Chennai, Tamil Nadu
National Art Gallery Chennai, also known as the Victoria Memorial Hall, is a prominent heritage building located within the Government Museum Complex on Pantheon Road, Egmore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Established in 1906, it stands as one of India's oldest art galleries. Designed by architect Henry Irwin, the gallery showcases Indo-Saracenic architecture, constructed using red sandstone sourced from Satyavedu in Andhra Pradesh. Originally built to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee, the building has been recognized as a heritage site by the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) and serves as a testament to Chennai's rich cultural and artistic heritage.
Regional Paintings: Extensive collection of paintings from Thanjavur, Rajasthan, Kangra, and Deccan regions, showcasing diverse artistic traditions of India
Raja Ravi Varma Works: Rare works by renowned artist Raja Ravi Varma, one of India's most celebrated painters
Sandalwood Sculptures: Collection of intricately carved sandalwood sculptures representing various artistic styles
Miniature Paintings: Various miniature paintings depicting court scenes, battle scenes, and historical narratives
Heritage Artworks: Collections offering a glimpse into India's rich artistic heritage spanning different periods and regions
Indo-Saracenic Architecture: Designed by architect Henry Irwin, showcasing a blend of Indian and Islamic architectural styles
Red Sandstone Construction: Built using red sandstone sourced from Satyavedu in Andhra Pradesh, giving it a distinctive appearance
Heritage Building: Recognized as a heritage site by the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA)
Restoration: Underwent extensive restoration in 2013 with ₹11 crore allocation, including foundation strengthening and structural repairs, reopened in February 2024
Historical Significance: Originally built to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee, representing colonial-era architecture
Location: Government Museum Complex, Pantheon Road, Egmore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport, Chennai – approx. 18 km
Major Railway Stations:
Chennai Central Railway Station – approx. 2 km
Chennai Egmore Railway Station – approx. 1 km
Metro Station: Chennai Central Metro Station – approx. 2 km
The gallery is strategically located within the Government Museum Complex in Egmore, one of Chennai's prominent areas, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city and well-connected to major transportation hubs.
National Art Gallery Chennai is well connected by road and public transport. The gallery is located on Pantheon Road in Egmore, which provides excellent connectivity to Chennai city center and surrounding areas. Public bus services operated by the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) provide regular connectivity to the area. The Chennai Central Metro Station is approximately 2 km away, offering convenient metro access. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cab services operate regularly, offering convenient access for visitors. The gallery is easily accessible from major railway stations, with Chennai Egmore Railway Station being just 1 km away, and the international airport, making it convenient for both local art enthusiasts and tourists.