Mumbai has been regarded as a city of great significance due to the presence of many outstanding architectures that narrate the history of the city. However, if you were to pick the crème de la creme, you should surely go for The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) one of the famous UNESCO Heritage Site in Mumbai and an Architectural Masterpiece of the Victorian Gothic architecture style mingled with the traditional Indian craftsmanship. Known by the name Victoria Terminus or VT in the past, CSMT is more than just one of the busy transportation hubs in India. It stands tall on the history of the colonial past of India as well as an engineering marvel built on the lines of British style.Major Attractions: UNESCO World Heritage Site, Victorian Gothic architecture, grand central dome, intricate stone carvings, heritage railway stationTop Activities: Heritage sightseeing, photography, architectural exploration, guided walks, night photographyDuration: 1–2 HoursBest Time to Visit: October to MarchCSMT built in 1887, on the occasion of Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee and now witnesses millions of travellers every day, attracting thousands of the architect enthusiasts, artists, photographers, and lovers of heritage and history. The designing genius behind the awe-inspiring CSMT was Frederick William Stevens who made sure it looked like the finest representation of Victorian Gothic Revival Architecture in Asia. CSMT has it all magnificent domes, pointed arches, stained glass panels,decorative turrets, gargoyles, carvings made of stones, which tell not only about the European style of Architecture but also about India's style too. Every part of the station exhibits craftsmanship that is unmatched thus making it one of the most photogenic landmarks in Mumbai, India. There's huge central dome with statue of 'Progress' in it that symbolises prospery and march towards goals. And elaborate faade shows a magnificent stonemasonry of two lions and two tigers that represent the UK and India respectively. Walking inside CSMT you will also feel inspired by magnificently designed staircases, ornate iron works, carved wooden ceilings and bright, colourful stained glass panels which reflect more than a century-old glory of the station. From the architectural aspect, CSMT also bears enormous historical significance too because it served as important link between Mumbai and other cities across India and played a remarkable part to develop trades, commerce, and industrial progress of British India. To this day CSMT continues to be the HQ for Central Railway and thus one of the most travelled railheads of the country where millions have to travel almost weekly. CSMT also becomes more magical after the sunset when illumination highlight all exquisite details and gothic architectural style. Those who love walking will find Heritage Walk programmes on South Mumbai that are organized regularly that also cover these historic buildings like Bombay High Court, Municipal Corporation Building, Flora Fountain and Horniman Circle among many. Photographers admire CSMT mainly for its symmetrical design, elaborate carving patterns, and spectacular lightings at nights. The constant crowd of millions travelling in CSMT with all these elements brings unique perspective to your view of the daily life of Mumbai. So whenever you happen to visit Mumbai then this iconic symbol will offer you an experience much richer and deeper than simply waiting for your train.
