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Maharashtra

The Gateway of India

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January

12.6 - 35.2 °C

February

13.9 - 36.8 °C

March

17.1 - 38.6 °C

April

21 - 37.2 °C

May

24.5 - 35.7 °C

June

23.2 - 35.4 °C

July

23.4 - 32.6 °C

August

23.4 - 31.8 °C

September

23 - 33.5 °C

October

20.3 - 36.4 °C

November

17.8 - 36 °C

December

14.3 - 35.2 °C


Major Airports :

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM), Mumbai

Nearest Railway Station :

Mumbai Central Railway Station (MMCT)

Major Airports :

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM), Mumbai

Mumbai's majestic icon

Standing proudly at a height of 26 meters, the arch is crafted from vibrant yellow basalt and concrete and adorned with a myriad of intricate Muslim and Hindu motifs that tell tales of a rich cultural tapestry. The central dome, a testament to Muslim architectural grace, captures the gaze with its impressive 48-foot diameter and an apex that reaches a staggering 83 feet.

Architectural marvel and timeless tale

Standing as a resolute emblem of Mumbai's spirit, the Gateway of India transcends time and tradition, etching its presence into the city's very essence. Crafted in 1924 by the visionary architect George Wittet, this monument came into being to honour the historic visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai. It is not merely a structure; it is a harmonious blend of Indian, Arabic, and Western architectural elements that stand as a testament to human imagination and innovation.

Its foundations were laid in 1911, a promise of grandeur yet to come. In 1924, this promise bore fruit as the Gateway was unveiled to the world, a majestic symbol of a nation's journey. With every stone meticulously placed, the Gateway of India became more than an entrance—it became a touchstone of history.

The arch, rising boldly to the sky, once served as the passage that marked entry and exit through waterways, echoing stories of a bygone era. In the embrace of night, as the sea cradles its magnificence, the Gateway's beauty transforms into an ethereal sight, a scene painted with moonlit whispers.

Step beneath the arch, and you will find expansive hallways, a tribute to the monumental vision that created this masterpiece. These halls have witnessed history, echoing with the footsteps of countless travellers. As you ascend the steps behind the archway, a breathtaking panorama of the Arabian Sea unfurls, a testament to the Gateway's role as both observer and participant in the city's evolving tale.

A monument of resonance

The Gateway of India embodies the convergence of history and transformation. As the final British ship sailed from its shores, the arch stood witness to the end of colonial rule, shifting its purpose from an exit point to an entryway of independence. During the British dominion, it served as a dual corridor, a maritime connection between India and the world. Post-independence, it transformed into a symbol of national pride and an allure for curious souls.

Underneath the Gateway's majestic arch, the land narrates its own saga. Once a modest jetty frequented by fishermen, this soil witnessed the ebb and flow of maritime life. With the passage of time, this humble terrain underwent a metamorphosis, evolving through renovation to become a pier fit for British governors. The same ground later birthed the monumental presence we now know as the Gateway of India, an emblem that bridges past and present.


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Timings

Opening time - Throughout the day

A portal to eternity: Unveiling heritage and history

The Gateway's journey from blueprints to reality spanned nearly four years, commencing in 1920. On December 4, 1924, the Earl of Reading, the Viceroy, unveiled the masterpiece, marking the culmination of painstaking craftsmanship and unwavering dedication. Each stone woven into its fabric, every intricate detail etched, contributed to the grand edifice that stands today, a sentinel that defies the eras it spans.

Beyond being a tourist magnet, the Gateway opens portals to treasures beyond its own magnificence. Launching ferries for voyage seekers, it beckons explorers toward the historic Elephanta Caves. These UNESCO World Heritage Site cave temples, hewn from rock, echo tales of human ingenuity across the ages. As ferry bows break the water, they embark not just on a nautical journey but on a passage through epochs sculpted into stone.

In the shade of the Gateway's arches, history and modernity converse, recounting farewells and new beginnings, mundane origins, and soaring dreams. This iconic structure stands not merely as an edifice but as an invitation – an invitation to stand beneath its arches, to listen to the echoes of the past, and to venture forward into stories it continues to evoke.

Elevating your sojourn: Experiencing more with Gateway of India

Discover the mystique of Elephanta Caves: Set sail from the Gateway of India and embark on a voyage across time to the captivating Elephanta Caves. These remarkable rock-cut cave temples on Elephanta Island, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, date back to the 5th to 7th centuries. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, they unveil ancient marvels hidden within their stone walls.

Stroll along the enchanting Marine Drive: Unveil Mumbai's allure with a leisurely walk along the iconic Marine Drive, often referred to as the Queen's Necklace. This arc-shaped, 3.6 km boulevard along the South Mumbai coast offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Perfect for romantic evening walks, refreshing morning jogs, or laid-back hangouts with friends, it is a canvas of breathtaking moments.

Savour Mumbai's culinary delights: Indulge in Mumbai's diverse gastronomic wonders, from street-side delights to refined dining experiences. Delight your taste buds with the irresistible offerings of street food – relish the iconic Vada Pav, Pav Bhaji, Bhel Puri, Sev Puri, and more. For a taste of something distinctive, explore Parsi cuisine, an exquisite blend of Iranian and Indian flavours.

Encounter divine beauty at Mahalaxmi Temple: Immerse yourself in the aura of spirituality at the Mahalaxmi Temple, a venerable sanctuary that stands as one of Mumbai's oldest. Dedicated to the revered Goddess of Wealth, Mahalaxmi, this temple's architecture resonates with the cultural heritage of the city. With its roots dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, it is a living testament to Mumbai's rich history.

Journey to Haji Ali Dargah: Embark on a spiritual odyssey to Haji Ali Dargah, an exquisite shrine nestled on a small islet in the heart of Mumbai. A tribute to the Muslim saint Haji Ali Bukhari, whose life was dedicated to spreading the word of Allah and aiding those in need, the Dargah showcases the exquisite beauty of Indo-Islamic architecture, a testament to devotion and artistry.