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National Art Gallery, Chennai: A Colonial Masterpiece of Art

Discover India's artistic heritage at Chennai's National Art Gallery, a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture and home to diverse art collections.

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Housed in a striking Indo-Saracenic building, the National Art Gallery in Chennai showcases a diverse collection of Indian paintings, sculptures, and artifacts. Built in 1906, it stands as a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage and colonial past.

A brief summary to National Art Gallery Chennai

Local tips

  • The gallery is closed on Fridays and national holidays.
  • Photography is allowed, but there may be a fee for cameras.
  • Wear light cotton clothing if visiting during warmer months.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The National Art Gallery is located on Pantheon Road in Egmore, Chennai. Chennai Central Metro station is approximately 2 km away. From the station, you can take a bus or an auto-rickshaw to the gallery. Several bus lines stop near the Government Museum, including 17D, 18G, 37 (37G), and 37C. Bus fares typically range from ₹3 to ₹7.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Chennai. A short taxi ride from Chennai Central Railway Station to the National Art Gallery costs approximately ₹200-₹250. Ensure the driver uses a meter or negotiate the fare beforehand. Parking is available at the museum complex.

  • Walking

    The National Art Gallery is located within the Government Museum Complex on Pantheon Road in Egmore. If you are already in the Egmore area, walking to the gallery is a viable option. From Egmore Railway Station, it is approximately a 1-kilometer walk. Follow Pantheon Road, and you will find the museum complex on your left.

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Discover more about National Art Gallery Chennai

The National Art Gallery, situated within the Government Museum Complex in Egmore, Chennai, is one of India's oldest art galleries. Constructed in 1906, the gallery is an impressive sandstone building designed in the Indo-Saracenic style by architect Henry Irwin. Originally named Victoria Memorial Hall, it was built to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee. The gallery has been identified as a heritage site by the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority. The National Art Gallery boasts a diverse collection, including traditional and modern paintings from various schools of art. Visitors can explore Mughal miniature paintings, Rajput paintings, Kangra paintings, and Tanjore paintings. The gallery also features portraits of British officers and sculptures from different periods. The ground floor elucidates the progress of industries and handicrafts in Tamil Nadu from prehistoric times to the present. After undergoing extensive restoration, the National Art Gallery reopened to the public in January 2021. The gallery plays a vital role in preserving and promoting India's cultural and historical heritage.

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