Last Updated on July 5, 2024 by Tariq
Are you ready to embark on a celestial journey filled with wonder and amazement?
Look no further than the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium Bangalore, a haven for astronomy enthusiasts and curious minds alike.
With its rich history, cutting-edge facilities, and captivating shows, the planetarium offers an immersive experience that unveils the mysteries of the universe.
Named after India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, this planetarium was established to popularize astronomy and foster scientific temperament among the masses.
Since its inception, it has been a beacon of knowledge, providing a platform for both education and entertainment.
Let’s explore this celestial treasure trove together and discover why it has become a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.
Quick Info
Looking for some quick info? Hope this helps! 🙂
Location | Sri T. Sankey Rd, High Grounds, Bangalore |
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Entry Fee | Rs. 75/- per adult Rs. 50/- per child (below the age of 16 years) Rs. 40/- per head for an organized group of school students NOTE: Children below 3 years are not allowed inside the Sky theatre Online ticket booking and digital payment using UPI for counter booking in place |
Timings & Visiting hours | 10 AM to 5.30 PM. and closed on Monday, the second Tuesday, and all public holidays |
Nearest Metro | Cubbon Park Sri Chamarajendra Park Metro Station (2 KM), Dr. BR Ambedkar Vidhana Soudha Metro Station (1 KM) |
Helpline Number | +91 94 48 709066 |
Address | Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium, Bangalore Association for Science Education, Sri T. Chowdaiah Road, High Grounds, Bangalore – 560 001 [Location Map] |
Phone | 080-22379725 |
Show Schedule | Solar System – Synopsis Kannada at 2:30 pm English at 12:30 pm Gravity – Synopsis Kannada at 3:30 pm English at 4:30 pm Additional Shows on Sat and Sun: Dawn of the Space Age – Synopsis Kannada at 11:30 am English at 10:30 am |
Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium Bangalore Show Timings
(Source: Taralaya)
The planetarium is open from 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM.
It’s closed on Mondays, second Tuesdays, and local and national holidays.
The individual show timings depend on what you are attending.
For instance, currently (as of 10th June 2023), the timings are as follows:
Our Solar System
- Kannada at 2:30 pm
- English at 12:30 pm
Celestial Fireworks
- Kannada at 3:30 pm
- English at 4:30 pm
Additional Shows on Sat and Sun:
Dawn of the Space Age
- Kannada at 11:30 am
- English at 10:30 am
There is also a syllabus-based program on ‘Our Solar System’ for small student groups on Wednesdays.
The timings for this are as follows:
- English at 10:30 am
- Kannada at 11:30 am
For tickets, you could get in touch with the office at 080 2237 9725 or book online on bookmyshow.
Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium Bangalore Entry Fee
(Source: Taralaya)
The entry fee to the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium is as follows:
INR 75/- per adult
INR 50/- per child (below the age of 16 years)
INR 40/- per head for an organized group of school students
NOTE:
- Children below 3 years are not allowed inside the Sky Theatre
- Online ticket booking and digital payment using UPI for counter booking are in place
Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium Bangalore Address
Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium,
Bangalore Association for Science Education,
Sri T. Chowdaiah Road, High Grounds,
Bangalore – 560 001
Land Mark: Opp. Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain, Near Raj Bhavan
How to Reach Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium Bangalore
Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium Bangalore is located at the heart of the city.
It’s only 2km from the city railway station, about 1.5km from the cantonment railway station, and about 0.5km from the Metro Station (Dr. B R Ambedkar Station / Cubbon Park Station).
If you are coming from the Kempegowda bus station in Majestic, you could come via 114C, 108B, or 415D.
You could come from Malleshwaram and other northern localities via bus numbers 63, 66, 74, 79, and 95.
Take bus numbers 63, 66, 74, 94C, or 95, if you are coming from Shivaji Nagar.
Shows and Programmes at Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium
Here’s a look at some of the shows and programs at the Planetarium.
Sky Theatre Show
The Sky Theatre at the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium Bangalore stands out as a primary attraction, featuring a distinctive perfect hemispherical dome that replicates the natural appearance of the sky.
With seating approximately 210 individuals in recliners, this unique theatre provides a unidirectional view.
The immersive shows projected on the domed roof cover various topics, including historical and scientific facts, voyage stories, and anecdotes, predominantly focusing on constellations and galaxies.
The captivating blend of visuals, narration, and music ensures an engaging experience, making it a rarity offered by only a few places in India.
For those seeking an exclusive experience, the entire Sky Theatre can be reserved for shows at the 10:30 am and 11:30 am slots from Tuesday through Friday.
Special shows incur a minimum charge, with the cost of 200 tickets collected.
The pricing is Rs.8,000/- for school students and Rs.15,000/- for others.
Additionally, the JN Planetarium offers a Premium Show, available through advance booking.
Visitors can choose from five distinct shows, each with a choice of language between Kannada and English.
The current lineup of shows includes “To Worlds Beyond: Journey through the Solar System,” “Celestial Fireworks,” “Dawn of the Space Age,” “Exploring the Universe,” and “Our Solar System.”
The show selection and language preference offer flexibility for an enhanced and personalized experience.
The shows in the Sky Theatre undergo periodic changes, and information about the current shows and their synopses is readily accessible on the official website.
Presently, the featured shows are “Our Solar System” (Kannada: 2:30 PM, English: 12:30 PM) and “Exploring the Universe” (Kannada: 3:30 PM, English: 4:30 PM).
This dynamic programming ensures that visitors can enjoy a diverse range of astronomical content during their visit to the JN Planetarium.
Mirror Dome Shows
The Mirror Dome Projection Hall at the JN Planetarium underwent extensive renovation and refurbishment, now boasting a seating capacity of 40 and equipped with air conditioning, making it suitable for both academic and show purposes.
Presently, it hosts two distinctive shows: ‘Natural Selection,’ offering a comprehensive exploration of the history and analysis underlying the Darwinian Theory, and ‘Dawn of the Space Age,’ narrating the story of humanity’s journey from the initial attempts at space study to the present-day successes in satellite and spacecraft launches.
It’s important to note that this facility is not open to the public on a daily basis.
Instead, access to the Mirror Dome Projection Hall is available only through prior requests, ensuring a tailored and intimate experience for those seeking to explore the captivating shows offered in this specialized venue.
Exhibition Hall
The Exhibition Hall at the JN Planetarium serves as a comprehensive gallery, brimming with knowledge about space, stars, and various facets of astronomy, including meteors, asteroids, eclipses, and more.
This space is adorned with an abundance of space-related scientific facts and trivia, creating an immersive and educational experience for visitors.
The exhibition hall provides a captivating journey through the wonders of the cosmos, offering insights into celestial phenomena and fostering a deeper understanding of the vast expanse of our universe.
Science Park
Nestled within the planetarium premises, the Science Park is a dedicated campus featuring over 40 interactive scientific exhibits.
Designed to focus on accessibility, these exhibits employ game-like approaches to simplify and elucidate challenging concepts in physics and astronomy.
The Science Park offers visitors a hands-on and engaging experience, allowing them to explore and comprehend intricate ideas in a playful manner.
This unique space serves as an educational hub, bridging the gap between complexity and simplicity and encouraging a deeper appreciation for the wonders of physics and astronomy.
Know Your Stars
(Source: Holidify)
The first Sunday evening of every month brings a special program at the JN Planetarium, featuring a lecture on constellations within the Sky Theatre.
Following the informative session, attendees have the unique opportunity to engage in stargazing using telescopes and binoculars.
Equipped with star charts for guidance, visitors can actively participate in identifying constellations, creating an immersive and hands-on experience that deepens their understanding of the celestial wonders above.
This exclusive monthly event combines educational insights with practical observation, enhancing the overall astronomical exploration for participants.
Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium Bangalore: Interesting Facts
(Source: Taralaya)
- The Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium Bangalore is the first planetarium in India to be equipped with a Digistar 6 digital projector, which offers a cutting-edge and immersive visual experience
- The planetarium is named after Jawaharlal Nehru, who was not only India’s first Prime Minister but also a staunch advocate for scientific education and the popularization of astronomy
- The planetarium’s architecture is inspired by the shape of a spacecraft, symbolizing humanity’s quest for knowledge and exploration of the cosmos
- It is located in the picturesque setting of Bangalore, also known as the “Garden City” of India, amidst lush greenery and serene surroundings
- The planetarium organizes special events during significant astronomical occurrences, such as meteor showers, and lunar and solar eclipses, providing visitors with the opportunity to witness these celestial phenomena
- In addition to its regular shows, the planetarium also offers night sky observation sessions, where visitors can gaze at stars, planets, and other celestial objects through telescopes
- The planetarium actively collaborates with renowned scientific institutions and organizations, fostering knowledge exchange and research collaborations in the field of astronomy
- It conducts various educational programs and workshops for students, encouraging scientific curiosity and nurturing a passion for astronomy among the younger generation
- The Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium has been a popular destination for school field trips, offering interactive learning experiences that make complex astronomical concepts accessible and engaging
- Over the years, the planetarium has been visited by millions of people, including students, families, and astronomy enthusiasts, who have been captivated by its immersive shows and informative exhibits
- It has played a significant role in popularizing astronomy and fostering scientific literacy among the masses, contributing to the overall scientific temperament of the region
- The planetarium’s shows cover a wide range of astronomical topics, from the solar system and constellations to black holes and the origins of the universe, providing a comprehensive understanding of our cosmic surroundings
- The Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium has received recognition and accolades for its contributions to science education, making it a highly respected institution in the field of astronomy
- It serves as a platform for aspiring astronomers and researchers, offering opportunities to engage in scientific discussions and explore the latest advancements in the field
- The planetarium continually strives to enhance its offerings by incorporating new technologies, expanding its exhibits, and staying at the forefront of astronomical discoveries, ensuring a captivating and enriching experience for its visitors
Admission Rules – (DOs and DON’Ts)
- Children below the age of 3 years are not allowed inside the Sky Theater
- Eatables and water are not allowed inside the theater
- The public is expected to keep the premises clean, to be disciplined, and should not touch exhibits inside the halls
- Only two tickets will be issued per head
- When visitors are less in number, the show will be suspended
- Use of mobile phones inside the Sky Theatre is prohibited
- Disco light, laser pointers, and such light-producing toys are prohibited inside the Sky Theater
Amenities at Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium Bangalore
- Drinking water is available at the site
- A ‘Nandini Stall’ is within the campus and sells products such as flavored milk, chocolates, and cookies
- A ‘Curious Stall’ operated by M/s. Dynam Creativity sells science books, toys, activity kits, and posters
- Parking is free and is at the owner’s risk
Want more info? Check out the planetarium’s website. 🙂
FAQ of Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium Bangalore
Can I visit the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium with young children?
Absolutely! The planetarium caters to visitors of all ages, including young children. It offers shows and exhibits specifically designed to engage and educate young minds about astronomy.
Are there any special discounts or offers for students?
Yes, the planetarium offers discounted rates for students. Make sure to bring your student ID card to avail of these special offers.
Can I book tickets for planetarium shows in advance?
Yes, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. You can easily book them online through the planetarium’s official website.
Are there any nearby attractions to visit after the planetarium tour?
Yes, the planetarium is located in close proximity to other popular attractions in Bangalore, such as the Bangalore Palace and Cubbon Park. You can plan your visit accordingly to explore these additional sites.
Can I capture photographs or videos inside the planetarium?
No, photography and videography are not allowed during the planetarium shows. However, you are free to take pictures in designated areas and during specific exhibits.
(Featured image source: Taralaya)