Gateway of India is an iconic 20th-century British era structure situated in the city of Mumbai, India. As the name suggests, the structure acted as an entrance point to India for the Viceroys appointed by the British to govern India. For tourists visiting Mumbai and staying in the budget hotels in Mumbai, Gateway of India is a must have in the itinerary. Here are all things you need to know about the Gateway of India:
1. Location
The majestic monument is located at the tip of Apollo Bunder overlooking the Arabian Sea in the Colaba district of Mumbai. It is positioned opposite the famous Taj Mahal Hotel.
2. History
The first proposal to build the monument was made in December 1911 in order to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai. In March 1913, the then Governor of Bombay Sir George Sydenham Clarke laid the foundation stone of the monument. The structure was designed by George Wittet. The monument was finally completed in the year 1924 and was opened by the then Viceroy, the Earl of Reading.
3. Why was it built and its historical significance?
Though the monument was built in honor of King George V and Queen Mary's visit to Mumbai, they could only see a replica of it. The area was used by the fishermen earning their livelihood by fishing in the Arabian Sea. The monument was primarily used as an entry point for Governors, Viceroy, and other prominent British people. After India got its independence, the First Battalion of the Somerset Light Infantry passed through the Gate in 1948 marking the end of British rule.
4. Architecture
Gateway of India was built in the architectural Indo-Saracenic style. The grand arch is of height 26m. The most prominent feature of the monument is its four turrets. The design of the monument has its resemblance with Muslim architectural style. The whole monument was built from yellow Basalt and reinforced concrete.
5. Significance
The Gateway of India hosts the annual Elephanta Festival comprising dance and music shows. The monument experienced a terrible bomb blast in 2003 and the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack with Taj Hotel adjacent to it.
6. Best Time To Visit
During the summers, Mumbai can really get hot and humid and it gets worse in monsoon seasons due to lack of proper drainage facilities. So the best time to visit the Gateway of India is during the period of November to March.
7. Nearby Attractions
From Gateway of India you can also visit the Elephant Caves and travel to Elephant Island. Other major nearby attractions include statues of Chhatrapati Shivaji and Swami Vivekananda. Stay at any of the budgets hotels in Andheri to enjoy all these tourist attractions.
The Gateway of India has become a major tourist attraction in Mumbai. It acts as a marker of the political history of British India. The monument is a perfect site for tourists visiting Mumbai to feel the city's spirits.
Martin Wynn
