Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium — Attraction in Bengaluru

Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium, Bangalore - A Journey Through the Cosmos

The Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium in Bangalore is a must-visit destination for anyone with an interest in astronomy, science, or simply a curiosity about the wonders of the universe. Located in the heart of the city, this planetarium offers an educational and immersive experience that is both fun and enlightening for visitors of all ages.

Exhibits & Shows: The main attraction at the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium is its dome-shaped sky theatre, which hosts regular shows that take visitors on a fascinating journey through space. The shows are well-produced, with stunning visuals, engaging narratives, and up-to-date scientific information. Topics covered in these shows range from the solar system and the life cycle of stars to black holes and the mysteries of dark matter.

One of the most popular shows is “The Solar System,” which provides an in-depth look at the planets, moons, and other celestial bodies in our solar neighborhood. The show is narrated in a way that is accessible to both children and adults, making complex scientific concepts easy to understand. The immersive experience of sitting under the dome and watching the cosmos unfold above you is truly mesmerizing.

In addition to the sky theatre, the planetarium also features a number of interactive exhibits and displays that explore various aspects of astronomy and space science. These exhibits are designed to be hands-on, allowing visitors to engage directly with the material and learn through exploration. Whether you’re using a telescope to observe the night sky or experimenting with models of celestial bodies, the exhibits provide a fun and informative experience.

Science Park: Adjacent to the planetarium building is the Science Park, an outdoor area that features a variety of scientific models and experiments. The park is a great place for kids to learn through play, with exhibits that demonstrate principles of physics, mathematics, and natural sciences. The Science Park includes a working model of the solar system, a giant sundial, and a number of other installations that make learning both interactive and enjoyable.

Facilities & Accessibility: The planetarium is well-maintained, with clean and comfortable seating in the sky theatre, and ample space for visitors to explore the exhibits. The facility is wheelchair accessible, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the planetarium's offerings. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to assist and provide additional information about the exhibits or shows.

The planetarium also has a small cafeteria where visitors can grab a snack or a drink. The café is modest but provides a convenient place to relax between shows or after exploring the exhibits. There is also a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs, books, and educational materials related to astronomy and science.

Educational Programs & Events: The Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium is actively involved in educational outreach, offering a variety of programs for schools, students, and the general public. These include workshops, lectures, and special events that focus on different aspects of astronomy and space science. The planetarium also hosts viewing sessions during celestial events, such as eclipses or meteor showers, where visitors can observe these phenomena through telescopes with guidance from experts.

For those who are particularly interested in astronomy, the planetarium offers memberships that provide access to exclusive events, special shows, and additional educational resources. These programs make the planetarium a hub for astronomy enthusiasts and provide ongoing opportunities for learning and discovery.

Entry Fee & Show Tickets: The entry fee to the planetarium is quite reasonable, making it accessible to a wide audience. Tickets for the sky theatre shows are priced at ₹20, which can be purchased on-site. It’s advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as the shows can get crowded. The planetarium is open from...

🏛️ Overview & Management

The Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium (JNP) in Bengaluru was established in 1989 by the Bangalore City Corporation and is currently managed by BASE (Bangalore Association for Science Education) since 1992. It receives financial support from the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Karnataka.

🎥 Sky Theatre Experience

The highlight of the planetarium is its Sky Theatre, featuring a 15-meter dome with seating for about 210 people. The reclining chairs and acoustically designed dome provide an immersive celestial experience.

In 2010, the facility underwent a major upgrade including the installation of a "Megastar" projector capable of displaying over 2 million stars with high clarity.

Shows like “Our Solar System” and “Exploring the Universe” are available in both English and Kannada, combining narration, animation, visuals, and background score for an enriching educational experience.

🔭 Observation and Astronomy Events

“Know Your Stars”: A popular monthly event held on the first Sunday of every month where visitors can view constellations and celestial bodies through telescopes and guided sessions.

The planetarium also hosts special viewings during solar eclipses, planetary alignments, and other significant astronomical phenomena, open to the public and schools.

🧪 Science Exhibits & Learning

The Exhibition Hall contains interactive models and information about planets, comets, space missions, and the solar system, catering to students and casual visitors alike.

The Science Park, located outside the main building, features outdoor models and educational installations—an engaging experience for kids and school groups.

✔️ Facilities and Practical Info

FeatureDetailsTicket PricesAdults: ₹50, Children: ₹30Show LanguagesEnglish & KannadaShow TimingsUsually 3–4 shows daily (check website)Cleanliness & AmbienceWell-maintained, green surroundingsSeatingComfortable recliner seatingAccessibilityParking, restrooms, wheelchair access

Over 2.5 lakh (250,000+) visitors come annually, including students, tourists, and families.

⭐ Highlights & Recommendations

Educational Value: Perfect for students and science lovers. The blend of visuals and sound keeps both children and adults engaged.

Family-Friendly: An ideal half-day outing with children.

Affordable: At just ₹50, it’s one of the most enriching budget-friendly experiences in the city.

Best Time to Visit: Weekdays (to avoid crowds), and during special events like solar eclipses or astronomy weeks.

Language Tip: Check show language and timings before visiting, as Kannada and English shows alternate.

🧭 Final Thoughts

The Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium is not just an observatory—it’s an immersive, enlightening experience. Whether you’re a curious child, a science enthusiast, or just looking for a thoughtful escape from the ordinary, this place offers a memorable celestial journey.

🌟 Highly recommended for families, school trips, and curious minds...

Located in the heart of Bangalore, the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium is a fantastic destination for both young and old alike. The planetarium is an educational hub, aiming to spread knowledge about astronomy and science in an engaging and interactive way. Their is ample space for visitors to explore. As soon as you step in, there's a feeling of wonder, with posters and exhibits that stimulate curiosity about space and science. There are numerous fascinating exhibits in the garden. They really need to work on the maintenance. Some of them were not working.

The planetarium is housed in a modern building, complete with a dome-shaped structure that houses the Sky theatre. As you enter, the scientific vibes will cater to visitors of all ages. You’ll find an array of exhibits related to astronomy, space exploration, and the cosmos. The museum section features interactive displays that help visitors learn about the planets, stars, and galaxies. There are models of space equipment, like satellites and telescopes, which provide a tangible connection to the vastness of space.

The highlight of the Planetarium is the Sky Theatre. The state-of-the-art projection system offers fascinating shows that simulate the night sky, narrated in an engaging manner to keep both children and adults interested. The shows are informative, offering a deep insight into subjects like the solar system, the Milky Way or space missions.

The planetarium also organizes a variety of educational programs, workshops, and astronomy-related events.

It also offers a free parking area, though it can get busy during peak hours. The facilities are well-maintained, with clean restrooms and a small bookstore selling astronomy-related books and merchandise. There's also a cafeteria offering light snacks and beverages.

If you're in Bangalore and want to discover the cosmos up close, the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium offers an unforgettable experience that brings the wonders of space...