Amazing Facts about Gateway of India

Gateway of India is one of the most iconic and unique architectural specimens of Mumbai.

The monument has a mark on India's most prominent ports and popular tourist destinations.

The landmark is popularly known as the Taj Mahal of Mumbai.

The foundation stone was laid on 4th December 1924.

Then it took more than 4 years to complete the construction with approximate spending of 24 lacs.

Gateway of India is situated at the tip of Apollo Bandar, overlooking the Mumbai hardware.

It is bordered by the Arabian sea running around the Colaba district.

It has now become one of the most favorite tourist destinations for outsiders as well as locals.

The area is often flooded by kulfi vendors, balloon sellers, photographers, hawkers, and other street food stalls.

Gateway of India is often confused with the India gate in Delhi built in the memory of soldiers martyred from 1914 to the first world war. Read till the very end to know more about gateway of India facts.

Historical Facts About Gateway Of India

The gateway of India, Mumbai was constructed to symbolize the triumphal arch that commemorates the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to the city of Mumbai.

George Wittet was in charge of designing this historic structure.

As can be understood from the name, the monument served as the entrance guide to India for the British rulers.

One of the most notable events in India's gateway, the marching of the first battalion of the Somerset light infantry, marked the end of British rule in India.

The ceremony was organized on 28th February 1948.

The famous elephant festival of music and dance is now held in the history of India in March every year.

Previously the venue for this event was the Elephanta caves. 

Architectural Heritage

The structural layout of the Gateway Indian primary includes a sizable arch standing at the height of 26 m.

The structure symbols Indo Saracenic style blend Hindu and Muslim architectural styles with the end of Gujarati designs.

The great arch takes inspiration from Muslim architecture.

The central dome height is about 48 feet, and the highest point is measured at 83 feet.

The entire structure is carved out of yellow basalt stone and reinforced concrete.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

The gateway of India faces the vast Arabian Sea that is flanked by Mumbai's Marine drive running side by side to the sea.

The Elephant caves are the closest to the gateway of India.

Tourists take motorboat rides to visit Elephant Islands.

The Taj Mahal hotel is another prestigious structure besides the gateway of India. Visitors also enjoy shopping at the Colaba causeway market.

The Walkeshwar temple is a prominent structure around this place. 

Visiting Hours

People can visit the Gateway of India at any time of the day.

The best time to visit Mumbai is between November to March.

The majestic monument has become a must-visit tourist destination that looks glorious against the backdrop of the sea.

Must-Know Facts About Gateway Of India

a. The then governor of Mumbai laid the foundation stone on 31st March 1913.

b. The gateway of India was regarded as a triumphal arc to celebrate the result of Queen Mary and King George 5 to Mumbai.

c. The structure resembles Indo Saracenic style that is a balanced combination of Islamic and Indian architecture. 

d. During King George V's visit to Mumbai only got to witness the cardboard model of the gateway of India.

e. The central dome of the structure measures 48 feet in diameter. The highest point of the structure stands at 83 feet. 

f. Elephanta caves are one of the closest tourist destinations from the gateway of India.

g. This place serves five jetties used by the atomic research center, royal Bombay yacht club, and commercial ferry operations.

h. At present, it is regarded as a monumental memento of British colonial rule over the country.

Over the years, the gateway of India has become one of the most iconic tourist destinations of Mumbai.

Locals and tourists gather around this place to enjoy the scenic beauty of the ocean.

There is also an abundance of street food stalls, souvenir vendors, and other activities to keep the tourists engaged.

India gate Mumbai also marked the end of colonial rule in the country and held a prominent place in the history of India.

It also serves as a standard port for some of the distinguished institutions of India.

It will continue to attract a large number of students from different parts of the world.