Gateway Of India, Mumbai

Renowned as one of the most iconic structures of India, Gateway of India, was constructed along the Mumbai Harbour in 1924. Located at the tip of Apollo Bunder, this massive structure represents a commemorate memorial.

It was constructed in honour of King George V and his wife Queen Mary when they were on their tour to India. Once a grandeur of the British settlement, this famous tourist spot today pulls food stallers, vendors, nature lovers, and photographers to adore its charm.

Constructed with a mixture of indissoluble concrete and yellow basalt, Gateway of India portrays Indo-Saracenic architectural style. The central dome of this magnificent structure measures around 48 feet in diameter. It has got 4 turrets explicitly carved with intricate latticework. As you walk behind the structure, there are steps to lead you to the waterfront of the Arabian Sea. It is from here that you can board the boats to sail to the Elephanta Caves.

Well-known for sightseeing and photography activities, you will always see heaps of tourists bubbling in. October to March is usually preferred to plan your visit here as the climate is pleasant. This offers you plenty of sightseeing and photography moments. Most of the people visiting here are either engaged in enjoying the sea breeze, eating street foods or embracing the charm of Taj Mahal Palace Hotel.

Elephanta Caves, Arabian Sea, Taj Mahal Palace, Colaba Causeway, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Nehru Science Centre, and Marine Drive are some places you can't simply afford to miss on your tour to Gateway of India.

From Airport-

There are two ways for you to commute between Airport and Gateway of India – 

Train, Bus – First, you need to reach Vile Parle Railway Terminus from Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. You may either opt for a bus or hire an auto rickshaw or cab to drop you there. Next, get a ticket for CST via Dadar and board the local train running in the direction of Churchgate. From Dadar, you need to board a train to CST and get down at the last stop. From CST bus terminus, board a bus to drop you at Old Customs House. Thereby, you need to walk for the next 15 minutes until you reach Gateway of India. 

Taxi Drive – Opt for a direct taxi drive to transfer you between Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport and Gateway of India. You will be travelling for 20 minutes to cover the distance of 22.1 km. You can also prefer to self-drive between the Airport and Gateway of India.

The best time to visit Gateway of India is the post-monsoon season. However, you will find the place to be crowded during monsoons. It is in the monsoons that there is an increase in the level of the sea. The waves of the sea clash with the walls of the port and rise higher and higher. Although it is a beautiful moment to capture, you need to take the necessary precautions as the sea waves might throw unexpected tantrums. 

Location - Gateway of India is present at Apollo Bunder near the Colaba district of Mumbai. 

Timings - Gateway of India is open to visitors for 24hours. It is good to plan your visit early in the morning or late evening to witness the transformations in the sky. 

Facts About Gateway Of India:

-The present-day structure of the Gateway of India was constructed by the Government of India in the year 1920. 

-The foundation stone for the same was laid in the year 1911. 

-It is a historical commemoration landmark where the structure was constructed to welcome King George V and his wife, Queen Mary. 

-Interestingly, the Government of India sanctioned its construction after 3 years from the date when its foundation stone was laid. The present-day design was put forth by George Wittet in 1914. 

-The total expense incurred in raising this colossal structure was somewhere near to 21 lakhs INR. 

-Due to the fund insufficiency, the approach road to Gateway of India was never constructed. This is the reason why you will find the present structure standing at an angle to the path that leads visitors towards it. 

-The architecture of Gateway of India is based on Indo-Saracenic style with a flavor of 16th-century Muslim architectural styles. 

-It has got a central dome measuring around 15 meters, and the whole structure stands as high as 26 meters above the ground level. 

-Gateway of India was inaugurated on 04th of December, 1924, by the hands of The Viceroy, Earl of Reading. 

-Re-laying of the entire harbor was initiated to sweep down to the central portion of the town. 

-It is believed that the last British ship from India to England sailed through this iconic structure.

-On the backside of the Gateway of India, you will find steps to lead you to the waterfront port to board the boats to Elephanta Caves.

Eateries to Try Near the Gateway Of India:

1. Pizza Express – This is a global chain of gourmet pizza. Mouth-watering dough balls and authentic pizzas are their principle servings. 

2. Wasabi by Morimoto – Here, you get Sushi, Japanese, and Asian style cuisine. They do provide gluten-free options. 

3. Harbour Bar – This is a bar cum gastropub where you can nibble some mouth-watering snacks while sipping in their signature cocktails. 

4. Masala Kraft – Masala Kraft offers both Indian and Asian food variants. The décor here is quite elegant, service and food quality are excellent. 

5. Souk – Try out the Mediterranean, Lebanese, and Turkish style food flavors here at the Souk. Their starters are amazing. 

6. Sea Lounge – Here you have both Indian and International food options. They serve a wide array of sweets and savories. Chaat, desserts, Gujrati snacks, and sandwiches are worthy of trying here.