Slum Tours

Although we cannot take responsibility should anything happen, we believe that the places that we visit are very safe. There are a lot of people in Dharavi (approximately one million in an area of 0.7 square miles), and there is a strong police presence in the area. Dharavi is generally full of hard-working, honest people, although for security purposes, we ask you not to take valuables with you on the tour.

In the small alleys, you have to be careful of low-hanging roofs, open drains, and occasionally exposed electric wires. Also, in some of the factories that we visit, there are fumes that can be hazardous.

With the very high population density and limited infrastructure and sanitation facilities, some areas are quite dirty and smelly.

There are health hazards highlighted above that children need to be very aware of. Otherwise, we see no problem with bringing children of any age on the tour. Indians are very welcoming and receptive to young people.

We have a strict no-camera policy in order to respect the privacy of the local residents. Dharavi has received a lot of attention from the media, and the residents are very wary of being exploited. The policy may be considered strict, but our relationship with the Dharavi community has been built over a number of years based on mutual respect. We do not wish for even the occasional photo, as it could be incorrectly perceived as our starting to permit general photography on our tours. We can, however, send you a link to Dharavi photos, which can be downloaded. There is also the opportunity to buy postcards at the end of the tour, all profits going to our sister NGO Reality Gives.

You join a local potter and get hands-on, trying the wheel-throwing technique. It’s a fun, engaging, and active learning experience that helps improve concentration and patience as well!

After the tour, you enjoy a vegetarian lunch in a local family’s home.