Government Museum Chennai
The Second Oldest Museum in India and one of the Largest Museums in South Asia
Overview
Founded in 1851, it is the second oldest museum in India, founded after the Indian Museum in Kolkata.
The Museum complex is majestic (reflecting imperial times) and consists of 6 buildings and 46 galleries, covering around 16.25 acres.
A number of Raja Ravi Varma paintings can be found in the museum, in addition to a plethora of art belonging to other talent artists. One can also find interesting artifacts and objects related to archaeology, coins, zoology, sculptures and manuscripts.
The museum complex also includes the National Art Gallery and the Connemara Public Library (with century-old publications).
Interestingly, the museum grounds was the location of the first zoo in Chennai in 1855 before it was moved in 8 years later.
Fort St. George Museum
One of India’s most important Colonial Museums with numerous British Artifacts
Overview
The museum was established in 1948 soon after independence.
Some of the major attractions include the first Indian flag that was flown in Chennai after independence, East India Company Coins and Documents and Early British Military weapons and clothes.
Vivekananda House
A Historic Building which was earlier an Ice House and now exhibits Swami Vivekananda’s Life
Overview
The building was constructed in 1842 by an American Businessman as a facility to store Ice.
Swami Vivekananda, one of India’s most famous monks, stayed in the building for about 1 week in 1897.
The building was officially named as ‘Vivekananda House’ by the state government in 1963 and now contains exhibits regarding his life.
Birla Planetarium
One of the earliest Science Centers in India
Overview
Both the Museum and the Planetarium were established in 1988.
The Museum focuses on hands-on learning. Visitors don’t just observe science – They can also apply scientific concepts.
A rare museum in India that focuses on diverse topics in one campus – Physics & Mechanics, Electronics & Communication, Energy & Power, Life Sciences, Transport, etc.
Chennai Rail Museum
A Museum with excellent train exhibits from both pre and post Independence era
Overview
Established in 2002 and spanning about 6.25 acres, the museum boasts an impressive collection of steam engines, vintage coaches, and train models along with an art gallery.
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.