Anand Mahindra praises Mumbai’s Gilbert Hill; netizens say Andheri can’t handle more traffic

A 65-million-year-old volcanic marvel in the heart of Mumbai gets a shoutout from Anand Mahindra—while netizens worry if Andheri can handle the spotlight.

• Anand Mahindra's post spotlighted Mumbai's rare Gilbert Hill volcanic column
• Gilbert Hill is one of three such formations worldwide, dating back 65 million years.
• Post sparked debate on tourism promotion vs. infrastructure management.

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Mumbai is a city where history, chaos and wonder coexist—often in the most unexpected ways. Skyscrapers rise next to colonial-era buildings, metro lines snake past centuries-old temples, and, hidden in the middle of it all, are stories that even lifelong residents may have never noticed. One such story recently resurfaced after Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra turned the spotlight on Gilbert Hill, a rare geological marvel tucked away in Andheri West.

Known for his lively presence on X (formerly Twitter), Anand Mahindra frequently shares discoveries that spark curiosity—be it innovative ideas from small towns, architectural gems or lesser-known travel spots. His posts often encourage people to look closer at places they might otherwise overlook. This time, it was Mumbai itself that surprised him.

Sharing a video about Gilbert Hill, Mahindra wrote, "Travel bucket-list items can be right in your hometown. A quick check showed that Gilbert Hill is one of only 3 volcanic columns in the world, yet I had no clue it was here in Mumbai. How do we make this a more visited destination?”

Travel bucket-list items can be right in your hometown

A quick check showed that Gilbert Hill is one of only 3 volcanic columns in the world, yet I had no clue it was here in Mumbai How do we make this a more visited destination?#SundayWandererpic.twitter.com/JGh5mi4SVM — anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) February 8, 2026

The post quickly went viral, drawing fresh attention to the ancient rock formation—and sparking a lively debate online.

A 65-Million-Year-Old Natural Wonder Hidden in Andheri

Gilbert Hill is not just another city landmark—it is a rare volcanic basalt formation believed to be around 65–66 million years old, dating back to the Mesozoic Era, when dinosaurs still roamed the Earth. Formed during the massive volcanic eruptions that created the Deccan Traps, the hill is made of black basalt that cooled into sharp, vertical, knife-cut-like columns.

Standing nearly 200 feet tall, Gilbert Hill rises dramatically above the crowded streets of Andheri. What makes it extraordinary is its global rarity. There are reportedly only two to three such vertical volcanic column formations in the world, with similar structures found in parts of the United States and Northern Ireland. That one of them exists in the heart of Mumbai makes it geologically priceless.

Despite being surrounded by dense urban development, Gilbert Hill has survived decades of rapid construction, traffic congestion and population growth—quietly bearing witness to the city’s transformation.

Why Gilbert Hill Is an Important Part of Mumbai’s Heritage

Recognising its scientific and historical significance, Gilbert Hill was declared a National Monument in 1952. This protected status helped shield the monolithic rock from quarrying and construction, ensuring that a rare piece of Earth’s volcanic history remained intact amid Mumbai’s concrete sprawl.

Yet, for all its importance, Gilbert Hill remains surprisingly under-visited. Many Mumbaikars pass by Andheri without realising that a globally significant geological site stands just a short walk away.

The View from the Top: Calm Above the Chaos

Reaching the summit of Gilbert Hill requires climbing nearly 250 steep steps carved directly into the rock. The ascent can be demanding, but those who make the effort are rewarded with an unexpected sense of calm.

At the top, visitors will find the Gaondevi Temple and Durgamata Temple, surrounded by a small garden space that feels worlds away from the noise below. From here, the hill offers a 360-degree panoramic view of suburban Mumbai—high-rise apartments, metro lines, bustling roads, dense neighbourhoods and, on clear days, even a glimpse of the Arabian Sea shimmering in the distance.

Few places in Mumbai offer such a dramatic contrast between ancient geology and modern city life in a single frame.

Netizens React: Praise, Caution and Concern

While Anand Mahindra’s post reignited interest in Gilbert Hill, reactions online were mixed. Many users welcomed the attention, calling it an underrated gem that deserves better care and awareness.

One user wrote, “Gilbert Hill is a gem hiding in plain sight. Better signage, a small interpretation centre explaining the geology, regular guided walks and basic upkeep could do wonders. Awareness is half the battle.”

Others, however, expressed concern about infrastructure, cleanliness and Andheri’s already overstretched roads.

A critical comment read, “Try to visit here & you will delete this tweet—dirt, poor infrastructure, no basic facilities (P.S. I go there 3–4 times a year).”

Another user summed up a common fear, “Please don’t. Andheri West can’t handle any more traffic.”

The comments highlight a familiar Mumbai dilemma—how to promote heritage and tourism without worsening congestion or neglecting basic civic needs.

Should Gilbert Hill Be on Your Mumbai Travel List?

Gilbert Hill’s rediscovery raises an important question: How many extraordinary places are hiding in plain sight across our cities? With thoughtful planning—better maintenance, improved access, visitor facilities and guided tours—this ancient volcanic column could become one of Mumbai’s most meaningful travel experiences rather than just another crowded spot.

For now, Gilbert Hill stands quietly above Andheri, a powerful reminder that travel-worthy wonders don’t always require long journeys. Sometimes, they’re right in your own neighbourhood—waiting to be noticed.

Anand Mahindra’s post may have sparked debate, but it has also done something equally important: it reminded people to look closer at the familiar and rediscover the history beneath the everyday rush of city life.