Dara Shikoh Library and Partition Museum
A historic 17th-century library transformed into a poignant museum detailing the human impact of India's 1947 Partition.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflection
Dara Shikoh Library and Partition Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 17th-century library transformed into a poignant museum detailing the human impact of India's 1947 Partition.
"A deeply moving and informative reminder of the Partition, especially its impact on Delhi."
Allocate Ample Time ⏳
Plan for 2-3 hours to truly absorb the exhibits and emotional depth of the museum.
No Photos Allowed 🚫
Photography is restricted inside the museum halls. Respect the rules to preserve the atmosphere.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Partition Gallery
Experience the emotional impact of India's partition through powerful artifacts, letters, and personal testimonies.
Sindh Gallery
Discover the rich culture of the Sindhi community and their unique experience during the partition.
Replica Train Compartment
A stark installation depicting the belongings of migrants, offering a visceral connection to the mass displacement.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Poignant Visit
Photography Restrictions & Entry Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate Ample Time ⏳
Plan for 2-3 hours to truly absorb the exhibits and emotional depth of the museum.
No Photos Allowed 🚫
Photography is restricted inside the museum halls. Respect the rules to preserve the atmosphere.
Start with Sindh Gallery
Begin your visit in the Sindh Gallery for a chronological flow, as the exit leads from the Partition Gallery.
Prepare for Emotion
The museum is poignant and moving, offering a deep insight into the sacrifices and lives lost.
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate Ample Time ⏳
Plan for 2-3 hours to truly absorb the exhibits and emotional depth of the museum.
No Photos Allowed 🚫
Photography is restricted inside the museum halls. Respect the rules to preserve the atmosphere.
Start with Sindh Gallery
Begin your visit in the Sindh Gallery for a chronological flow, as the exit leads from the Partition Gallery.
Prepare for Emotion
The museum is poignant and moving, offering a deep insight into the sacrifices and lives lost.
Check Entry Fee
Entry is Rs 50 for Indians, though some mention it's free with optional donation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Dara Shikoh Library and Partition Museum to be a deeply moving and informative experience, offering a poignant look at the human cost of India's partition, especially its impact on Delhi. The historical building itself adds to the atmosphere. Some visitors noted inconsistencies in entry fees and occasional issues with air conditioning in certain halls.
"One of Delhi’s newest museums, the Partition Museum is housed in what used to be the library of the 17th century Mughal prince Dara Shukoh. After Dara’s death (at the hands of his brother Aurangzeb), the library went through turbulent times, eventually becoming, for some time, the home of the British Resident in Delhi. The form of the building as it now stands, with high ceilings, shuttered windows, tall columns along the façade, etc, dates back to its time as the Residency.
Entry to the museum costs Rs 50 per adult Indian, and no photography is allowed inside the building. The museum is divided into two separate galleries: the Partition gallery, and the Sindh gallery. You’re advised to begin with the Sindh gallery (since the exit leads out into the garden from the Partition gallery). The Sindh gallery explains, through text, photographs, artefacts and more, the culture of the Sindhis, and how they were affected by the Partition, since Sindh, with fairly large numbers of both Hindus and Muslims, was handed over to Pakistan and not divided.
The Partition gallery is larger than the Sindh gallery, and has similar text, photos, letters, audio and video recordings of people talking about the Partition, installation art commemorating the Partition, and much more. There are various objects that came through the Partition; there’s a replica of a train compartment with belongings strewn about that were actually carried by migrants; there’s also a screened-off section with a warning of graphic violence (I have to admit I didn’t go in here).
Very interesting, informative, and poignant reminder of the Partition, especially of its impact on Delhi. The museum has a souvenir shop and a café etc are planned."
Madhulika Liddle
"Partition Museum situated inside the Ambedkar University near ISBT Kashmiri Gate is only the second Museum dedicated to the Partition of India in 1947. The artifacts on display convey a deep and emotional message regarding the times of partition. Sacrifice, courage, valor and the lives lost could be felt while seeing the museum. The curated items are carefully collected from the families of those effected by the partition. Newspaper clips, videos and other artifacts can be viewed. It would take at least 2-3 hours to visit the museum. Wheelchair accessible entrance is available and washrooms are also wheelchair accessible. Tickets can be purchased in the venue."
S Siddharth
"The Partition Museum of Delhi is the second such museum on the partition with the first based in Amritsar. This one tells the story of the partition through the eyes of those who migrated to Delhi and it's impact on the city. The entry to the museum is free but they make ou give a donation. Even though this is optional the staff didn't not say so. The museum also currently has on display an exhibition of Sindh, which is also worth a visit. Photography is not allowed inside. The exhibition is huge with a variety of installations, interviews and objects. You could easily spend hours here. Must visit if in Delhi."
Patricia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located within Ambedkar University near ISBT Kashmiri Gate. You can reach it via metro to Kashmere Gate station, followed by a short auto-rickshaw or taxi ride. Parking is available inside the college campus, but the museum entrance is at the back.
Yes, the museum has a wheelchair accessible entrance and accessible washrooms, making it easier for all visitors to experience the exhibits.
The nearest metro station is Kashmere Gate, which is a major interchange station. From there, it's a short ride to the museum.
Yes, parking is available inside the Ambedkar University campus where the museum is located.
Taxis can drop you near the Ambedkar University campus. The museum entrance is at the back of the college, so confirm the exact entry point with your driver.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee is Rs 50 per adult Indian. Some visitors have noted it's free with an optional donation, so it's advisable to be prepared for a small charge.
Tickets can be purchased at the venue. Advance booking is generally not required, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for any updates.
Opening hours can vary, so it's recommended to check the official website or contact the museum directly for the most up-to-date information on timings.
No, the Sindh Gallery is part of the overall museum experience and is included with your entry ticket.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter upon arrival for any available concessions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the museum halls. You can take photos in the foyer area, but not beyond.
Most visitors recommend allocating at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the exhibits and absorb the information presented.
Expect a mix of text, photographs, letters, audio-visual recordings, installation art, and artifacts that tell the story of the Partition and its impact on Delhi.
While a cafe is planned, it may not be operational yet. It's advisable to check for current facilities upon arrival.
Information on guided tours is not readily available. You can explore the museum at your own pace, or inquire at the information desk.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is not allowed inside the exhibition halls. You can typically take photos in the foyer area or outside the building.
The restriction is likely to preserve the solemn atmosphere of the exhibits and protect sensitive artifacts and personal stories.
The historic Dara Shikoh Library building itself, with its colonial architecture, offers some good photo opportunities from the exterior.
Even phone cameras are not permitted inside the exhibition spaces. It's best to rely on your memory or take notes discreetly if needed.
Professional photography is generally not permitted without prior arrangement or special permission, especially within the exhibition areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families, the wheelchair accessibility is a plus, ensuring easier navigation. However, the museum's primary focus is on historical trauma, so it might be more suitable for older children and teenagers who can grasp the historical context and emotional weight of the events.
🤔 History Enthusiasts & Students
Students of history, sociology, and political science will find the museum particularly enriching. The blend of academic information with personal testimonies offers a multi-faceted view of the event. Allocate ample time to fully engage with the displays and consider revisiting sections to absorb the depth of information.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance of Dara Shikoh's Library
The transformation of this historic library into a space dedicated to remembering the Partition is a powerful juxtaposition. It highlights how spaces can evolve to tell new stories, often ones that are deeply significant to a nation's identity. The building's own history of transition and change subtly mirrors the upheaval and displacement experienced during the Partition.
Understanding the Partition Experience Through Exhibits
The Partition Gallery is the larger of the two and delves into the human cost of the division. Visitors can expect to see a wide array of exhibits, including personal letters, photographs, newspaper clippings, audio-visual recordings of survivor testimonies, and evocative installation art. A particularly impactful display is a replica of a train compartment filled with belongings, symbolizing the mass migration. There's also a section warning of graphic violence, which offers a stark reminder of the horrors faced by many.
The museum's strength lies in its personal narratives and carefully curated artifacts, which bring the historical events to life. It's not just a collection of facts but a testament to the resilience, sacrifice, and immense loss experienced by millions. The impact on Delhi, in particular, is highlighted, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking to understand this pivotal moment in Indian history.
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