Top-7 Most Unique Museums of India, Know About Them

India is a land of history, culture, and innovation. While most people know about famous museums like the National Museum in Delhi or the Indian Museum in Kolkata, there are several unique museums in India that showcase unusual collections and tell fascinating stories. These museums are not just about art or history—they are about creativity, culture, and imagination. Let’s explore the top 7 unique museums in India that every traveler and knowledge seeker should visit.

7 Unique Museums in India

When we think of museums, we usually imagine paintings, sculptures, and historical objects. But India is home to many unusual and creative museums that go far beyond the regular idea of history and art. From submarines to cinema, transport to toilets, these places offer fun, knowledge, and unforgettable experiences.

Here are  the names of top-7 unique museums in India:

• Heritage Transport Museum
• International Dolls Museum
• INS Kursura Submarine Museum
• International Museum of Toilets
• Indian Museum
• National Museum of Indian Cinema
• Salar Jung Museum

Heritage Transport Museum

Location: Gurugram

If you are fascinated by cars, bikes, trains, or planes, this museum is a treat. The Heritage Transport Museum showcases vintage cars, old motorcycles, restored railway coaches, and even small aircraft. It doesn’t just display vehicles—it tells the story of how transportation has shaped India’s culture and society. Interactive screens and multimedia exhibits make the visit even more exciting.

International Dolls Museum

Location: New Delhi

Founded by cartoonist K. Shankar Pillai, this museum houses one of the largest collections of dolls in the world. With more than 6,500 dolls from 85 countries, it is divided into two sections—dolls from Western nations on one side and dolls from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East on the other. It’s like traveling around the world through costumes and cultures, all in one hall.

INS Kursura Submarine Museum

Location: Visakhapatnam

Imagine stepping inside a real submarine! The INS Kursura Submarine Museum is built inside the decommissioned submarine INS Kursura, which once served the Indian Navy. Visitors can see the control room, crew quarters, and equipment used by sailors. It gives a fascinating glimpse into the life of submariners and India’s naval strength.

International Museum of Toilets

Location: New Delhi

This museum proves that even toilets can have a history! Managed by Sulabh International, it presents the journey of sanitation from ancient times to today. With rare models, pictures, and facts about toilets worldwide, the museum also highlights the importance of hygiene and its role in public health. Educational and quirky at the same time, this museum is truly one of its kind.

Indian Museum

Location: Kolkata

Known as India’s oldest and largest museum, the Indian Museum was established in 1814. It has something for everyone—Egyptian mummies, Mughal paintings, fossils, coins, sculptures, and artifacts from across centuries. It’s a complete treasure house that gives a broad picture of India’s history, art, and science.

National Museum of Indian Cinema

Location: Mumbai

Located in the heart of Bollywood, this museum is a paradise for film lovers. The National Museum of Indian Cinema has two buildings—an old heritage mansion called Gulshan Mahal and a modern glass structure. Together, they showcase the growth of Indian films with old cameras, costumes, posters, and interactive displays. Visitors can relive the magic of Indian cinema, from black-and-white classics to modern blockbusters.

Salar Jung Museum

Location: Hyderabad

The Salar Jung Museum is famous for its massive collection gathered by the Salar Jung family. From European art and Persian carpets to Indian sculptures and rare manuscripts, it displays objects from all over the world. One of its highlights is the famous statue “Veiled Rebecca,” which looks like a marble figure covered with a thin veil. This museum is truly a mix of cultures and eras.