The Prince of Wales Museum, officially known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS), is one of Mumbai’s most prestigious museums. It is a treasure trove of Indian history, art, and culture, drawing thousands of visitors every year. If you plan to visit, knowing the entry fees of Vastu Sangrahalaya is crucial.
This guide provides detailed information about ticket prices, discounts, visiting hours, and tips to make the most of your visit. Whether you’re a local Mumbaikar, a tourist, or a student, this museum offers something for everyone.
Overview of the Prince of Wales Museum
The Prince of Wales Museum is located in South Mumbai, near the Gateway of India. Built in 1914, it houses over 50,000 artifacts, including ancient sculptures, paintings, manuscripts, and rare coins.
The museum is divided into several sections:
- Art Gallery – Featuring Indian and European paintings.
- Archaeology Section – Showcasing artifacts from ancient civilizations.
- Natural History Section – Displaying fossils, wildlife specimens, and biodiversity exhibits.
- Arms & Armor Gallery – Featuring swords, firearms, and war armor.
The architecture of the museum is a blend of Indo-Saracenic, Mughal, and Gothic styles, making it a visual delight.
Entry Fees of Vastu Sangrahalaya (Prince of Wales Museum)
The museum offers different ticket prices based on visitor categories.
General Admission Fees (Indian Visitors)
- Adults: ₹150 per person
- Children (Ages 5-12): ₹50 per child
- Students (with valid ID): ₹75 per student
- Senior Citizens: ₹75 per person
General Admission Fees (Foreign Visitors)
- Adults: ₹650 per person
- Children (Ages 5-12): ₹250 per child
- Students (with valid ID): ₹400 per student
Group Discounts
- School Groups: ₹25 per student (minimum 10 students)
- College Groups: ₹50 per student (minimum 10 students)
- Senior Citizen Groups: ₹50 per person (minimum 10 people)
Special Exhibition Charges
Occasionally, the museum hosts special exhibitions featuring international art, photography, or historical artifacts. These exhibitions may have additional entry charges, typically ranging from ₹50 to ₹300.
Photography & Videography Charges
- Mobile Photography: Free
- Camera Photography: ₹200 per camera
- Videography (Handheld): ₹500 per device
- Professional Videography: Requires special permission
Audio Guide & Guided Tour Fees
- Audio Guide (Self-Guided): ₹100 per person
- Museum Guide (Personal Tour): ₹500 per group (up to 5 people)
Museum Timings & Best Time to Visit
Museum Timings
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Sunday: 10:15 AM to 6:00 PM
- Last Entry: 5:45 PM
Best Time to Visit
The museum is busiest on weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays (Tuesday-Thursday) between 10:30 AM and 1:00 PM.
How to Reach the Prince of Wales Museum?
The museum is in South Mumbai, a well-connected area with multiple transport options.
By Train
- Nearest Stations:
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) – 15-minute walk
- Churchgate Station – 10-minute walk
By Road
- Auto-rickshaws and Taxis: Available across Mumbai
- BEST Buses: Routes 14, 101, and 126 stop near the museum
- Parking: Limited parking available near the museum
By Mumbai Darshan Bus
If you’re visiting multiple attractions in South Mumbai, the Mumbai Darshan Bus is a great option. This guided tour bus covers the Prince of Wales Museum, Gateway of India, Marine Drive, and other key landmarks. You can check the schedule at Mumbai Darshan Bus for a hassle-free experience.
Why Should You Visit the Prince of Wales Museum?
1. Rich Collection of Indian Art & History
The museum has over 50,000 artifacts, covering ancient to modern Indian history.
2. Stunning Architecture
The Indo-Saracenic design is a perfect blend of Indian, Mughal, and European styles.
3. Educational & Interactive Exhibits
The museum offers guided tours, audio guides, and workshops for a deeper understanding of the exhibits.
4. Perfect for Family & Kids
The Natural History Section and Arms & Armor Gallery make it an exciting experience for children.
5. Proximity to Other Attractions
Located near the Gateway of India, Marine Drive, and Colaba Causeway, the museum can be part of a full-day sightseeing tour.
Tips for Visiting the Prince of Wales Museum
1. Buy Tickets Online
The museum offers online ticket booking to avoid long queues.
2. Stay Hydrated
Mumbai’s climate can be warm and humid. Carry a water bottle or buy bottled water inside the museum. If you plan to explore more of Mumbai after your visit, booking a Mumbai Darshan Bus is a good way to stay comfortable while touring the city.
3. Wear Comfortable Shoes
The museum is large, and exploring all sections requires a lot of walking.
4. Follow Museum Rules
- No Flash Photography in certain galleries
- No Food or Drinks inside the exhibit halls
- Maintain Silence in reading areas
Nearby Attractions You Should Visit
If you are visiting the Prince of Wales Museum, check out these nearby attractions:
1. Gateway of India
- Distance: 5-minute walk
- Best For: Photography & boat rides to Elephanta Caves
2. Marine Drive
- Distance: 10-minute taxi ride
- Best For: Evening walks & sunset views
3. Colaba Causeway
- Distance: 8-minute walk
- Best For: Street shopping & cafes
4. Elephanta Caves
- Distance: 1-hour ferry ride from Gateway of India
- Best For: Exploring ancient rock-cut caves
If you want a guided tour covering all these attractions, consider booking a Mumbai Darshan Bus. Visit Mumbai Darshan Bus for more details.
Final Thoughts
The Prince of Wales Museum is a must-visit destination for history, art, and culture enthusiasts. With affordable entry fees, stunning architecture, and interactive exhibits, it offers an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.
Plan your visit, stay hydrated, and explore the museum at a relaxed pace. If you wish to explore more of Mumbai, book a Mumbai Darshan Bus tour for a stress-free and guided city experience.