proceeds to the community, such as Reality Tours & Travel (2.5 hours, about 1,000–1,500 rupees per person, with photography prohibited out of respect for residents), or Slum Gods, a tour led by residents. Tours meet at Mahim Station and pass through the recycling area, workshops, residential neighborhoods and rooftop viewpoints. Guides are mostly young people who grew up in Dharavi. Since 2023, a redevelopment project led by the Adani Group has begun, and the area may look very different in the coming years.

Getting there: take the Western or Central line of the metro to Mahim or Sion station, or take a taxi.

Notes: Do not enter the maze-like alleys alone. Do not give money or candy to children. Wear closed-toe shoes, as the streets have puddles and debris. Ask for consent before photographing residents. Come with an open mind. This is the most direct lesson in Mumbai's urbanization.

Dharavi

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Places to eat nearby