Chennai Rail Museum – Timings, Tickets, Things to See & Tips
A Museum with excellent train exhibits from both pre and post Independence era
Overview
Chennai Rail Museum was established in 2002 and spans about 6.25 acres. The museum boasts an impressive collection of huge life-sized steam engines, vintage coaches, actual train components, small train models and postmodern art inspired by Indian railways.
Located near the Integrated Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, which is the largest rail coach manufacturer in the World.
Displays vintage train models including an 1895 Fowler steam engine, double deck coaches of the 1860s, and a Royal saloon coach used by British officials and Indian royalty.
There are three galleries in total (two in the main gallery building and one that is present outside alongside the train models). Amazing artistic renditions inspired by Indian railways are a major highlight of the museum and are also present outside the gallery building.
The Museum includes a brief joy ride in a small train that can take people around the Museum grounds and is loved by kids.
There is a three tiered running train model in the Train History Gallery (present alongside the life sized engines outside the main building) that is very well designed.
Tickets and Timings
Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed Days: Mondays, Some Public Holidays*
Ticket Prices:
| Age Group | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | ₹40 – ₹50 |
| Children | ₹15 – ₹25 |
| Below 3 Years | Free |
Parking: Free Parking Available
* If it is a public holiday, do check directly with the museum to confirm if it is open.
Know Before You Go
The toy train ride is the most famous aspect of the museum. Ensure you check the timings and go on this ride if you visit.
Ample parking space is generally available.
The museum is known to close early around 5 PM. Check with the Museum on the timings before planning a visit.
The museum needs better maintenance (only the train history gallery is well air-conditioned, for example) though this doesn’t dilute the experience most people have with it.
Location
New Avadi Rd, Villivakkam
