Gateway of India: One Day Tour

The Gateway of India, Mumbai’s most iconic landmark, stands majestically overlooking the Arabian Sea. Built in 1924 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary, this Indo-Saracenic architectural marvel has become the unofficial symbol of Mumbai and is often called the ‘Taj Mahal of Mumbai’.

Quick Facts

• Location: Apollo Bunder, Colaba, Mumbai 400001
• Entry Fee: Free
• Opening Hours: 24/7 (Best time: 7 AM – 9 PM)
• Photography: Allowed (no fee)
• Time Required: 1-2 hours
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning (6 AM – 8 AM) or sunset (5:30 PM – 7 PM)

How to Reach

By Local Train

1. Nearest Station: Churchgate (Western Line) or CST/CSMT (Central Line)

• From Churchgate: 20-minute walk or 5-minute taxi ride
• From CST: 25-minute walk or 10-minute taxi ride
• Train Fare: ₹10-30 depending on class and distance

By Bus

• BEST Bus Numbers: 103, 106, 112, 123, 125
• Bus Stop: Gateway of India Bus Stop
• Fare: ₹10-20
• Frequency: Every 10-15 minutes

By Taxi/Auto

• From Airport:
  • Domestic Airport: 1-1.5 hours, approximately ₹400-500
  • International Airport: 1.5-2 hours, approximately ₹500-600
• From Bandra: 45 minutes, approximately ₹300-400
• Auto rickshaws only operate in suburbs, not in Colaba area

By Ferry

• Available from:
  • Mandwa Jetty (Alibaug)
  • Elephanta Caves
• Fare: ₹150-200 one way
• Frequency: Every 30 minutes during peak hours

Best Things to Do

1. Photography

• Best Spots:
  • Front view from the plaza
  • Side angle near Taj Hotel
  • From the sea (boat rides)
• Best Time: Early morning for clear shots
• Lighting: Evening illumination after 7 PM

2. Boat Rides

• Types Available:
  • Harbor cruise (30 mins): ₹100-150
  • Elephanta Caves ferry: ₹200 return
  • Sunset cruise: ₹300-400
• Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
• Safety: Only use authorized operators wearing official badges

3. Street Shopping

Nearby Colaba Causeway offers:

• Souvenirs: ₹100-500
• Fashion accessories: ₹50-300
• Street art: ₹200-1000
• Bargaining: Start at 50% of the quoted price

Nearby Attractions

1. Taj Mahal Palace Hotel

• Distance: 1-minute walk
• Highlights:
  • Historical architecture
  • Photo opportunities
  • High-tea experience (₹2500+ per person)

2. Colaba Causeway

• Distance: 5-minute walk
• Highlights:
  • Street shopping
  • Cafes and restaurants
  • Leopold Cafe (famous from ‘Shantaram’)

3. Regal Cinema

• Distance: 10-minute walk
• Highlights:
  • Art Deco architecture
  • Current movies
  • Historical significance

Food Options

Budget-Friendly (Under ₹300)

1. Street Food Stalls
   • Bhel Puri: ₹50
   • Vada Pav: ₹20
   • Cutting Chai: ₹10

Mid-Range (₹300-1000)

1. Cafe Mondegar
   • Famous for: Cold coffee, beer, snacks
   • Average cost: ₹800 for two
2. Leopold Cafe
   • Famous for: Continental food, beer
   • Average cost: ₹1000 for two

Luxury (₹1000+)

1. Sea Lounge, Taj Hotel
   • Famous for: High tea, sea view
   • Average cost: ₹3000 for two

Essential Tips

Best Times to Visit

1. Early Morning (6 AM – 8 AM)
   • Less crowded
   • Best for photography
   • Pleasant weather
2. Sunset (5:30 PM – 7 PM)
   • Beautiful lighting
   • Nice for boat rides
   • Popular with families

Weather Considerations

• October to February: Perfect weather
• March to May: Hot, carry water
• June to September: Monsoon, carry umbrella
• Tip: Morning visits recommended in summer

Safety Tips

1. General Safety
   • Keep valuables secure
   • Watch for pickpockets
   • Use authorized services only
2. Solo Travelers
   • Stay in well-lit areas
   • Avoid late night visits
   • Keep emergency contacts handy

What to Carry

• Water bottle
• Hat/Umbrella
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Camera
• Cash for small purchases
• Light snacks

Photography Tips

1. Morning Shots
   • Position: From plaza center
   • Lighting: Back-lit, perfect for silhouettes
2. Evening Shots
   • Position: Side angles
   • Timing: During illumination
3. Composition Ideas
   • Include pigeons in foreground
   • Frame with Taj Hotel
   • Capture with boats in background

Special Events

1. New Year’s Eve
   • Special illumination
   • Crowd control measures
   • Advanced planning needed
2. Independence Day
   • Flag hoisting
   • Cultural programs
   • Enhanced security

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible plaza
• Ramps available
• Assistance available from security staff
• Special access to viewing areas

Emergency Contacts

• Tourist Police: 1800-22-1363
• Local Police Station: 022-2284 1900
• Tourist Help Desk: Available at the plaza
• Medical Emergency: 102

Additional Information

• Free guided tours available (weekends)
• Audio guides available in multiple languages
• Regular security checks during peak hours
• Baggage scanning at entry points