Nehru Planetarium Delhi – History, Timings, Shows & Travel Guide

Delhi is a city where history, culture, and modern attractions coexist. Among its many points of interest, the Nehru Planetarium in the heart of Delhi offers a unique educational and entertainment experience for visitors of all ages. Located in Bhavan’s premises near India Gate, the planetarium is dedicated to promoting astronomy and space science. It is especially popular among students, families, and tourists interested in learning about the universe.

🌟 History of Nehru Planetarium

The Nehru Planetarium, named after India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, was inaugurated in 1984 to encourage the study of astronomy and foster curiosity about space and the cosmos.

Key facts:

• The planetarium is run by the National Council of Science Museums and Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund.
• It is part of the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Complex, which also includes the Nehru Museum of Science & Technology.
• Over the years, the planetarium has become a hub for astronomical education, star shows, workshops, and exhibitions.

🏛 Architecture & Facilities

• The planetarium features a dome-shaped theatre equipped with modern projection systems to simulate the night sky.
• Seating capacity of about 300 people, allowing visitors to experience celestial phenomena comfortably.
• Exhibition halls display models of the solar system, satellites, telescopes, and space missions.
• Workshops and educational programs are organized regularly for students and enthusiasts.

The planetarium combines educational value with an immersive experience, making it a favorite spot for families and students.

🎟️ Shows & Timings

Nehru Planetarium is famous for its daily sky shows and special programs.

🔹 Sky Shows

• Duration: 45–50 minutes
• Topics: Astronomy, space missions, planets, stars, and constellations
• Language: Mostly English, some shows in Hindi

🔹 Timings

• Show Timings:
• Morning Show: 11:00 AM – 11:50 AM
• Afternoon Show: 2:00 PM – 2:50 PM
• Evening Show: 4:30 PM – 5:20 PM
• Visitor Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Monday Closed)

🔹 Entry Fee

• Adults: ₹40
• Children: ₹20
• School Groups: Prior booking recommended
• Photography: Allowed in the exhibition halls only, not inside the dome

📍 Location & How to Reach

• Address: Teen Murti House, Teen Murti Marg, New Delhi
• Nearest Metro Station: Khan Market Metro Station (Violet Line) – 10 minutes walk
• By Bus/Auto: Frequent buses and autos from India Gate and Connaught Place
• By Cab: Convenient and comfortable option for families and tourists

👉 AK Tour & Tourism provides cab services to Nehru Planetarium and can include it in your Delhi educational and sightseeing tour.

🚶 Things to Do at Nehru Planetarium

1. Attend Sky Shows: Experience the stars, planets, and celestial events.
2. Explore Exhibitions: Learn about telescopes, satellites, and space exploration.
3. Workshops & Seminars: Participate in astronomy workshops and educational sessions.
4. Photography: Capture the displays and models in the exhibition hall.
5. Nearby Exploration: Visit Teen Murti Bhavan and India Gate, located nearby.

📅 Best Time to Visit

• Weekdays: Less crowded, ideal for school groups and families.
• Morning or Afternoon: Attend the sky shows without waiting in long queues.
• October to March: Pleasant weather for sightseeing in Delhi.

📍 Nearby Attractions

• India Gate (1 km): National War Memorial and lawns
• Teen Murti Bhavan: Museum and memorial of Jawaharlal Nehru
• Connaught Place (2 km): Shopping, cafes, and restaurants
• National Museum (3 km): Historical and cultural artifacts
• Rashtrapati Bhavan (3 km): Presidential residence

🏨 Hotels Near Nehru Planetarium

• Luxury Hotels: The Imperial, Taj Mahal Hotel, Shangri-La Eros
• Mid-Range Hotels: Hotel Janpath, Radisson Blu Marina
• Budget Stays: OYO Rooms, guesthouses in Paharganj