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India, ever since its independence and even before, has continually evolved. With advancements in technology and accessibility to the right resources, railways have experienced maximum upliftment. To get a closer look into the growth and evolution of the narrow-gauge railways in India, visit the Narrow Gauge Rail Museum in Nagpur. These railways played a crucial role in connecting small towns and villages to major cities. To witness artefacts, locomotives and a whole lot of memorabilia, ensure to prioritise visiting the narrow gauge rail museum for an insightful look into India’s railway past.
Quick Details About Narrow Gauge Rail Museum
Narrow Gauge Rail Museum Address: Kamptee Rd, Moti Bagh, Mohan Nagar, Nagpur, Maharashtra 440014
Narrow Gauge Rail Museum Timings: 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM (Monday closed)
Narrow Gauge Rail Museum Ticket Price: ₹25 for adults and ₹10 for children
Photography: Allowed
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Phone: 99575 50966
About Narrow Gauge Rail Museum
Photo: Paweł ‘pbm’ Szubert / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Narrow Gauge Rail Museum in Nagpur is dedicated to showcasing India’s narrow-gauge railway systems. It once formed a critical part of the country’s transportation network. With time, Indian railways have evolved and so have the railway lines in the country. Inside the museum today, you get a glimpse into an extensive collection of vintage narrow-gauge steam and diesel locomotives, coaches, signal equipment, and other railway equipment of these railways. There is a toy train ride available inside the museum, which adds to the overall fun and experience. The museum dates back to 2002, which is when it was opened to the public. Getting to witness some of the restored engines in this rail museum is one of the reasons for it to be a popular tourist destination.
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How To Reach
Photo: Nikkul / Wikimedia Commons
The Narrow Gauge Rail Museum is located in Kadbi Chowk, Kamptee Road, Nagpur, quite easily accessible from any part of Nagpur and the cities in close vicinity.
By Air: If you are flying to Nagpur, you’d need to land at Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur first. Then take a taxi from the airport to get to the museum.
By Road: The museum is located on Kamptee Road, approximately 6 km from Nagpur city centre. The best way to get to the museum is via a taxi, driving yourself, public buses or auto rickshaws.
By Rail: If you are travelling from any of the nearby cities, Nagpur Junction Railway Station is your nearest railhead. From the station, there are public buses, autos and even taxis available to get you to the museum.
Things To Do
Given that the museum is spread across a pretty large area, these are a lot of unique activities to do here:
1. Explore Vintage Locomotives
Photo: Paweł ‘pbm’ Szubert / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The main attraction of this rail museum is getting to explore the vintage locomotives. Some of them are decades old but optimal maintenance from the Indian railways and the state government has ensured they are preserved well. The majority of these locomotives were once the backbone of the narrow-gauge railway network. They transport goods, raw materials and passengers through some of India’s most challenging terrains. Also, you can witness the giant steam and diesel locomotives up close and immerse yourself in their history. A few of the common engines you might spot are ZDM class, B class and N class.
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2. Walk Through Historic Coaches
Photo: Indrajit Das / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Another fascinating experience at the museum is the opportunity to walk through historic narrow-gauge passenger coaches. The museum has preserved these coaches in their original form, complete with wooden seats, traditional luggage racks and vintage-style windows. Also, the good thing is that each one of these coaches comes with an information plaque in front, adding to the convenience of the learning as well. The interiors of the coaches are a stark contrast to the modern trains we see today, offering a unique perspective on how train travel has evolved over the decades.
3. Witness Antique Railway Equipment
Photo: Paweł ‘pbm’ Szubert / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you are interested in unfolding the details and specifics of the railway equipment, especially the antique ones, this museum has that too. It houses a variety of antique railway equipment that was used to operate narrow-gauge railways. From old signalling devices to track-laying tools, you will get to explore them all. Also, there are informative panels available under each piece of equipment on display. This is great for visitors interested in the technical aspects of the railways.
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4. See Railway Model Exhibits
Photo: Paweł ‘pbm’ Szubert / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the most captivating sections of the Narrow Gauge Rail Museum is its display of railway models. These feature miniature versions of India’s famous narrow-gauge railways. These models are intricately designed to replicate actual routes that once operated across the country. Some of the prominent narrow-gauge lines represented in these models include the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Kalka-Shimla Railway and Matheran Hill Railway. It is quite intriguing to witness the level of detail that has gone into the creation of each of these models.
Places To Visit Near Narrow Gauge Rail Museum
Since the Narrow Gauge Rail Museum is centrally located in Nagpur, most of the nearby sightseeing spots are accessible in a short time, including:
1. Ambazari Lake
Photo: Samratjulme / Wikimedia Commons
If you are particularly looking to unwind with the views of the lake and sunset, drive down to Ambazari Lake. It is one of the most beautiful lakes in Maharashtra and is a great spot for picnics too. The entire lake is surrounded by greenery and a quiet environment and it becomes a haven for birdwatchers. This is especially during the winter months when migratory birds arrive. There are walking trails and a well-maintained garden around the lake.
Distance From Narrow Gauge Rail Museum: 8.8 km
Timings: 7 AM – 8 PM
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2. Deekshabhoomi
Photo: Prakash Lokhande / Wikimedia Commons
A sacred monument dedicated to Buddhism, Deekshabhoomi is another popular tourist attraction that you must visit in Nagpur. It is the place where Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution, embraced Buddhism in 1956. The towering stupa and peaceful ambiance attract both tourists and followers of Buddhism. The serenity of the surroundings is one of the main reasons why tourists find peace and tranquillity there.
Distance From Narrow Gauge Rail Museum: 5.7 km
Timings: 7 AM – 8 PM
3. Sitabuldi Fort
Photo: G41rn8 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
To get a glimpse into British history in India, head to Sitabuldi Fort. Reportedly, the construction of this fort was initiated by the British East Company in 1817, after they won that area. You can explore the fort’s structure. It offers panoramic views of Nagpur city and allows you to learn about its role in India’s freedom struggle. Also, the fort played a significant role during the Anglo-Maratha war. The fort stands as a remembrance for the lives of the soldiers that were lost in that war.
Distance From Narrow Gauge Rail Museum: 2.8 km
Timings: 8 AM – 4 PM
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Where To Stay
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There are several types of accommodations available in Nagpur, especially near the museum. From affordable hotels and lodges to luxurious resorts and five-star properties, you get access to them all. Some of the properties you can consider booking are Collection O Hotel Parashar, FabHotel Dua Continental, SPOT ON Hotel JD Sons and Hotel Labels.
Where To Eat
Photo: Dheerajk88 / Wikimedia Commons
Nagpur is renowned for its amazing and extensive cuisine, especially if you love spicy food. Some of the best restaurants to try out near the museum are M’s Repose Restro Lounge, Barbeque Nation, ML Canteen Restaurant and Haldiram’s Restaurant.
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Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Nilfanion / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers
- Plan your visit to the museum during the colder months, from October and March.
- To explore the museum entirely, you will need around 3 hours, so plan accordingly.
- You can use a camera to capture the vintage locomotives and picturesque surroundings.
- You will be walking quite a lot, so wear your footwear accordingly.
- The toy train ride inside the museum is quite sporadic, so enquire about availability once you reach.
Narrow Gauge Rail Museum is one of the most unique places you will get to explore when you are in Nagpur. Not just the technical side of it, the museum is equally amazing for visitors who are interested in trains or the heritage of the Indian railways. If you’re planning your next trip to Nagpur, book with TripXL and discover the charm of India’s railway legacy firsthand.
Cover Photo: Destination8infinity / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
