Under the watchful eye of the Bangalore Association for Science Education or BASE, the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium has flourished. This space theatre has garnered love and appreciation from its visitors. The primary goal of the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium exhibits is to stir people’s interest in science. This is done by providing non-formal science training. It is one of the 5 Planetariums dedicated to the first Prime Minister of the independent India. All these museums were built from the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund. Bangalore’s Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium is well known for its space shows. These shows draw hundreds of thousands of visitors and every show’s tickets are sold within minutes.
About Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium
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We may not be able to travel to the stars yet. But this planetarium has brought them closer to us. It is one of the must-visit attractions in Bangalore. The planetarium was inaugurated in 1989, but it has been managed by BASE since 1992. Children as well as adults flock to the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium to participate in exhibitions, events and shows. Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium is the best place for astronomy lovers. Even if you are a novice, you will learn a lot about the solar system, nebulas, black holes, and constellations. Within the planetarium, you will find a 15-metre diameter immersive dome. You can experience a simulation of celestial bodies such as stars, planets etc.
It is akin to travelling through space. It does help that the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium is located in the city’s heart. Travelling is incredibly easy. Plus, the natural beauty surrounding the site is a treat. If you are looking for a fun thing to do on the weekends or learn about India’s journey in space exploration, this is the place for you! Whether you are a science enthusiast or not, you will connect to this sky theatre’s vibrant community.
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Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium Show Timings
The planetarium is open from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The following list details all the shows offered by the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium:
1. Sky Theatre
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Unfolding over a 15-metre-wide dome, this show covers the history of the universe. This is the best part of visiting the museum. You can recline over one of the 201 seats. And watch the different tales of the universe and how humans journeyed to discover it. The soothing narration of the stories will keep you spellbound. You are in for both a visual and an auditory treat. You will walk out of the theatre enthralled by what you have learned. And you will seek more.
You can explore the stories surrounding different constellations, how they were discovered and their properties. Moreover, you can brush up your knowledge of meteors and asteroids. Learn the difference between black holes, neutron stars, supernovas, and pulsars.
2. Exhibition Hall
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As the name suggests, the Exhibition Hall at the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium location is a stunning experience. You can gather your knowledge of the universe with interactive 3D models, small video clips, posters and even message boards. The beautiful display of the sun and the planets has been created to match the natural hues of each planet.
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3. See The Stars
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Apart from the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium exhibits, you have something else to look forward to! Every first Sunday of the month, you have a chance to see the night sky through binoculars. You can identify the stars and constellations with the help of the star charts. Telescopes at the facility are available for use on these Sundays as well. Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium show timings are consistent. The planetarium is closed only on Mondays and some public holidays.
Tip: Opt for an evening show such that you can admire the stars visible from the planetarium in the night.
Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium- Entrance Fee
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You can easily get Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium tickets online or at the museum. The admission for adults and children varies.
Adults- INR 75
Children- INR 50
If you are planning a group visit (e.g., school trips), you will be charged INR 40 per head.
Tip: Children under 3 are not allowed inside the Sky Theatre. However, you can take them to exhibitions and events.
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How To Reach
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Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium location is central. It is in the heart of the city. Located at the T. Chowdiah Road, you can get a cab from your location to the planetarium with ease. Other ways to travel are:
Bus: If you have arrived at the Bus station, you can get an auto to the planetarium. (You also have the option to walk as the museum is only 350 metres away)
Rail: The distance between the cantonment and the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium is around 2 kilometres. You can get an auto or a rickshaw from the railway station.
Metro: The planetarium is only half a kilometre from the Cubbon Park Metro Station. You can walk to the Planetarium easily.
Air: The airport is 34.1 kilometres away from the Planetarium. You can take a taxi from the Bangalore International Airport to the museum.
Tip: Visit on the first Sunday of any month for an opportunity to peer through the telescope.
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The Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium is the perfect destination in Karnataka to witness the universe’s wonders. Plan your trip to Karnataka and dive into the world of astronomy. After all, the beauty of the universe is certain to leave you mesmerised!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Jawaharlal Nehru P͏lanet͏arium
How much are the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium tickets?
For adults it is INR 75 and for children INR 50. If you have a group tour planned, you can get your tickets at INR 40.
How much time does it take to explore the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium?
The immersive shows can last about 30 to 45 minutes. You will need an hour for the shows. Some time to explore the exhibition hall and the souvenir shop as well. We would recommend 3-4 hours to explore the entire museum. Just check the time required for each show before booking your tickets.
How do I get the tickets to the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium?
You can book your tickets online. You can also buy them at the planetarium.
Which seat should I select for the immersive experience?
This depends on your preference. But try going for the centre seats to get a full view of the dome. You will get the proper immersive experience as it will be more balanced.
What is not allowed at the planetarium?
You can carry your phones to the shows but you will be asked to switch them off for the duration of the show. Also, children below the age of three are not allowed in the theatre.
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