How to Reach the Gateway of India, Mumbai

The Gateway of India is one of Mumbai’s most iconic monuments and a major landmark for visitors exploring the city. Located in Colaba, South Mumbai, this grand arch overlooking the Arabian Sea attracts tourists, history lovers, and photographers throughout the year. If you are planning to visit, one of the first things you’ll wonder is: how to reach the Gateway of India. Thankfully, Mumbai is well-connected, and reaching the Gateway of India is quite straightforward once you know your options.

By Train

Mumbai’s lifeline is its local train network, and the closest stations to the Gateway of India are Churchgate and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT).

• If you’re travelling from the western suburbs, take a train to Churchgate. From there, it’s a short 20-minute taxi ride to the monument, and you can take the 124 bus.

• If you’re coming from the central or harbour lines, get down at CSMT. You can then take a taxi, bus, or even walk if you enjoy exploring old Mumbai’s colonial architecture along the way. The BEST bus 124 takes you from CSMT to Colaba.

Trains are the fastest way to get around the city during peak hours, but do be prepared for crowds, especially in the mornings and evenings.

By Bus

BEST buses are another economical option. Several routes connect different parts of the city to Colaba. For instance, buses from Dadar, Byculla, or CST will drop you close to the Gateway. While this is a slower option compared to trains, it’s ideal if you want to experience Mumbai the way locals do. The BEST Bus route 124 connects CST to Worli. Here’s all the bus stops it passes through:

By Taxi or Auto-Rickshaw

Taxis are one of the most convenient ways to reach the Gateway of India. Black-and-yellow cabs are available almost everywhere in Mumbai, and app-based taxis like Ola and Uber are also reliable. However, note that auto-rickshaws are not allowed in South Mumbai, so if you’re travelling from Bandra or Andheri by rickshaw, you will have to switch to a taxi at some point.

By Car

If you’re driving, you can head towards Colaba using Marine Drive or P D’Mello Road. Parking near the Gateway is limited and often crowded, so it’s best to park at nearby pay-and-park facilities or hotel parking lots and walk to the monument.

Walking Around Colaba

Once you arrive in Colaba, the Gateway is within walking distance of many attractions. The famous Taj Mahal Palace Hotel is right next door, and Colaba Causeway, a hub for shopping and street food, is just a few minutes away. You can aim to spend the whole morning and afternoon in and around Colaba. However, the area sparkles differently in the morning and the evening. While mornings see tourists taking in the historic aspect of the Gateway, the evenings see locals and out-of-towners soaking in the Mumbai nightlife.

What to do at the Gateway of India

The Gateway of India is an iconic spot, and photographers often walk around it. You can get your touristy snaps taken. From the Gateway, you get a great view of the Arabian Sea and a fantastic view of the Taj Mahal Hotel.  Security is tight around the area for obvious reasons, and you may need to spend a minute longer during the security procedure.

Final Tips

• Visit early in the morning or late evening to avoid traffic and crowds.

• Carry cash for taxis and street vendors, though digital payments are widely accepted.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Mumbaikar revisiting an old favourite, the Gateway of India is more than just a monument – it’s an experience that captures the spirit of Mumbai. From its colonial-era architecture to its buzzing surroundings, every visit feels alive with history, culture, and everyday city life. Plan your route well, set aside time to explore nearby attractions, and let the Gateway be your starting point to discover the heart of South Mumbai.