Love, Life, & Beyond

I remember going to the Hyderabad Planetarium a gazillion years ago, but only recollect the experience of standing in a long line, nothing beyond that. We wanted to take our son there as we heard the centre has added new experiences and is better managed now. Our son had a few days off school so we decided to make a day of it.

Hyderabad, the City of Pearls, is a fascinating blend of history, culture, and modernity. The iconic Birla Science Centre and Planetarium is one of the places most people remember going to on school trips. Whether you’re a science buff or just looking for a unique experience, this place is a must-visit.

Hyderabad Science Museum and Planetarium

Instead of going early morning, we planned to go right after lunch so that we could stay till evening for the Observatory viewing. As we were parking our car, we sighed with relief when we saw at least five school buses leaving. The place was close to empty and we could roam around in peace.

We got the Jumbo Ticket which gives you access to all exhibits, except the Observatory. If the weather is good, the observatory opens in the evening and you can buy the ticket then. The G P Birla Archaeological and Cultural Research Institute (GPBAASRI) is divided into three main sections, each offering a unique experience. The archaeology museum has artefacts, art gallery, and the Room Royale. The BM Birla Science Centre has the Science museum, Planetarium, Dinosaurium, and the Space Museum. Finally, the GP Birla Centre has the Modern Art Gallery and the Observatory.

Science is Fun

The LVM-3 Rocket Model and the archaeological garden at the entrance was a good start to our visit. We started at the Science Museum on the ground floor, which houses an impressive collection of exhibits. From interactive displays to ancient artifacts, the museum seamlessly blends education with entertainment. 

Not just our son, but even we adults loved exploring the hands on activities. We couldn’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia as we saw the vintage computers on display and marvel at the enormous, groundbreaking first camera. The gallery of illusion was fun, too. We spent almost an hour there.

The same building also has the Electronics and Space Gallery showcasing India’s advancements in space technology. It has models of satellites, rockets, and a replica of the Aryabhata satellite. The pictures of the first ISRO rocket parts transported on bicycles was humbling to see.

Science is Everything: Discovery Meets Art and Beyond

Next we went to the basement to look at the archaeology section. There are impressive sculptures and paintings, beautifully preserved and displayed. The doll museum and other artefacts are equally interesting. It is a collection of show pieces from different parts of the world from plaster of Paris and delicate Chinese porcelain to impressive Indian ivory carvings.

The Room Royale seemed like a super secret mission room you enter into. We were not allowed phones inside the sealed bunker. We took turns going in but you could use the locker facility to store your belongings. The main attraction here is a curtain embedded with semi-precious stones and gold wire from the 1850s. There are also some old coins, stamps, and handwritten manuscripts by Rabindranath Tagore.

We also spent some time at the museum’s Art Gallery, which features a collection of paintings and sculptures by renowned Indian artists. This blend of science and art perfectly encapsulates the human experience that seeks knowledge and beauty.

Science from Ancient Times

I was particularly fascinated by the Dinosaurium on the top floor, which has a rare exhibit showcasing a 160-million-year-old dinosaur egg and a majestic life-sized model of a Kotasaurus. The Kotasaurus is a 160-million-year-old dinosaur fossil from Andhra Pradesh. At 14 meters long, it’s one of the world’s best-preserved specimens. Discovered in the 1970s, it represents a new genus and species. It is truly a sight to behold!

From here, you climb some steps to the Planetarium. We took a break at the food stall before we headed in for the evening show. The show began with a mesmerising narration about the universe, stars, and planets. The visuals of constellations, meteor showers, and the Milky Way were breathtaking. I was a little disappointed that the show was outdated—pre-James Webb launch. Nevertheless, it was a visual treat.

When you step out of this building, you are treated with a spectacular view of the surrounding city. Do take a moment to appreciate the fast changing skyline here.

We had hoped to go to the Observatory when it opens in the evening at 6:30 but it was a cloudy day so it remained closed.

Tips for Future Visitors

• The museum is open from 10:30 AM to 8:00 PM, and the planetarium shows run at specific intervals. Check the schedule on the website in advance.
• The ticket prices are on the website and there are options for combo tickets.
• Photography is allowed only in some areas. Someone will follow you around to ensure you don’t sneak in a few pictures when you’re not supposed to.
• If you go on a weekday after lunch, you’ll find the place almost empty as mornings are usually crowded with school trips.
• Bring a light jacket or shawl as the Planetarium gets quite cold during the show

More Things to do Around

After exploring the wonders of the Science Centre, you’ll find plenty of sights and food options nearby to complete your day. The NTR Gardens and Nehru Zoological Park are within close proximity. Just a short walk away is the iconic Hussain Sagar Lake, where you can enjoy a serene boat ride to the giant Buddha statue standing tall on Gibraltar Rock. Here’s my post on Lumbini Park at Hussain Sagar.

A little further away, the Birla Temple looks dazzling atop a hill. The Martyr’s Memorial can also be seen from the Planetarium’s vantage point.

The area is a paradise for foodies. Head to Eat Street for a variety of local and international cuisines with a stunning view of the lake, or indulge in Hyderabadi delicacies like biryani and haleem at nearby restaurants such as Paradise or Chutneys. For a quick snack, don’t miss the famous Irani chai and Osmania biscuits at any of the small cafes dotting the area. We opted for the Bidri restaurant in Marriott. They had some live music and delicious Hyderabadi cuisine.

We ended the day with a scenic drive around the lake taking in the peaceful night scene. The new Secretariat Building and the towering statue of Ambedkar, both look gorgeous lit up with the dark sky as its canvas.