Gateway of India Guide
Mumbai's most iconic landmark — history, photography tips, boat rides, and everything you need to know
The Gateway of India is Mumbai's most recognized monument and the symbolic starting point for any visit to the city. This grand basalt arch overlooking Mumbai Harbour was built between 1911 and 1924 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India — the first British monarchs to visit the subcontinent.
Designed by architect George Wittet in the Indo-Saracenic style, the Gateway blends Hindu and Muslim architectural elements with European influences. Standing 26 meters tall, it was the first thing visitors saw when arriving in Mumbai by sea. Ironically, it was also the last thing the British saw when the final troops departed India through this arch in 1948, marking the end of colonial rule.
24/7
Opening Hours
Free
Entry Fee
6-8 AM
Best Time
1924
Year Built
Essential Information
The Gateway of India is an open-air monument accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There is no entry fee. Security checks may be conducted at the entrance during peak hours and after dark. The area is well-lit at night.
Early morning (6-8 AM) for photography and fewer crowds. Sunset (5-6:30 PM) for the best atmosphere and golden light on the Taj Hotel. Avoid 11 AM - 3 PM in summer — it gets extremely hot with no shade near the monument.
Located at Apollo Bunder in Colaba, South Mumbai. Take an Ola/Uber directly. The nearest railway station is Churchgate (3 km). BEST buses 1, 3, 11, 103, and 125 stop nearby. Parking is limited — use public transport or ride-hailing apps.
The Gateway itself takes 30-45 minutes to explore. Budget 1-2 hours to include the waterfront stroll, Taj Hotel lobby visit, and a snack at nearby cafes. Add a full day if combining with Elephanta Caves.
What to See
The Arch Itself
The 26-meter basalt arch blends Indo-Saracenic and Islamic architectural styles with intricate latticework. Built between 1911 and 1924, it was designed by architect George Wittet to commemorate King George V and Queen Mary's visit to India in 1911. The foundation stone was laid in 1913, and the final structure was completed in 1924.
The Waterfront Promenade
The open plaza surrounding the Gateway offers sweeping views of Mumbai Harbour and the Arabian Sea. Street vendors sell snacks and souvenirs, and the atmosphere is lively from dawn to late evening. This is where locals come to enjoy the sea breeze and take photos.
Taj Mahal Palace Hotel View
Directly behind the Gateway stands the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel (built 1903), one of the most photographed buildings in India. The Gateway and Taj together form Mumbai's most famous skyline composition. You can visit the Taj's lobby and restaurants without being a guest.
Boat Rides to Elephanta Caves
Ferries to the UNESCO World Heritage Elephanta Caves depart from the jetty next to the Gateway. The one-hour boat ride across Mumbai Harbour is an experience in itself. Ferries run from 9 AM to 2 PM (last return at 5:30 PM). Tickets cost ₹200 for foreigners and ₹40 for Indians.
Photography Tips
Best Angles
Shoot from the waterfront looking back at the Gateway with the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in the background for the classic Mumbai postcard shot. Get low for dramatic perspective or shoot from the ferry as you depart for Elephanta for a unique harbour view.
Golden Hour Magic
Sunrise (6-7 AM) lights up the Gateway beautifully from the east. Sunset (5:30-6:30 PM) creates dramatic silhouettes against the Arabian Sea. Early morning also means fewer crowds for clean compositions.
Monsoon Drama
During monsoon season (June-September), the Gateway framed by dark storm clouds and crashing waves makes for extraordinary photographs. The wet stone creates beautiful reflections. Just protect your camera gear from the rain.
Nearby Food & Cafes
Leopold Cafe
A Mumbai institution since 1871. This bustling cafe on Colaba Causeway serves everything from continental breakfast to Indian curries. Famous for its old-world charm and as a backpacker meeting point. The bullet holes from the 2008 attacks are preserved in the walls as a memorial.
Cafe Mondegar
Known for its Mario Miranda murals covering every wall, Mondegar is a Colaba landmark. Great burgers, cold beer, and a jukebox that has been playing since the 1930s. A perfect pit stop after visiting the Gateway.
Bademiya
The most famous late-night street food stall in Mumbai. Bademiya's seekh kebabs, chicken rolls, and baida rotis have been drawing crowds since 1946. The original stall operates from a tiny lane behind the Taj Hotel. Best visited after 8 PM when the grills are firing.
Pro Tips
Visit at Sunrise
The Gateway faces east, making sunrise the most photogenic time. You'll have the monument nearly to yourself before 7 AM. The light hitting the basalt arch creates a warm golden glow that is impossible to capture later in the day.
Combine with Elephanta
The ferry jetty is right next to the Gateway. Take the 9 AM ferry to Elephanta Caves and return by 3 PM, then spend the afternoon exploring the Gateway area, Colaba Causeway, and have dinner at Leopold Cafe or Bademiya.
Skip the Touts
Ignore touts offering "special boat rides" or "guided tours" around the Gateway. The monument is self-explanatory and free. For ferry tickets to Elephanta, go to the official PNP or Maldar counter — not random sellers on the promenade.
Walk to Colaba Causeway
The famous Colaba Causeway shopping street is a 5-minute walk from the Gateway. Browse street stalls for souvenirs, handicrafts, and clothing. Bargain hard — start at 40% of the asking price. The street is most active from 10 AM to 9 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions
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