The introduction of the railway system to India in 1853 could be credited with ushering in the modern era. This museum dedicated to the history, technology and culture surrounding the railways is popular with both children and adults. Kids love the interactive exhibits and train rides around the railway yard, through tunnels and past a variety of steam, diesel and electric locomotives, as well as wagons, carriages, royal saloons, armoured trains, rail cars and more. An indoor gallery houses smaller models of distinctive trains along with informative snippets of the history of the railways in general, and in India in particular, through historical photographs, documents, artifacts, furniture and equipment. A rail restaurant on the premises seeks to recreate the exclusive experience of dining in a first class coach.
Tickets: Weekdays – adults Rs50, children Rs10; Weekends – adults Rs100, children Rs 20. Separate tickets for train rides.
Timings: Tuesday – Sunday 10am-5pm
Access: Metro access from Moti Bagh station
National Science Centre
Noor Anand Chawla
The arts are certainly well-represented in the cultural space, but the sciences often fall behind. Fortunately, the National Science Centre, Delhi fills this void. Located in Pragati Maidan, this museum opened in 1992 with the intention of fostering an interest in science and technology, especially amongst young minds. One can browse through exhibits on ancient technologies, feats of engineering, India’s important contributions to science, a prehistoric gallery with interactive dinosaurs and other creatures, a ‘fun science’ floor with mazes and other illusion-based activities, and 3D fantasy rides which are a particular hit with children. Temporary exhibitions such as the one on the history of vaccines also attract a lot of attention. Be sure to book your fantasy rides as soon as you enter because spots go fast!
Tickets: Rs 70; All rides and activities are separately priced
Timings: Daily 9:30am-6pm except certain public holidays
Access: Metro access from Supreme Court station and Indraprastha station