Gateway of India, Mumbai

This impressive monument was planned in the early 20 th century to commemorate the 1911 visit of King George and Queen Mary to India, although sticklers for detail will be interested to learn it wasn’t actually built until 1924. The royal couple had to be satisfied instead with a cardboard model of its proposed grandeur, the basalt version of which today sits on the waterfront at Apollo Bunder, overlooking the Arabian Sea.

On completion, however, this iconic landmark, which combines Muslim and Hindu architectural styles, lived up to its name by literally serving as the entrance to India for the British authorities. It was an exit point, too: in 1948, just 24 years after it was finished, it was through this very Gateway that the last of the British troops departed India for good, as the country declared independence and the postcolonial era began.

These days, it’s beloved by locals and visitors to Mumbai alike – it’s considered to be Mumbai’s top tourist attraction and one of the best people-watching spots ever. All human life is here, as the saying goes, and it’s fascinating stuff. Find yourself a comfy spot, grab a bhelpuri (delicious snack made from puffed rice, fried dough, lentils and herbs) from a local street vendor and settle down to soak up the atmos. After all, you’re on Indian time now.