Museums in Delhi – Delhi is home to some of India's finest museums, covering subjects ranging from ancient civilizations and freedom fighters to railways, crafts, aviation, and interactive science. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or traveling with family, the capital offers museums for every interest. Below are the first ten must-visit museums in Delhi.
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1. National Museum, New Delhi
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| Portraits of a princely couple painted on ivory medallions set in a silver pendant at the National Museum, Delhi |
The National Museum is India's premier museum and houses one of the country's largest collections of historical artifacts. Its galleries showcase treasures from the Indus Valley Civilization, Mauryan, Gupta, Mughal, and modern periods. Visitors can admire ancient sculptures, manuscripts, paintings, coins, jewelry, textiles, and Buddhist relics. The museum is ideal for anyone interested in Indian history and culture spanning over 5,000 years. It regularly hosts exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events.
Location: Janpath, New Delhi
How to Reach: Central Secretariat or Udyog Bhawan Metro Station (Yellow/Violet Line), then a short walk.
Timings: Tue–Fri: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; Sat–Sun: 10:00 AM–8:00 PM; Closed Monday.
Ticket Price: ₹20 (Adults); Free for students up to Class XII with ID; Foreign visitors charged separately.
Official Website: National Museum
2. National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA)
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| NGMA Museum in Delhi | Image Used For Representational Purposes Only |
The National Gallery of Modern Art preserves India's rich artistic heritage from the nineteenth century onward. Its collection includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, and installations by renowned Indian artists such as Raja Ravi Varma, Amrita Sher-Gil, Nandalal Bose, and M.F. Husain. Temporary exhibitions, workshops, and lectures make every visit unique. The museum building itself is a heritage structure near India Gate. It is one of the best places in Delhi for art lovers.
Location: Jaipur House, India Gate Circle
How to Reach: Khan Market or Central Secretariat Metro Station followed by an auto-rickshaw.
Timings: Tuesday–Sunday, generally 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Ticket Price: Nominal entry fee (varies by visitor category)
Official Website: https://ngmaindia.gov.in
3. National Rail Museum
The National Rail Museum showcases India's remarkable railway history through vintage locomotives, royal coaches, engines, signaling equipment, and railway memorabilia. One of the biggest attractions is the toy train ride around the museum grounds. Interactive exhibits make learning enjoyable for children and adults alike. The museum beautifully documents the evolution of Indian Railways from the nineteenth century to the present. It is among Delhi's most family-friendly attractions.
Location: Chanakyapuri
How to Reach: Lok Kalyan Marg or Sir M. Vishweshwaraiah Moti Bagh Metro Station, then auto-rickshaw.
Timings: Tuesday–Sunday, approximately 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Ticket Price: Entry ticket plus optional toy train charges
Official Website: https://www.nrmindia.org
4. National Crafts Museum & Hastkala Academy
The National Crafts Museum celebrates India's diverse handicrafts, folk traditions, and rural artistry. Visitors can explore galleries featuring textiles, pottery, tribal art, woodwork, metal crafts, and traditional household objects. Live demonstrations by skilled artisans provide an opportunity to witness centuries-old craftsmanship. The museum complex also includes recreated village homes representing different Indian states. It is a must-visit destination for those interested in India's cultural diversity.
Location: Pragati Maidan, Bhairon Marg
How to Reach: Supreme Court Metro Station or Pragati Maidan Metro Station.
Timings: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Ticket Price: Affordable entry fee
Official Website: https://nationalcraftsmuseum.nic.in
5. Gandhi Smriti Museum
Gandhi Smriti is located in the former Birla House, where Mahatma Gandhi spent his final days before his assassination on 30 January 1948. The museum displays photographs, personal belongings, manuscripts, and multimedia exhibits documenting his life and philosophy. Visitors can walk along the preserved footsteps leading to the place where Gandhi was assassinated. Interactive displays help explain his principles of truth and non-violence. The museum is both educational and deeply moving.
Location: Tees January Marg
How to Reach: Lok Kalyan Marg Metro Station.
Timings: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Ticket Price: Free
Official Website: https://gandhismriti.gov.in
6. National Gandhi Museum
Dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi's life and legacy, the National Gandhi Museum houses original letters, books, photographs, manuscripts, and personal belongings. The museum also displays one of the bullets associated with Gandhi's assassination and other historically significant artifacts. Exhibits trace India's freedom struggle and Gandhi's role in shaping modern India. The museum regularly hosts lectures, educational programs, and research activities. It serves as an important center for Gandhian studies.
Location: Rajghat
How to Reach: Delhi Gate Metro Station.
Timings: Tuesday–Sunday, around 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Ticket Price: Free
Official Website: https://www.gandhimuseum.org
7. Museum of Illusions
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| Museum in Delhi – Museum of illusions | Image Used For Representational Purposes Only |
The Museum of Illusions offers an entertaining blend of science, psychology, and optical illusions. Visitors can experience holograms, mirror rooms, gravity-defying installations, vortex tunnels, and interactive exhibits that challenge perception. It is especially popular among families, students, and photography enthusiasts. Every exhibit encourages visitors to understand how the human brain interprets visual information. The museum combines education with fun, making it one of Delhi's most unique attractions.
Location: A Block, Inner Circle, Connaught Place
How to Reach: Rajiv Chowk Metro Station (Exit Gate 8), short walk.
Timings: Mon–Fri: 11:00 AM–8:00 PM; Sat–Sun: 11:00 AM–8:30 PM.
Ticket Price: Adult tickets start around ₹590 (+GST); prices vary by category.
Official Website: Museum of Illusions New Delhi
8. Prime Ministers' Museum and Library (Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya)
This modern museum presents the journey of every Prime Minister of independent India through immersive digital technology, photographs, speeches, and archival material. Interactive galleries showcase India's political evolution, major policies, and historical milestones. Multimedia installations make complex political history engaging for visitors of all ages. The museum is located within the historic Teen Murti Estate. It is among the newest and most technologically advanced museums in Delhi.
Location: Teen Murti Marg
How to Reach: Lok Kalyan Marg Metro Station.
Timings: Tuesday–Sunday
Ticket Price: Paid entry
Official Website: https://www.pmsangrahalaya.gov.in
9. Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum
The Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum occupies the former residence of India's first woman Prime Minister. Preserved rooms, photographs, awards, documents, and personal belongings provide insight into her political career and personal life. The pathway where she was assassinated has been preserved under a glass memorial. Multimedia exhibits explain important events during her tenure. The museum offers a comprehensive look at one of India's most influential leaders.
Location: Safdarjung Road
How to Reach: Lok Kalyan Marg Metro Station.
Timings: Tuesday–Sunday, approximately 9:30 AM–5:00 PM
Ticket Price: Free
Official Website: https://ignca.gov.in
10. Indian Air Force Museum
Located near Palam Air Force Station, the Indian Air Force Museum showcases aircraft, missiles, uniforms, medals, engines, and historic photographs. Outdoor displays feature retired fighter aircraft and helicopters used by the Indian Air Force. Indoor galleries explain the evolution of military aviation in India from the pre-independence era to modern times. Aviation enthusiasts will find numerous rare exhibits and technical displays. It is one of the best museums in India dedicated to aviation history.
Location: Palam, New Delhi
How to Reach: Delhi Cantt or Sadar Bazaar Cantonment railway station; taxis and auto-rickshaws are available.
Timings: Wednesday–Sunday, generally 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Ticket Price: Free
Official Website: No dedicated official public website available.
Next: Part 2 will cover Museums 11–20, including the International Dolls Museum, Sulabh International Museum of Toilets, Shankar's International Dolls Museum, Red Fort Museums, Partition Museum, and more.
30 Museums in Delhi – Part 2 (Museums 11–20)
11. Shankar's International Dolls Museum
Shankar's International Dolls Museum is one of Delhi's most popular attractions for children and families. Established in 1965 by renowned cartoonist K. Shankar Pillai, the museum houses over 6,500 dolls from more than 85 countries. Each doll represents the traditional costume, culture, and lifestyle of its region, making the museum both educational and entertaining. Separate galleries showcase Indian dolls dressed in regional attire alongside an impressive international collection. It remains one of India's finest museums dedicated to dolls and folk traditions.
Location: Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi
How to Reach: ITO Metro Station (Violet Line), followed by a short walk.
Timings: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Ticket Price: ₹30 (Adults), ₹15 (Children) (subject to revision)
Official Website: https://childrensbooktrust.com
12. Sulabh International Museum of Toilets
The Sulabh International Museum of Toilets is one of the world's most unusual museums. It traces the evolution of sanitation systems from ancient civilizations to modern times through rare toilets, chamber pots, bidets, and sanitation technology. Exhibits highlight how hygiene practices have changed across cultures and centuries. The museum also promotes awareness about public sanitation and environmental sustainability. It is frequently featured among the world's most unique museums.
Location: Mahavir Enclave, Palam-Dabri Road
How to Reach: Dashrath Puri Metro Station, then auto-rickshaw.
Timings: Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Ticket Price: Free
Official Website: https://www.sulabhinternational.org
13. National Science Centre
The National Science Centre is India's largest science museum and one of Delhi's most visited educational attractions. Interactive galleries explain physics, chemistry, biology, space science, robotics, energy, and technology through engaging hands-on exhibits. Live science demonstrations, a 3D theatre, and innovation galleries make learning enjoyable for all age groups. Children especially enjoy the interactive experiments and educational games. The museum regularly hosts science exhibitions and workshops throughout the year.
Location: Pragati Maidan, Bhairon Road
How to Reach: Supreme Court Metro Station or Pragati Maidan Metro Station.
Timings: Daily, 9:30 AM–6:00 PM
Ticket Price: Approximately ₹70 (Adults), concessions for children and groups
Official Website: https://www.nscdelhi.gov.in
14. National Museum of Natural History (Currently Closed)
The National Museum of Natural History was established to educate visitors about India's biodiversity, wildlife, geology, and environment. Its galleries featured dinosaur fossils, preserved animal specimens, minerals, birds, insects, and ecological displays. It was a favorite destination for school groups and nature enthusiasts. The museum suffered severe fire damage in 2016 and remains closed while redevelopment plans continue. It remains an important institution in India's museum history.
Location: Formerly FICCI Building, Barakhamba Road
How to Reach: Barakhamba Road Metro Station
Timings: Currently Closed
Ticket Price: Not Applicable
Official Website: Not operational
15. Red Fort Archaeological Museum
Located inside the Red Fort Complex, the Archaeological Museum displays sculptures, inscriptions, paintings, manuscripts, ceramics, weapons, and artifacts recovered from archaeological excavations. The exhibits illustrate the rich history of Delhi from ancient times through the Mughal period. Visitors gain a deeper understanding of the city's archaeological heritage beyond the fort itself. The museum complements a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Location: Red Fort Complex
How to Reach: Lal Qila Metro Station (Violet Line)
Timings: Along with Red Fort visiting hours
Ticket Price: Included with Red Fort entry ticket
Official Website: https://asi.nic.in
16. Indian War Memorial Museum
The Indian War Memorial Museum, housed within the Red Fort, preserves military artifacts from different periods of Indian history. Its collection includes uniforms, medals, firearms, swords, battle equipment, military documents, and photographs. Exhibits highlight the role of Indian soldiers during World War I, World War II, and the freedom movement. Visitors interested in military history will find the museum particularly informative. It provides valuable insights into India's defense heritage.
Location: Red Fort Complex
How to Reach: Lal Qila Metro Station
Timings: Same as Red Fort
Ticket Price: Included with Red Fort ticket
Official Website: https://asi.nic.in
17. Swatantrata Sangram Sangrahalaya
This museum is dedicated to India's freedom struggle and showcases original documents, photographs, paintings, weapons, and personal belongings of freedom fighters. The galleries narrate the story of India's independence movement from the Revolt of 1857 to Independence in 1947. Multimedia exhibits make the historical journey engaging and informative. It serves as an excellent educational destination for students and history enthusiasts.
Location: Red Fort Complex
How to Reach: Lal Qila Metro Station
Timings: Same as Red Fort
Ticket Price: Included with Red Fort entry
Official Website: https://asi.nic.in
18. Drishyakala Museum
Drishyakala Museum explores India's artistic traditions through paintings, textiles, decorative arts, manuscripts, sculptures, and historical artifacts. Modern display techniques combine digital media with traditional exhibits to provide an immersive visitor experience. The galleries trace Indian civilization from ancient times to the modern era. It is one of the newest museums developed within the Red Fort complex. Art lovers and researchers alike appreciate its diverse collection.
Location: Red Fort Complex
How to Reach: Lal Qila Metro Station
Timings: Same as Red Fort
Ticket Price: Included with Red Fort admission
Official Website: https://asi.nic.in
19. Partition Museum (Delhi)
The Partition Museum in Delhi commemorates one of the most significant events in South Asian history—the Partition of India in 1947. Through photographs, letters, personal belongings, oral histories, and multimedia presentations, the museum documents stories of migration, resilience, and human experiences. Visitors gain insight into the social and emotional impact of Partition on millions of people. It serves as a place for remembrance, learning, and dialogue.
Location: Dara Shikoh Library Building, Kashmere Gate
How to Reach: Kashmere Gate Metro Station
Timings: Tuesday–Sunday, generally 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Ticket Price: Nominal entry fee (may vary)
Official Website: https://www.partitionmuseum.org
20. Tibet House Museum
The Tibet House Museum preserves the rich artistic, religious, and cultural heritage of Tibet. Its collection includes Buddhist manuscripts, thangka paintings, ritual objects, sculptures, traditional costumes, and rare artifacts brought to India after the Tibetan diaspora. The museum also promotes Tibetan language, philosophy, and culture through exhibitions and educational programs. Visitors interested in Buddhism and Himalayan history will find it especially rewarding.
Location: Lodhi Road, New Delhi
How to Reach: JLN Stadium or Jor Bagh Metro Station, followed by a short auto-rickshaw ride.
Timings: Monday–Saturday, approximately 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Ticket Price: Nominal entry fee
Official Website: https://tibethouse.in
Next: Part 3 will cover museums 21–30, including the Madame Tussauds legacy location, Museo Camera, Shri Ram Centre Museum of Performing Arts, Museum of Folk and Tribal Art, Rail Heritage Gallery, and other notable museums in Delhi, followed by the FAQ and conclusion in Part 4.
30 Museums in Delhi – Part 3 (Museums 21–30)
21. Museo Camera – Centre for the Photographic Arts
Museo Camera is India's first not-for-profit photography museum dedicated to preserving the history of cameras and photography. The museum displays vintage cameras, photographic equipment, rare prints, and historical photographs from around the world. Interactive exhibits explain the evolution of photography from early cameras to digital imaging. Workshops, exhibitions, and educational programs make it a favorite destination for photography enthusiasts. It offers a fascinating journey through the art and science of photography.
Location: DLF Phase 3 (Near Delhi Border), Gurugram
How to Reach: Sikanderpur Metro Station, then taxi or auto-rickshaw.
Timings: Tuesday–Sunday, 11:00 AM–7:00 PM
Ticket Price: Paid entry (varies for exhibitions)
Official Website: https://www.museocamera.org
22. Sanskriti Museums
The Sanskriti Museums consist of three specialized museums dedicated to Indian Terracotta, Everyday Art, and Indian Textiles. Together they preserve thousands of artifacts reflecting India's artistic traditions and craftsmanship. Beautifully landscaped surroundings create a peaceful atmosphere for visitors. The museums regularly host workshops, exhibitions, and cultural events. They are among Delhi's hidden cultural gems.
Location: Anandgram, Mehrauli-Gurgaon Road
How to Reach: Arjan Garh Metro Station followed by a short taxi ride.
Timings: Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Ticket Price: Free (donations welcome)
Official Website: https://www.sanskritifoundation.org
23. National Handicrafts and Handlooms Museum Rural Complex
Adjacent to the Crafts Museum, this open-air complex recreates traditional village homes and artisan workshops from different Indian states. Visitors can watch craftsmen producing pottery, weaving textiles, wood carving, metalwork, and other traditional handicrafts. The museum promotes India's rich folk traditions and supports local artisans. Seasonal craft fairs and demonstrations enhance the visitor experience. It provides an authentic glimpse into India's rural artistic heritage.
Location: Pragati Maidan, New Delhi
How to Reach: Supreme Court or Pragati Maidan Metro Station.
Timings: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Ticket Price: Nominal entry fee
Official Website: https://nationalcraftsmuseum.nic.in
24. Reserve Bank of India Monetary Museum (Currency Exhibition)
The RBI's currency exhibition introduces visitors to the history of Indian coins, banknotes, and monetary systems. Displays explain currency production, security features, inflation, and the role of the Reserve Bank of India. Interactive exhibits make financial education engaging for students and adults. Historical coins and commemorative currency are among the highlights. It offers valuable insights into India's economic history.
Location: Parliament Street, New Delhi
How to Reach: Patel Chowk Metro Station.
Timings: Monday–Friday during office hours
Ticket Price: Free
Official Website: https://www.rbi.org.in
25. Shree Ram Centre Museum of Performing Arts
This museum celebrates India's rich heritage of theatre, dance, and performing arts. Exhibits include costumes, photographs, stage designs, manuscripts, posters, and memorabilia from legendary performances. Visitors can learn about the evolution of Indian theatre and classical performing arts. Temporary exhibitions and cultural programs are organized throughout the year. The museum is especially valuable for students of drama and performing arts.
Location: Mandi House, New Delhi
How to Reach: Mandi House Metro Station.
Timings: Generally 11:00 AM–6:00 PM
Ticket Price: Usually Free
Official Website: https://www.shriramcentre.org
26. Archaeological Museum, Purana Qila
Situated within Purana Qila, this museum displays artifacts excavated from one of Delhi's oldest archaeological sites. Collections include pottery, sculptures, coins, inscriptions, beads, terracotta objects, and tools dating from prehistoric settlements to the Mughal period. The exhibits help visitors understand the continuous habitation of Delhi over thousands of years. It complements a visit to Purana Qila by providing historical context. Archaeology enthusiasts will find the museum particularly rewarding.
Location: Purana Qila, Mathura Road
How to Reach: Pragati Maidan Metro Station followed by an auto-rickshaw.
Timings: Same as Purana Qila
Ticket Price: Included with Purana Qila entry
Official Website: https://asi.nic.in
27. Sulabh Heritage Centre
The Sulabh Heritage Centre documents the social reform movement led by Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak and the evolution of sanitation in India. Through photographs, models, documents, and exhibits, the museum highlights efforts to improve public health and eliminate manual scavenging. Visitors gain insight into the social impact of sanitation reforms. The museum serves as an educational center for sustainable development. It complements the nearby Museum of Toilets.
Location: Mahavir Enclave, New Delhi
How to Reach: Dashrath Puri Metro Station.
Timings: Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Ticket Price: Free
Official Website: https://www.sulabhinternational.org
28. Police Museum
The Police Museum showcases the history and evolution of policing in Delhi and India. Exhibits include historical uniforms, medals, communication equipment, forensic tools, vintage vehicles, and significant case studies. Interactive displays introduce visitors to crime investigation techniques and police training. The museum honors the service and sacrifices of police personnel. It provides an educational experience for students and the general public.
Location: Police Headquarters, Jai Singh Road
How to Reach: Patel Chowk Metro Station.
Timings: Working days (subject to prior permission for some visitors)
Ticket Price: Free
Official Website: https://delhipolice.gov.in
29. Indian Agricultural Museum (Pusa Campus)
The Indian Agricultural Museum highlights the history of farming, agricultural technology, irrigation, seeds, crop development, and scientific research in India. Exhibits include traditional farming tools alongside modern agricultural innovations. Visitors can learn about India's agricultural transformation and food security initiatives. Educational displays make the museum useful for students and researchers. It showcases the country's agricultural heritage and scientific progress.
Location: ICAR Campus, Pusa, New Delhi
How to Reach: Rajendra Place Metro Station followed by a taxi or auto-rickshaw.
Timings: Monday–Friday during office hours
Ticket Price: Usually Free
Official Website: https://icar.org.in
30. Museum of Folk and Tribal Art
The Museum of Folk and Tribal Art preserves India's vibrant folk and tribal traditions through masks, paintings, sculptures, musical instruments, textiles, ritual objects, and handcrafted artifacts. Its galleries represent communities from across the country and celebrate India's cultural diversity. The museum regularly organizes exhibitions featuring tribal artists and craftsmen. Visitors gain a deeper appreciation of indigenous art forms that continue to thrive today. It is an excellent destination for anyone interested in India's living cultural heritage.
Location: Bhairon Marg, Pragati Maidan Area
How to Reach: Supreme Court Metro Station or Pragati Maidan Metro Station.
Timings: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Ticket Price: Nominal entry fee
Official Website: Not separately available (associated with the National Crafts Museum).
Next: Part 4 will include the FAQ answering:
Which is the world's largest museum in Delhi?
Which museum is free to visit in Delhi?
How many museums are there in Delhi?
Is National Museum Delhi free?
Plus a concluding section with museum travel tips.
Museum in Delhi – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is the world's largest museum in Delhi?
At present, Delhi does not have the world's largest operational museum. However, the upcoming Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum, being developed in the historic North and South Block buildings under the Central Vista project, is planned to become one of the largest museums in the world, with around 950 rooms showcasing India's civilization and cultural heritage.
2. Which museum is free to visit in Delhi?
Several museums in Delhi offer free entry, including:
Gandhi Smriti
National Gandhi Museum
Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum
Indian Air Force Museum
Sulabh International Museum of Toilets
RBI Monetary Museum (Currency Exhibition)
Police Museum (subject to visitor regulations)
Sanskriti Museums (donation optional)
Some museums also provide free admission for school students or on special occasions.
3. How many museums are there in Delhi?
Delhi is home to more than 60 museums, ranging from national museums and art galleries to science, railway, aviation, archaeology, and specialty museums. They are managed by organizations such as the Ministry of Culture, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Indian Railways, the Indian Air Force, Delhi Government, universities, and private institutions.
4. Is National Museum Delhi free?
No. The National Museum, New Delhi charges a nominal admission fee for adults.
Adults: ₹20
Students up to Class XII (with valid ID): Free
Foreign Visitors: Separate ticket charges apply
The museum also provides facilities such as wheelchair access, cloakroom services, a museum shop, and guided educational programs.
Tips for Visiting Museum in Delhi
Visit during weekdays to avoid large crowds.
Carry a valid ID card if you're eligible for student discounts.
Photography is allowed in some museums but may be restricted in specific galleries.
Most museums remain closed on Mondays, so check timings before planning your visit.
Delhi Metro is the easiest and most economical way to reach most museums.
Allocate at least 2–3 hours for larger museums like the National Museum, National Rail Museum, or National Science Centre.
Museum in Delhi – Conclusion
Delhi's museums offer an incredible journey through India's history, culture, science, art, politics, transportation, and innovation. From the ancient artifacts of the National Museum and masterpieces at the National Gallery of Modern Art to interactive attractions like the Museum of Illusions, every museum presents a unique perspective on the nation's heritage.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, a student, or a family looking for an educational outing, Delhi's museums have something for everyone. Plan your visit, explore these fascinating institutions, and discover why India's capital is one of the country's richest destinations for cultural and historical experiences.
