History of Gateway of India

The imposing Gateway of India is the most sought after tourist destination in the city of Mumbai. It is the pride of the city. Placed in south Mumbai at Apollo Bunder, it is visited by all the tourists including the locals. The British architect George Wittet is the creative mind behind the construction of this wonderful structure. A person visiting the city for the first time is bound to take a halt at the Gateway.

King George and Queen Mary visited the city in 1911. To commemorate this special occasion, the Gateway of India was built, in 1924 It is a sign of remembrance of this royal visit, and has a distinctive colonial flavour to it. It has a huge archway which stands about 26 metres tall, and represents the best of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The elaborate and detailed design on the structure is marvellous. The Gateway is made up of yellow basalt stone and the construction is based on four towers. The expenses incurred while building this structure were a princely sum of 21 lakhs! Though it sounds laughable now, but we should remember that in those days it was a sum enough to build a palace.

The Gateway of India has witnessed a glorious history. At the time of the end of the British rule in the country, the Gateway was thought of as a sign of the British rule. The only British regiment that was left in the country was the First Battalion of the Somerset Light Infantry. On the 28th of February in the year 1948, this regiment too left the country. As the regiment took its last steps through the Gateway of India, the ceremonious monument was forever etched in the pages of history.

The Gateway of India also offers many exciting recreational activities to all its tourists. They can opt for the thrilling boat rides. The boat ride takes you on a small tour of the city through the waters of the Arabian Sea. The boating experience is very enjoyable. The wind swishing in your faces is a sort of rejuvenation and the cool blue waters beneath is a delight to watch. You can also undertake boat trips to Elephanta Caves. Also a few steps away from the Gateway you will find the sculpture of Shivaji on his horse. An image of Swami Vivekananda is another attraction in the vicinity.

Reaching the Gateway of India is not a problem at all. Any taxi in the city will help you reach the Gateway. Quality hospitality is also available as many hotels like the Oberoi and Taj Mahal are placed in the vicinity of the Gateway. Economy hotels are also found.