Gateway Of India
| Fast facts - | Located in the southern waterfront of the city of Mumbai by the Arabian Sea. |
| Did you know - | Gateway of India was made to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Bombay. The monument is designed in Indo-Saracenic style of architecture and took 21 lakh rupees. |
| Must do - | Witness the grand monument and its carvings. Undertake boat ride on the sea. |
| Must see - | Taj Mahal Hotel, Central Dome of Gateway of India. |
The Gateway of India ranks among the most popular tourist attractions in Mumbai. It is located on the banks of the Arabian Sea is the southern waterfront of the city. The gateway is made of basalt and is 26 meters high. Due to its gigantic height, travelers can see the monument from a distance. The harbor is also close by.
The Gateway of India in Mumbai was made to celebrate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Bombay, the former name of Mumbai. The monument was designed by an architect named George Wittet and it took around 4 years to complete. The entire monument is made with yellow basalt and concrete and is designed according to the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture. Features of Muslim architectural styles can also be found in the monument. The top of the monument consists of a central dome, which has a diameter of 15 m and is adorned with carvings.
The harbor adjacent had to be completely restructures to allow the construction of the Gateway of India. Made in the early 20th century, it took an enormous amount of 21 lakh rupees to complete the monument. The construction work of the monument was undertaken by Gammon India Limited.
The first major occasion to take place at the Gateway of India was when the First Battalion of the Somerset Light Infantry passed through it. They were the last British troops to leave after India became independent. The ceremony was conducted on 28th February in the year 1948.
The Gateway of India draws hundreds of tourists from various parts of the country and the world. From the area, one can also witness the wonderful sight of sunset. One can also enjoy a boat ride on the sea. The beautiful Taj Mahal Hotel is also located near by.
