The short answer
Rajabai Tower: what visitors should know first
Yes, if you are a Gothic architecture lover. The tower is seen from the street, not entered, so the visit is 15 minutes of walking around and photographing it. Pair it with nearby CST and the Fort bazaars.
Useful facts
Rajabai Tower facts at a glance
- Location
- Fort, South Mumbai (next to the High Court)
- Type
- Landmark
- Time needed
- 15–30 minutes
- Best time
- Afternoon light for photography; weekday mornings for fewer crowds
Why it matters
Why Rajabai Tower is worth your time
Rajabai Tower was built by the British authorities in 1878 and named after Rajabai Mehta, the mother of the philanthropist Rao Bahadur Cowasji Jehangir Readymoney, who donated the funds. Designed by British architect Frederick William Stevens (the same architect who designed CST), it exemplifies the Victorian Gothic Revival style adapted to the Mumbai context.
The tower housed the Mumbai University library and was the university's most recognisable landmark for over a century. It remains a defining silhouette in South Mumbai's skyline and a reminder of the British-era ambitions to build grand civic buildings.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Walk to the High Court complex and view Rajabai Tower from the street in front. The tower rises 56 metres and is ornately carved with pointed arches, turrets and decorative stonework that reflects Gothic Revival and Mughal influences. The clock face is prominent from several angles.
Stand at different points around it to see how the light changes the colour and mood of the stone. In the afternoon, the western side catches warm light. The tower is best photographed from a few metres back, using surrounding buildings as context.
After photographing, walk through the nearby Fort area bazaars, which sell books, flowers, silver and textiles. Then visit CST and the Cathedral Church of St. Thomas, which are all within 10–15 minutes on foot.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Photograph from several angles to see how the light changes the stone
- Combine with CST and the Cathedral Church of St. Thomas, which are nearby
- The High Court complex is an active building; stay in public areas
- Afternoon light is best for photography
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Fort, South Mumbai (next to the High Court)
- Time needed
- 15–30 minutes
- Best time
- Afternoon light for photography; weekday mornings for fewer crowds
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- The tower is viewed from the street and does not require climbing. The surrounding Fort area is flat, though it gets crowded with street vendors and vehicles.
- Tickets and access
- No entry fee. The tower is viewed from outside the High Court complex. Interior access is restricted to court business.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Rajabai Tower
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The tower is viewed from the street and does not require climbing. The surrounding Fort area is flat, though it gets crowded with street vendors and vehicles.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Can I go inside Rajabai Tower?
No, the tower is part of the High Court complex and is not open to the public. It is viewed from outside.
Who designed the tower?
The tower was designed by Frederick William Stevens, the same architect who designed Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus.
When was it built?
Rajabai Tower was completed in 1878.
What is near the tower?
Nearby are Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, the Cathedral Church of St. Thomas, and the Fort area bazaars.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
