Government Museum is situated at
Egmore, one of the busiest areas in
Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Founded in 1851, it exhibits various specimens pertaining to zoology, botany, anthropology and geology. The museum has a fine archaeological section representing all the major south Indian periods including
Chola,
Vijayanagar,
Hoysala and
Chalukyas.
The bronze gallery housed in the museum is a fine repository of Chola art. Most of the bronze sculptures date back to the late Pallava and Chola periods - between the 9th and 12th centuries. The bronze image of Ardhanariswara is an eye-catching one. The museum also has separate sections for philately and children. It also houses a good ethnology collection. Informative lectures and film shows are conducted occasionally. The museum has a well stocked library.
Government Museum is open from 10:00 to 17:00 hrs.
Chennai Egmore Railway Station is the nearest railhead.