Gateway of India
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About Gateway of India
Far From City: 18 kms from city center
Cost:
About Gateway of India
Weather:
Time Required:1- 2 hours
Open Time:Throughout the day
Cost:Free
History of Gateway of India
The land on which the Gateway now stands once belonged to a jetty that was primarily used by the fishing community of the area. Seeing its viability as a landing area, it was renovated to serve as a pier for British governors. Soon enough, it was decided that a grand gateway will be built here to welcome King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai, and the foundation of the same was laid down March 31, 1913, by the Governor of Bombay, Sir George Sydenham Clarke. However, the final design of the Gateway was only sanctioned on March 31, 1914, by George Wittet. The constructions formally began in 1920 and it took almost four years to complete the construction of the monument. On 4 December 1924, the Gateway of India was inaugurated by the Viceroy, the Earl of Reading.
Design and Structure of Gateway of India
Built in Indo Saracenic style, the Gateway of India was designed by Scottish architect George Wittet. The design is a combination of Hindu and Muslim architectural influences along with a Roman triumphal arch, which stands at a height of 26 metres. It is built of yellow basalt and concrete and the stone was sourced locally. The arch is flanked by two large hallways that have the capacity to accommodate as many as 600 people. On the other hand, the central dome of the gateway is inspired from Muslim architecture style and has a diameter of 48 feet with the apex reaching 83 feet. The gateway also has meticulously designed honeycomb structures which further support four spires that grant a unique symmetry to the facade. Steps behind the archway give an expansive view of the Arabian Sea as well.
Gateway of India Ferry Timings
A unique experience offered here at the Gateway is that of ferry rides, through which you can enjoy the view of this monument right from the sea. These boat rides are short leisure rides and take you on a voyage of all the attractions nearby including Hotel Taj Palace and Mumbai harbour. The first boat from here leaves at 9 a.m. and can cost anywhere between INR 55 to INR 110 per head, with both the starting and end point being the Gateway of India. A number of ferry rides to other popular attractions such as Elephanta caves and Alibaug are also available:-
1. Elephanta CavesDeparture of the first boat: 9:00 a.m. after which regular boats are available every thirty minutes.
Departure of the last boat: 2.30 p.m.
Charges per head: INR 120.00 per person, INR 10 extra for going to the top of the ferry deck
2. Alibaug
A number of operators provide this service and are detailed as follows:-
i. PNP
Departure timings: 8:10, 10:10, 12:10, 14:10, 16:10, 18:30 Charges per head: INR 150
ii. Ajanta
Departure timings: 6:15, 7:15, 9:15, 10:00, 11:00, 12:30, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00, 17:30Charges per head: INR 85 (Main Deck)
iii. Maldar
Departure timings: 8:45, 11:45, 13:45, 15:45, 16:00Charges per head: INR 135 (Main Deck), INR 135 (Upper Deck)
Best time to visit Gateway of India
Morning and evening hours are the most pleasant time to visit this destination. Other than monsoons, this destination can be visited during any time of the year.
How to Reach Gateway of India
The Gateway of India is located near the southern tip of the city. It's easily reachable from most of South Mumbai through taxis or buses. Getting here from the suburbs requires a lot more effort and should ideally be clubbed with other sightseeing in South Mumbai.
By Train:If travelling from the suburbs, the Mumbai locals are the cheapest and the fastest way to get to the Gateway of India. Local trains run to Churchgate on the Western Line and to Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) on the Central and Harbour Lines. The gateway can easily be reached by taxi or bus from either of these stations.
By Taxi / Car:If you are near Bandra, you may choose to take the Bandra Worli Sea Link to get to South Mumbai. Another good road option to reach South Mumbai from the suburbs is the Eastern Freeway which starts near Chembur.
By Bus:It is not recommended to travel to the gateway by bus from the suburbs. Once in South Mumbai, BEST bus numbers 111 and 112 will take you right up to the Gateway of India. However, you can take any bus heading to Colaba Depot, R.C. Church or Navy Nagar, get off at Regal and walk up to the gateway.
Top Tourist Places in Mumbai
Gateway of India
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Where to Stay
A number of lush and famous hotels are located in the close vicinity of the Gateway of India, and you can treat yourself to an amazing hotel stay at The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Hotel Diplomat, Regent Hotel, Abode Bombay, Hotel Suba Palace and Treebo Garden.
Shopping in Gateway of India
A number of street vendors sell knick knacks here such as earrings, balloons, toys, and souvenirs.
Best Restaurants Nearby
If a meal overlooking the Gateway of India is on your to - do list, you can try out Masala Kraft, Golden Dragon and Sea Lounge at the Taj, Indigo Delicatessen, Bademiya for some delicious non - vegetarian delicacies and The Table.
Photos of Gateway of India
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