Gateway of India

Gateway of India featuring heritage architecture
Gateway of India
Gateway of India
Gateway of India showing a river or creek, boating and heritage architecture
Gateway of India featuring heritage architecture and heritage elements


An architectural wonder that showcases the artistic talents of the British Raj and is the entranceway to the fascinating neighborhoods of south Mumbai.

Marvel at the architecturally impressive Gateway of India, an imposing colonial-era monument overlooking the glistening Arabian Sea. This striking landmark is a popular starting point for visitors wishing to discover Mumbai’s captivating southern neighborhoods. Inaugurated in 1924, the Gateway of India commemorates a visit by King George V and Queen Mary. Built on an old fishing wharf called Wellington Pier (aka Apollo Bunder), the gateway served as the landing point of aristocrats and viceroys during the colonial years.

Stand in the vast courtyard with the crowds of locals and tourists and admire the gateway’s grand design. Note a fusion of Hindu and Muslim architectural styles. Examine the archways, imposing pillars, intricate latticework and series of four turrets. Look for the Swami Vivekananda Statue, an Indian monk famed for raising the worldwide awareness of Hinduism. Observe as visitors take photos, enjoy rides on horse-drawn carriages and purchase food from street vendors.

Face away from the water to see another of Mumbai’s iconic landmarks, the Taj Mahal Palace hotel. Walk down the steps behind the gateway for uninterrupted views across Mumbai Harbour. Spot colorful ferries and fishing trawlers bobbing in the water. Join a cruise around the harbor or to Elephanta Caves, where you can visit 7th-century rock-cut caves.

Throughout the day the Gateway of India is a constant hive of activity. Visit in February through March to watch displays of Hindi dance and music, which are part of the flamboyant Elephanta Festival at Elephanta Caves.

The Gateway of India sits on the waterfront at the northern edge of the Colaba neighborhood. It’s about a 15-minute drive from Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and easily accessible via auto-rickshaws, taxis and public buses.

While here stroll south along a waterfront promenade for more views of Mumbai Harbour. From here, streets lead into the animated Colaba neighborhood. Go to Colaba Causeway Market, a great place to shop for antiques, bohemian clothing, beads, trinkets and more. Alternatively, wake up early to see fishermen bring in the morning catch at Sassoon Dock.

Reviews of Gateway of India

4.3
Top destination
5 - Excellent
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5 - Excellent 49%
4 - Good
41
4 - Good 34%
3 - Okay
20
3 - Okay 17%
2 - Disappointing
0
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
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1 - Terrible 1%

5/5 - Excellent

KevinDavid

Avoid weekends... very crowded.

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Things to do near Gateway of India

At the Gateway of India, visitors can enjoy breathtaking aerial views and partake in thrilling adventure activities. The area is also known for its vibrant annual festival, showcasing local culture and artistry. Be sure to explore the surrounding attractions, indulge in local cuisine, and soak in the lively atmosphere that defines this iconic Mumbai landmark.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near the Gateway of India, visit Wankhede Stadium, just 1.6km away, for a vibrant blend of entertainment and city vibes. Crawford Market and Fashion Street are both within 3.2km, offering a bustling atmosphere perfect for picking up souvenirs and gifts.

Recreation

The Maharashtra State Lawn Tennis Association offers a vibrant sports atmosphere, perfect for tennis enthusiasts, located 644m from the Gateway of India. For a touch of luxury, the United Services Golf Club, situated 3.2km away, invites you to enjoy its exquisite surroundings and golfing experience.

Adventure

For a thrilling experience, visit Snow Kingdom, located 20.9km from Gateway of India, offering a unique snow-filled adventure. Alternatively, enjoy the fun at Water Kingdom, 33.8km away, a vibrant waterpark perfect for families. For nature enthusiasts, Malshej Ghat, 48.3km away, presents breathtaking hiking trails amidst stunning scenery.

Nightlife

The nightlife around the Gateway of India is vibrant and diverse. Eros Theater offers romantic film experiences, while the National Centre for the Performing Arts presents cultural performances for families. For an entertaining night under the stars, the Nehru Planetarium provides a unique cosmic experience.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Gateway of India

The Gateway of India and its surroundings offer a delightful mix of attractions for visitors. Explore vibrant street markets, visit historic temples, and unwind in urban parks. These points of interest are perfect for those seeking cultural experiences, family outings, or a taste of city life. Whether you're indulging in local cuisine or enjoying scenic views, there's something for everyone at this iconic landmark in Mumbai.

  • Marine Drive: Stroll along this iconic boulevard, affectionately known as the 'Queen’s Necklace' due to its stunning night-time views. With a blend of friendly locals, luxury shops, and trendy cafés, it’s perfect for a leisurely walk or a scenic drive.
  • Colaba Causeway: Immerse yourself in the vibrant city atmosphere at this bustling street market. Known for its eclectic shops and lively stalls, it’s an excellent spot for shopping unique souvenirs and experiencing local culture.
  • Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum: Explore rich history and culture at this renowned museum, showcasing artefacts from India’s past. The exquisite architecture and diverse exhibits offer a fascinating glimpse into the country’s heritage.

Best time to go to Gateway of India

The best time to visit Gateway of India can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Gateway of India falls in May, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Gateway of India falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January77.5°F (25.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
February79.5°F (26.4°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
March82.9°F (28.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
April85.5°F (29.7°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
May86.5°F (30.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
June84.2°F (29.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly Low
July81.5°F (27.5°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
August81.0°F (27.2°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
September81.3°F (27.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
October83.7°F (28.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November82.8°F (28.2°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
December79.7°F (26.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Gateway of India

To save money during your visit to the Gateway of India, consider travelling between June and August when accommodation prices are lower. Saturdays are more affordable for stays compared to Wednesdays. Utilise platforms like Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels by sorting results from lowest to highest prices, and consider booking packages that combine flights and activities. Additionally, look for eco-certified hotels for sustainable options. For public transport, use local buses, which are economical, or explore the area on foot to enjoy free attractions and the scenic waterfront.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Gateway of India are June to August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February and November to December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Gateway of India is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Gateway of India is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search according to hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: Certainly. Here’s the paraphrased text in a trusted and attentive tone, using British English:You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation near the Gateway of India with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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