Sree Chitra Art Gallery Thiruvananthapuram
A treasure trove of Indian art, featuring masterpieces by Raja Ravi Varma and diverse art schools. Explore over 1100 paintings in a serene, air-condit...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Sree Chitra Art Gallery Thiruvananthapuram
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A treasure trove of Indian art, featuring masterpieces by Raja Ravi Varma and diverse art schools. Explore over 1100 paintings in a serene, air-conditioned setting.
"A must-visit for art lovers, housing exquisite artworks including original paintings by Raja Ravi Varma."
Engage with Staff
Staff are knowledgeable and helpful; ask them about the paintings for deeper insights! :speech_balloon:
Explore All Halls
Don't miss any section; the gallery spans multiple buildings with diverse collections. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Raja Ravi Varma's Masterpieces
Dedicated floor
Witness the iconic works of Raja Ravi Varma, including rare sketches and oil paintings that defined Indian art.
Diverse Art Schools
Various halls
Explore paintings from Mughal, Rajput, Bengal, and Tanjore schools, showcasing a rich tapestry of Indian artistic traditions.
Contemporary Indian Art
Modern art section
Admire newer works by prominent Indian artists, offering a glimpse into the evolution of the nation's art scene.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Art Lover's Paradise
Best Time to Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Engage with Staff
Staff are knowledgeable and helpful; ask them about the paintings for deeper insights! :speech_balloon:
Explore All Halls
Don't miss any section; the gallery spans multiple buildings with diverse collections. :world_map:
Photography Etiquette
Check for photography rules; some areas might restrict flash. :camerawithflash:
Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking between halls, so wear comfy shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Engage with Staff
Staff are knowledgeable and helpful; ask them about the paintings for deeper insights! :speech_balloon:
Explore All Halls
Don't miss any section; the gallery spans multiple buildings with diverse collections. :world_map:
Photography Etiquette
Check for photography rules; some areas might restrict flash. :camerawithflash:
Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking between halls, so wear comfy shoes. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sree Chitra Art Gallery as a must-visit for art lovers, highlighting the exceptional collection of Raja Ravi Varma's works and the diverse range of Indian art schools. The well-maintained, air-conditioned halls and helpful staff contribute to a highly positive and enriching experience.
"Sri Chitra Art Gallery located in the northern ground of Nappier Museum at Nanthancode Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala India. The gallery features a unique collection of traditional and contemporary paintings including the work of Raja Ravi Varma, Rabindranath Tagore, V S Valiyathan and other great arts. There are more than 1100 paintings at the gallery. It has oil paintings and mural paintings of different religions. It also exhibits water colour paintings, as old Chinese and Japanese style art and some new age paintings by some other artists. The buildings are nice and large halls with air- conditioning. Paintings are well arranged and good support from the staff.
Entry fee Rs. 25 per person."
Varghese K C
"Visiting the Sree Chithra Art Gallery was a remarkable experience. This gallery is essential for art lovers, showcasing a stunning array of artworks, including original pieces by Raja Ravi Varma. The serene environment enhances the appreciation of art, making it a perfect location for such an endeavor. The gallery spans multiple buildings and is meticulously organized, with knowledgeable guides available to share insights about the artworks on display. For those passionate about art, this gallery is a true gem filled with inspiration and beauty. The facility is well-maintained, featuring a variety of high-quality paintings, including a dedicated floor for the renowned works of Raja Ravi Varma. The building is impressive, surrounded by pleasant scenery, and the artworks exude artistic elegance. The captivating displays provide a delightful visual experience, with vibrant colors that create an inviting atmosphere"
pravin kumar
"Worth a visit to see the paintings of Raja Ravi Varma and other members of the royal family
Well curated and well displayed
The staff are very helpful and would assist you to understand the paintings much better
Please talk to them so that you make the best out of your visit"
Babu Paul
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The gallery is located in the northern grounds of the Napier Museum in Thiruvananthapuram. You can reach it by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or local bus. It's a well-known landmark, so most drivers will know the way. 
Yes, Thiruvananthapuram has a good bus network, and auto-rickshaws are readily available. The gallery is a popular destination, so it's well-served by local transport options.
Auto-rickshaws and taxis are convenient options from the city center, offering a direct and comfortable ride. Local buses are also available and are a more budget-friendly choice.
Limited parking is usually available near the Napier Museum complex, but it can get busy. It's advisable to check on arrival or consider using ride-sharing services.
Absolutely! The gallery is part of the Napier Museum complex, which also includes the Napier Museum itself and the Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, making it easy to plan a day of sightseeing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee is very affordable, typically around Rs. 25 per person, making it an excellent value for art enthusiasts.
The gallery is generally open from 10 AM to 5 PM, but it's always a good idea to check the latest timings before your visit, as they can sometimes vary.
Currently, online ticket booking is not widely advertised. Tickets are typically purchased at the venue upon arrival.
Weekends and public holidays tend to be busier. Visiting on a weekday morning is often recommended for a more peaceful experience.
Yes, the standard entry fee usually grants access to all the permanent collections and exhibitions within the gallery.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
The gallery boasts over 1100 paintings, including traditional and contemporary works. You'll find masterpieces by Raja Ravi Varma, Nicholas Roerich, Rabindranath Tagore, and art from Mughal, Rajput, Bengal, and Tanjore schools.
Photography is generally permitted, but flash photography is often discouraged to protect the delicate artworks. It's best to confirm the specific rules upon entry.
Yes, knowledgeable guides are often available to provide insights into the artworks and their historical context, enhancing your appreciation.
To truly appreciate the vast collection, allocate at least 2-3 hours. The gallery is spread across multiple buildings, and each piece is worth a closer look.
Yes, the halls are air-conditioned, providing a comfortable environment to view the art, especially during the warmer months in Kerala.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might not be extensive dining facilities directly within the gallery, the Napier Museum complex and surrounding areas in Thiruvananthapuram offer various food stalls and restaurants serving local cuisine.
It's generally advisable not to bring outside food and drinks into art galleries to protect the exhibits. There are usually designated areas outside if you need to consume refreshments.
Thiruvananthapuram is known for its delicious South Indian cuisine. Look for places serving traditional Kerala meals (Sadhya), appam with stew, and various seafood dishes.
📸 📸 Photography
The artworks themselves are the main subjects. Focus on capturing the details and artistry of paintings like those by Raja Ravi Varma. The architecture of the gallery buildings can also be photogenic.
While general photography is allowed, always check for specific restrictions on sharing images online, especially if there are copyright considerations for contemporary works.
A camera with good low-light performance and a macro lens can be useful for capturing the intricate details of the paintings. However, a good smartphone camera can also yield excellent results.
Selfies are generally allowed, but be mindful of other visitors and the artwork. Avoid blocking pathways or distracting others.
The works of Raja Ravi Varma are highly sought after for photos, especially his depictions of mythological figures and portraits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific play areas, the proximity to the Napier Museum and the Thiruvananthapuram Zoo offers opportunities for a full day of family-friendly exploration within the same complex. The nominal entry fee also makes it an affordable option for families looking for cultural enrichment.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Connoisseurs
Engage with the gallery staff for detailed explanations and consider visiting during quieter hours to fully absorb the atmosphere. The gallery's commitment to preserving these masterpieces ensures a high-quality viewing experience for even the most discerning art connoisseur.
🏛️ History Buffs
Exploring the different art schools represented—Mughal, Rajput, Bengal, and Tanjore—provides a visual narrative of India's diverse historical regions and their unique cultural contributions. The gallery itself, situated within the historic Napier Museum complex, adds another layer of historical context to your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Raja Ravi Varma
Visiting this section allows you to trace the evolution of Varma's style and understand his immense contribution to Indian art. The gallery's dedication to preserving and displaying these invaluable works makes it a pilgrimage site for art historians and enthusiasts alike. The serene environment of the gallery further enhances the experience of contemplating these masterpieces.
Beyond Raja Ravi Varma, the gallery also features works by his brother, C. Raja Raja Varma, showcasing the artistic talent within the family. This deep dive into the Varma collection provides a comprehensive understanding of a pivotal era in Indian art history.
A Spectrum of Indian Art Schools
You can also explore the distinct aesthetics of the Bengal School, which championed a revival of Indian artistic values, and the devotional beauty of Tanjore Miniature Paintings, some of which are over 400 years old. The gallery's collection also includes works from the Rajasthani and Tanjore schools, each contributing unique perspectives and techniques to the Indian art landscape.
This curated collection ensures that visitors gain a holistic appreciation for the breadth and depth of Indian art, from historical periods to more contemporary expressions. The well-arranged halls and helpful staff further enhance the learning experience, making it an educational and visually stimulating visit for all art lovers.
Navigating the Gallery Experience
Visitors often highlight the helpful and knowledgeable staff who are readily available to offer insights into the paintings, their artists, and their historical significance. Engaging with them can significantly enrich your visit, transforming a passive viewing into an interactive learning experience.
While photography is generally allowed, it's crucial to be mindful of the rules, particularly regarding flash. The gallery's serene environment, coupled with its well-maintained facilities and captivating displays, creates an inviting atmosphere for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit