About Royapuram Railway Station Heritage Building
Royapuram Railway Station Heritage Building in Royapuram, North Chennai, is the oldest surviving railway station in South India and the second oldest in India. Opened on 28 June 1856 by the Madras Railway Company, it served the first railway line in South India between Madras (Royapuram) and Arcot. The colonial-era heritage structure is still operational under Southern Railway and is noted for its historic architecture and railway heritage value.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a functioning railway station centered around a colonial-era heritage building with arched verandas, high ceilings and vintage architectural features. The premises include platforms, tracks and a modest station building. The surroundings are urban and busy, located near Chennai Port and fishing harbour area. Visitors can view the exterior heritage facade, observe daily train operations on the Chennai suburban network, and take photographs from public areas.
Key highlights
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Oldest surviving railway station in South India, opened on 28 June 1856
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Second oldest railway station in India after Bori Bunder, Mumbai
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Colonial-era heritage building constructed by the Madras Railway Company
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Still operational as part of Southern Railway's Chennai suburban network