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The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus is one of the best attractions for tourists visiting Mumbai. It was previously known as the Victoria Terminus after the then-ruling empress of British India and is known to be the lavishing and remarkable revival monument. It is a must-see location for Mumbai tourists. It is a century-old heritage structure and is amongst India’s busiest and largest railway stations. This place is also considered to be one of the most beautiful landmarks.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is the most photographed monument in India after the Taj Mahal. The passing of the location resembles London’s St. Pancras Railway Station. Let us learn more about this great monument.
History of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj terminus
The construction of the CST railway station, or the Victoria Terminus, began in 1878 and was finished in 1887. It took almost a decade of hard work. This station was intended to House the great Indian Peninsular Railways headquarters. It is not the central railway.
The foundation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus was once used as the warehouse for the goods for import and export since Bombay was known to be an important port in India. Before establishing the CST railway station, Bori Bandar was the first railway station in India. The first passenger train in the nation ran from Bori Bandar to Thane in 1853.
The construction of the building was the most expensive, which cost about 260,000 pounds. In 1996, the Minister of Railway changed the name from Victoria Terminus to Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus.
The ornamentation and style of the place are the perfect combinations of European and Indian architecture. To date, the building still has most of the architectural designs. You can walk around the C-shaped ground plan, which is symmetrically on both the west and east axes. This place is crowned by the high dome, which serves as the structure’s primary focal point.
To fulfill the requirement of the busiest port, the construction of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus began and became the epicenter of the infamous bomb blast in Mumbai.
Facts about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj terminus
- The station building is the best example of High Victorian Gothic architecture. However, it also has the Indian Palace Architecture which can be seen in the turrets and the arches.
- The monument was designed by a young Italian architect, F.W Stevens, who was also the architectural engineer for the British Colonial Government in India.
- In 1996, the Victoria Terminus Mumbai name was removed and replaced by the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. This place was named after the warrior king of the 17th century, who used guerrilla tactics against the Mughals.
- The ceiling consists the Gothic Arches and is supported by Italian Marble. The ornaments in the ceilings give the significant look of the cathedral, and the ceilings are kept high to give the illusion of space in high traffic.
- The statue of a Tiger and Lion flanks the entrance of the location. These beasts represent two countries: India and Great Britain.
- The primary structure is made of limestone and sandstone, with interiors made of Italian Marble.
- Victoria Terminus Mumbai is amongst the primary sights of Mumbai and looks like a place from a fairy tale studded with jewelry that illuminates the building.
Where is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and How to reach Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj terminus
The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is situated in the Western Part of Mumbai, touching the Arabian Sea Shores. If you want to visit the VT Station, the cheapest mode from Mumbai Airport to the Shivaji Chhatrapati Terminus is through an auto-rickshaw that will leave you at the Andheri Station. You will have to take a train from Andheri to Churchgate. From there, you will have to walk up to the monument or take a taxi that will drop you there.
Tourists who want a full and comfortable journey can book a prepaid taxi from the airport and reach the Terminus within 20 minutes.
Places to visit near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj terminus
- Rao Saheb Patwardhan Udhyan Park is situated 5 minutes away from the Mumbai CST station.
- Jilani Shipping Centre is located 8 minutes away from the CST Mumbai station.
- Wankhede Stadium is another famous landmark located about 22 minutes away from the Mumbai CST station.
- Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation building is located within 2 minutes away.
- St. John Evangelist Church is situated about 8 minutes away from the location.
- Nehru Centre is located within 6 km of the location.
- Marine Drive is a famous Mumbai bridge located within 1 Km from CST railway station.
Entry Fees and Timing:
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj terminus is a hub for central railways and primary junctions. This place is open 24*7 and all year round. To visit and enter the Terminus, one can do it for free since there is no entry fee.
Restaurants and Cafes near by:
Some of the famous and delicious eateries nearby the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj terminus are:
- Rama Krishna
- Mockingbird Café Bar
- Café Sundance
- Havmor Hav Fun
- Roh By Ian Kittichai