Gateway of India

One of the most striking monuments of Mumbai, the Gateway of India was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary for the Delhi Durbar in 1911. Designed by the architect George Wittet, the Gateway of India is the starting point for most tourists who want to explore the city during their travel to Mumbai.

The Gateway of India is a 26m high structure, complete with four turrets and intricate latticework carved into the yellow basalt stone. It has an imposing gateway arch in the Indo-Saracenic style with Gujarati and Islamic elements such as wooden carvings. Historically, the gateway holds greater significance as the last of the British troops left Independent India by sea, marched through its portals.

It is situated on the Apollo Bunder and behind the arch, there are steps leading down to the water from where one can get onto one of the bobbing little motor launches, for a short cruise through Mumbai's splendid natural harbour, during vacations in Mumbai. This area is also the departing point for ferries plying to Elephanta Island and other beaches across the port.

Near the Gateway of India is Taj Mahal Hotel, one of the most famous and luxurious hotels in India. Close by are the statues of the Maratha leader Shivaji astride his horse and of Swami Vivekananda, that add to the charm of this Indian monument.