Hey curious soul 👋 — if you're someone who loves science experiments, sky shows, or even old aviation gear, you’re going to fall head-over-heels for Kolkata’s museums.
This city isn't just about history — it’s about learning while exploring. In this guide, I’ll walk you through four fascinating spots: from interactive science zones to stargazing domes and ancient relics.
💡 Planning a full Kolkata trip? Don’t miss our main guide: Explore Kolkata: Top Attractions, Parks, and Cultural Sites
If there’s one place that makes science seriously cool, it’s Science City Kolkata.
This isn't your typical “look but don’t touch” museum. It’s a giant playground for your brain — with earthquake simulators, a human gyroscope, space exploration zones, and even a butterfly garden.
Kids love it. Adults get hooked. And honestly? You could spend half a day here and still want more.
🕒 Timings: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
🎫 Entry Fee: ₹60–₹100 (varies by section)
Why visit?
To feed your inner nerd and feel like a kid again.
🏰 Just finished exploring Fort William or Marble Palace? This is a fun next stop! See Iconic Landmarks in Kolkata
Step inside Birla Planetarium Kolkata and look up — the universe is waiting. 🌌
This domed wonder is one of the largest planetariums in Asia. Shows are held in English, Hindi, and Bengali, and they’re surprisingly engaging. You’ll learn about constellations, comets, black holes, and maybe even spot your star sign.
Fun fact: it’s often called India’s "Taramandal" (star house) and was inaugurated by Prime Minister Nehru in 1963.
🕒 Show Timings: Every hour from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
🎫 Tickets: ₹120 per show
Why visit?
Because who doesn't want to travel through space without leaving Earth?
📍 Near Victoria Memorial? Pop in after your visit! Discover Kolkata’s Landmarks
Say hello to the Indian Museum — the oldest museum in India and one of the biggest in Asia.
It’s a beautiful colonial-era building filled with six massive galleries: art, archaeology, anthropology, geology, botany, and zoology. You'll find dinosaur skeletons, Egyptian mummies, ancient coins, Buddhist relics… the list goes on.
Walking through it feels like flipping through history’s photo album.
🕒 Open: 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
🎫 Entry Fee: ₹50 for Indians, ₹500 for foreigners
Why visit?
To see India’s past up close — bones, mummies, and all.
🗺 Looking for a quick plan? Check out our One Day in Kolkata Guide for easy museum hopping!
Last but definitely not least is the Aircraft Museum Kolkata, a fairly new addition that’s already catching attention.
Located near the Eco Park area, it’s built around a real Tupolev Tu-142 aircraft — yes, you can go inside! The museum showcases how this massive Navy aircraft worked, with real controls and radar systems.
The entire museum is shaped like an aircraft, and it lights up beautifully at night.
🕒 Open: 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
🎫 Tickets: Around ₹30–₹50
Why visit?
Because planes are awesome. And walking inside a decommissioned one? Even better.
✨ Want green spaces too? This one pairs perfectly with Eco Park from our Kolkata Nature Guide.
Museums in Kolkata are not boring. They’re electric, immersive, and full of things you never thought you'd find in a city museum. Whether you're tracing the stars at Birla Planetarium Kolkata, geeking out at Science City, or exploring ancient tombs at the Indian Museum, this city has something for every curious traveler.
And the best part? These spots are just the beginning of all the amazing things to do in Kolkata.
💡 Still exploring your options? Don’t miss the full journey here: Explore Kolkata: Top Attractions, Parks, and Cultural Sites