About
The Government Museum Chennai was built in 1851which is also popularly known as Madras Museum. It is the second oldest museum in India after the Indian Museum of Kolkata and is nothing short of a treasure in itself. Art, archeology, anthropology, numismatics and many more are the repositories of the masterpieces here, hence the Government Museum Chennai attracts everyone.
The Government Museum Chennai is spread over an area of 16.25 acres. It is considered as the largest museum in South Asia. It has 6 independent buildings and 46 galleries on its premises.
These are –
- The main building has ancient artifacts, sculptures, animal galleries, botanical galleries and stamp galleries.
- The front building has an interesting puppet gallery and a folk dance and music gallery.
- Bronze Gallery: It has a numerology and chemical conservation gallery in addition to bronze artifacts.
- The museum has a section for children, which has a class of goodies, a science and technology gallery.
- The National Art Gallery has excellent paintings and artifacts.
There are contemporary art galleries that range from rock and cave art to British paintings and modern art. This shows the development journey of art.
However commercial photography is not allowed here. Special lectures and film shows are organized from time to time in the museum. The Bronze Gallery and the National Art Gallery are worth visiting. There is also a bookstore inside the state museum where cheap books are available.
Architecture
The architecture of the Government Museum Chennai is in the Victorian gothic style. The doors are red-colored that used on the temple. As you discover further the repository, the magnificent art of Raja Ravi Verma is kept at an in-house theatre, where you can watch the performances that await to amaze you.
Location
Government Museum is situated in the Pantheon Complex. It is also known as the State Museum of Chennai. The road on which the museum located has taken its name from the complex. The Government Museum is located on Pantheon Road in Edmore.
How to Reach
The Chennai International Airport is 20 km from the museum and the nearest railway station is the Chennai Central which is located at a distance of 3 km. One can hire a taxi or cab from the respective places for the museum.
Best time to visit
The ideal time to visit here is during the winter when the weather conditions remain pleasant and comfortable.
Government Museum Chennai Timings: 9:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. (Museum is not open on Fridays and also on Public holidays)
Government Museum Chennai Entry Fee: INR 15 for adults and INR 10 for children below 12 years of age and INR 5 for a group of students and teachers who have received prior permission. These prices are only for Indian citizens.
Whereas foreign nationals have to pay INR 250 for adults and INR 125 for children of age between 3 to 12, INR 75 for a group of students and teachers who have received prior permission.
If you want to carry a still camera then the fee is INR 200 and INR 500 for a video camera.
