CSMVS or Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya is one of world’s best cultural institutions here in Mumbai which is already a centre of India s finest cultural institutions. It is an experience to remember if you are passionate about history, art, archaeology and architecture. You need to have a proper knowledge of the latest Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya ticket price, timings, bookings, photography rules and visitor facilities before you plan your visit there. This guide is accurate and up-to-date to help you have a care-free trip!
Overview of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (originally with the Prince of Wales Museum, is one of India’s premier art & history museums in the Fort area of Mumbai, Maharashtra. Built in 1922, the museum has over 50,000 objects in collections of Indian history, archaeology, natural history and decorative arts, textiles and coins as well as ancient sculptures as well as manuscripts and international collections.
Apart from that the splendid building itself, designed in true indo-saracenic style is a major attraction and one of Mumbai’s heritage sights.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya Ticket Price
| Visitor Category | Museum Entry | Entry with Audio Guide |
| Indian Adult (15+ years) | ₹200 | ₹250 |
| Defence Personnel | ₹100 | ₹150 |
| Indian Senior Citizen | ₹100 | ₹150 |
| College Student (Valid ID) | ₹100 | ₹150 |
| Group Visitors (15+) | ₹150 | Not Available |
| Children (5-15 Years) | ₹40 | ₹90 |
| School Students (Up to Class 10) | ₹40 | ₹90 |
| BPL / Visitors with Special Needs | ₹30 | Free |
| Foreign Adult | ₹700 | Complimentary |
| Foreign Child | ₹200 | Complimentary |
Note: Children below 5 years generally enjoy free entry. Ticket prices may change during special exhibitions or museum events. Always verify before visiting.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya Timings
- Opening Time: 10:15 AM
- Closing Time: 6:00 PM
- Last Ticket Counter: 5:45 PM
Visitors are advised to reach at least two hours before closing time to explore the museum comfortably.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya Closed Days
The museum generally remains open throughout the week but is closed on a few notified public holidays declared by the Government of Maharashtra, such as:
- Republic Day (26 January)
- Maharashtra Day (1 May)
- Independence Day (15 August)
- Gandhi Jayanti (2 October)
Visitors should check the official website before planning their visit during national holidays.
What Can You See Inside Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya?
The museum boasts dozens of galleries filled with priceless collections.
Major attractions include:
- Indus Valley Civilization artifacts
- Ancient Indian sculptures
- Buddhist galleries
- Miniature paintings
- Mughal art collection
- Arms and Armour Gallery
- Decorative arts
- Coin collection
- Textile gallery
- Natural History section
- Chinese and Japanese art
- Nepalese and Tibetan collections
Maritime Heritage Gallery
The museum has over 50,000 exhibits so you could easily spend 3-4 hours visiting.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya How to Book Ticket
The museum provides both online and offline ticket booking facilities.
Online Booking
Online booking is the simplest method.
Steps
- Go to the CSMVS booking portal
- Select your visit date.
- Choose the number of visitors.
- Select ticket category.
- Make online payment.
- Get your e-ticket by email/Text-message.
- Display QR Code at Entrance
Online booking avoids the long queue waiting process.
Offline Booking
Visitors can also buy tickets directly at the museum.
Steps:
- Visit the ticket counter.
- Select your ticket category.
- Make payment via cash or digital payment.
- Collect the printed ticket.
- Enter the museum.
The ticket counter closes at 5:45 PM.
Photography Rules
Photography rules may vary depending on the gallery and special exhibitions.
Generally:
- Mobile photography may be permitted in certain areas.
- Flash photography is prohibited.
- Tripods and professional equipment require prior permission.
- Some galleries completely prohibit photography.
- Commercial photography requires official approval.
Always follow the instructions displayed inside the galleries.
Visitor Facilities
The museum has a few visitor-friendly facilities.
These include:
- Audio guide
- Clean washrooms
- Drinking water
- Wheelchair accessibility
- Museum shop
- Café
- Parking nearby
- Lockers (subject to availability)
- Guided tours
- Library
- Children’s Museum
- Air-conditioned galleries
The grounds are well cared for, and the campus is family-friendly as well as student- and senior-citizen friendly.
Best Time to Visit Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
The ideal months are:
- October
- November
- December
- January
- February
Mumbai’s weather remains pleasant during these months.
For fewer crowds:
- Visit on weekday mornings.
- Reach around 10:15 AM.
- Avoid weekends and public holidays.
Visitor Tips
- To save time, book your tickets over the Internet.
- Wear comfortable footwear.
- Carry a valid ID card.
- Reach early.
- Keep mobile phones silent.
- Follow photography rules.
- For a more in-depth experience, use the audio guide.
- Plan to spend 3-4 hours (at least) there.
- Stay hydrated.
- Respect museum rules and exhibits.
Why Is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya Famous?
The museum is well-known because it:
- One of India’s premier museums.
- Houses over 50,000 rare artifacts.
- Features beautiful Indo-Saracenic architecture.
- Provides a continuous record of Indian history from prehistory to modern times.
- Displays world-class art collections.
- The state of the art space fully provides an incomparable venue for shows, exhibitions and other teacher programs.
- It is close to important Mumbai attractions such as the Gateway of India and Kala Ghoda.
Images of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya




How to Reach Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
The museum is well connected by all modes of transportation.
By Train
Nearest railway stations:
- Churchgate
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT)
Both stations are within a short taxi or walking distance.
By Metro
Use Mumbai Metro and connect via local transport to the Fort area.
By Bus
BEST buses regularly operate to Fort and Kala Ghoda.
By Taxi
Uber, Ola, and local taxis are easily available throughout Mumbai.
By Air
Nearest airport:
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport
Distance: approximately 25-28 km.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya Address
159-161, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400023, India.
The museum is located in South Mumbai’s Fort area, near:
- Gateway of India
- Kala Ghoda
- Jehangir Art Gallery
- Oval Maidan
- Churchgate Station
Location of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
Contact Information
Contact +91 022 6958 4400
csmvsmumbai@gmail.com
| Details | Information |
| Museum Name | Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS) |
| Former Name | Prince of Wales Museum |
| Location | Fort, Mumbai |
| State | Maharashtra |
| Opening Time | 10:15 AM |
| Closing Time | 6:00 PM |
| Last Ticket | 5:45 PM |
| Indian Adult Ticket | ₹200 |
| Child Ticket | ₹40 |
| Foreign Adult Ticket | ₹700 |
| Audio Guide | Available |
| Parking | Nearby |
| Wheelchair Access | Yes |
| Official Booking | Available Online |
| Time Required | 3-4 Hours |
Read More: Salar Jung Museum Ticket Price || National Museum Ticket Price
Conclusion
Mumbai is home to a number of famous museums, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya offers visitors an enticing glimpse into ancient Indian history, art, culture and heritage. The entry cost is certainly little, that’s very good considering that you can easily make online booking with ease, there are several well-maintained galleries and the visitor amenities are tremendous – producing it a good venue for families, university students and history buffs alike. Check the official website for up-to-date ticket prices and timings before planning your visit, arrive early to browse through the galleries in a relaxed fashion, and adhere to the museum’s instructions. Visiting CSMVS is not purely a touristy thing – it is diving into the centuries of India’s rich heritage on one elaborate roof.
FAQs
1. What is the ticket price of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya?
The Indian adult entry ticket costs ₹200, while children (5-15 years) pay ₹40.
2. What are the museum timings?
The museum is open daily from 10:15 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last ticket issued at 5:45 PM.
3. Is online ticket booking available?
Yes. Visitors can book tickets online through the museum’s official booking portal.
4. How much time is needed to explore the museum?
Most visitors spend 3 to 4 hours exploring the galleries.
5. Is photography allowed inside the museum?
Photography is allowed only in designated areas and is subject to museum rules. Flash photography and professional equipment may require permission.
6. Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes. The museum features a Children’s Museum and educational exhibits, making it an excellent destination for families.
7. Where is the museum located?
It is located at 159-161 Mahatma Gandhi Road, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400023.
