Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Memorial in New Delhi is a befitting tribute to the great Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, India’s “People’s President,” and the renowned scientist. His life, his achievements, and the values, he had stood for everything, which are so vividly presented here. The museum is right in front of the seat of government, in the heart of India’s capital, providing greater inspiration to dream big and do something for one’s country, especially inspiring the youth. He is remembered within the memorial with interactive exhibits and personal artefacts of his life that reflect his contribution to science and technology.
About Abdul Kalam Memorial
Photo: Rangan Datta Wiki / Wikimedia Commons
The Abdul Kalam Memorial location is a part of the National Defence Complex, situated in New Delhi near the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Abdul Kalam Memorial address is H6F4+9CW, Dilli Haat, Kidwai Nagar West, Kidwai Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi 110023. Its central location is interlinked with every nook and corner of the city. The memorial has been placed in a serene setting, thus offering a sense of tranquillity to the visitors who visit the place to remember the life and contribution of Dr Kalam. It is close to the other major attractions of Delhi, hence quite convenient to visit when one is exploring the historical and cultural landmarks of this capital.
How To Reach Abdul Kalam Memorial
Photo: Rangan Datta Wiki / Wikimedia Commons
Abdul Kalam Memorial is well connected to other locations and can be reached by the following means:
By Air: The nearest airport to the memorial is Indira Gandhi International Airport, located 15 km away. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or catch a metro to reach the memorial.
By Train: New Delhi Railway Station is one of the major railheads in India, and the memorial is nearly 5 km from the railway station. Visitors will be able to hire an auto-rickshaw, or taxi, or use the metro system to reach the site.
By Metro: The nearest metro station to the memorial site is the Central Secretariat, connecting to the Yellow Line. It’s then a short walk or auto ride to approach the memorial.
By Road: One can easily access this memorial either by car or bus. Moreover, there are several DTC buses which ply routes in and around the monument.
Places To Visit In And Around Abdul Kalam Memorial
On the visit to the Abdul Kalam Memorial, the other places in proximity to this spot would be ideal for visiting.
1. Rashtrapati Bhavan
Photo: Anupom sarmah / Wikimedia Commons
Located a mere stone’s throw away from the Abdul Kalam Memorial is the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India. It is a symbol of the architectural ecstasy and the democratic spirit of India. It is an enormous structure with immense gardens open to the public during specific months of the year. Guided tours can be conducted to gaze upon the Mughal Gardens, the Durbar Hall, and the Presidential Museum. It is a place that brings out the grandeur and history of the Indian Republic.
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM (Tuesday to Sunday)
Entry Fee: ₹50
2. India Gate
Photo: Martijn Vonk / Unsplash
A towering war memorial, India Gate is dedicated to the Indian soldiers who lost their lives during World War I. It stands as a symbol of the nation’s pride and sacrifice. Located on the Rajpath, not too far from the Abdul Kalam Memorial, India Gate is among the first places to visit in Delhi. This area is a favourite place for an evening stroll or a picnic the beauty is heightened by beautifully lit fountains in the evenings. An eternal flame called Amar Jawan Jyoti burns as a tribute to the soldiers, hence it is of great national significance.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: N/A
3. National Museum
The National Museum situated in Delhi is one of the largest museums in India. It cannot be missed due to the huge number of exhibits it has, accounting for over 5,000 years of Indian history. The museum is situated close to the Abdul Kalam Memorial, so this can be the perfect spot for all the history lovers. It comprises statues, paintings, manuscripts, and textiles from every period and gives exposure to information deep into the cultural heritage of India. The freedom struggle of India is given special emphasis in one section of the museum, which is quite fine with the themes of patriotism at the Abdul Kalam Memorial.
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: ₹20 (Indian nationals), ₹650 (foreign nationals)
4. Gandhi Smriti
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
The Smriti at Gandhis is a museum devoted to Mahatma Gandhi, situated in the very house where he spent his last days. It is of immense historical importance and gives an insight into the life and teachings of the Father of the Nation. Photographs and other memorabilia related to Mahatma Gandhi are preserved in the memorial house. In addition, artefacts and personal belongings, besides multimedia displays of major incidents in his life, are part of the museum’s display. A beautiful and introspective experience awaits at Gandhi Smriti, located only a few hundred yards from the Abdul Kalam Memorial.
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: N/A
5. Rajpath
Photo: Benison / Wikimedia Commons
Rajpath is the ceremonial avenue in New Delhi running from Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gate. It’s the central avenue on which the Republic Day parade takes place every year, displaying India’s military might and cultural diversity. Getting down the Rajpath, you will pass by several important government buildings such as the Secretariat, Parliament House, and the National War Memorial. This large avenue with expansive lawns, fountains, and beauty et al is suitable for a casual walk, especially during the evenings when the buildings are brilliantly lit.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: N/A
Where To Stay
Photo: Nik Lanús / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
New Delhi offers a plethora of options for accommodations extending from budget to luxury and suiting different tastes. The Imperial, Taj Mahal Hotel, and Le Méridien are some of the places that provide world-class facilities, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. Hotel Diplomat and The Connaught are some of the mid-range hotels that constitute a comfortable stay with modern facilities. Budget travellers can check out guest houses or budget hotels, such as Ginger Hotel or Zostel, for a cosy stay at an affordable price. Staying in Central Delhi will surely make access to this memorial and other places of interest very easy.
Where To Eat
Photo: Pexels / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Being a paradise for food lovers, Delhi offers a blend of cuisines that also mirror its multi-cultural character. Located right beside the Abdul Kalam Memorial are several dining options. The Spice Route at The Imperial is known to serve fine dining with artistic, exquisite Southeast Asian cuisine. Indian Accent at The Lodhi is very famous for its ingenuity in the dishes of India. The inescapable, iconic restaurant Bukhara at ITC Maurya serves more traditional North Indian food widely recognised for its tandoori cuisine. For a more casual dining experience, you could go to Saravana Bhavan for authentic South Indian dishes or Karim’s near Jama Masjid for Mughlai delights.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Daniel Reche / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit Delhi is in the cold months of October to March. The weather is pleasant, marked by mild temperatures and low humidity, which also makes sightseeing and outdoors easily doable during this period. Visiting the Abdul Kalam Memorial during these months would give you the satisfaction of exploring the exhibits comfortably with neither the harsh summer sun nor the winter chill. There are also many cultural events and festivals hosted in the city at this time, enhancing your visit.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Oleksandr / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
- Average Cost: The day in New Delhi may cost anywhere from ₹5,000 to 15,000 per person per day, including a vast range of accommodations, cuisines, and entrance fees to the museum.
- Tips For Travellers: Wear comfortable attire and footwear, as there will be a lot of walking, particularly if you’re visiting more than one site. Try to visit major attractions in the early morning hours or late afternoon, so you’re not having to face a crowd.
One of the greatest memorials to ever exist: the Abdul Kalam Memorial, is a place for deep introspection into the life of one of the greatest ever leaders that India has had. Through its exhibits, it offers a journey into the values and vision that Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam had treasured and propagated throughout his life. Plan your trip with TripXL for a historically rich and unforgettable experience.
Cover Photo: Maskaravivek / Wikimedia Commons
