Chennai, a city steeped in history and culture, stands as a testament to the rich heritage of India. With its colonial and indigenous architecture, the city offers a journey through time. Museums in Chennai play a crucial role in preserving and presenting this historical narrative. Each structure unveils a unique aspect of Chennai’s past, from the Government Museum in Egmore to the Click Art Museum in Injambakkam. This guide will explore the top 8 museums in Chennai with all essential insights in-depth.
See also: 15 must visit temples in Chennai
How to reach Chennai?
By air
The Chennai International Airport (MAA), situated 19 km from the city centre, boasts two terminals—T1 (Kamaraj Terminal) for domestic flights and T3 (Anna Terminal) for international operations. Airlines like Oman Air, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and more operate from here. Commuters can choose from various transport options, including Chennai Metro, Suburban Railway, cabs, MTC buses, auto rickshaws and rental cars.
By rail
Chennai houses the Southern Railway headquarters, featuring two significant stations—Chennai Central (MAS) and Egmore (MS). Chennai Central links the city extensively to destinations across India, while Chennai Egmore primarily connects within Tamil Nadu.
By road
Chennai boasts excellent nationwide road connectivity via expressways like NH 16, NH 32 and NH 48. The city’s central bus station, Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus (CMBT), is one of Asia’s largest, facilitating private and government-operated buses to South Indian destinations such as—Tirupati, Pondicherry, Coimbatore and Tirunelveli.
Top 8 museums in Chennai
Government Museum
Location: Government Maternity Hospital, Pantheon Rd, Egmore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu – 600008
Visiting hours: 9.30 AM to 5 PM (closed on Fridays)
Ticket Price: Rs 15
Duration: 1 hour
Founded year: 1851
The second-oldest museum in India is the Government Museum, located in Egmore. Boasting a vast collection of archaeological and numismatic artefacts, it holds the largest collection of Roman antiquities outside Europe. The museum’s six buildings with 46 galleries showcase relics, medals, coins, and artworks, offering a comprehensive journey through Tamil Nadu’s history. Notable attractions include the Museum Theatre and the Bronze Gallery, which displays sculptures from the Chola and Pallava dynasties.
Fort St. George Museum
Location: Near Legislature and Secretariat, Fort St George, Chennai, Tamil Nadu – 600009
Visiting hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (closed on Friday)
Ticket Price: Rs 5-10
Duration: 1 hour(s)
Founded year: 1644
Formerly known as the White House, the Fort St. George Museum narrates India’s colonial history. Founded in 1644, Fort St. George holds ‘artefacts,’ ‘weapons,’ and ‘memorabilia’ from the British Raj. The museum displays pre and post-independence items, British officers’ writings, and the first Indian flag flown post-independence. The architecture reflects colonial charm, providing history enthusiasts with a captivating experience.
Vivekananda House
Location: Kamaraj Salai, Marina Beach Road, Triplicane, Chennai, Tamil Nadu – 600005
Visiting hours: 9:00 am to 12:30 pm and 3:00 am to 7:15 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Ticket Price: Rs 20-40
Duration: 45 min(s)
Founded year: 1842
Vivekananda House showcases the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda. The museum, maintained by Sri Ramakrishna Math, exhibits—ancient Indian paintings, scripts, and belongings of Swami Vivekananda. The ‘Experience Vivekananda’ section uses advanced technology for an immense exploration of Swami’s life. With dedicated rooms for medication, this historical building provides a unique blend of history and spirituality.
DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum
Location: DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum, SH 49, East Coast Road, Muttukadu, Tamil Nadu – 603112
Timing: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
Ticket Price: Rs 30-100
Duration: 45 min(s) to 1 hour(s)
Founded year: 1996
DakshinaChitra, meaning “picture of the South,” is an open-air museum 25 km from Chennai. It features 18 authentic houses, each representing a state, offering a glimpse of South India’s cultural traditions. Visitors can engage in ‘POTTERY and TEXTILE ART’ and explore various art exhibitions and workshops. With its earthy ambience, DakshinaChitra provides an immersive experience of South Indian heritage.
Regional Railway Museum
Location: Next to Integrated Coach Factory Furnishing Division, New Avadi Road, Villivakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu – 600038
Visiting hours: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Ticket Price: Rs 25-30
Duration: 45 min(s)
Founded year: 2002
The Regional Railway Museum in Villivakkam houses vintage engines and coaches dating back over a century. With outdoor exhibits, working scale models, and a Toy Train ride, the museum traces the evolution of India’s railways. From colonial-era artefacts to steam engines, the museum offers a delightful exploration of the nation’s transportation history.
Click Art Museum
Location: 159, 5/108, SH 49, Akkarai, Injambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu – 600115
Visiting hours: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
Ticket Price: Rs 100-150
Duration: 30-45 min(s)
The Click Art Museum in Injambakkam is a unique space featuring interactive art pieces based on optical illusions and 3D drawings. Strategically placed for maximum visual impact, the museum invites visitors to engage with art creatively. From surreal scenarios to playful fantasies, this museum is a haven for photography enthusiasts seeking distinctive and memorable shots.
Periyar Science and Technology Centre
Location: No. 6, Gandhi Mandapam Road, Surya Nagar, Kotturpuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu – 600085
Visiting hours: 10:00 am to 04:30 pm (Closed on National Holidays)
Ticket Price: Rs 15-30
Duration: 45 min(s) to 1 hour(s)
Founded year: 1983
Honouring the memory of social activist Periyar, this science and technology centre in Chennai showcases a vast collection of scientific exhibits. Divided into sections like Life Science, Energy Gallery, and Transport Gallery, the museum explores scientific discoveries and technological advancements. It is a heaven for science enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of various disciplines.
National Art Gallery
Location: Government museum, Pantheon Road, Egmore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu – 600008
Visiting hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (Closed on Fridays & National Holidays)
Ticket Price: 10-20
Duration: 30 Mins
Founded year: 1906
Built during Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, the National Art Gallery in Chennai is a visual delight for art connoisseurs. With a diverse collection spanning the 17th to 18th century, including traditional Tanjore paintings and Raja Ravi Verma’s masterpieces, the gallery showcases the evolution of Indian art. The elaborate Indo-Saracenic architecture adds to the overall cultural experience.
FAQs
What is the oldest museum in Chennai?
The oldest museum in Chennai is the Government Museum in Egmore, established in 1851.
Which museum in Chennai focuses on Swami Vivekananda’s life and teachings?
Vivekananda House in Triplicane is dedicated to showcasing swami Vivekanannda’s life nad teachings.
Where can I explore various Indian art from the 17th and 18th centuries?
The National Art Gallery in Chennai showcases a vast collection of paintings, sculptures and decorative arts from the 17th and 18th centuries.
Which museum in Chennai emphasises the evolution of transportation in India?
The Regional Railway Museum in Villivakkam traces the history of India's railways.
Are these museums suitable for children?
Yes, many museums offer interactive exhibits and workshops suitable for children.
Can I take photographs inside the museums?
Check with each museum’s rules, but generally, photography is allowed in designated areas.
Do these museums have parking facilities?
Most museums provide parking facilities for visitors.
Are food and beverages allowed inside the museums?
Check with each museum’s policy; many have designated areas for snacks.
Can I book tickets online for these museums?
Some museums offer online ticket booking; check their official websites for further details.
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