Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, still widely called VT, is a UNESCO World Heritage railway station and the finest Victorian Gothic building in India, completed in 1888. Its stone facade bristles with turrets, gargoyles, and a great central dome, and it remains one of the busiest working stations in the country. The exterior is the star and free to admire; interior heritage tours run on limited schedules, and the concourse is packed at rush hour.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

What's the best time to see CSMT?

After dark, when the facade is floodlit and looks like a palace, is spectacular. Early morning gives cleaner light and thinner crowds for photographing the exterior. Avoid peak rush hours inside unless you want the full commuter crush.

Can I photograph CSMT?

The exterior, yes, freely, and it's one of Mumbai's best subjects. Inside the working station, be discreet and mindful of security, as some areas restrict photography. The floodlit evening facade from across the road is the money shot.

Why is CSMT a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

For its outstanding Victorian Gothic Revival architecture fused with Indian influences, completed in 1888. It's a landmark of British-era Bombay and a rare example of a monumental station still in daily use. UNESCO listed it in 2004.

Is CSMT easy to reach?

Extremely, it's a central transit hub for suburban trains, the Metro, buses and taxis. That's the beauty of it: the monument is also the way you get around, so you'll likely pass through it anyway.

Is there a fee to visit CSMT?

Walking through the station and admiring the exterior is free. The heritage museum and any guided architectural tours charge small fees that support conservation. Check with Central Railway for current tour schedules and prices.

Can tourists go inside CSMT?

Yes, the concourse is a public, working station you can walk through. There's also a small railway heritage museum and, at times, guided heritage tours of the ornate administrative wing. The public areas are free; tours and the museum carry nominal charges.

What was CSMT formerly called?

Victoria Terminus, or VT, built in honour of Queen Victoria and opened in 1888. It was renamed Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus in 1996 and later Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. Many locals still casually call it VT.

How long should I spend at CSMT?

Half an hour is enough to take in the exterior and concourse. If you join a heritage walk of the star chamber and administrative building, budget one to two hours. Combine it with nearby Fort and Kala Ghoda.

Nearby in Ask Mumbai

• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus Heritage GalleryMuseum0.07 km · 1 min walk
• FortNeighborhood0.62 km · 8 min walk
• Britannia & Co.Restaurant0.63 km · 8 min walk
• RBI Monetary MuseumMuseum0.7 km · 9 min walk
• Crawford MarketMarket0.77 km · 10 min walk