Overview
Located on the waterfront of Apollo Bunder in South Mumbai, Gateway of India is one of India’s most iconic monuments. Built during the 20th century to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911, it today stands as a majestic symbol of colonial history, architectural beauty, and cultural vibrancy. The Gateway of India serves as a popular gathering spot for tourists, locals, photographers, and boat rides across the Arabian Sea.
If you’re visiting Mumbai, this grand basalt arch must top your itinerary, followed by some exciting nearby attractions like Elephanta Caves, Colaba Causeway, and Marine Drive!
Quick Facts
-
Location: Apollo Bunder, Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra
-
Built in: 1924
-
Architectural Style: Indo-Saracenic (with elements of Muslim architectural styles)
-
Timings: Open 24 hours
-
Entry Fee: Free
-
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or sunset hours
-
Ferry Services: Available to Elephanta Caves from here
-
Nearby Attractions: Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Colaba Market, Marine Drive
Budget Breakdown
An average budget for a day around Gateway of India and nearby areas:
| Expense Category | Cost (INR ₹) | Cost ($ USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Local Transport (Taxi/Uber/Metro) | ₹300 | $3.60 |
| Street Food & Meals | ₹500 | $6.00 |
| Entry Fees (Elephanta Ferry & Museum) | ₹400 | $4.80 |
| Shopping (Souvenirs at Colaba) | ₹700 | $8.40 |
| Mid-range Hotel Stay (per night) | ₹3,000 | $36.00 |
| Miscellaneous (Tips, Extras) | ₹300 | $3.60 |
Flights to Mumbai (Gateway of India)
-
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) is the nearest airport (~25 km).
-
Direct international flights connect from Dubai, London, Singapore, New York, and Frankfurt.
-
Domestic flights easily available from Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Kolkata.
-
Airport to Gateway of India takes about 1 hour by taxi (depending on traffic).
Safety in Mumbai
-
Mumbai is generally safe for tourists, even for solo travelers.
-
Always keep an eye on belongings in crowded places like Colaba Market.
-
Prefer registered taxis, Uber, or Ola for commuting.
-
Respect local traditions and be cautious of touts offering overpriced tours.
Climate at Gateway of India
-
Summer (March–June): Hot and humid; temperatures between 27°C–38°C.
-
Monsoon (June–September): Heavy rainfall, the Gateway looks dramatic but walking is difficult.
-
Winter (November–February): Pleasant and best time to visit (temperatures around 18°C–28°C).
Best Things to Do in Gateway of India & Nearby Places
1. Visit Gateway of India
Admire the breathtaking Indo-Saracenic design, bustling atmosphere, and waterfront view. It’s free to visit and extremely photogenic during sunrise or sunset.
2. Ferry Ride to Elephanta Caves
Take a ferry from Gateway jetty to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Elephanta Caves. Explore rock-cut temples and ancient sculptures dedicated to Lord Shiva.
3. Stroll Along Colaba Causeway
Shop for clothes, jewelry, accessories, and souvenirs at this lively street market. Don’t miss street food delights like Vada Pav and Kebabs nearby!
4. Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
Even if you don’t stay here, visit this luxurious 5-star heritage hotel right next to Gateway of India. The grand architecture and opulence are worth seeing.
5. Enjoy Marine Drive & Chowpatty Beach
Drive or walk along Mumbai’s most famous seaside promenade. Marine Drive’s ‘Queen’s Necklace’ lights up beautifully at night.
Top Attractions in Gateway of India & Nearby Places
Gateway of India
The iconic monument and one of Mumbai’s most famous landmarks. Built during the British Raj, this grand basalt arch facing the Arabian Sea is where visitors first step into the spirit of Mumbai. It’s beautiful at sunrise and especially enchanting when illuminated at night.
Elephanta Caves
Located on Elephanta Island, about an hour’s ferry ride from the Gateway, these ancient rock-cut caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The caves house intricate sculptures and carvings of Hindu deities, particularly Lord Shiva, offering a deep dive into India’s rich spiritual history.
Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
This legendary hotel stands right next to the Gateway of India and is almost as famous. Opened in 1903, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel is known for its stunning Indo-Saracenic architecture, luxurious interiors, and significant role in Mumbai’s heritage.
Colaba Causeway
A lively street market famous for shopping and food. Here, you can buy clothes, jewelry, antiques, and local crafts at bargain prices. It’s also home to cozy cafés and restaurants, making it a perfect spot to explore Mumbai’s vibrant street life.
Marine Drive
Also known as the Queen’s Necklace, Marine Drive is a 3.6-kilometer-long boulevard along the coast. A walk or drive here, especially during sunset, offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and the sparkling city lights at night.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (Prince of Wales Museum)
A short distance from the Gateway, this grand museum offers an impressive collection of ancient artifacts, art pieces, sculptures, and exhibitions on India’s cultural and natural heritage. The museum’s building itself, with its majestic dome, is a beautiful example of Indo-Saracenic architecture.
Places to Visit in Gateway of India & Nearby Places
1. Gateway of India
A majestic stone arch where history, architecture, and the Arabian Sea meet.
2. Elephanta Caves
Explore ancient rock-cut temples located a ferry ride away from Mumbai’s coast.
3. Colaba Causeway
Bargain shopping, vibrant cafés, street art, and authentic Mumbai vibes.
4. Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
The epitome of luxury and heritage hospitality standing tall since 1903.
5. Marine Drive
Perfect for leisurely evening walks, photography, and enjoying coastal breezes.
6. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum
Formerly the Prince of Wales Museum, showcasing sculptures, miniatures, and artifacts.
Travel Guide Tips
-
Arrive early at Gateway to avoid large crowds for photos.
-
Purchase ferry tickets directly at the Gateway counter.
-
Haggle politely at Colaba Causeway for the best deals.
-
Carry sunscreen and water, especially during summers.
-
Try the street food near Colaba — Vada Pav and Pav Bhaji are musts!