Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Mumbai

The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, opened in 1903, was commissioned by Indian industrialist Jamsetji Tata at a time when luxury hotels in colonial Mumbai largely excluded Indian guests. Its name was inspired by the Taj Mahal in Agra. Today, it continues to function as a working luxury hotel. Visitors can admire its exterior from the promenade or step inside its public spaces.

The historic 1903 structure, often called the Taj Mahal Palace, forms the original part of the hotel complex and is easily recognized by its large red dome facing the Gateway of India. A modern high-rise addition, the Taj Tower, was built beside it in 1973. Architecturally, the red dome combines a rich blend of Indo-Saracenic, Islamic, and European design influences. The palace building features arched balconies, intricate stonework, and decorative elements inspired by Moorish traditions.

Throughout the 20th century, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel became closely linked to Mumbai’s social, political, and cultural life. It hosted royalty, world leaders, writers, and film stars, with notable guests including Lord Mountbatten, the first Governor-General of independent India, and Bill Clinton, the 42nd President of the United States. The hotel has also appeared in international cinema, most recently as a filming location for Christopher Nolan’s “Tenet”.

Visitors can step inside the Taj Mahal Palace to experience some of its historic interiors. One of the most striking architectural highlights is the Cantilever Grand Staircase, an elegant marble staircase designed to appear as if it is floating without visible support. Afterwards stop by the famous Sea Lounge, a café overlooking the Gateway of India and Mumbai Harbor. The lounge is well known for its traditional afternoon tea service, where guests can enjoy tea, pastries, and light snacks while taking in views of the waterfront.