Museums in Bangalore for kids: Timings, location and more!

Bangalore, the bustling capital of Karnataka, isn't just a hub for IT and innovation; it's also a treasure trove of history, art, and science waiting to be explored. And what better way to spark a child's curiosity than through a trip to a museum? Packed with interactive exhibits, fascinating displays, and engaging activities, Bangalore's museums cater to all interests and ages.

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So, put down the gadgets and get ready for an enriching adventure! Here's our curated list of fantastic museums in Bangalore that will leave your little ones wide-eyed with wonder:

1. Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum (VITM):

A paradise for budding scientists and engineers, VITM boasts a vast collection of aircraft models, vintage cars, locomotives, and interactive exhibits on electricity, communication, and space exploration. Kids can even operate miniature machines and witness fascinating demonstrations of scientific principles.

• Location: Kasturba Road, Bangalore

• Timings: Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays and National Holidays)

• Entry Fee: Adults: INR 50; Children (3-12 years): INR 30

2. Gandhi Bhavana:

Gandhi Bhavana, located in Bangalore, India, is an important establishment honoring Mahatma Gandhi, revered as the father of the Indian nation. It functions as both a memorial and a hub for research, aiming to disseminate Gandhiji's principles and teachings to the public. With its museum, library, and archives, Gandhi Bhavana provides visitors with an in-depth exploration of Gandhi's life and philosophy.

• Location: Gandhi Bhavana is located in Kumara Park East, Sheshadripuram, Bangalore, India.

• Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Saturday. It may be closed on public holidays.

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3. HAL Aerospace Museum:

Take a thrilling journey through the fascinating world of aviation at the HAL Aerospace Museum. Witness a captivating display of vintage aircraft, including the legendary HAL HF-24 Marut fighter jet. Interactive exhibits allow kids to learn about the principles of flight, explore the workings of a cockpit, and even experience a simulated flight.

• Location: Old Airport Road, near HAL Police Station, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Marathahalli, Bangalore, Karnataka, India.

• Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on all days of the week, except for Mondays and second Tuesdays.

• Entry Fee: adults is Rs. 50; children (3-12 years) is Rs. 30; There might be special rates for students and group bookings.

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4. Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium:

Embark on a celestial adventure at the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium. Witness captivating sky shows that showcase the wonders of the universe, planets, stars, and constellations. The interactive exhibits further enhance the learning experience, allowing kids to explore the mysteries of space in a fun and engaging way.

• Location: Sri T. Chowdaiah Road, High Grounds, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.

• Timings: 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM on weekdays and from 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM on weekends.

• Entry Fee: INR 30 to INR 60 for adults and INR 15 to INR 30 for children

Image credit: Deepa Mohan

5. Venkatappa Art Gallery:

Nurture your child's artistic sensibilities at the Venkatappa Art Gallery. This charming gallery houses a collection of paintings and sculptures by renowned Indian artists like K. Venkatappa and KK Hebbar. The vibrant colors and diverse themes will spark creativity and ignite a passion for the arts in young minds.

• Location: Kasturba Road, Bangalore (Adjacent to the National Museum)

• Timings: Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays and National Holidays)

• Entry Fee: Adults: INR 20; Children: Free

6. National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA):

Immerse yourselves in the world of modern and contemporary art at NGMA. The gallery showcases an eclectic collection of paintings, sculptures, and installations by prominent Indian artists. While some pieces might be more abstract, interactive elements and guided tours can help children appreciate the diverse styles and interpretations of modern art.

• Location: Manikyavelu Mansion, 49 Palace Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.

• Timings: Tuesday to Sunday: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays and National Holidays)

• Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indian citizens and INR 500 for foreign nationals. Students and senior citizens may have discounted rates or free entry on specific days.

Image credit: Bhagya Prakash K

7. Cubbon Park:

While not technically a museum, Cubbon Park offers a treasure trove of historical and cultural gems for curious minds. Here are some highlights within the park:

• Government Museum: Nestled within Cubbon Park, the Government Museum offers a glimpse into Karnataka's rich history and archaeology. Explore ancient artifacts, sculptures, and coins, and delve into the region's diverse cultural heritage.

• Location: Kasturba Road, Bangalore, Karnataka, India

• Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Wednesdays and public holidays)

• Entry Fee: Indian Nationals: INR 20 (Adults), INR 10 (Children); Foreign Nationals: INR 200 (Adults), INR 100 (Children); Free entry for school children on educational tours

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• Sheshadri Iyer Memorial Hall: This historic building houses a library with a vast collection of books, perfect for igniting a love for reading in your child.

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8. Indian Music Experience Museum (IME):

Take a melodious journey through the vibrant world of Indian music at the IME. Explore interactive exhibits on various instruments, musical traditions, and iconic Indian musicians. Kids can even try their hand at playing traditional instruments like the tabla or the sitar, making music come alive in a fun and interactive way.

• Location: Brigade Millennium, J.P. Nagar 7th Phase, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.

• Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Tuesday to Sunday.

• Entry Fee: Adults: INR 300; Children (3-12 years): INR 150; Students and Senior Citizens: INR 200; Children below 3 years: Free entry.

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9. Janapada Loka Museum

The Janapada Loka Museum in Bangalore displays a wide array of artifacts that reflect the varied folk traditions and cultural legacy of Karnataka. It offers a detailed exploration of the state's traditional arts, crafts, and way of life, featuring items like folk instruments, clothing, and ceremonial objects.

• Location: Janapada Loka Museum is situated in Ramanagara, approximately 53 kilometers from Bangalore city.

• Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM on all days of the week.

• Entry Fee: INR 20 for adults and INR 10 for children.

Image credit: Ujjwal Sinha

Making the Most of Your Museum Visit:

• Plan your trip: Research museum timings, entry fees, and any ongoing exhibitions before your visit.

• Cater to age and interests: Choose museums that align with your child's age and interests. Younger children might enjoy interactive exhibits and vibrant displays, while older kids might appreciate historical artifacts and in-depth explanations.

• Take breaks: Plan short breaks in between galleries to avoid overwhelming young minds. Pack snacks and water for longer visits.

• Encourage participation: Ask questions, discuss exhibits, and encourage your child to participate in interactive activities.

• Spark curiosity: Use the museum visit as a springboard for further learning. Research topics that pique your child's interest or visit related historical sites.

With a little planning and this handy guide, your museum adventure in Bangalore is sure to be a memorable and enriching experience for the whole family!

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