Decades ago tigers reportedly roamed where we stand now. This is Altamount Road also known as India’s Billionaires’ Row. It is an affluent residential street in South Mumbai.
Altamount Road is famous for high real estate prices. It is known as one of the most expensive streets worldwide. Glamorous bungalows, Art Deco apartments, and modern high-rises line this road. It is a mix of old money and new ambition.
In the 1990s Altamount Road was officially renamed S. K. Barodawalla Marg. But the original name persists in the hearts and on the tongues of Mumbai. Taxi drivers, residents, and everyone else still call it Altamount Road.
Notice the many trees that line Altamount Road. They are a reminder of its history. Heritage buildings stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time. These include the Bombay Port Trust Chairman’s residence. Also, the Municipal Commissioner of Mumbai resides here. In the past the United States consulate was located here.
Look up at the skyscrapers. The most expensive private residence in the world Antilia is on Altamount Road. It was valued at roughly US$4.6 billion in 2023.
Many important establishments have addresses here. The Indonesian and South African consulates are on Altamount Road. Nearby on Carmichael Road are the Belgian, Chinese, and Japanese consulates.
Let’s talk about Lodha Altamount a luxury residential skyscraper. In 2015 an apartment in Lodha Altamount sold for a record price. It was the most expensive apartment sale in India at the time. The price was ₹160,000 per square foot. Lodha Altamount stands where the US Consulate once stood. The US Consulate was called Washington House.
German-Iranian architect Hadi Teherani designed Lodha Altamount. The building has a black all-glass facade. This provides privacy and helps moderate the climate inside.
Did you know a piece of art by Pablo Picasso is displayed here? It is in the entrance lobby of Lodha Altamount. It is called La Plage, Juan-les-Pins.
Once upon a time Colonel Altamont lived here. The road is believed to be named after him. Altamont means “high hill road”. It’s easy to see why.
Imagine parties in the 1800s. William Wordsworth Jr. recited poetry here. He had glimpsed the Promised Land from the hills of Cumberland.
Consider the changes Altamount Road has seen. From tigers to tycoons this road has transformed. It stands as a symbol of wealth ambition and enduring history. Altamount Road continues to evolve. It remains one of Mumbai’s most iconic and prestigious addresses.