Every year, 18 May is celebrated as International Museum Day, a global occasion dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of museums as cultural, historical, and educational institutions. Organized by the International Council of Museums (ICOM), this day emphasizes how museums contribute to global development, intercultural dialogue, and the preservation of heritage.
India, a land of rich history and diverse traditions, is home to hundreds of museums that showcase its magnificent past—from ancient civilizations to modern art. On this International Museum Day 2025, let’s take a virtual tour of some of the best museums to visit in India, each offering a window into the country's soul.
1. Indian Museum, Kolkata – The Oldest Museum in India
Location: Kolkata, West Bengal
Established: 1814
Highlights: Ancient sculptures, Mughal paintings, fossils, and Egyptian mummies
As India’s first and largest museum, the Indian Museum in Kolkata holds over 35 galleries of art, archaeology, anthropology, and natural history. It is a must-visit for anyone keen to explore the roots of Indian civilization.
2. National Museum, Delhi – A Walk Through India’s Heritage
Location: New Delhi
Established: 1949
Highlights: Harappan artifacts, Gupta art, Buddhist relics, weaponry, manuscripts
Located on Janpath, the National Museum is a treasure trove of Indian heritage. From Indus Valley seals to exquisite Mughal miniatures, the museum narrates India's journey across centuries.
3. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, Mumbai
Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra
Established: 1922
Highlights: Decorative arts, ancient coins, miniature paintings, textiles
Housed in a stunning Indo-Saracenic building, this museum reflects India’s cultural blend. Formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum, it showcases India’s artistic legacy with flair.
4. Salar Jung Museum, Hyderabad – One Man’s Passion
Location: Hyderabad, Telangana
Established: 1951
Highlights: Veiled Rebecca sculpture, rare books, Persian carpets, European art
The Salar Jung Museum houses the private collection of Nawab Mir Yousuf Ali Khan (Salar Jung III). It is one of the three National Museums of India and offers a fascinating mix of Eastern and Western antiquities.
5. Government Museum, Chennai – The Bronze Marvel
Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Established: 1851
Highlights: Chola bronze statues, Amaravati sculptures, ancient coins
Also known as the Madras Museum, it is famous for its remarkable collection of South Indian bronzes, particularly those from the Chola dynasty, and is one of the oldest museums in India.
6. Partition Museum, Amritsar – Preserving Painful History
Location: Amritsar, Punjab
Established: 2017
Highlights: Oral histories, personal belongings, newspaper clippings from 1947
Dedicated to the Partition of India in 1947, this museum tells stories of resilience, loss, and humanity. It’s a deeply emotional experience and a tribute to one of the most defining moments in India’s history.
7. Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum, Mumbai – Art Meets Architecture
Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra
Established: 1855
Highlights: Decorative arts, models, maps, crafts, and textiles
Renowned for its Neo-Classical architecture and artistic exhibits, this museum is a great place to explore the history of Mumbai and traditional Indian craftsmanship.
8. Victoria Memorial Hall, Kolkata – Colonial Grandeur
Location: Kolkata, West Bengal
Established: 1921
Highlights: British-era memorabilia, paintings, photographs
Built in honor of Queen Victoria, this museum is an architectural marvel. It blends Indo-Saracenic, Mughal, and British architectural styles and holds vast exhibits related to colonial India.
9. Shankar’s International Dolls Museum, Delhi – A World of Dolls
Location: New Delhi
Established: 1965
Highlights: Over 6,000 dolls from 85 countries
A unique and delightful destination, especially for children, the Dolls Museum showcases cultural costumes and traditions through intricately crafted dolls from around the world.
10. Rail Museum, New Delhi – Journey Through India’s Rail Heritage
Location: New Delhi
Established: 1977
Highlights: Vintage trains, engines, royal coaches, toy train rides
For train enthusiasts, the National Rail Museum is a treat. It features locomotives from colonial times to modern Indian Railways and offers fun rides and interactive exhibits.
Why Visit Museums?
To connect with history and heritage
To inspire creativity and curiosity
To understand the evolution of culture and technology
To preserve stories and lessons for future generations
Conclusion
On International Museum Day 2025, take a moment to appreciate the guardians of history that museums are. Whether you visit physically or explore them online, India's museums offer immense cultural wealth and unforgettable experiences. From ancient civilizations to contemporary art, these institutions help us remember our past and shape our future.
