Gateway of India

The most historically significant architectural building in Mumbai is undoubtedly the Gateway of India. Erected to welcome King-Emperor George V and Queen-Empress Mary, the first British monarch to visit India, this monument was built in the Indo-Saracenic style, incorporating elements of 16^th century Marathi architecture. During the colonial era, it was seen as a symbol of ‘conquest and colonization’. What’s a lesser-known fact is that when the British troops left independent India in 1948, they exited from the Gateway of India.

Today, the spot is a prime tourist location. Street vendors, photographers, and tourist guides will be found in plenty, offering services very happily. It overlooks the Arabian Sea and is opposite the Taj Mahal Palace. The place is host to a lot of events like the Elephanta Festival of Music and Dance and the one in remembrance of the terrorist attacks of 26/11. It became an illuminated monument in 2014 after an LED lighting system was installed. Just a short walk away one can have amazing non-vegetarian food options, like at Bade Mian.

Gateway offers tourists ferry services to Alibag, Elephanta Caves and a couple of more places. A family picture here is a must!