A fine example of the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, the Gateway of India is the second landmark of Mumbai, after the ‘Film City’. The construction of the Gateway of India began on March 31, 1913. In August 1914, George Wittet’s design got approval for construction. From the years 1915 to 1919, the renewal work at Apollo Pier took place and a new sea wall was built. The foundation work of the colossal structure was completed in 1920.
The Gateway of India, Mumbai, is built from yellow Kharodi basalt and strengthened concrete. The central dome of the monument features a diameter of 48 feet and is 83 feet above ground at its highest point. It features intricate latticework. The stairs behind the arch of the Gateway lead to the sea. The construction was completed in 1924. The Viceroy of India inaugurated the Gateway on December 4, 1924.
Due to its location adjacent to the Arabian Sea in the Colaba district, the Gateway of India offers picturesque views. If we delve into our historical past, we would come to know that this monument symbolized the grandeur of the British Raj in India.
The cost of construction of this monument (around 21 lakhs) was borne by the Indian government. It took approximately four years to complete the construction of the monument.
You can indulge in various activities at the Gateway of India:
- Click photographs of the wide blue expanse of the Arabian Sea against the monument.
- Ride in horse-drawn gilded carriages called Victoria.
- Take a walk in the Colaba area.
- Take a ferry ride to the nearby Elephanta Island.
Gateway of India Map
Facts about Gateway of India
- The Gateway of India was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Bombay, just before the Darbar in Delhi that was held in December 1911.
- The construction of the monument was done by J C Gammon (Bombay).
Where is Gateway of India?
The Gateway of India is located at a distance of 2.5 km from Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminal and 2.4 km from Church gate. During the night as the traffic is less, you can reach the Gateway of India in around 40 minutes from the airport, else it takes around 90 minutes. There are good transportation facilities in Mumbai, so you won’t face any trouble in reaching the monument. You can either hire a taxi, or choose to travel in a bus or local train.
Address: Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Maharashtra 400001
Best time to visit Gateway of India
The best time to visit the monument is from October through March, as the post-monsoon climate is very pleasant.
Gateway of India Hours
People can visit the Gateway of India at any time of the day as it is open all 24 hours.
More on Gateway of India
Nearby Attractions: Elephanta Caves, Juhu Beach, Hanging Gardens, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, and Taj Mahal Palace Hotel.