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This high Gothic Victorian landmark is the centerpiece of the city's suburban train network.
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Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CSMT) is popular railway station and is a spitting image of Victorian-Gothic style of architecture in India. Located in the heart of Mumbai, the CST is also a 'World Heritage Site' declared by UNESCO in 2004. Built in 1888, the station is the grand reminder of the British Raj pre-independence and is still one of the most historical landmarks within the Central Business District (CBD) of Mumbai. A bustling terminus, the CST is well-connected by rail to all parts of the country. It stands as the final result of great industrial revolution technology, merged with Victorian/Gothic revival styles based on late-Italian model architecture. The structure represents the heart of the mercantile facet of the city and also symbolizes the British Commonwealth. Apart from being Victorian-Gothic in architecture, parts of this grand edifice also contain remnants of Mughal styled architecture. An outstanding example of the late 19th century designs, the CST is associated with the city of Mumbai since time immemorial. The city flourished, businesses boomed and a thriving film industry grew, with the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus being the core witness to it all. Scroll down to know more about this treasured structure.
The Chhatrapati Shivaji station, formerly known as Victoria Terminus, was built in 1888. Designed by the British architect F.W. Stevens, the structure became a symbol of Bombay (Mumbai) and the city was labeled the 'Gothic City' due to this magnificent building's architectural styles. Apart from being the hub for major mercantile activities, the CST is the perfect amalgam of British and Indian designs. In the past, 'Bori Bandar' station, located along the Eastern parts of Mumbai, was the place for commercial exchanges and trading activities. In the 1850's, the Great Indian Peninsular Railway operated in this area and gave it the name 'Bori Bandar', starting its first rail service, covering a total distance of 34 km to Thane.During the British rule, the station was eventually redesigned and rebuilt by F.W. Stevens, who named it as Victoria Terminus. The station got its name from the then reigning royal, Queen Victoria. The construction of the station took 10 years to complete and was opened to the Queen on the date of her Golden Jubilee in 1887. At the time, the building was the most expensive structure in Mumbai costing 260,000 Sterling Pounds. The station was built to handle main rail traffic and in 1929, a new station and an administrative headquarters were built by the Central Railway. In 1996, the Minister of Railways, Suresh Kalmadi, changed the name of the station to Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST).The main architecture of the building reflects the Victorian Gothic styles and designs of the late 19th century. The style and the ornamentation of the edifice were acceptable to both Indian and European culture. Complete with turrets, pointed arches and an eccentric ground plan, the CST was a novel achievement during that period. To date, the building retains most of the architectural designs with probably, an addition of two or more headquarters. The CST was built in accordance to a C-shaped plan, symmetrical on both, the east and the west axis. Crowned by a high dome, which is the focal point of the structure, the CST building is adjoined with well-proportioned rows of arched structures, rows and windows, closely resembling Indian palace architectures.The entrance of the Chhatrapati Shivaji terminus is flanked by figures of a lion and a tiger representing the two countries-great Britain and India. The main structure is made of sandstone and limestone, and the interiors of the station are lined with high-quality Italian marble. Apart from the 18 railway lines, the CST also houses the main headquarters, the Star Chamber, grotesques and the North Wing.
The Chhatrapati Shivaji station, formerly known as Victoria Terminus, was built in 1888. Designed by the British architect F.W. Stevens, the structure became a symbol of Bombay (Mumbai) and the city was labeled the 'Gothic City' due to this magnificent building's architectural styles. Apart from being the hub for major mercantile activities, the CST is the perfect amalgam of British and Indian designs. In the past, 'Bori Bandar' station, located along the Eastern parts of Mumbai, was the place for commercial exchanges and trading activities. In the 1850's, the Great Indian Peninsular Railway operated in this area and gave it the name 'Bori Bandar', starting its first rail service, covering a total distance of 34 km to Thane.During the British rule, the station was eventually redesigned and rebuilt by F.W. Stevens, who named it as Victoria Terminus. The station got its name from the then reigning royal, Queen Victoria. The construction of the station took 10 years to complete and was opened to the Queen on the date of her Golden Jubilee in 1887. At the time, the building was the most expensive structure in Mumbai costing 260,000 Sterling Pounds. The station was built to handle main rail traffic and in 1929, a new station and an administrative headquarters were built by the Central Railway. In 1996, the Minister of Railways, Suresh Kalmadi, changed the name of the station to Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST).The main architecture of the building reflects the Victorian Gothic styles and designs of the late 19th century. The style and the ornamentation of the edifice were acceptable to both Indian and European culture. Complete with turrets, pointed arches and an eccentric ground plan, the CST was a novel achievement during that period. To date, the building retains most of the architectural designs with probably, an addition of two or more headquarters. The CST was built in accordance to a C-shaped plan, symmetrical on both, the east and the west axis. Crowned by a high dome, which is the focal point of the structure, the CST building is adjoined with well-proportioned rows of arched structures, rows and windows, closely resembling Indian palace architectures.The entrance of the Chhatrapati Shivaji terminus is flanked by figures of a lion and a tiger representing the two countries-great Britain and India. The main structure is made of sandstone and limestone, and the interiors of the station are lined with high-quality Italian marble. Apart from the 18 railway lines, the CST also houses the main headquarters, the Star Chamber, grotesques and the North Wing.
One of the busiest yet well-maintained railway stations in India. We had an experience of sleeping there in the station as the train was late. Luckily we didn't get beaten by the police. Also,I don't know why they are beating people who sleep there🥲
The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, formerly known as Victoria Terminus Station, in Mumbai, is an outstanding example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture in India, blended with themes deriving from Indian traditional architecture. The building, designed by the British architect F. W. Stevens, became the symbol of Bombay as the ‘Gothic City’ and the major international mercantile port of India. The terminal was built over 10 years, starting in 1878, according to a High Victorian Gothic design based on late medieval Italian models. Its remarkable stone dome, turrets, pointed arches and eccentric ground plan are close to traditional Indian palace architecture. It is an outstanding example of the meeting of two cultures, as British architects worked with Indian craftsmen to include Indian architectural tradition and idioms thus forging a new style unique to Bombay.
One of the busiest railway stations, including Suburban railway (local).
A well maintained and well disciplined railway station. Railway management's efforts to maintain hygiene are truly praiseworthy.
To the best of my knowledge, there are a total 18 platforms and platforms no 1 to 7 are for Suburban and 8 to 18 are for distance trains.
I travelled from CST to Tilak Nagar.
I preferred the first class ticket and paid Rs 60 for the same where you will have to pay between 350 to 500 if you travel by taxi.
Use the railway.. and visit CST.
A well maintained and well disciplined railway station. Railway management's efforts to maintain hygiene are truly praiseworthy.
To the best of my knowledge, there are a total 18 platforms and platforms no 1 to 7 are for Suburban and 8 to 18 are for distance trains.
I travelled from CST to Tilak Nagar.
I preferred the first class ticket and paid Rs 60 for the same where you will have to pay between 350 to 500 if you travel by taxi.
Use the railway.. and visit CST.
CSMT (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) is a historic railway station located in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. It was formerly known as Victoria Terminus and was built in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee.
CSMT is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the busiest railway stations in India, serving both suburban and long-distance trains. The station's architecture is a fusion of Victorian Gothic Revival and traditional Indian architecture, featuring a dome, turrets, pointed arches, and a blend of Indian and European motifs.
CSMT is not only a transportation hub but also a popular tourist attraction. Its magnificent architecture, impressive clock tower, and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit destination in Mumbai.
CSMT is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the busiest railway stations in India, serving both suburban and long-distance trains. The station's architecture is a fusion of Victorian Gothic Revival and traditional Indian architecture, featuring a dome, turrets, pointed arches, and a blend of Indian and European motifs.
CSMT is not only a transportation hub but also a popular tourist attraction. Its magnificent architecture, impressive clock tower, and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit destination in Mumbai.
It's old and huge railway station. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST), formerly known as Victoria Terminus, is a historic railway station located in the heart of Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. It stands as a symbol of the city’s rich architectural heritage and serves as a major transportation hub, connecting Mumbai to various destinations across the country.
CST is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture in India. Designed by British architect Frederick William Stevens, the station’s remarkable structure showcases a fusion of Indian and European architectural styles. Its magnificent stone dome, turrets, and intricate carvings make it an architectural masterpiece.
The station serves as a focal point of Mumbai’s suburban railway network, with numerous local and long-distance trains passing through its platforms daily. As one of the busiest railway stations in India, CST bustles with the energy of commuters and travelers rushing to catch their trains or arriving in Mumbai.
Inside the station, one can witness the grandeur of its interior, adorned with high ceilings, stained glass windows, and ornate details. The bustling concourse area houses ticket counters, waiting rooms, and various amenities catering to the needs of passengers.
CST Railway Station is not only a transportation hub but also an important landmark that reflects Mumbai’s historical and cultural significance. It has been featured in numerous Bollywood films and holds a special place in the hearts of Mumbaikars.
Beyond its functional role, CST Railway Station is a testament to Mumbai’s enduring spirit and the legacy of its colonial past. It stands as a living testament to the city’s ever-evolving landscape and the constant flow of people, dreams, and aspirations that define Mumbai’s identity.
CST is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture in India. Designed by British architect Frederick William Stevens, the station’s remarkable structure showcases a fusion of Indian and European architectural styles. Its magnificent stone dome, turrets, and intricate carvings make it an architectural masterpiece.
The station serves as a focal point of Mumbai’s suburban railway network, with numerous local and long-distance trains passing through its platforms daily. As one of the busiest railway stations in India, CST bustles with the energy of commuters and travelers rushing to catch their trains or arriving in Mumbai.
Inside the station, one can witness the grandeur of its interior, adorned with high ceilings, stained glass windows, and ornate details. The bustling concourse area houses ticket counters, waiting rooms, and various amenities catering to the needs of passengers.
CST Railway Station is not only a transportation hub but also an important landmark that reflects Mumbai’s historical and cultural significance. It has been featured in numerous Bollywood films and holds a special place in the hearts of Mumbaikars.
Beyond its functional role, CST Railway Station is a testament to Mumbai’s enduring spirit and the legacy of its colonial past. It stands as a living testament to the city’s ever-evolving landscape and the constant flow of people, dreams, and aspirations that define Mumbai’s identity.
This railway station, known as in short CSMT, has outstanding architecture inside and outside the station building.
This is one of the most busiest and biggest railway stations, not in India but in the world. Both local train and outstation train to every part of the country will be operated here. There are a total of 18 platforms, out of which platforms 1 to 7 are used for the Mumbai Suburban local trains, and the platform 8 to 18 is for the express trains.
If you come here on special occasion/special day then you'll get different different themes on the building of railway station.
Listed as one of the World Heritage sites. Don’t miss the night view of this station. It is one of the most attractive tourist spots in Mumbai.
Very popular with neat and clean station premises will give you amaze, of course. Public transport is available outside the station.
Gateway of INDIA or Marine drive is the walkable distance from this station.
This is one of the most busiest and biggest railway stations, not in India but in the world. Both local train and outstation train to every part of the country will be operated here. There are a total of 18 platforms, out of which platforms 1 to 7 are used for the Mumbai Suburban local trains, and the platform 8 to 18 is for the express trains.
If you come here on special occasion/special day then you'll get different different themes on the building of railway station.
Listed as one of the World Heritage sites. Don’t miss the night view of this station. It is one of the most attractive tourist spots in Mumbai.
Very popular with neat and clean station premises will give you amaze, of course. Public transport is available outside the station.
Gateway of INDIA or Marine drive is the walkable distance from this station.
