The Gateway of India is situated in Mumbai and is the dream home of several aspirants with vivid lifestyles and boots of vicious minds. However, this place is more than just beaches, cafes, pubs, clubs, and caves. This great island has a great history which makes Mumbai a historical marvel. Let us learn more about the Gateway of India, which attracts millions of tourists worldwide.
Gateway Of India History
The Gateway of India was built in 1911 to celebrate the visit and landing of King George V and Queen Mary at Apollo Bundar. This grand monument was the product of a Scottish architect, George Wittet, and Sir George Clarke laid the foundation stone on 31st March 1913. The monument’s construction began in 1915 and continued for almost a decade (1924). The Gateway of India, Mumbai, the Viceroy of India, inaugurated the Gateway.
After its construction, it became the ceremonial point in India for rulers and other high-ranking officials. In August 2003, a bomb blast occurred near the monument that left bloody trails. However, the structure was unharmed.
Where Is Gateway Of India?
Gateway Of India, Mumbai, is opposite the Tower Hotel and Taj Mahal Palace, built in 1903. The grounds surround the Gateway, and the Shivaji Maharaj statue is located in the opposite direction. Shivaji Maharaj was the Maratha Warrior who defeated the Mughal Empire to establish the Maratha Empire. It was inaugurated in 1961 on Republic Day.
The Statue Of Swami Vivekananda is also located near the monument, which was an influential player who spread the Indian Philosophy concept like Yoga and Vedanta in the west.
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Places To Visit Near by:
There are many places to visit in Gateway of India, Mumbai, such as:
● The most prestigious Taj Mahal Hotel.
● The Famous Elephant Caves are situated closer to the Gateway of India. You can choose boating services from the monument to the Elephant Islands called Elephanta Caves.
● Tourists can see statues of famous leaders like Swami Vivekananda and Shivaji Maharaja at the entrance.
● Tourists can take a boat to Alibaug, another tourist attraction near Mumbai.
● Tourists can visit the nearest Jehangir Art Gallery within walking distance
● One can visit Marine Drive, which is just 2.4 km in the distance.
● It is located near the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Railway Station, Victoria Terminus. It is a historical terminal railway station and a UNESCO world heritage site. It is amongst the nearest station to the Gateway of India. Tourists can visit the Flora Fountain in Fort by taking a short walk.
● Want to go shopping? Visit the Colaba Causeway Market located near the fort.
Whether you want an early morning stroll or a fun evening, the Gateway of India, Mumbai, is the best place to visit. Some of the best restaurants are The Table, Bademiyan, Wasabi By Morimoto, and many more. All these restaurants are nearby the monument, so you can enjoy your time while exploring this heritage in Mumbai.
How To Reach The Gateway Of India?
By Air: If you are arriving at Mumbai Airport via Flight, then you may choose either a Train or a Taxi. Currently, there is no direct bus to the Gateway of India from the airport.
If you choose to travel via Mumbai Local Train, then take a taxi to reach Andheri Railway station and take the train to reach Churchgate station. The Gateway of India is just 2.5 km away from the Churchgate Station. Take a taxi to reach the destination.
If you choose to travel via taxi from the airport, it will be approx 28 km in distance and will take approx 1 hour, depending on the traffic condition.
By Rail: Reach Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) Station or Churchgate railway station via mumbai local train and take a taxi to reach the place. It is only 2.2 km from Churchgate railway station and 2.4 from Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus.
By Road: There won’t be any issue with traveling by road since Mumbai is well-connected to expressways and national highways. You can take private buses, which serve this route daily. You should visit the city center to find the Mumbai Bus Stand.
Timing
The best time to visit the Gateway Of India Mumbai is between October and March, after the monsoon season. This great tourist attraction is open 24*7 for the public and situated about 2.5 Km away from Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminal.
The place will be crowded during monsoons with an increased sea level. Tourists can find the sea waves clashing with the location’s walls and rising higher. It will be a beautiful sight. However, following the precautions is necessary since the higher sea level may cause unexpected tantrums.
Hotels Near by:
There are several places to stay near by, such as:
● The Taj Mahal Palace.
● The Taj Mahal Tower.
● Abode Bombay.
● Hotel Suba Palace.
● The Oberoi Mumbai.
● Backpacker Cowies.
Who Built Gateway Of India?
It is made up of Basalt and is 26 meters high. The final designer of the monument was George Wittet, and the construction was completed in 1924.
When Was it Built?
It was built in Indo-Saracenic style, and the foundation stone of the monument was laid on 31st March 1911.
Why Was Gateway Of India Built?
Gateway Of India is the arch monument of the 20th century and was built to celebrate the visit of Queen Mary and King George V.
What Is Written On Gateway Of India?
The monument’s entrance is marked with an inscription message “Erected to commemorate the landing in India of their Imperial Majesties King George V and Queen Mary on the Second of December MCMXI. “
