Monuments In Mumbai

Mumbai, the city of wannabes and ambitious aspirants stands as one of the monumental example of its striking colonial past. Influenced by British colonial rule, the city of Mumbai has emerged from the relics of its imposing legacy to modernization and liberalization. Touted as one of the fastest growing cities of modern India, Mumbai is one place that throbs with enthusiasm and excitement. Apart from being the economic hub, Mumbai is also feted as one of the best tourist destinations in India. With spectacular landmarks and architectures to boast of, Mumbai is mobbed with great number of tourists every year. The colonial history, diverse culture, rich architecture, majestic monuments and epigraphic edifices just adds to the city’s charm. A trip to this city of dreams is perhaps the best way to explore the hidden legacy of its monumental edifices. Explore the article to know more about the famous landmarks of Mumbai.

Landmarks of Mumbai

Gateway Of India
The Gateway of India is indeed the city’s most legendary monument. Located at Apollo Bunder area in South Mumbai, this architectural marvel scores over any other buildings in Mumbai. This symbol of colonialism was built by George Witte to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. Although the foundation stone for the structure was laid in 1911, it took nearly 13 years to complete this humongous monument. With a great architectural design to boast of, this bold archway attracts tourists in crowds. Revered as the pride of Mumbai, the Gateway of India is one of those few monuments that will forever stay close to the heart of Mumbai.

Victoria Terminus
Victoria Terminus is one of the main railway stations in Mumbai. With a massive stone structure and magnificent style to its name, Victoria Terminus stands tall as one of the most massive structural designs of Mumbai. The architecture of the building, which blends Victorian Italianate Gothic Revival with the traditional Indian architecture, has been an epitome of artisanship and elegance. Designed by Mr. Frederick William Stevens in 1887-88, this colossal terminus was conceived to commemorate the Victoria Jubilee Day in 1887. The statue of Queen Victoria on the stone dome, turrets and woodcarvings makes this place as awesome architectural edifice and the pride of Mumbai. Victoria Terminus, which is popularly known by its acronym VT, was renamed as Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus in 1996.

Elephanta Caves
Elephanta Caves, the home to many primeval temples, is located in Mumbai’s Elephanta Island. This island is the abode to a series of bravura caves, which dates back from 4th-9th centuries. One of the highlights of these caves is the Maheshamurti Cave, which houses a 6m high statue of the three head Trimurti or Lord Shiva. This popular sculpture showcases Shiva as the creator, preserver and the destroyer of the universe. Other popular sculptures of the caves are Gangadhara, Uma Maheswara, Kalyanasundara and Ardhanariswara. If you visit Mumbai then don’t forget to take a trip to the Elephanta Caves and explore its artistic finesse.

Rajabai Clock Tower
Rajabai Clock Tower, located within the University of Mumbai, is one of the important landmarks of Mumbai. This 260 feet high clock tower was built between 1869 and 1878 by the renowned English architect George Gilbert and was modeled on Big Ben, the clock tower in the Houses of Parliament in Westminster, UK. The clock tower was named after the mother of a 19th century stockbroker, Premchand Roychand, who contributed towards its construction. The blend of Venetian and Gothic styles makes the clock tower one of the magnificent structures of Mumbai. The Rajabai Clock Tower houses the University library, which is famous for its stained glass windows. The clock of the tower rings once in every 15 minutes, reminding the people the value of time.

Flora Fountain
The Flora Fountain in South Mumbai, which was designed by R. Norman Shaw, was erected in 1869, in the honor of Sir Henry Bartle and Edward Frere. Flora Fountain, situated in the heart of the city in front of the Public Works Secretariat, provides a magnificent view of architectural feat. The Flora Fountain, which was named after the Roman Goddess Flora, looks beautiful in night when the fountain gleams with lights. Even though the place is known as Hutatma Chowk, it is still famous as Flora Fountain.

Mumbai High Court
The Mumbai High Court, situated in the Fort area, is one of the oldest and perhaps the most glittering example of stupendous architecture. Built according to the Gothic style, the building was designed by Col. J.A. Fuller, a British engineer. Although the building was inaugurated in 1862, the first sitting in the court took place in January 1879. The Gothic designs of the high court are impressive enough to bedazzle a visitor.

Kanheri Caves
Kanheri Caves, situated in the middle of greenery of Borivali National Park, is one of the must-see places of Mumbai. As per the historical records, Buddhist monks started their work on these caves in 1st century and continued until 11th century AD. Popular for its architectural wonder, each cave looks beautiful with its artistic chiseled work. This place definitely serves as the best weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.