Gateway of India

The Gateway of India is an arch-shaped monument situated in the city of Mumbai. As its name suggests, it resembles a huge gate. It is located at the tip of Apollo Bunder, overlooking the Mumbai harbour, and bordered by the Arabian Sea in the Colaba district.

The Gateway of India is a monument that is also one of India's top ports and is a major attraction for visitors in Mumbai and foreign tourists who arrive in India for the first time.

As it is such a popular spot that attracts people from all over, many vendors, food stalls and photographers put up here every day.

The Gateway of India was constructed in 1924 in the city of Mumbai, in the Indian state of Maharashtra to commemorate the landing of King-Emperor George V and Queen-Empress Mary, the first British monarch to visit India in December 1911 at Apollo Bunder, Mumbai (then Bombay).

In March 1911, the Governor of Bombay at the time Sir George Sydenham Clarke, laid down the monument's first foundation. The plan was approved only in 1914, but the reclamations at Apollo Bunder were completed only in 1919. The architectural design of Gateway of India was modelled by an architect called George Wittet. It took a total of 4 years to complete this monument's construction.

The structure of the Gateway of India that was finally built is a triumphal arch made of basalt, which is 26 metres (85 feet) high. The central dome of the monument is about 48 feet in diameter, with a total height of 83 feet. It consists of 4 turrets, which are the prominent features of its entire structure.

Behind the arch of the Gateway of India, there are steps constructed that lead to the Arabian Sea. The monument is structured in such a way that the large expanse of the sea can be viewed from right ahead, spread out like a beautiful blue blanket.

Distance between Mumbai Airport and Gateway of India is about 19km. There is no direct connection from Mumbai Airport (Chhatrapati Sivaji International airport) to the Gateway of India. However, the best way to reach the place is by taking the train to Dadar, on the line 95718 train to C Shivaji Maharaj T, and then walking to Mumbai CST, taking the line 108 bus to Old Custom House, and then taking the walk to Gateway of India.

Visitors who prefer trains may opt for the local train from the Gateway of India to reach the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus station (the most popular railway station in Mumbai) or the Churchgate station, (which is the closest rail station to the Gateway).

People may visit the Gateway of India at any time of the day, but many say that the best time to visit is between November and March, as the post-monsoon climate is very pleasant and the chances for downpours at this time are lesser. However, Mumbai rains also provide a stunning experience, and if you are a pluviophile, you can have a great escapade here during the monsoons too!

Other attractions in Mumbai close to the Gateway of India are:

• The Taj Mahal Hotel – which is India's most prestigious and luxurious hotel, is situated literally in front of the Gateway of India.
• The Elephanta Caves - You can travel on motor boat from the Gateway of India to reach the Elephant Islands, where these caves are located.