Plizio Visual Lab
Gateway of India
The Gateway of India in Mumbai is one of the nation's most iconic landmarks, representing both the grandeur of the British Empire and the dawn of Indian independence. Located on the waterfront of the Arabian Sea, it was commissioned to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911, though construction only began in 1915 and was completed in 1924. Architect George Wittet designed the triumphal arch in the Indo-Saracenic style, which blends traditional Islamic structural forms with intricate Hindu decorative motifs, using local yellow basalt stone. The structure stands 26 meters tall and historically served as the ceremonial entrance for British viceroys and governors arriving in the country. Paradoxically, it also marked the end of British rule when the last British troops departed through the gateway on February 28, 1948. Today, the surrounding plaza is a bustling social hub and the primary departure point for ferries to the Elephanta Caves. The monument remains a timeless symbol of Mumbai's identity as a global gateway and a historical crossroads.
- Location: India
- Top sights: National Gallery of Modern Art · Bhau Daji Lad Museum (Victoria & Albert Museum) · Nehru Science Centre
- Nearby: Alibaug (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 26 | 29 | 31 | 31 | 29 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 0 | 2 | 5 | 3 | 22 | 535 | 834 | 606 | 376 | 104 | 17 | 5 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- The monument was formally inaugurated on December 4, 1924.
- It is constructed from a combination of yellow basalt and reinforced concrete.
- The central dome of the structure is 15 meters in diameter.
- The arch stands at a total height of 26 meters.
- The last British troops left India through this arch on February 28, 1948.
- The design successfully blends elements of 16th-century Gujarati architecture with Roman motifs.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Gateway of India (19)
Horniman Circle Garden📍 landmark
Horniman Circle Garden is a large urban park offering a green oasis amidst the historic buildings of the Gateway of India history area.
Bombay Castle🛡️ fortress
Bombay Castle is a historic fortification offering a glimpse into the defensive past of the Gateway of India history area.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why was the Gateway of India built?
Is there an entry fee for the Gateway?
Do boats depart from here?
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Which famous hotel is located right opposite?
Gateway of India: where is it located?
Gateway of India: what is there to see?
Gateway of India: when is the best time to visit?
Gateway of India: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
History & landmarks
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