The Gateway of India, Mumbai's most iconic landmark, stands majestically overlooking the Arabian Sea at Apollo Bunder. Built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911, this magnificent arch has become the symbolic starting point for visitors exploring India's financial capital. From here, you can take ferries to the UNESCO-listed Elephanta Caves and enjoy spectacular sunsets over the sea.
Explore Mumbai's Iconic Landmark
Visit Gateway of India, take a ferry to Elephanta Caves, and explore Mumbai's colonial heritage.
Explore Mumbai Tours →History of Gateway of India
The Gateway of India was built to commemorate the landing of King George V and Queen Mary at Apollo Bunder on December 2, 1911, during their visit to India for the Delhi Durbar. However, ironically, the royal couple saw only a cardboard model of the Gateway as the actual construction began only in 1915.
Designed by Scottish architect George Wittet, the foundation stone was laid on March 31, 1913, by Sir George Sydenham Clarke, the Governor of Bombay. The construction took over a decade, and the Gateway was finally completed on December 4, 1924. The total cost of construction was approximately 21 lakhs (2.1 million rupees at that time).
In a historic twist, the Gateway of India became the departure point for the last British troops leaving India on February 28, 1948, making it a powerful symbol of both colonial arrival and departure.
Key Historical Milestones
- 1911: King George V and Queen Mary land at Apollo Bunder
- 1913: Foundation stone laid
- 1915: Construction begins
- 1924: Gateway officially completed and inaugurated
- 1948: Last British troops depart through the Gateway
- 2003: Major restoration work completed
Architecture of Gateway of India
The Gateway of India is an architectural masterpiece blending Indo-Saracenic style with elements of Roman triumphal arches and 16th-century Gujarati architecture. Architect George Wittet designed it to reflect India's rich architectural heritage while incorporating Western structural principles.
Architectural Features
- Height: 26 meters (85 feet)
- Style: Indo-Saracenic with Roman and Gujarati influences
- Material: Yellow basalt and concrete
- Central Dome: 15 meters (49 feet) in diameter
- Arches: Four turrets and intricate latticework
- Decorations: Carved stone screens in traditional Gujarati style
- Steps: Wide steps leading down to the Arabian Sea
Design Inspiration
The arch design draws inspiration from the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, while the decorative elements reflect traditional Indian craftsmanship. The central arch is flanked by two smaller arches, and the entire structure is adorned with intricate carvings and latticework typical of Gujarati architecture.
🚢 Gateway of India Experiences
Make the most of your visit:
- ✓ Marvel at the Indo-Saracenic architecture
- ✓ Take a ferry to Elephanta Caves UNESCO site
- ✓ Enjoy sunset views over the Arabian Sea
- ✓ Visit the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel nearby
- ✓ Explore Colaba Causeway for shopping
Entry Fees & Timings
Entry Fee
- Gateway of India: FREE (Open public area)
- Elephanta Caves Ferry: ₹150-200 (round trip)
- Elephanta Caves Entry: ₹40 (Indian), ₹600 (Foreign)
Visiting Hours
- Gateway of India: Open 24 hours, 7 days a week
- Best Time to Visit: Evening (5-7 PM) for sunset
- Elephanta Ferry: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (last ferry 2:00 PM)
- Elephanta Caves: Closed on Mondays
💡 Pro Tip: Visit during sunset for magical golden hour photos. The Gateway illuminated against the evening sky is spectacular!
Best Time to Visit Gateway of India
Best Season
The ideal time to visit Gateway of India is from November to February when Mumbai experiences pleasant weather (20°C to 30°C). Avoid the monsoon months (June-September) when heavy rains can disrupt ferry services to Elephanta Caves.
Best Time of Day
- Early Morning (6:00-8:00 AM): Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds, good for photography
- Evening (5:00-7:00 PM): Most popular time - stunning sunset, lively atmosphere
- Night (8:00-10:00 PM): Gateway illuminated, romantic ambiance
- For Elephanta Caves: Start early morning (9:00 AM ferry) to have enough time
How to Reach Gateway of India
By Local Train
- Churchgate Station: 2 km away (Western Line terminus)
- CST (VT) Station: 3 km away (Central & Harbour Line)
- From stations, take taxi or cab to Gateway
By Road
- From Mumbai Airport: 30 km (45-90 minutes depending on traffic)
- From Bandra: 15 km (30-45 minutes)
- From Mumbai Central: 10 km (25-35 minutes)
- App-based cabs (Uber, Ola) readily available
By Metro
Currently, no metro station directly serves Gateway of India. The nearest upcoming metro station will be on the Colaba extension of Metro Line 3.
Things to Do at Gateway of India
1. Admire the Architecture
Take time to appreciate the magnificent Indo-Saracenic architecture, intricate carvings, and the impressive scale of the Gateway. Read the inscriptions commemorating its history.
2. Ferry to Elephanta Caves
One of the most popular activities is taking a ferry from Gateway of India to Elephanta Island (about 1 hour each way). The UNESCO World Heritage Site features remarkable 5th-century rock-cut cave temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
3. Sunset Photography
The Gateway offers spectacular sunset views over the Arabian Sea. The golden hour light creates magical photo opportunities with the arch silhouetted against the sky.
4. Street Food Experience
The area around Gateway is famous for Mumbai street food - try bhel puri, pav bhaji, and fresh fruit cuts from local vendors.
5. Visit Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
The iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, built in 1903, stands right next to the Gateway. Even if not staying, you can admire its grandeur and visit its restaurants and cafes.
6. Evening Boat Ride
Take a short boat ride around the harbor for unique views of the Gateway, Taj Hotel, and Mumbai's skyline. Small boats are available for hire near the jetty.
Elephanta Caves from Gateway of India
The Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are one of Mumbai's top attractions and easily accessible from Gateway of India.
Ferry Details
- Duration: 1 hour each way
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes from 9:00 AM
- Last Ferry to Island: 2:00 PM
- Last Return Ferry: 5:30 PM
- Ticket Price: ₹150-200 (economy), ₹200-250 (deluxe)
- Closed: During monsoon (June-September) and on Mondays
At Elephanta Caves
- 120 steps to climb to reach the caves (palanquins available)
- 7 rock-cut caves dating from 5th-8th century
- Famous 20-foot Trimurti sculpture of Lord Shiva
- Allow 2-3 hours to explore the caves
Photography Tips
- Best Time: Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) for dramatic lighting
- Classic Shots: Gateway with Taj Hotel in background, sea-facing view
- Night Photography: Illuminated Gateway against dark sky
- From Sea: Take a boat ride for unique angles
- ✓ Photography freely allowed
- ✗ Drones require special permission
Nearby Attractions
- Taj Mahal Palace Hotel (adjacent): Historic luxury hotel built in 1903
- Colaba Causeway (500m): Famous shopping street
- Prince of Wales Museum (1 km): Now Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
- Marine Drive (3 km): Iconic Queen's Necklace promenade
- Elephanta Caves (10 km by ferry): UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Afghan Church (2 km): Historic colonial-era church
Visitor Tips & Guidelines
What to Carry
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen and hat (limited shade)
- Camera
- Cash for street food and small vendors
- Umbrella (during monsoon adjacent months)
Safety Tips
- Beware of touts offering overpriced boat rides
- Use official ferry counters for Elephanta
- Guard your belongings in crowded areas
- Avoid the area very late at night
- Official photography is free - don't pay touts
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entry fee for Gateway of India?
No, Gateway of India is a public monument with free entry, open 24 hours.
How much time is needed to visit Gateway of India?
30 minutes to 1 hour is sufficient to see the Gateway. Add 5-6 hours if visiting Elephanta Caves.
Can we go inside Gateway of India?
You can walk through the central arch but cannot climb to the top. The area beneath and around the arch is accessible.
Is Gateway of India and India Gate the same?
No, they are different monuments. Gateway of India is in Mumbai, built for King George V's visit. India Gate is in Delhi, a war memorial for Indian soldiers.
What is the best time to visit Elephanta Caves?
November to February is best. Take the early morning ferry (9:00 AM) to avoid crowds. Caves are closed on Mondays.
Are there restaurants near Gateway of India?
Yes, several options including the restaurants at Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, plus numerous cafes and street food vendors in the Colaba area.
🎯 Plan Your Mumbai Visit
Experience Gateway of India and explore Mumbai's rich heritage: