Active Railway Station! India’s World Heritage Site Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Station

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Station (formerly Victoria Terminus) is a still‑operational railway station in southern Mumbai, India. It was inscribed as a World Cultural Heritage Site in 2004.

Even today, suburban trains and long‑distance services call here, and as a working station it welcomes thousands of passengers every day. What features and history does this World Heritage–listed Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Station hold? Read on for an introduction—you won’t want to miss it.

What Is Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Station (formerly Victoria Terminus)?

The World Heritage “Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Station (formerly Victoria Terminus)” was designed by British architect Frederick William Stevens and built over about ten years from around 1888. Its style is the opulent and grand Venetian Gothic, a fusion of Victorian Gothic Revival and traditional Indian architecture, creating a truly distinctive design.

Originally named “Victoria Terminus” in honor of Britain’s Queen Victoria, it was renamed “Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus” in 1996 at the strong request of the Shiv Sena party—whose base is primarily in western India—and as part of national discussions on renaming colonial institutions. “Chhatrapati Shivaji” refers to the 17th‑century Maratha king.

Because of its lengthy name, in India the station is commonly abbreviated “CST” or “VT.”

How to Access Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Station

As Mumbai’s principal gateway station, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is very easy to reach from anywhere in the city. Numerous city buses run through Mumbai, including routes centered on this station. Most buses traversing the historic Fort district also stop right in front of the station.

From the Fort district, it’s about a 10‑minute bus ride or a 30‑minute walk to Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Station.

Highlight ①: Architectural Style

The station’s most captivating feature is its lavish Venetian Gothic architecture, resembling a European castle. The central dome is crowned by a sculpture of the “Goddess of Progress,” and at night the building is illuminated to evoke a magnificent palace.

As a 19th‑century railway station, it also showcases remarkably advanced structural and engineering techniques for its era. Don’t miss the publicly accessible Heritage Gallery inside.

Highlight ②: Featured in Film and Literature

Mumbai, where Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Station is located, boasts beautiful, retro streetscapes that still retain the charm of the British colonial era, and has served as the setting for countless films and novels. Of course, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Station itself also appears in a scene in one of these movies.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus appears in the Oscar‑winning film Slumdog Millionaire (2008), directed by Danny Boyle: the station’s platform is where the hero reunites with his childhood friend. Visiting the actual filming location after watching the movie adds a special thrill.

Notes and Precautions

As an active World Cultural Heritage station serving many passengers, be vigilant against pickpockets and baggage theft. Also, note that photography inside Indian railway stations may draw requests from staff to stop, so proceed with caution.

◎ Summary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Station

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Station is a Europe‑style architectural gem in the heart of India, its stunning design preserved as a World Heritage site while still functioning as a busy railway station. As a valuable historical monument bearing traces of British colonial rule, it’s well worth a visit.

Search

Customer Support

Manage Reservation(s)

Search

Customer Support

Manage Reservation(s)

Active Railway Station! India’s World Heritage Site Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Station