Discover the Most Unique Museums in India That Are a Must-Visit for Every Traveler
India is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, and its museums offer fascinating insights into the country's rich history, art, and traditions. From showcasing the evolution of transport to celebrating the art of doll-making, India's museums present a diverse range of exhibits that cater to various interests and curiosities. Here are some of the most unique museums in India that you should visit at least once. Salar Jung Museum, Hyderabad Housing a diverse and extensive collection of artifacts, the Salar Jung Museum in Hyderabad is a true treasure trove of art, antiques, and curiosities. The museum showcases the remarkable collection amassed by the Salar Jung family over generations. It is now run by a board of trustees with the governor of Telangana as ex officio chairperson under the Salar Jung Museum Act of 1961. In 2003, the museum signed a memorandum of understanding with the National Museum of Manuscripts and was declared a manuscript conservation centre. Visitors can marvel at rare manuscripts, exquisite sculptures, European paintings, and decorative arts. The museum offers a glimpse into the eclectic tastes and global connections of its collectors. Shankar's International Dolls Museum, New Delhi Founded by K. Shankar Pillai, a renowned political cartoonist, Shankar's International Dolls Museum in New Delhi celebrates the art and culture of doll-making from around the world. With over 6,000 dolls representing different countries and regions, this museum is a visual delight. Visitors can admire the craftsmanship, traditional attire, and cultural significance of each doll, fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. Indian Museum, Kolkata As the oldest and largest museum in India, the Indian Museum in Kolkata holds a significant place in the country's cultural landscape. Founded in 1814, it houses a vast collection spanning art, archaeology, anthropology, and natural history. Visitors can explore ancient sculptures, Mughal paintings, Egyptian mummies, and fossils, gaining invaluable insights into India's rich cultural and scientific heritage. Heritage Transport Museum, Gurugram For those fascinated by transportation, the Heritage Transport Museum in Gurugram offers a captivating journey through India's transportation history. The museum features a diverse collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, railway coaches, aircraft, and other modes of transport. Through interactive exhibits, multimedia displays, and beautifully restored vehicles, visitors can explore the evolution of transportation technology and its impact on society and culture. Calico Museum of Textiles, Ahmedabad Renowned for its exceptional collection of Indian textiles, the Calico Museum in Ahmedabad showcases a wide range of fabrics, costumes, and artifacts representing various regional traditions and historical periods. Visitors can marvel at intricate embroideries, delicate weaves, vibrant dyeing techniques, and exquisite craftsmanship. The museum offers insights into the design, cultural significance, and rich heritage of Indian textiles. VMRDA INS Kursura Submarine Museum, Visakhapatnam Offering a unique opportunity to explore the interior of a submarine, the VMRDA INS Kursura Submarine Museum in Visakhapatnam is a must-visit for history and naval enthusiasts. Housed within a decommissioned submarine, INS Kursura, the museum provides insights into India's naval history and maritime heritage. Visitors can tour the submarine's compartments, control room, and living quarters, gaining a deeper understanding of the life of submariners. Don Bosco Museum of Indigenous Cultures, Shillong Located in Shillong, the Don Bosco Museum of Indigenous Cultures celebrates the diverse indigenous cultures of Northeast India. The museum features exhibits on tribal traditions, rituals, art, and crafts. Visitors can explore life-sized tribal huts, traditional costumes, musical instruments, and artifacts showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. Don't miss the Skywalk Exhibition, which offers a breathtaking view of the city. Sulabh International Museum of Toilets, New Delhi One might not expect a museum dedicated to toilets, but the Sulabh International Museum of Toilets in New Delhi breaks stereotypes and provides a comprehensive history of sanitation and toilet technology. This unique museum, established by the Sulabh International Social Service Organisation, takes visitors on a journey through time, showcasing the evolution of toilets from ancient times to modern innovations. Exhibits highlight cultural practices, technological advancements, and the importance of sanitation for public health. From the unexpected, such as the Sulabh International Museum of Toilets, to the traditional, like the Don Bosco Museum of Indigenous Cultures, these museums offer something for everyone, making them must-visit destinations for travelers seeking to uncover the wonders of India's heritage.
