Government Museum Egmore Chennai
A historic treasure trove showcasing South Indian art, bronzes, archaeology, and culture, second oldest museum in India.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Government Museum Egmore Chennai
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic treasure trove showcasing South Indian art, bronzes, archaeology, and culture, second oldest museum in India.
"Incredibly valuable for anyone interested in South Indian art, especially temple sculpture and bronzes."
Allocate ample time
Plan for 3-4 hours, or even a full day, to explore all sections thoroughly.
Carry cash for tickets
Online payment isn't available; be prepared with cash for entry fees.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Chola Bronzes
Bronze Gallery
Marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient South Indian bronze sculptures, particularly the Chola period masterpieces.
Raja Ravi Varma Paintings
Art Gallery
Admire the iconic oil paintings by the renowned Indian artist Raja Ravi Varma, capturing mythological and historical scenes.
Archaeological Wonders
Archaeology Section
Journey through time with prehistoric artifacts, ancient stone sculptures, and remnants of early civilizations.
Children's Section
Children's Building
An engaging space designed for younger visitors, offering interactive exhibits and educational displays.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Fuller Experience
Cash is King for Tickets
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate ample time
Plan for 3-4 hours, or even a full day, to explore all sections thoroughly.
Carry cash for tickets
Online payment isn't available; be prepared with cash for entry fees.
Photography restrictions
No photos allowed in the Raja Ravi Varma painting halls.
Comfortable shoes are a must
You'll be doing a lot of walking across multiple buildings. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate ample time
Plan for 3-4 hours, or even a full day, to explore all sections thoroughly.
Carry cash for tickets
Online payment isn't available; be prepared with cash for entry fees.
Photography restrictions
No photos allowed in the Raja Ravi Varma painting halls.
Comfortable shoes are a must
You'll be doing a lot of walking across multiple buildings. :athletic_shoe:
Explore the grounds
The museum complex has lovely trees and a cool atmosphere. :deciduous_tree:
Check for exhibitions
Special shopping exhibitions like Hastakalaa sometimes happen here.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Government Museum Egmore for its incredibly valuable collections, especially the South Indian art, temple sculptures, and breathtaking Chola bronzes, offering a strong sense of historical continuity. While the presentation and preservation could be enhanced, the well-maintained displays, pleasant atmosphere, and extensive exhibits make it a worthwhile visit for history and art enthusiasts.
"Egmore Museum is incredibly valuable for anyone interested in South Indian art, especially temple sculpture and bronzes. The depth of history, the level of craftsmanship (for example in Chola bronzes) is breathtaking. It gives a strong sense of continuity of art through centuries — Pallava to Chola to later periods.
The museum doesn’t always match the potential of its collection in terms of how the works are presented, interpreted, and preserved. If these areas are improved — lighting, protective display, better signage, more artefacts visible — it could be world-class."
Krishna Kumar
"Well maintained and systematic presentation of displays. All sections are artistically decorated to give the best look. History, Anthropology and children building components of museum are worth visiting.
A library in the centre of museum is another well maintained spot.
Overall excellent. Of course,we could see a part of presentations in 3 hours. Full viewing needs almost full day.
Only thing, which I found at the ticket counter missing was online mode of payment. In this age of technology, museum management must review mode of online payment at reservation counter in place of cash payment for purchase of tickets"
rakesh duggal
"The place is not too bad. The atmosphere here is very nice. There are trees all around and the weather is cool. The library here is very good. This was my personal experience. I would say everyone should travel, everyone should gain an experience for themselves. Come back at least once."
Sultan Ahmad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Government Museum Egmore is centrally located in Chennai. You can easily reach it by bus, auto-rickshaw, or taxi. Several bus routes stop near Egmore, and it's a short ride from major city points. :bus: :taxi:
Yes, there is ample free parking space available inside the museum premises. :car:
The Egmore railway station is nearby, making it accessible for train travelers. Numerous bus services also ply to Egmore. :train: :bus:
While the museum has multiple buildings, accessibility can vary. It's advisable to inquire about specific facilities upon arrival. :wheelchair:
Absolutely! Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Ola are readily available in Chennai and can drop you directly at the museum. :iphone:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee is Rs 50/- for adults, Rs 25/- for children, and Rs 20/- for school students.
Tickets can be purchased at the ticket counter using cash only. Online payment options are not available.
The museum is open from 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM.
Yes, the Government Museum Egmore is closed on Fridays.
Advance booking is generally not required, but it's always a good idea to check for any special events or holidays that might affect entry. :ticket:
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
To comfortably explore all the sections, plan for at least 3-4 hours. Some visitors recommend a full day for a leisurely experience.
Key attractions include the Chola bronzes, Raja Ravi Varma paintings, archaeological artifacts, anthropology exhibits, and a children's section.
Photography is allowed in most sections, but it is strictly prohibited in the halls displaying Raja Ravi Varma's paintings.
Information on guided tours is not widely advertised, but you can inquire at the information desk upon arrival. :informationdeskperson:
The museum complex is spread over 16.25 acres with trees, offering a cool and pleasant atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no specific dining facilities mentioned within the museum. It's advisable to eat before or after your visit. :forkandknife:
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside museum galleries. Please check the museum's specific policies. :water_wave:
Egmore and its surrounding areas offer a variety of restaurants, from local eateries to cafes. :restaurant:
While not explicitly mentioned, some visitors have noted a library within the museum, but a dedicated cafe is not a prominent feature. :coffee:
Food consumption is typically restricted to designated areas, if any, to preserve the exhibits. :nofoodsymbol:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is permitted in most galleries, but not in the Raja Ravi Varma painting section.
It's generally recommended to avoid flash photography to protect the artifacts, especially delicate ones like bronzes and paintings. :camerawithflash:
The architectural elements, the bronze gallery, and the outdoor grounds offer great photo opportunities.
For commercial photography or videography, you will likely need to obtain special permission from the museum authorities. :film_projector:
Always be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways. Respect any 'no photography' signs. :noentrysign:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📚 History Buffs & Art Enthusiasts
📸 Photography Lovers
Capture the intricate details of sculptures and the grandeur of the historical buildings. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and any 'no photography' signs. :camerawithflash:Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into South Indian Artistry
Beyond sculptures, the museum houses significant numismatic collections and anthropological exhibits. The Raja Ravi Varma collection of oil paintings is another major draw, though photography is restricted in these halls.
Navigating the Museum's Layout and Presentation
These include galleries for Fine Art, Bronze Sculptures, Archaeology, Anthropology, and a dedicated Children's Section. Despite these suggestions, the museum is generally described as well-maintained and systematically presented.
Historical Significance and Origins
Its origins are rooted in the need to preserve and showcase the region's rich historical and cultural heritage. Over the decades, it has grown to house an extensive collection that spans millennia, making it a vital repository of South Indian history. The museum's location in Egmore, considered the heart of Chennai, further emphasizes its central role in the city's cultural landscape.
It serves as a crucial educational resource, offering insights into the lives of ancient people, the evolution of art forms, and the socio-cultural fabric of Tamil Nadu. The sheer depth of its collections, from ancient artifacts to intricate bronzes, provides a tangible link to the past, allowing visitors to connect with the region's enduring legacy. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit