GILBERT HILL

Seated amidst the lush greenery and overlooking the entire suburban area of Andheri West, lies the heritage structure of Gilbert Hill. With its origins embedded in the Mesozoic era, the black basalt rock structure is one of its unique kinds.

Along with two other national monuments situated in Wyoming and California, Gilbert Hill is the third one that stands as a testimony of having stood against the depredations of age. The holy shrines of the Gaondevi and the Durga Mata located on the hilltop serves as a special attraction for the visitors.

A visit to this iconic place can be easily scheduled during any time of the day and serves to be an easy getaway from the din of the main city. A scenic ride or an enjoyable trek can be surely planned along the mesmerising trails of the hill.

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 firm from the bygones times of history, 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.

History of Gilbert Hill:

With its ancient roots dating back from 66 million years ago, the 200 feet monolith column of Gilbert Hill stands proud with its rich history. Travelling back to the pages of history when volcanic eruptions had swept away all forms of life on this planet, archaeologists believe that Gilbert Hill originated during that period. 

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, the vertical columns of the hill resemble the Devils Tower National Monument and Devils Postpile National Monument in Wyoming and California respectively. These three structures are the significant remnants of a large volcanic bubble that froze and turned itself into a gigantic rock structure.

Being one of the world’s oldest basalt rock formations, Gilbert Hill has stood the ravages of time and serves as an intrinsic symbol of the earliest forms of life on Earth.

If you have been wondering about the presence of black soil and the infertile plateau found in this region, then Gilbert Hill with its intriguing legacy might help you to seek some answers. On the summit of the hill, lies the abode of the Hindu Goddesses- Gaondevi and Durga Mata which also attracts tourists from far and wide.

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 really difficult. Though Mumbai receives heavy downpour during the monsoon months, you can still embark upon a trek to Gilbert Hill.

The fascinating view of the lush greenery around will surely leave you in absolute awe. The winter months lasting between October to February is the ideal time to visit Gilbert Hill.

The pleasant weather will offer you a remarkable journey and the scenic vistas around will be a welcome change.

Other Essential Information

Location- Gilbert Hill, Sagar City, Andheri West, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400047.

Timing- Visitors can make a trip to Gilbert Hill at any time of the day. 

Price- No entry fee required for entering the premises of Gilbert Hill.

Tips for visiting Gilbert Hill:

While planning for a trip to Gilbert Hill, keep these important factors in mind:

-The paths along Gilbert Hill, are extremely narrow and filled with potholes. Thus, tourists are strictly advised not to take their cars. Local transport are easily available and one can even take their two wheelers.

-The routes can sometimes be confusing, hence feel free to ask people in case you end up in any kind of dilemma regarding which path one should take to reach the hilltop.

-Wear comfortable clothes and proper shoes to enjoy a memorable trek.

-Carry some light refreshments and sufficient water to recharge yourselves at intervals.

-Do not forget your cameras, as the stunning scenery along the hillside will surely be captivating enough and you would love to capture the incredible sights.