The Taj Mahal Palace opened in 1903, twenty-one years before the Gateway of India rose beside it — the monument, in effect, joined the hotel. Jamsetji Tata built it as a statement that India could host the world at the highest level, and a century of maharajas, presidents, Beatles and heads of state have taken him up on it.
The palace wing is the point: the great red dome, the cantilevered staircase, corridors hung with one of India's most important art collections. Sea-facing rooms watch the harbour's small wooden boats bob below — the same view that has opened a thousand Indian journeys, including most of ours.
Why We Place Guests Here
- For any journey beginning in Mumbai, the palace wing's sea-facing rooms are the definitive first night in India.
- The heritage walk of the hotel's art and history — offered daily to guests — is Mumbai's best-kept museum.
- The Sea Lounge at golden hour, harbour-side table, is a ritual we build into every Mumbai chapter.
The Table
- Wasabi by Morimoto — Japanese fine dining
- Sea Lounge — harbour-view high tea since 1933
- Harbour Bar — Mumbai's first licensed bar, est. 1933
The Elevated India Signature
Private heritage walk through the palace wing's art collection and history.
Questions, Answered
Which came first, the Taj hotel or the Gateway of India?
The hotel — The Taj Mahal Palace opened in 1903, while the Gateway of India beside it was completed in 1924. The two now form Mumbai's defining harbour ensemble.
Should I choose the Palace wing or Tower wing at the Taj Mahal Palace?
The Palace wing — the original 1903 building — carries the history, the architecture and the art collection. Elevated India places guests in sea-facing Palace rooms or suites wherever possible.
Journeys That Take You There
Malabar Passage: Mumbai to Kerala Backwaters
11 Days / 10 Nights
Deccan & Malabar Heritage: A 15-Day Aurangabad, Hyderabad & Kerala Odyssey
15 Days / 14 Nights
Explore the destination guide: Mumbai, West India ↗