Museums Of Delhi: Exploring The Capital’s Art, Culture And History

With its historic charm and cosmopolitan ways of life, Delhi is a city with a heart. The bustling capital of India, Delhi has a unique charm to it. There's a lot that the city has to offer, it is also home to some of the most famous museums in the country which takes us back in time, while being a part of the bustling modern culture. Preserving vital elements of our history, each dedicated to a particular theme, whether art, science, natural history or other aspects, museums are meant to attract visitors at all times. Here are some of the popular museums in Delhi which helps us understand the city’s art, culture and history better.

Here are some of the best museums in Delhi worth visiting

1. Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum

The Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum used to be the residence of Indira Gandhi, the former Prime Minister of India, before she was assasinated. It is a large house-turned-museum, which portrays a large collection of rare photographs from the Nationalist movement, personal memories of the Nehru-Gandhi family, as well as childhood pictures of Indira Gandhi herself. A well-maintained place to visit, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum is dedicated to the life of Indira Gandhi, and  it is through this place that we get to know about the simple, yet enriching lifestyle of late Indira Gandhi. 

Location: No.1, Safdarjung Road, New Delhi

Timings: 9:30 am- 5:00 pm (closed on Mondays)

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2. Shankar’s International Dolls Museums

Shankar’s International Dolls Museum is a treasure trove of dolls from all over the world. The museum is home to over 6,500 dolls from 85 countries. Founded in 1965 by renowned political cartoonist K. Shankar Pillai, the museum's collection includes traditional dolls, costume dolls, and contemporary art dolls. K Shankar Pillai was a believer of the thought that dolls are not just toys, but valuable cultural artifacts. Shankar’s International Dolls Museum offers a glimpse into diverse cultures and traditions from around the globe through its display of various kinds of dolls.

Location: Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, Vikram Nagar, New Delhi

Timings: 10:00 am- 5:30 pm (closed on Mondays)

3. The National Crafts Museum & Hastkala Academy

The National Crafts Museum & Hastkala Academy is one of the largest crafts museums in India. It is located on the corner of the Pragati Maidan, facing the Purana Quila complex in New Delhi. The museum was established in 1956 and is home to a vast collection of over 20,000 objects representing the diverse craftsmanship of India. The collection of the museum includes textiles, metalware, woodwork, pottery, and more, from all over the country. Spread over a large area, The National Crafts Museum and Hastkala Academy has several galleries, each dedicated to a specific craft or region. There is also a library, a reference section, and a conservation laboratory.

Location: Bhairon Marg, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi

Timings: 10:00 am- 5:30 pm (closed on Mondays)

4. Madame Tussauds Delhi 

Madame Tussauds Delhi, previously known as Madame Tussauds Wax Museum is located in Noida, and is a famous spot for tourists and local visitors alike. It is the twenty-second location for the Tussauds, which was set up by French sculptor Marie Tussaud. The museum opened its doors on December 1, 2017, and houses over 25 life-size wax figures of famous personalities from India and around the world. 

Location: 4th Floor, DLF Mall of India, Sector 18, Noida, Uttar Pradesh

Timings: 11:30 am- 7:30 pm

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5. National Rails Museum

The National Rails Museum features a collection of historical railway exhibits & artefacts, including the 1855 steam locomotive, which is the Fairy Queen and the best preserved locomotive till date. Inaugurated on February 1, 1977, the museum displays the history of rail transport in India. The museum is home to over 100 real size static and working models, historical monuments, antique furniture and related literature. Among the major activities that you can take part in during your visit to the museum is a ride on the joy train and monorail, as well as indulge yourself in boating experiences. 

Location: Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Timings: 9:30- 5:30 pm (closed on Mondays)

6. National Science Museum

The National Science Museum is one of the largest Science Centre in Asia, and features exhibitions & hands-on activities geared toward kids. The museum aims towards making its visitors engage in, educate and entertain through the various thematic exhibitions, interactive educational activities and outreach programmes. Inaugurated on January 9th, 1992 by Shri P V Narshimha Rao, the then honourable Prime Minister of India, the museum is funded by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India at present. The National Science Museum has various sections for age groups, which include the Heritage and Dinosaur Gallery, Human Biology Gallery, Fun Science Library, and much more, along with a cafeteria. An absolute paradise for children, The National Science Museum is a must-visit when in Delhi. 

Location: Bhairon Marg, near Pragati Maidan Gate No. 1, New Delhi

Timings: 10:00 am- 5:00 pm (closed on Holi and Diwali)