Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus
West India Region
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), formerly Victoria Terminus, is a magnificent historic railway terminus located in Mumbai, India. Designed by British engineer Frederick William Stevens in an exuberant Indo-Gothic style, its construction began in 1878 and was completed in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee. The station is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and serves as the headquarters of India's Central Railway, with 18 platforms handling both suburban and long-distance trains. Its architecture features a blend of Victorian Gothic revival elements with traditional Indian architectural styles, including turrets, pointed arches, and a grand central dome. Originally named Victoria Terminus, it was renamed in 1996 to honor the Maratha warrior king Shivaji, and again in 2017 to include the honorific 'Maharaj'. The station is not only a vital transport hub but also an iconic symbol of Mumbai's colonial past and cultural heritage. Despite its busy function, the terminus retains its architectural grandeur and continues to captivate visitors and commuters alike.
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Tip: Visit early in the morning or late evening to avoid peak commuter crowds and appreciate the architecture in softer light. Booking tickets online for long-distance trains is recommended. Explore the station's exterior and nearby heritage sites in Mumbai for a fuller experience. Discounts may be available for senior citizens and students on train travel. Guided tours focusing on the station's architecture and history can enhance your visit.
Interesting facts
- •The station's design was inspired by the St Pancras railway station in London and the Berlin parliament building design by George Gilbert Scott.
- •The original marble statue of Queen Victoria installed in the station was removed in the 1950s and is now missing, believed to have been smuggled out or destroyed.
- •Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus is one of the busiest railway stations in India, with 18 platforms serving millions of passengers annually.
- •The station is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding blend of Victorian Gothic revival and traditional Indian architecture.
History
Originally named Victoria Terminus, the station was constructed between 1878 and 1887 to replace the older Bori Bunder station and serve Bombay's growing status as a major port.
Designed by Frederick William Stevens, inspired by Axel Haig's sketches and Victorian Gothic architecture, it took ten years to complete.
The station originally featured a marble statue of Queen Victoria, which was removed in the 1950s amid post-independence efforts to remove British colonial symbols.
Renamed in 1996 to Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus to honor the Maratha king, it was again renamed in 2017 to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus.
It has witnessed significant historical events and remains a symbol of Mumbai's colonial and postcolonial identity.
Place Guide
Main Facade and Central Dome1887
The station's grand facade features intricate stone carvings, turrets, and a large ribbed dome symbolizing progress, blending Gothic and Indian architectural elements.
Platforms and Concourse
With 18 platforms, the concourse is a bustling hub for suburban and long-distance trains, showcasing original Victorian-era ironwork and details.
Clock Tower1887
The iconic clock tower is a prominent feature of the terminus, integrating Victorian design with Indian motifs, and serves as a city landmark.
