The Proud of Mumbai Gateway of India
The Gateway of India is one of the many monuments in Mumbai, which is very popular by its name itself. It is built by yellow kharodi basalt and reinforced concrete. The construction of the gateway of India was completed in 1924 and is opened on December4, 1924 by the Viceroy. The monument was designed by George Wittet.
The Gateway is the first thing that the visitors would see, who comes to Mumbai by boats. The magnificent monument was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Bombay. The monument has historic significance as the last British troops, which sail for England, left through the Gateway. Today, the Gateway of India stands as a finest example of colonial architectural heritage in India.
Behind the Gateway, the steps lead down to the sea, from there the visitor can go for a short cruise through Mumbai’s impressive natural port. The Gateway of India is built in the Indo-Saracenic style; the architectural elements are derived from the 16th century Muslims architectural styles of Gujarat.
The central dome measured as 15 metres is diameter, while the highest point is 26 meter above from the ground. The cost of construction was Rupee 21 lacks in Indian currency, borne by the Government of India. The approach road was never constructed due to lake of funds, so the Gateway stands at an angle to the road leading up to it. From the Gateway of India visitors can also take luxury boats to Elephanta Caves that are very famous among tourists.
How to reach:
To reach The Gateway of India, first you have to go to Mumbai; by air the International Airport is located at a distance of 28 Kms from the city centre. Domestic and International flights are available to Mumbai. By railways, the two of the major railheads are Church gate and Chhatrapati Shivaji terminus both are near to it. By road, Mumbai is connected to rest of the country with good network of roads. The buses are available from all parts of the city as well as neighboring states.
Where to stay:
Mumbai is dotted with several hotels, which offer plenty of accommodation choices. Taj Mahal Hotel is situated very close to Gateway of India, which is best to stay. Bombay is usually thronged by number of tourists from all over the world. Since the city is quite famous on the Indian tourist map, Bombay hosts an array of hotels ranging from Deluxe to Budget. There are hotels like Hotel Parkway, Sea Palace Hotel, Chateau Windsor Hotel and many more, those offering facilities in very reasonable rates and according to visitors taste.
Further Readings: Taj Mahal Agra and Budget Hotel Booking