5 of the oldest swimming pools in India and their fascinating history

Swimming has slowly but steadily grown in popularity across India in recent years. These days, it’s common to see pools crowded with kids and adults during the summer, whether at schools or fitness centres. But the idea of swimming as a structured activity or leisure sport in India goes back much further, long before it became part of our everyday fitness routines or sports culture.

Some of the country’s earliest swimming pools were built in the late 1800s and early 1900s, mainly in cities under British rule. These weren’t just regular pools– they were built inside exclusive clubs or schools, often meant only for certain groups of people. Over the years, their purpose changed. Some became public, some stayed private, but each of them has its own place in the story of how swimming developed in India.

Here’s a look at five of the oldest swimming pools in India, each with its own story that shows how swimming grew over time and became part of the country’s sporting and social life.

Built in 1876, this coastal pool in South Mumbai is notable not just for its age, but also for its unique design. The pool holds natural saltwater and has an irregular shape that follows the natural shoreline. Originally, during the colonial era, it was open only to a select group. Today, it is still managed by the Breach Candy Swimming Bath Trust and remains one of the city’s most well-known pools.

Founded in 1887 on Strand Road, this club was originally built for colonial officials and had very limited access in its early years. For a long time, entry was restricted– women were allowed much later, and mixed access came slowly. Despite these changes, the club has kept much of its old charm and is still a recognised part of Kolkata’s social life.

Started in 1927 by local sports enthusiasts, this club near the University of Calcutta was one of the first swimming efforts led by Indians. In its early days, it attracted a mix of members– business families, royals, and legal professionals. A key moment came in 1928 when swimmer Dwarka Das Mulji represented India at the Olympics, marking an important achievement in the country’s sports history.

Built in 1942 at the YMCA College of Physical Education, this 25-meter pool is the first of its kind in Chennai. It was created during the time of Harry Crowe Buck, an important figure in sports education in India, and played a key role in promoting formal physical training in the country.

Completed in 1947 and located opposite Presidency College, the Marina Swimming Pool was established as a large public facility. At 100 meters long, it’s larger than a standard Olympic pool and is still managed by Chennai’s civic authorities. Though it has been renovated over the years, it remains one of the city’s most notable public pools.