171 Years And Still Running Strong! Know All About India’s Oldest Railway Station

Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CSMT) is not only the oldest railway station in India but also a testament to the country's rich railway heritage. Constructed at a cost of ₹6 lakh, this iconic station has been serving the nation for 171 years.

CSMT has seen it all—from the era of steam engines to today’s high-speed Vande Bharat trains. Despite its age, the station continues to function efficiently, connecting various destinations across the country.

India's first train service began on April 16, 1853, running between Mumbai's Bori Bunder and Thane. This historic 34-kilometer journey carried 400 passengers and marked the beginning of India's vast railway network.

The first railway station, Bori Bunder, was named after a locality in Mumbai. In 1878, it was rebuilt and renamed Victoria Terminus to honor Queen Victoria of Britain.

After India gained independence, the station was renamed Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus in 1996. Later, in 2017, the name was updated to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, reflecting India's cultural heritage.

CSMT holds a unique record: it is the second most photographed building in India, after the Taj Mahal. Designed by architect Frederick Stevens, the station's stunning architecture continues to captivate visitors.

Despite being 171 years old, CSMT remains a bustling hub with trains arriving and departing for numerous cities across India. Millions of passengers pass through this station every day, making it one of the busiest in the country.