Gilbert Hill, a Mesozoic Era marvel in Andheri Mumbai

Gilbert Hill is a Basaltic hillock in the middle of Andheri, Mumbai. It is a 66-million-year-old and 61 m. tall monolith made entirely of basalt. The Hill was formed when volcanic lava erupted during the Mesozoic era in the Indian states of Maharashtra.

The basalt rock spread over 19,000 square miles and is considered similar to Devil’s Tower National Monument and Devil’s Postpile National Monument in Wyoming and California, due to similarities in its sheer rock face and basalt-rock composition. In 1952, the Indian government declared Gilbert Hill a national monument and protected it from quarrying and housing development.

The Gilbert Hill belongs to Deccan trap basalts of 66 million years old and is mainly composed of compact basalt, which is intrusive into stratified tuffaceous breccia. The intrusion is nearly circular in nature. The Hill dates back to the Mesozoic Era, a geological age spanning from 252 million years ago to 66 million years ago, when large reptiles and dinosaurs lived on earth. Gilbert hill is much older than some of Mumbai’s other famous landmarks such as the Elephanta Caves and the Gateway of India.

Gilbert Hill in Andheri West is not a hidden, secret structure but what it stands for is something that many people would not be aware of. Today, Gilbert Hill offers an excellent view of Mumbai city for travelers.

History of Gilbert Hill

The 61m. tall monolith column of Gilbert Hill stands proud with its rich history. Back in the Mesozoic era when volcanic eruptions had swept away all forms of life on this planet, the Gilbert Hill forms by the Deccan Basalt. It happens to be one of the most amazing geological wonders of India with its volcanic origin and has been deemed as a monument of national importance.

Named after G K Gilbert a Geologist, the vertical columns of the hill resemble the Devils Tower National Monument of Wyoming. These three structures are the significant remnants of a large volcanic eruption that froze itself into a gigantic rock structure.

The holy shrines of the Gaondevi and the Durga Mata located on the hilltop serve as a special attraction for visitors. A visit to this iconic place and the scenic ride is an enjoyable thing that will mesmerize the tourist. The hill lies flanked with two routes- one route will take you to the bottom of the hill and the other route happens to be the entrance of the Gaondevi temple. The latter route is more accessible for tourists and ensures an easy climb. If you want to catch a glimpse of an age-old rock standing for 66 million years, then this place will surely be worth a visit.

The recent degradation of the hill along with the rampant growth of slum dwellers and builders around the hill has surfaced as a crucial issue, thereby destroying the aesthetic beauty of the impressive monument. Government interventions led to the banning of quarrying and other activities in the area and seek to foster the integral value of this heritage monolith column.

Places near Gilbert Hill

Gaondevi Temple

The Gaondevi temple is one of the main shrines located on Gilbert Hill and is well known for its structural elegance and historical legacy. To reach the temple you have to take the stairs that have been beautifully carved out of the Gilbert rock.

Sion Fort

The Sion Fort atop the hillock is a significant heritage monument that used to serve as a boundary between the islands inhabited by the Britishers and the Portuguese during the colonial period of India.
The fort now lies in ruins and overrun by trees, yet it will surely give you the essence of the deep history that lies embedded in its ancient walls.

Also, read- The Scenic Woodland and Ratangarh-Kalsubai trek in Sahyadris Range

Kanheri Caves

The Kanheri Caves are a fascinating chain of caves and rock-cut mountains that lies nestled within the enchanting forests of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. The Buddhist sculptures, carvings, paintings, and inscriptions render an aesthetic touch to the caves and attract many visitors, especially Buddhist devotees.

Snow Kingdom

The Snow Kingdom in Mumbai happens to be one of the largest snow-themed parks and offers you some exciting snow rides along with some chilly fun-filled activities. Young and adults alike can enjoy themselves and ride and engage in a hearty snowball. The visit to this pristine snow-white wonderland will help you to escape the monotony of your daily schedule and is a must-visit attraction.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Gilbert Hill is during the early mornings and evenings. Avoid the summer months as the sultry weather can make the uphill trek difficult. The winter months lasting between October to February is the ideal time to visit Gilbert Hill.