GOVT. MUSEUM / NATIONAL ART GALLERY
Museum / Gallery
Distance (From Chennai Central Railway Station): 4 Kms
Commonly Visited From: Chennai Central Railway Station
Trip Duration (From Chennai Central Railway Station, Including Travel): 2-3 Hours
Place Location: On Pantheon Road
Transportation Options: Bus / Cab / Auto
Travel Tips: None
At a distance of 4 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station (on Pantheon Road), the Pantheon complex built in 1789 houses Government Museum, the National Art Gallery and the Connemara Public Library. The Government bought this building in 1830 and later several new buildings were added to it. This is one of the top tourist places to visit in Chennai city.
The Government Museum was established in 1857 and has the country's best collection of South Indian bronzes, both ancient and modern. Among which beautiful bronze icons of Nataraja, Rama, Sita, Lakshmana and Hanuman. The Amaravathi Gallery contains the rare second century marble sculptures, depicting important events in the life of Gautama Buddha. The bronzes from the 10th and 13th centuries and handicrafts from the 11th and 12th centuries also are seen here.
The National Art Gallery exhibits several beautiful paintings of 16th and 18th century from Rajasthan, Mughal period and 17th century Deccani art.
Timings: 9.30 AM to 5.30 PM, closed on Fridays & on National Holidays
Entry Fee: Rs. 15 for Indians, Rs. 250 for Foreigners, Camera: Rs. 200 for Indians & Rs. 500 for Foreigners
