Museums in Delhi perfect for a rainy-day outing

With the monsoon season in full swing, Delhi’s frequent showers provide the perfect excuse to explore the city’s indoor museums. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply looking for something new, Delhi’s museums offer fascinating experiences while keeping you dry.

Here are some of Delhi’s museums to visit on a rainy day:

National Museum

Located on Janpath Road, the National Museum is one of India’s largest, with a vast collection spanning over 5,000 years. Highlights include the Harappan Gallery, showcasing artefacts from the Indus Valley Civilization, and the Central Asian Gallery, featuring items from the Silk Road.

National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA)

Near India Gate in Jaipur House, NGMA is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. It houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary Indian art, including works by Raja Ravi Varma and Amrita Sher-Gil. The gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions, offering something new with each visit.

Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum

Located at 1 Safdarjung Road, this museum was the residence of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. It offers insights into her life and legacy through personal belongings, photographs, and newspaper clippings. The site where she was assassinated in 1984 is also preserved here.

National Handicrafts and Handlooms Museum

On Bhairon Marg, Pragati Maidan, this museum showcases India’s rich craft heritage. It features handcrafted items such as pottery, textiles, jewellery, and tribal art, highlighting traditional skills and artistry.

Prime Ministers’ Museum and Library Society

At Teen Murti House, this museum honours India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. It includes his personal belongings, photographs, and documents related to his life and work, and offers valuable resources for those interested in modern Indian history.

Gandhi Smriti

Situated at 5 Tees January Marg, Gandhi Smriti is where Mahatma Gandhi spent his final days. The museum is dedicated to his memory with a collection of photographs, sculptures, and paintings depicting his life and role in India’s independence movement.

Shankar’s International Dolls Museum

Located on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, this museum is a delightful spot for families. It houses over 6,500 dolls from more than 85 countries. Founded by cartoonist K. Shankar Pillai, the displays provide a fascinating insight into global cultures, making it an entertaining visit for both children and adults.

National Science Centre

On Bhairon Road, Pragati Maidan, the National Science Centre offers interactive exhibits covering various fields of science and technology. It’s an engaging place for families to explore topics ranging from space exploration to ancient Indian science.