Top Military Museums in India Every Indian Should Visit

For many, the idea of stepping inside a real submarine feels like something out of a war film. At the Kurusura Submarine Museum in Visakhapatnam, that experience becomes reality. The INS Kurusura, a Soviet-built submarine inducted into the Indian Navy in December 1969, served the country with distinction for over three decades before being decommissioned in February 2001.

The submarine played an important role during the 1971 Indo-Pak War, carrying out patrolling missions that supported operations across land and air. Today, stationed at Ramakrishna Beach, it allows visitors to walk through its narrow corridors, witness the cramped living quarters of sailors, and observe the sophisticated naval equipment used during its operational years. A remarkable honour still bestowed upon this retired vessel is the Navy’s “Dressing Ship” recognition—an accolade typically reserved for active ships—making it a symbol of enduring pride.

Set against the golden desert landscape of Rajasthan, the Jaisalmer War Museum stands as a powerful reminder of India’s military triumphs and sacrifices. Conceptualised by Lieutenant General Bobby Matthews and established by the Indian Army, this museum pays homage to soldiers who fought in the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pak wars.

Visitors are greeted by an impressive display of war trophies, tanks, military vehicles, artillery guns, and weaponry actually used in battle. One of the most moving attractions is the Honour Wall, engraved with the names of Param Vir Chakra and Maha Vir Chakra awardees. Walking through the museum evokes a profound sense of gratitude toward the soldiers who defended India’s borders under the harshest conditions.

Located at the Palam Air Force Station, the Air Force Museum in New Delhi offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of India’s aerial defence. Divided into two sections—the main hangar and the annexe—the museum chronicles the history and achievements of the Indian Air Force.

The annexe features photographs and artefacts documenting air force operations during the Second World War and subsequent Indo-Pak conflicts. The main hangar houses an impressive collection of vintage aircraft, helicopters, jet engines, and aircraft captured from adversaries. Iconic aircraft such as the Lysander, Tempest, and Hurricane transport visitors back to the early days of aerial warfare, making it a must-visit destination for aviation enthusiasts.

Perched at an altitude of over 6,000 feet above sea level, the Annandale Army Heritage Museum offers a unique blend of military history and breathtaking natural beauty. Tucked away from Shimla’s bustling tourist spots, this museum houses an extensive collection of uniforms, armour, weapons, flags, and artefacts spanning centuries.

Some exhibits date back as early as 2500 BC, while others commemorate India’s modern military conflicts, including the 1971 Indo-Pak War and the Kargil War. The museum complex also features a small cactus museum, adding an unexpected yet delightful touch to the experience. The serene surroundings and historical richness make this museum particularly memorable.

The Artillery Museum in Nashik stands among Asia’s significant military museums and offers an impressive journey through the evolution of artillery warfare. Opened to the public in 2005 by the Regiment of Artillery Association, it showcases an extraordinary collection of both ancient and modern weaponry.

Among its standout exhibits are the famous Bofors gun, a wooden catapult, Mughal-era brass cannons used during the First Battle of Panipat, and the 102-barrel rocket launcher associated with Tipu Sultan. The museum also displays artillery from the East India Company and weapons used during both World Wars and the 1971 Indo-Pak War. Alongside weaponry, paintings, and historical photographs enrich the storytelling experience.

Situated within the historic Red Fort complex, the Indian War Memorial Museum occupies the Naubat Khana building and primarily documents the Indian Army’s role during the British colonial period. Despite its modest size, the museum houses a diverse collection of traditional weapons such as daggers, guptis, helmets, and armour.

Visitors can also view badges, ribbons, and uniforms belonging to foreign military personnel, including Turkish and New Zealand officers. The museum offers valuable insights into India’s early military history and its evolving military traditions.

Beyond Goa’s vibrant beaches lies one of India’s most captivating military museums—the Naval Aviation Museum near Bogmalo Beach. Established in 1998, it is among the only two military aviation museums in India and the only naval aviation museum in Asia.

Divided into an outdoor display and a two-storey indoor gallery, the museum traces the growth of the Indian Naval Air Arm. The indoor section is uniquely designed to resemble the INS Viraat aircraft carrier and includes battle photographs, naval equipment, and a tribute gallery honouring fallen soldiers. The outdoor area features impressive aircraft such as the HAL HT-2, Westland Sea King, and HAL Chetak helicopters. The museum’s coastal setting enhances its charm, offering visitors both historical and scenic appeal.

The Samudrika Naval Marine Museum in Port Blair presents a different perspective on the Indian Navy’s role—one that focuses on environmental awareness and marine conservation. Maintained by the Indian Navy, the museum showcases the cultural history, geography, tribal heritage, and marine biodiversity of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Though smaller than other military museums, it offers insightful exhibits across five sections covering archaeology, island history, and marine life. The museum serves as a reminder that national defence also involves safeguarding ecological treasures.

The Cavalry Tank Museum in Ahmednagar holds the distinction of being Asia’s first museum dedicated exclusively to armoured warfare. Displaying nearly 50 vintage tanks and armoured vehicles, it offers a rare opportunity to witness the evolution of mechanised combat.

The museum’s highlights include the Ghost Rolls-Royce armoured car and tanks used in World War I battlefields such as Cambrai and Flanders. Trophy tanks captured during the 1965 Indo-Pak War, including the American-made Patton and Chaffee tanks, form a major attraction. The museum’s well-maintained environment and detailed information panels make it both educational and engaging.

Opened in May 2023, the Indian Air Force Heritage Museum in Chandigarh represents the modern face of military storytelling. Spread across 15,600 square feet, it is India’s first dedicated air force heritage centre and integrates cutting-edge technologies such as virtual reality, augmented reality, holograms, and flight simulators.

The museum displays five decommissioned aircraft, including the MiG-21 and HAL HPT-32 Deepak trainer aircraft. It also features scale models of advanced Indian and international aircraft, missile systems like the SAM-III Pechora, and murals depicting major air campaigns, including the Balakot airstrike. A special section honours female officers of the Indian Air Force, highlighting their growing contribution to national defence.

Military museums do more than showcase weapons and machines—they preserve the stories of bravery, innovation, and resilience that define India’s armed forces. They bridge the gap between civilians and soldiers, offering visitors a deeper appreciation of the discipline and sacrifice required to safeguard the nation.

Visiting these museums is not merely an educational experience; it is an emotional journey into India’s defence legacy. For every Indian, stepping into these spaces offers a chance to connect with the past, understand the present, and honour the heroes who continue to protect the country’s future.

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