The National Rail Museum showcases India’s rich history of railways

Place: The National Rail Museum, New Delhi

Location:  28° 35′ 2.99″ N; 77° 10′ 31.80″ E

When to Visit: The best visiting hours are from 10 am to 5 pm (Last Entry 04:30 pm); the Rail Museum remains closed on Mondays and all Gazette holidays.

Dos and Don’ts: Kids are welcome to climb the train cars. One can even carry food hampers. Don’t litter; follow the specific guidelines for each activity area.

The National Rail Museum’s foundation stone was laid by the late President of India, VV Giri, on October 7, 1971. It was the first transport museum and was called the Rail Transport Museum or RTM at that time. The museum was inaugurated by the then Railway Minister, Kamlapathi Tripathi on February 1, 1977. It was renamed the National Rail Museum in 1995.

Significance

The museum sprawls over 11 acres. Designed like a railway yard, its vast outdoor gallery features diverse Steam, Diesel and Electric Locomotives; even historic royal saloons, wagons, carriages, armoured trains and railcars are represented. All are original life-sized, well cared for and restored.

What to see?

The museum is full of unique and fascinating exhibits. Here are some must-see attractions:

Fairy Queen Locomotive: It was built in 1855 and is one of the world’s oldest working steam locomotives.

Patiala State Monorail Trainways: It is an eccentric and rare steam monorail that once operated in the princely state of Patiala. It ran on a single rail with the balance provided by an attached wheel – a one-of-a-kind piece you will see.

Maharaja of Mysore’s Royal Saloon: This opulent saloon car, used by the Maharaja of Mysore in the early 20th century, provides a window into the luxurious travel experiences of Indian royalty!

Saloon of the Prince of Wales: This richly decorated carriage is a prime example of how train travel was made comfortable and elegant for dignitaries.

Fireless Steam Locomotive: This unique locomotive ran without fire – an engineering marvel worth checking out.

The John Morris Fire Engine:  Dating back to 1914, this fire engine is one of the oldest fire engines in India.

What is interesting?

The miniature toy train ride is a popular attraction for visitors of all ages. The museum also has an array of electric engines that show the evolution of India’s railway electrification, including the WCP-1 and WCM-5, among the first electric locomotives in the country!

These exhibits, alongside various artefacts, photos, and documents, make the National Rail Museum an educational and exciting destination, bringing alive the historic grandeur and technological progress of Indian Railways.