Nestled in the heart of the capital, the National Rail Museum in Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, proudly stands as India’s first railway museum, celebrating nearly five decades of preserving the nation’s rich rail legacy. Inaugurated on February 1, 1977, the museum continues to be a major attraction for history buffs, tourists, and railway enthusiasts alike.
Spread across more than 10 acres, the museum showcases an extraordinary collection of over 100 real-size exhibits, ranging from vintage locomotives to royal saloon cars. Among its most prized possessions is the Fairy Queen, built in 1855, recognized as one of the world’s oldest operational steam engines.
Initially named the Rail Transport Museum, it was envisioned as a tribute to India’s engineering marvels and transportation evolution. The foundation stone was laid in 1971 by then-President V.V. Giri. Later, it was renamed the National Rail Museum in 1995 to better reflect its focus on railway heritage.
The Patiala State Monorail, a rare mono-rail system from 1907
Luxury coaches used by former Indian royalty
Interactive exhibits, toy train rides, and simulators for children and families
Serving as a blueprint for other railway museums across the country, including those in Mysore, Chennai, and Howrah, the National Rail Museum remains a timeless tribute to the journey of Indian Railways—from its inaugural passenger train in 1853 to the modern rail networks of today.
As monsoon holidays approach, the museum invites visitors to experience a fascinating voyage through time, retracing the steel tracks that helped shape a nation.
