Not-so-hidden in the heart of Andheri West, Gilbert Hill is a 200-foot monolith that remains a silent witness to millions of years of Earth’s history. To many, this natural wonder might seem like a sore sight at the first glance, but it promises one of the best panoramic views from the top of Mumbai’s skyline, blended into a taste of historical, geological, and cultural significance.
Here's what you can do at Gilbert Hill.
Gilbert hill is possibly the oldest standing piece of nature’s creation India has seen. This almost 200 feet tall monolith structure, is dated 66 million years old and is primarily made up of basalt rock. Studies show it was formed during the Mesozoic era – owing to the volcanic eruptions from the Earth – with the only other similar formation on Earth being present in the USA, called the Devil’s Tower. It was announced as a National Park in 1952 and was given the title of a Grade II Heritage Site in 2007. There is limited conservation going on here, with the temple on top being highly regarded.
The name, Gilbert Hill, coined by the British, has since stuck. When you visit Gilbert Hill in Andheri West, you'll find a discarded shoddy hill unlike what its glorious history proclaims.
Start the climb from the staircase that’s been carved out of the rocks at the foothills of Gilbert. After about five minutes, you will be at the top. There’s an old Hindu temple there, that’s been around for decades. The temple venerates Gaodevi Durgamata and sees a lot of crowd during the festival of Hanuman Jayanti.
If you walk around the temple on the grass paths, you will love every bit of it. It has a beautiful, uncontested view of the city from all directions. You can see as far as the city is, from the shiny Arabian sea to the high rises of modern Lokhandwala, to the metro line.
Turn north-east and be greeted by the green forest pastures of Aarey Milk colony. It gives us one of the best vantage points to the suburban areas of Mumbai, even giving us a glimpse all the way to Worli – just squint and you’ll see. The views of beaches and the sea, however, is what will really have a calming effect on you. Catch one of the best sunsets you can from here – coloured skies like a painted canvas.
You can relax under the shades of the trees, have a small quick picnic or just come here to unwind from the city stress with views that are rare to find in the city. For Andheri dwellers, this spot is perfect for a quick jog up to the hill.
It's very close to the Andheri railway station. Just get an auto towards Bhavans college and you can walk from there.
Winter mornings or evenings at sunrise/sunset for the most pleasant weather and stunning skies. Avoid monsoons as the path to get there can get slippery.
- Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes for the climb.
- Carry water, a sun hat, and light snacks.
- We recommend going here before 7 PM to catch the sunset and avoid the dark.
Pro Tip: If you are seeking a mini vacation to squash some of those travel goals in 2025, this guide will help you with hill stations near Mumbai.
