Formerly the Prince of Wales Museum, this Indo-Saracenic building houses extensive collections of Indian art, sculpture, and natural history.
The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, previously known as the Prince of Wales Museum, is Mumbai's premier museum, housed in a domed Indo-Saracenic building completed in 1922 in the Kala Ghoda art precinct. Its collection spans over 50,000 objects across three main sections: art (miniature paintings, textiles, decorative arts), archaeology (sculptures from the Indus Valley to medieval periods), and natural history (taxidermy and geological specimens). Highlights include ancient stone and bronze sculptures, Mughal and Rajput miniature paintings, Chinese and Japanese ceramics, and a well-preserved coin collection. The surrounding garden and building facade are notable for their blend of Islamic, Rajput, and British architectural styles.
| Admission | Adult INR 700 for foreigners (approx $7.38 USD); INR 100 for Indians (approx $1.05 USD) · Child Free for children under 5; discounted for students with ID |
|---|---|
| Hours | 10:15 AM - 6:00 PM daily |
| Typical visit | 2-3 hours |
| Best time | Weekday mornings for smaller crowds |
| Getting there | Nearest railway station is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (1.5 km) or Churchgate (1 km); short taxi or walk from Kala Ghoda |
| Address | 159-161, Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400023, India |
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- museum lovers, families, rainy-day plans
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Average daytime temperature in °C.
Location
159-161, Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400023, India
18.9269, 72.8324 View on map
Highlights
- Indo-Saracenic domed building in Kala Ghoda
- Over 50,000 artifacts across art, archaeology, and natural history
- Ancient Indian sculpture and Mughal miniature paintings
- Located in Mumbai's central art district
- Landscaped garden surrounding the museum
Tips for visiting
- Buy tickets online in advance to skip queues during peak season
- Allow at least two hours to see the main galleries
- Combine with a walk through the Kala Ghoda art precinct and Jehangir Art Gallery nearby
- Photography may require an additional camera fee
When to visit
Weekday mornings shortly after opening are quietest; the galleries are air-conditioned, making the museum an ideal refuge during monsoon downpours and April-May heat.
Accessibility
Ramps and lifts available in main galleries; some older sections have steps
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Frequently asked questions
What was CSMVS formerly called?
It was known as the Prince of Wales Museum before being renamed.
Are guided tours available at the museum?
Audio guides and docent-led tours are offered at the museum for an additional fee.