Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS)
The Basics
Formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum of Western India, this museum houses over 50,000 pieces from across the subcontinent, including ancient artifacts from the Indus Valley Civilization and Hindu and Buddhist religious sculptures. CSMVS hosts regular cultural activities and educational programs and has a café and an excellent museum shop. A popular stop on full-day tours of Mumbai, it is often combined with a visit to the nearby Gateway of India.
Things to Know Before You Go
With its extensive collection of ancient artifacts, CSMVS is a must-visit for history buffs.
The museum is wheelchair-accessible, and loaner wheelchairs are available from the information desk.
Educational programs for children and adults are offered throughout the year; check the museum website for details and updates.
How to Get There
The museum is located in the Kala Ghoda Art Precinct of Mumbai's Fort neighborhood, just east of the Bombay High Court and north of the Gateway of India and Colaba. Near other major art galleries including the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) and the Jehangir Art Gallery, the museum is easily accessible by taxi and public transportation. The nearest commuter railway stations are Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (aka VT) and Churchgate.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
The museum is open every day from 10:15am to 6pm and is an excellent year-round attraction. Special events are held throughout the year (most on evenings and weekends), and there’s a special kids’ club that meets on the last Sunday of every month. Visit first thing in the morning to avoid crowds.
Kala Ghoda Arts Festival
Every February, the Kala Ghoda area around the museum hosts a 9-day art festival that showcases visual and performing arts and literary exhibitions and includes events, a crafts market, and food stalls. Parts of the neighborhood are closed to traffic during the event, and admission is free to all.
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- Bombay High Court
- Jehangir Art Gallery
- Churchgate
- National Gallery of Modern Art Mumbai (NGMA)
- Gateway of India
- Colaba
- Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST)
- Marine Drive
- Fashion Street
- Crawford Market (Matahma Jyotiba Phule Market)
- Mumbadevi Temple
- Bhuleshwar Market (Bhuleshwar Bazaar)
- Chor Bazaar
- Bombay Panjrapole