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Visit the iconic Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) to admire its Victorian Gothic architecture, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the nearby Crawford Market, and take a heritage walk around the historical sites in the area, including the Gateway of India and the Mumbai High Court.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus remains the largest and busiest railway station in Mumbai and even in India. Construction of the terminal, based on a late medieval Gothic Italianate style, took over a decade, beginning in 1878.
Its striking stone domes, towers, pointed arches, and irregular ground plan are all close to traditional Indian palace architecture. The collaboration between British architects and Indian craftsmen, fusing Indian architectural traditions and styles, has resulted in a unique new style for Mumbai, a remarkable example of the intersection of these two cultures.
On July 2, 2004, the station was listed as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
Tropical monsoon climate, suitable for travel all year round
1-3 hours
free
Early morning to evening, based on the first and last train times
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, formerly known as Victoria Terminus, is a historic railway station in Mumbai. Built in 1887, it is a stunning example of Victorian Gothic architecture blended with Indian influences. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2004 and is one of the busiest railway stations in India.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is located in the heart of Mumbai, Maharashtra. You can easily get there by local trains, metro (CST Metro Station), taxis, or walking from nearby landmarks like the Gateway of India. The station is also well-connected by buses.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is open 24/7 since it's a functioning railway station. However, to appreciate its architecture and take photographs, visiting in the early morning or late evening is ideal when there are fewer crowds.
There is no entrance fee to visit Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. However, for train travel, tickets can be bought online or at the station counters. There may be fees for guided tours of the station.
No need to book tickets in advance to visit the station itself. However, if you're traveling by train, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak travel times.
Exploring Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and admiring its architecture should take around 30-60 minutes. If you’re interested in learning more about its history, a guided tour could take 1-2 hours.
The main highlights include the grand central dome, the intricate facade, the detailed carvings, and the beautiful clock tower. Don’t miss the statue of Queen Victoria located at the entrance.
Guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English and Hindi. Audio guides can also be rented to learn more about the station’s architecture and history.
The best photography spots are at the entrance, capturing the grand facade and the intricate carvings. The central dome and the clock tower are also excellent focal points for photographs, especially during the golden hour.
Start by exploring the exterior to admire the architecture, then move inside to the main concourse. If you're interested in history, take a guided tour to learn about the station’s design, construction, and significance.
While there is no light show, the station is beautifully illuminated at night, making it an excellent time for photography. Night visits offer a peaceful experience, with fewer crowds.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is busy throughout the day, especially during rush hours. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or late in the evening, when train traffic is lighter.
The station has basic facilities such as toilets, drinking water, and rest areas. There are food stalls and small shops selling snacks and essentials. For more dining options, the nearby areas offer restaurants and cafes.
While the station is accessible, it may not be fully wheelchair-friendly due to stairs and limited elevators. However, there are some accessible areas, and assistance is available upon request.
Cash is widely accepted at local shops and food stalls, but cards and mobile payments are commonly accepted at larger establishments within the station and surrounding areas.
There are several restaurants and cafes near CST, including "The Bombay Canteen," "Prakash Upahaar Kendra" for snacks, and "Cafe New York" for a quick bite. The Colaba area, a short distance away, also has numerous cafes and eateries.
Yes, there are plenty of vegetarian options available. Vegan and halal food options can also be found in the nearby cafes and restaurants.
Hotels near CST include "The Taj Mahal Palace," "Trident Hotel," and "Fariyas Hotel." Budget accommodations can also be found in the Colaba area, such as "Zostel" and "The Backpacker Hostel."
Nearby attractions include the Gateway of India, Colaba Causeway for shopping, and the Kala Ghoda art district. A short taxi ride will take you to Marine Drive, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (formerly the Prince of Wales Museum), and the Elephanta Caves.
Souvenir shops around CST and in Colaba sell items such as local handicrafts, traditional jewelry, antiques, and replicas of Mumbai landmarks. Popular souvenirs include miniature models of CST and other Mumbai landmarks.
Taxi, auto-rickshaw, and metro are easily accessible from CST. If you're traveling to nearby landmarks, you can also use the local trains, as CST is a central hub for Mumbai's local railway network.
