CHHATRAPATI SHIVAJI TERMINUS (C.S.T.)
One of the busiest railway stations in the country, welcoming over 3 million users a day, a key location for import-export.
A World Heritage Site since 2004, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly known as Victoria Terminus Station in honor of Queen Victoria) is one of India's busiest railway stations, welcoming over 3 million users a day and covering an area of almost 3 hectares. Built in the former Bori Bunder district, it was a key location for imports and exports in Mumbai. It was also the first terminal station built on the Indian subcontinent. It was built between 1878 and 1888 to plans by architect Frederick Williams Stevens. It is one of the most representative examples of the fusion of Victorian neo-Gothic and Indian "styles", as seen in the stone dome, turrets, pointed arches and basic plan, inspired by the architecture of the maharajas' palaces. The majority of the building retains its original structure and recalls the great influence of the Italian Gothic style, notably through the sculptures of local flora and fauna, some of which are made of local yellow stone and embellished with Italian marble and polished granite. The magnificent doors and windows are generally made of Burmese teak wood. The plurality of Indian society at the time is also etched in stone, with busts representing the country's many castes and communities. Prominently displayed on the façade are bas-reliefs representing the ten directors of the former All India Railway Company. The imposing columns of the main entrance are a reminder of India's colonial past, surmounted by a lion (symbol of the United Kingdom) and a tiger (symbol of India). Initially, the station had four tracks. Today, it has eighteen! New buildings have been added to the edifice. The Indian authorities are constantly trying to relieve congestion by diverting traffic to other stations, in order to improve service quality and protect this monument from pollution. Unfortunately, this magnificent edifice was also the target of one of the attacks during the 2008 bombings, when two gunmen killed over 50 people in the Salle des Pas Perdus. It is the most photographed monument in India, after the famous Taj Mahal. In the evening, the station lights up to create a strikingly colorful tableau.
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Members' reviews on CHHATRAPATI SHIVAJI TERMINUS (C.S.T.)
The ratings and reviews below reflect the subjective opinions of members and not the opinion of The Little Witty.
CSMT, formerly known as Victoria Terminus, boasts a well-maintained and clean environment, reflecting the efforts of the railway authorities to provide a pleasant experience for commuters and visitors alike. Despite its bustling nature and constant flow of passengers, the station premises are kept tidy, with regular cleaning ensuring a hygienic environment for all.
One of the highlights of CSMT is its strategic location, with the famous Crawford Market situated nearby. This bustling market is a paradise for shoppers, offering a wide variety of goods ranging from fresh produce to clothing and accessories. The convenience of having Crawford Market in close proximity to the railway station makes CSMT an ideal hub for travelers looking to explore the vibrant offerings of Mumbai's bustling markets.
Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus not only serves as a pivotal transportation hub but also offers a gateway to the vibrant energy and diverse offerings of Mumbai, with its well-maintained premises and proximity to Crawford Market. Whether you're a commuter passing through or a visitor exploring the city, CSMT provides a seamless and enjoyable experience amidst its historic architecture and bustling surroundings.