Ahoy there, mateys! If you’re a fan of maritime history (or just really big anchors), you’ll want to check out the Ballar Bunder Gatehouse in Mumbai’s old Fort area. This Grade I Heritage structure was built in 1920 to celebrate the realignment of the harbour, and has since been transformed into a nautical-themed museum that’s sure to float your boat.
As part of the Naval Dockyard, this building was once hidden away from the public eye for over 50 years, but thanks to a restoration by the Indian Navy in 2005, it’s now open for all to explore. You’ll find some seriously cool artifacts inside, like giant six-foot-tall anchors, knee-high lighthouse lights, and scale models of ships, trawlers, and dhows that will have you dreaming of sailing off into the sunset.
But the museum isn’t just about the physical objects – you’ll also get a glimpse into the diverse history of Mumbai through old maps and photographs that showcase everyone from goldsmiths to mill workers to fisher folk. And if you’re lucky enough to visit on the first Sunday of the month, you can join the Naval Dockyard Heritage Walk for an extra dose of seafaring fun.
So don’t be a landlubber – come on down to the Ballar Bunder Gatehouse and experience the maritime history of Mumbai in all its glory. And who knows, you might even find a treasure or two (but don’t blame us if you end up with a sunken ship instead).
But, do note, the museum is open only on first Sunday of the month.
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