Shimla, the Queen of Hills, is treated as one of the best tourists. And the reason for such popularity among tourists is Shimla museums, standing tall as prominent heritage sites of the state. Let us have a look at some of the popular museums in Shimla.
A list of the 5 Best Museums in Shimla are:
1. Shimla State Museum
At a distance of 2.5 kilometers from the Scandal point, Shimla State Museum is a must-visit among Shimla Tourist attractions. There is a large collection of photographs, coins collected from all over the country, photographs, and ancient sculptures in the Shimla State Museum.
The museum’s library has over 10,000 magazine books and journals representing the historical importance and cultural diversity of Shimla and India. Read Also: The Top 10 Places to Visit in Shimla.
| Aspect | Details |
| Location | Near the Mall, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India |
| Opening Hours | 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily except Monday |
| Entry Fee | ₹20 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners |
| Exhibits | The museum houses a collection of ancient sculptures, paintings, artifacts, handicrafts, and coins. It also has a rich collection of Himachal’s cultural heritage including traditional attire and jewelry. |
| Best Time to Visit | Early morning or afternoon for a more serene experience |
2. Army Heritage Museum
A part of Annandale, the Army Heritage Museum is located near the Ridge. The museum has collections mostly associated with the Indian Army.
One can have an opportunity to see old weapons used by the Indian Army, ammunition, life story, and histories of Martyrs and other soldiers. And all these are well preserved here. Read Also: Best Way To Travel From Delhi To Shimla by Flight, Train, and Road
| Aspect | Details |
| Location | Annadale, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India |
| Type | Military heritage museum |
| History | The museum was established to showcase the rich history of the Indian Army, particularly focusing on the Gorkha Regiments. |
| Opening Hours | – Monday to Saturday: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Sunday: Closed |
| Entry Fee | – Adults: INR 10
Children: INR 5 |
| Visitor Tips | – Photography is allowed but avoid touching the exhibits
Best to visit in the morning for fewer crowds Plan to spend 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum |
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3. Baba Bhalku Railway Museum
If one wants to gain knowledge on rail line construction similar Baba Bhalku Railway Museum is the perfect place for that person. There are many machines and engines on display. Objects like coat caps and umbrellas used at the time of rail line construction and where workers left them are also kept here properly and safe.
Moreover, you will get to know many interesting stories related to the time of construction and how it was life-changing for Shimla.
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| Aspect | Details |
| Name | Baba Bhalku Railway Museum |
| Location | Located on the Kalka-Shimla Railway, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh |
| Opening Hours | Open from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM; Closed on Sundays and holidays |
| Ticket Prices | Free entry |
| Main Attractions | – Displays showcasing the history of the Kalka-Shimla Railway |
| Nearby Attractions | – The Mall Road, Jakhoo Hill and Temple, Christ Church |
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4. Shimla Heritage Museum
The Shimla Heritage Museum shouldn’t be missed if you are in Shimla. You can spot paintings and pictures related to the important buildings of 18th century Shimla such as the Gaiety Theatre, Barnes Court, Central Hotel, and many others, inside this Shimla museum.
The museum was once the residence of Lord William Beresford, which stands as a fine specimen of Shimla’s colonial past. Also, check Shimla Tour in May for the Best Places to Visit
| Category | Details |
| Name | Shimla Heritage Museum |
| Location | Chaura Maidan, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh |
| Overview | The museum showcases Shimla’s rich history, culture, and heritage through a wide collection of artifacts, documents, photographs, and paintings. |
| Key Exhibits | Traditional Himachali crafts, ancient artifacts, documents, historical photographs, paintings, and various cultural items. |
| Visiting Hours | Open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. Closed on Mondays. |
| Entry Fee | Rs. 10 for Indians / Rs. 50 for foreigners. |
5. Town Hall
The heritage building is from 1910, a perfect example of beautiful colonial architecture in Shimla town. After the renovation of the old structure, it serves as the Municipal Corporation of Shimla.
It is one of the Shimla museums whose structure is preserved in its original form to pay tribute to the pre-independence generation. Read Also: 10 Famous Adventure Places in Himachal Pradesh
| Category | Information |
| Name | Town Hall Museum |
| Location | The Ridge, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India |
| Opening Hours | Usually open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (hours may vary, check local sources for current info) |
| Entry Fee | Rs. 10 for Indians / Rs 25 for foreigners. |
| Main Highlights | – Colonial-era architecture with beautiful, intricate woodwork |
| – Exhibits showcasing Shimla’s history, culture, and heritage |
Conclusion
Besides soothing natural beauty and colonial buildings, museums are the places you should not miss out on your trip to Shimla. It is one of the best ways to know about the city’s glorious past and rich culture from the weapons, manuscripts, coins, and other artifacts preserved carefully in the museums.
More information on Himachal Pradesh:
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- COVID-19 Travel Guidelines for Himachal Pradesh
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