Built in the early 20th century to commemorate Prince George V’s 1905 visit, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (csmvs.in; ₹700 with an audio guide), also by Scottish architect George Wittet, is best experienced by browsing its long chronological range. Start with the 2nd-century AD sculptures, then move through Indian, European, Himalayan and East Asian art, textiles, tableware and natural history. Note the dome inspired by Bijapur’s Gol Gumbaz with a Taj Mahal–style finial. Once a military hospital (1914–22), it is now wheelchair and lift accessible.
Good information is provided in English, and audioguides are available in seven languages. Six of the galleries are air-conditioned, offering a welcome relief from the summer heat. For a quick historical overview of Mumbai, the new 20-minute Mumbai Experience (₹50) is shown in English five times per day. There’s a fine cafeteria at the entrance and the museum shop is also excellent.
