Museums are places where we can view a wide range of artistic, cultural, historical, traditional, and scientifically exciting items. It is an excellent knowledge resource. It not only imparts knowledge but also familiarizes us with our nation. There are a total of Thirteen Museums in Chandigarh that Explain The History Of The City And Nation! Renowned architect Le Corbusier designed Chandigarh, popularly called “The City Beautiful.” Some of India’s most exquisite artificial and natural wonders may be found in this city.
The Government Museum And Art Gallery
Initially housed in Lahore, the collection faced a significant split after the partition in 1947. In 1948, 60% of the artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, statues, and other souvenirs, were allocated to Pakistan, while only 40% made their way to India. The journey of this divided collection took it through various locations: Amritsar, Shimla, Patiala, and finally, its destination, Chandigarh.
On May 6, 1968, Dr. M.S. Randhawa, then Chief Commissioner of Chandigarh, laid the foundation of the Government Museum and Art Gallery once again, this time with the remaining portion of the collection. This significant ceremony marked the official commencement of the museum’s new chapter in Chandigarh.
Government Museum And Art Gallery Famous for
- Le Corbusier and Pierre Jeanneret designed modernist architecture in Chandigarh.
- Includes a library with an exhibition hall.
- Features an experimental lab for various purposes.
- Hosts an auditorium for entertaining light and sound shows.
Address:
- Location: #502 sector, 10C, Chandigarh, 160011
- Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (Closed on Monday)
- Open – Tuesday to Sunday
- Entry Fee: Person Above 18 years – Rs. 30 Camera Ticket – Rs. 30 Children Below 18 years/School Groups – Free
Government Museum And Art Gallery location:
By Bus: Chandigarh’s public transport network is highly developed. To get to the museum, board a local bus run by Chandigarh Transport Undertaking (CTU).
Bus no – 123A, 32b,38a 212,242,219,79
Chandigarh Architecture Museum
In commemoration of India’s 50th Independence Day in 1997, the Chandigarh Architecture Museum, also known as the City Museum, was inaugurated. Serving as a testament to the architectural progress and planning that shaped Chandigarh’s present appearance, the museum showcases original plans, photographs, and drawings from the city’s early stages.
Chandigarh Architecture Museum famous for
A unique highlight is the furniture section, featuring specially designed pieces crafted for Chandigarh, offering insight into the city’s distinctive design elements.
Address:
- Location: Museum and Art Gallery, Sector 10, Chandigarh, 160011
- Opening Hours: 9:45 am – 4:30 pm (Closed on Monday)
- Entry Fee: Rs. 10 per Person
National History Museum
The museum encapsulates 5000 years of Indian history, from the Indus Valley civilization to the present. It boasts an outdoor exhibit of sculptural artworks, providing a dynamic visual journey through the diverse cultural and artistic evolution of the Indian subcontinent. This specialist museum explores the worlds of both modern and ancient flora and wildlife. Discover fascinating dioramas that highlight early human existence, dinosaurs, and natural wonders. The museum provides information on fossils, geology, climatology, and ecosystems, acting as a center for education. Your tour will be fascinating and enriching as you gain a unique opportunity to learn more about Earth’s natural past.
National History Museum, Famous for
- Explore Earth’s evolution in the 2-storey Cyclorama.
- See real dinosaur fossils in the captivating Dinosaur Gallery.
- Follow human evolution in the Evolution of Man exhibit.
- Discover cosmic and geological wonders in the Astronomy and Geology Collection.
Address:
- Location: Sector 10C Madhya Marg, Matka Chowk, Chandigarh, 160011
- Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (Closed on Monday)
- Entry Fee: Rs. 10 per Person, Person Above 18 years – Rs. 30, Camera Ticket – Rs. 30, Children Below 18 years/School Groups – Free
Museum Of Evolution Of Life
Established in August 1973, the Museum of Evolution of Life in Chandigarh is a fascinating exploration of humanity’s evolutionary saga. Through vivid wall paintings, it unveils the story of life’s progression from single-cell organisms to the vast array of humans, plants, and animals. The museum’s diverse art galleries, spanning botany, astronomy, history, and beyond, offer a comprehensive and visually appealing journey into various realms of knowledge.
The Museum Of Evolution Of Life is Famous for
This institution beckons visitors to delve into the mysteries of existence, providing an immersive and captivating experience that goes beyond mere historical documentation.
Address:
- Location: Sector 10, Chandigarh, 160011
- Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 4:30 pm (Closed on Monday)
- Entry Fee: Rs.10 per Person
Le Corbusier Centre
Chandigarh, a meticulously planned city, owes its design to the renowned Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier. The Le Corbusier Centre, erected as a tribute to the visionary architect, serves as a comprehensive showcase of his works and contributions. Not limited to Chandigarh alone, the museum spans the breadth of Le Corbusier’s influence across various countries, including Japan, America, and beyond. Housed within the transformed premises of his former office, the museum came to fruition on October 26, 2008, coinciding with the 121st birth anniversary of Le Corbusier. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of an architectural maestro, offering visitors a glimpse into the genius that brought Chandigarh to life and left an indelible mark on the global architectural landscape.
Le Corbusier Centre Famous for –
- An understanding of urban design
- Pictures, sculptures, and drawings
- Contemporary artworks and sculptures
- Furniture
- The Gift Shop
Address:
- Location: Sector 19B Old Architect Building, Madhya Marg, Chandigarh, 160019
- Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (Closed on Monday)
- Entry Fee: Free Person Above 18 years – Rs. 30, Camera Ticket – Rs. 30, Children Below 18 years/School Groups – Free
National Gallery Of Portraits
The National Gallery of Portraits is dedicated to India’s freedom fighters, showcasing photos and paintings documenting their struggles. Built to prevent the forgetting of wars and partition, the museum features recorded voices of leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Mahatma Gandhi, evoking a patriotic spirit. It serves as a poignant reminder of sacrifices made for independence, preserving the legacy for future generations.
The National Gallery Of Portraits is Famous for –
- Kamagatamaru Episodes and the Ghadar Movement
- Victim images and newspaper prints.
- Jhansi’s Rani Laxmi Bai’s portrait.
- Taj Mahal artwork on fabric
- Diarama shows the burning of foreign fabric during the Swadeshi uprising.
- The artwork of Jallianwala Bagh
Address:
- Location: Sector-17B, Chandigarh, India
- Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (Closed on Monday)
- Entry Fee: Free
High Court Museum
The High Court Museum in Punjab and Haryana provides a captivating journey through India’s legal history, showcasing significant events like Bhagat Singh’s trial and the arrests of Pt. Nehru and Dr. Kitchlew. With displays of court rulings, antique stamps, and a copy of the original Indian Constitution, the museum offers a rich insight into the nation’s democratic and legal evolution. It stands as a compelling testament to the individuals and events that have shaped India’s legal heritage.
High Court Museum, Famous for
- Landmark rulings
- The original Indian constitution.
- Nathuram Godse’s handcuffs.
- The gathering of high court seals and stamps.
- A Mini Courtroom Recreated.
- Court weapons display
Address:
- Location: Capitol Complex, Sector 1, Chandigarh, 160001
- Opening Hours: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm (Closed on Sunday)
- Entry Fee: Free
International Doll Museum
It’s among the most excellent museums in the nation and city. Built in 1985, this museum is rumored to feature an astounding 250 dolls and puppets that have been gathered from various countries, such as Spain, Denmark, Korea, and Germany.
In addition to teaching kids how to interact with others, dolls are essential for the social, emotional, and verbal development of kids.
In the Bal Bhawan complex, it was founded in 1985.
International Doll Museum, Famous for
- Tribal Dolls: These depict the customs of several Indian tribes.
- Bridal Dolls: Displaying state-specific Indian wedding gowns.
- Global Dolls
- Storytelling scenes that illustrate tales from history, mythology, fairy tales, etc.
- Model Toy Train.
- The shadow cast.
Address:
- Location: Bal Bhawan, Udyog Path, Sector 23B, Chandigarh, 160023
- Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (Closed on Monday)
- Entry Fee: Free Person Above 18 years – Rs. 30, Camera Ticket – Rs. 30, Children Below 18 years/School Groups – Free
Rag Dolls Museum
On the second anniversary of Nekchand’s passing, UT administrator V.P. Singh Badnore inaugurated the Rags Doll Museum in Phase 3 of Chandigarh’s Rock Garden. The museum, a tribute to Nek Chand’s contributions, features around 200 rag dolls, some crafted by Nek Chand himself. A must-visit while exploring the Rock Garden.
Rag Dolls Museum is Famous for.
- The Rag Dolls Museum was established to honor Sh. Nek Chand on his second death anniversary.
- Sh. Nek Chand, creator of the Rock Garden of Chandigarh, is closely associated with the museum.
- The museum features 200 skillfully crafted rag dolls by Sh—Nek Chand in the 1970s from cloth scraps sourced from tailors’ shops.
- The dolls are displayed against vivid village scenes from Rural India, including chaupal, huts, trees, swings, bullock carts, well, handpumps, etc.
- Mud huts with ornamental decorations and artificial trees create an ethnic context for the exhibit.
- The museum vividly portrays the daily activities of villagers, depicting scenes of women spinning the charkha, cooking, conversations, and participating in festivals and weddings.
- The dolls are adorned in colorful attire and traditional jewelry, capturing the vibrancy of rural life.
- The installation aims to capture the essence of rural India and serves as a tribute to Sh—Nek Chand’s artistic legacy.
Address:
- Location: Rock Garden of Chandigarh, Sector 1, Chandigarh, 160001
- Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Entry Fee: Rs. 20 for Adults, Rs. 10 for Children
Fine Arts Museum:
The Museum of Fine Arts at Panjab University, founded in 1968, showcases 1300 contemporary Indian artworks, including pieces by Jamini Roy and M.F. Husain. Housed in a significant building on the university campus, it’s a recognized heritage site. The museum hosts regular exhibitions, making it a must-visit for art lovers in Chandigarh.
Fine Arts Museum Famous for:
- Foundation and Focus: The museum was established to showcase a diverse range of artistic expressions, including paintings, sculptures, graphics, and drawings.
- Prominent Artists: The collection features works from renowned artists such as Jamini Roy, Francis Souza, M.F. Husain, Satish Gujral, J. Swaminathan, Ram Kumar, A. Ramachandran, K.G. Subramanyan, Vivan Sundaram, Bhupen Khakhar, Dhanraj Bhagat, Dinanath Pathi, Arpana Caur, Sridhar Iyer, and Shiv Singh.
- Architectural Significance: The museum’s building is considered a significant landmark on the university campus, praised for its architectural elegance. It has earned recognition as a heritage building.
- Annual Exhibitions: The museum regularly organizes independent exhibitions and collaborates with both national and international agencies to showcase a diverse array of artworks.
- Cultural Heritage: The institution plays a vital role in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the region through its extensive collection and exhibitions.
- Collaborations: Through collaborations with national and international agencies, the museum fosters cultural exchange and contributes to the global art scene.
- Heritage Designation: The museum building has been earmarked as a heritage building, emphasizing its importance in preserving the cultural and architectural legacy of the university campus.
- Educational Hub: As a repository of significant artworks, the museum serves as an educational resource, providing students and visitors with a rich cultural experience.
- Yearly Impact: The consistent organization of exhibitions, both independently and in collaboration, ensures a continuous and impactful presence of the museum in the cultural and artistic landscape, contributing to the enrichment of the community.
Address:
- Location: Panjab University, Sector 14, Chandigarh, 160014
- Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (Closed on Saturday & Sunday)
- Entry Fee: N/A
Gandhi Museum
This museum, often called Gandhi Bhawan, is one of Chandigarh’s most notable landmarks. The books and works of Mohandas K. Gandhi, popularly known as Bapu, are the focus of this museum. Pierre Jeanneret, Le Corbusier’s cousin, designed the museum. The location of the museum is in the center of a pond.
Gandhi Museum is Famous for
- Transport Network: Chandigarh has an excellent transportation system, ensuring easy access to the Gandhi Museum.
- Airport Access: Chandigarh International Airport is just 12 kilometers away, providing a quick arrival point for air travelers.
- Railway Convenience: Chandigarh Railway Station is conveniently located at an 8-kilometer distance for those traveling by train.
- Road Exploration: Local buses and cabs are readily available, making it easy for visitors to explore the city by road.
- Air, Rail, and Road Options: Whether arriving by air, train, or road, visitors have multiple transportation options for reaching the Gandhi Museum.
- Efficient Connectivity: Chandigarh’s well-thought-out urban planning ensures hassle-free and efficient connectivity to this cultural landmark.
- Strategic Location: The museum’s location in close proximity to major transportation hubs highlights its strategic placement within the city.
- Tourist-Friendly: The city’s commitment to a well-connected network reflects its tourist-friendly approach, catering to the diverse needs of visitors.
- Convenient Arrival: Visitors can expect a stress-free arrival experience, with various transportation modes offering seamless access to the Gandhi Museum.
- Positive Visit Experience: Overall, Chandigarh’s transportation infrastructure enhances the visitor experience, making the journey to the Gandhi Museum straightforward and enjoyable.
Address:
- Location: Sector 16 A, Sector 16, Chandigarh, 160015
- Timings: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
Horticulture Museum
India’s history of plant rearing is chronicled at the Horticulture Museum, which also reveals the grace of the royal gardens that grace palaces and monuments. Delving into the precise procedures that maintained these green places spotless transcends aesthetics. Highlighting the everlasting creativity and ingenuity that have preserved these botanical marvels across time, the exhibitions honor the commitment of gardeners. Visitors are cordially invited to experience the museum’s rich display of horticultural legacy, which harmoniously blends nature, culture, and ancient buildings.
Address:
- Location: Madhya Marg, 16B, Sector 16, Chandigarh, 160016
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: N/A
Shaheed Dr. Diwan Singh Kalepani Museum
In the heart of the stunning Shivalik Hills of Siswan, there lies a contemporary memorial to the martyr of the Indian independence movement called the Dr. Diwan Singh Kalepani Museum. Situated on family-owned land, the museum has a magnificent statue that narrates the emotional story of Dr. Diwan Singh Kalepani. Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal formally inaugurated the cultural landmark on December 24, 2013, solidifying its
Shaheed Dr. Diwan Singh Kalepani Museum is Famous for
The museum honors Dr. Diwan Singh and serves as a public education tool, advancing Punjabi language and culture.
Rare mementos from Diwan’s life as a writer, healer, and freedom fighter
Address:
- Location: Near Siswan, Chandigarh Baddi Rd, Punjab 140110
- Timings: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (Closed on Monday)
- Entry Fee: N/A
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Thirteen Museums in Chandigarh serve as invaluable repositories of artistic, cultural, historical, and scientific treasures. A testament to the city’s rich history and national identity, these museums provide a profound understanding of Chandigarh’s origins, intricately woven by renowned architect Le Corbusier. As we explore these repositories of knowledge, we not only discover the city’s story but also encounter the beauty of India’s natural and artificial wonders, making Chandigarh truly deserving of its title, “The City Beautiful.”
