Gateway of India
Mumbai's most famous monument, facing the Arabian Sea at Apollo Bunder
At a glance: Gateway of India is Mumbai's most famous monument, facing the Arabian Sea at Apollo Bunder. It's open 24 hours; monument area lit until late. Entry is free. Allow 30–60 minutes. Best time to visit: Early morning for empty photos, or sunset for the atmosphere. Nearest station: Churchgate (Western) or CSMT (Central), ~2.5 km.
Plan your visit
- Opening hours
- Open 24 hours; monument area lit until late
- Entry fee
- Free
- Time needed
- 30–60 minutes
- Best time to visit
- Early morning for empty photos, or sunset for the atmosphere
- Nearest station
- Churchgate (Western) or CSMT (Central), ~2.5 km
- Address
- Apollo Bunder, Colaba, Mumbai 400001
About Gateway of India
Built to commemorate the 1911 visit of King George V and Queen Mary, the basalt arch was completed in 1924 and became the ceremonial entrance to British India, and, in 1948, the point from which the last British troops departed. Today it is the city's meeting place: ferries to Elephanta leave from the jetty behind it, the Taj Mahal Palace hotel stands opposite, and the promenade fills with families, photographers and balloon-sellers every evening.
Tips
- Elephanta ferries depart from here roughly 9 AM – 2 PM; buy tickets at the booth, not from touts
- Security screening at the entrance, no large bags
- Combine with a walk along Colaba Causeway, five minutes away
Frequently asked questions
What are the opening hours of Gateway of India?
Gateway of India is open 24 hours; monument area lit until late.
How much does it cost to visit Gateway of India?
Entry to Gateway of India is free.
How long do you need at Gateway of India?
Allow 30–60 minutes at Gateway of India.
When is the best time to visit Gateway of India?
Early morning for empty photos, or sunset for the atmosphere.
How do I get to Gateway of India?
The nearest station is Churchgate (Western) or CSMT (Central), ~2.5 km. Gateway of India is at Apollo Bunder, Colaba, Mumbai 400001.
Itineraries that include Gateway of India
48 Hours in Mumbai
The old city on day one, the sea and the suburbs on day two
Mumbai in a Day: The Classic South Mumbai Circuit
Gateway to Marine Drive: the essential first-timer's route through the old city
Where to eat nearby
More heritage & landmarks
Bandra–Worli Sea Link
The 5.6 km cable-stayed bridge that became modern Mumbai's postcard
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT)
A working railway station that is also a UNESCO World Heritage masterpiece
Elephanta Caves
UNESCO-listed rock-cut Shiva temples on an island an hour's ferry from the Gateway