Crafts Museum New Delhi
A living tapestry of Indian soul, this museum recreates a village and showcases vibrant folk art, textiles, and artisan traditions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crafts Museum New Delhi
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A living tapestry of Indian soul, this museum recreates a village and showcases vibrant folk art, textiles, and artisan traditions.
"It's like stepping into a living tapestry of Indian soul, a celebration of stories, threads, hands and heritage."
🎯 Allocate Ample Time
You'll need at least 3 hours to explore, and even then, you might not see everything closely. :clock1:
🚶♀️ Wander Through the Village
Don't miss the recreated village complex for a unique rural Indian experience. :housewithgarden:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Village Complex
Within the museum grounds
Experience a recreated Indian village with miniature huts and courtyards, offering a glimpse into rural life.

Gallery of Textiles
Main galleries
Marvel at the vibrant and diverse collection of Indian textiles, showcasing intricate weaving and embroidery techniques.

Gallery of Bhuta Sculpture
Main galleries
Discover powerful and expressive sculptures from various folk traditions across India.
Artisan Demonstrations
Various workshops
Witness skilled artisans at work, demonstrating traditional crafts like weaving, carving, and pottery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Village Vibe
Free Entry, Rich Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Allocate Ample Time
You'll need at least 3 hours to explore, and even then, you might not see everything closely.
:clock1:🚶♀️ Wander Through the Village
Don't miss the recreated village complex for a unique rural Indian experience.
:housewithgarden:🎨 Witness Live Craft Demos
See artisans in action; it adds a magical layer to understanding the crafts.
:artist_palette:🌿 Enjoy Nature's Serenity
The museum grounds are surprisingly peaceful, with common birds like parrots and woodpeckers.
:seedling:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Allocate Ample Time
You'll need at least 3 hours to explore, and even then, you might not see everything closely.
:clock1:🚶♀️ Wander Through the Village
Don't miss the recreated village complex for a unique rural Indian experience.
:housewithgarden:🎨 Witness Live Craft Demos
See artisans in action; it adds a magical layer to understanding the crafts.
:artist_palette:🌿 Enjoy Nature's Serenity
The museum grounds are surprisingly peaceful, with common birds like parrots and woodpeckers.
:seedling:☕ Relax at the Cafe
There's a good cafe on-site to relax and refuel after your exploration.
:coffee:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Crafts Museum New Delhi for its deeply rooted cultural vibes and immersive village experience. It's praised as a peaceful escape with rich folk art, textiles, and live artisan demonstrations, offering a genuine glimpse into rural India. While entry is free, the sheer depth of exhibits means you'll need ample time to explore thoroughly.
"It was an amazing experience. The place has deeply rooted cultural vibes associated with it. It ain't that crowded at off peak hours and hence a great spot to spend if you've come with your closed ones and have plenty of time coz you're not going to get bored of the aura and ambience the museum has."
Akanksha Baranwal
"Travelers interested in the arts, handicrafts, textiles, and folk traditions of India shouldn’t miss the informative National Handicrafts and Handlooms Museum. The museum mimics an Indian village, with the types of buildings and decorations that you might encounter in rural areas. There are also crafts demonstrations, galleries showing paintings and different kinds of carvings, and temporary as well as permanent exhibits.
Among the multiple galleries, the most frequently visited galleries are the Gallery of Bhuta Sculpture, the Gallery of Cultic Crafts, the Gallery of Folk and Tribal Arts, and the Gallery of Textiles. There is also a village within the premise that describes the life of rural India in a great way. Other things that the Crafts Museum proudly features are a research center, a library, an auditorium, and a laboratory."
TRINATH PRADHAN
"Namaskaram!
I went on 20th July 2025 at 12 PM alone. Entry was free of cast for Indian citizens. It took 3 hours for me to visit entire area. And I couldn't focus on the details of the museum even I was there for 3 hours. My experience was very good, very very good. I have visited many places in Delhi for the last one and a half years and but this was my best experience so far. The peace of this place won my heart. I reached here at 12 PM and left at 3:00 PM. Despite spending 3 hours here, I could not see the things here closely. I could not even see many crafts properly. I started with crafts. After seeing all the crafts and artifacts, I went for a natural experience. I was mesmerized by what I saw there. Birds that are not commonly seen in many places these days, like parrots, woodpeckers, etc. were also present there. Although there were many other birds present there, seeing the parrot and woodpeckers made my heart very happy because I saw them after about 10 to 15 years. And I don't know how to explain the experience of nature that was happening there, you can only feel it by going there. By going there you will get to know many things about the history of our country. It is a very beautiful place, very beautiful. Those brothers and sisters whose parents are fond of nature should definitely go there. Thank you. Have a nice day 😊."
Suraj Bharti
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Crafts Museum New Delhi is located within Pragati Maidan. You can reach Pragati Maidan via the Delhi Metro (Blue Line, Pragati Maidan station) or by taxi/auto-rickshaw. Parking is available for cars and two-wheelers.
Yes, it's a prominent attraction within Pragati Maidan. Follow the signs for the National Crafts Museum & Hastkala Academy once inside the complex.
The closest metro station is Pragati Maidan on the Blue Line. From there, it's a short walk to the museum entrance.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Ola are readily available in Delhi and can drop you directly at Pragati Maidan.
Yes, parking is available for both cars and two-wheelers at Pragati Maidan, making it convenient for visitors arriving by private vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the National Crafts Museum Pragati Maidan is free for Indian citizens. Foreign nationals may have a nominal fee.
The museum is typically open from 10 AM to 5 PM, but it's always a good idea to check the official timings before your visit as they can vary.
Since entry is free for Indian citizens, advance booking is not usually required. You can simply walk in.
The museum often hosts temporary and permanent exhibits, as well as crafts demonstrations. Check their website or social media for current event schedules.
The museum is generally open on public holidays, but it's advisable to confirm their operating hours beforehand, especially if it falls on a Monday, which is often a closing day for museums.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors highly recommend the Gallery of Bhuta Sculpture, Gallery of Cultic Crafts, Gallery of Folk and Tribal Arts, and the Gallery of Textiles for their rich collections.
Most visitors find that even 3 hours are not enough to see everything in detail. It's recommended to allocate at least half a day to fully appreciate the exhibits and the village complex.
While not explicitly mentioned, the detailed exhibits and the village setup encourage self-exploration. You might find information boards to guide you.
Yes, the recreated village and the vibrant folk art can be very engaging for children. The natural surroundings also offer a pleasant experience.
The museum showcases a wide array of Indian handicrafts, including folk art, tribal art, textiles, sculptures, pottery, and more, representing diverse regional traditions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe within the museum premises where you can enjoy refreshments and light meals.
The cafe typically offers a selection of snacks, beverages, and light meals. It's a good spot to relax and recharge.
Being located in Pragati Maidan, there are various food stalls and eateries within the larger complex, and numerous dining options are available in the surrounding areas of New Delhi.
It's generally advisable to consume outside food and drinks in designated areas or outside the museum galleries to maintain the cleanliness and integrity of the exhibits.
While prices can vary, the cafe is generally considered a convenient option within the museum. For more budget-friendly meals, exploring eateries outside the museum might be an alternative.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use in most areas of the museum, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or galleries.
Flash photography is usually discouraged or prohibited in museums to protect delicate artifacts from light damage. Please adhere to any signage.
The recreated village complex, the intricate details of textiles, sculptures, and the artisan demonstrations offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Drone photography is strictly prohibited in and around museum premises and public spaces in Delhi without prior official permission.
Yes, capturing the artisans at work is a highlight. However, always be respectful and ask for their permission if you plan to take close-up shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for the artisan demonstrations, which are often fascinating for younger visitors as they see crafts being made in real-time. The open spaces within the museum grounds also provide room for kids to move around. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone. The on-site cafe is also a convenient spot for a family break.
🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts
Take your time to explore the specialized galleries like the Gallery of Textiles and the Gallery of Bhuta Sculpture. The museum also features a research center and library, which might be of interest for deeper academic exploration. This is a place to truly savor the nuances of Indian craftsmanship and cultural expression.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
The natural surroundings within the museum grounds, complete with bird sightings, add to the calming ambiance. It's an ideal spot to disconnect from the city's hustle and bustle and connect with India's cultural soul. The free entry for Indian citizens makes it an accessible and rewarding solo adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Village Complex
Visitors often describe the village complex as a place where time slows down. It’s a perfect spot for quiet contemplation and appreciating the simplicity and beauty of traditional living. The natural surroundings within the complex also contribute to its serene atmosphere, with common birds adding to the tranquil ambiance. This section of the museum is a testament to the enduring cultural heritage of India and a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic cultural immersion.
The Artistry of Indian Textiles
Seeing these handwoven and embroidered masterpieces up close provides a deep appreciation for the skill, patience, and artistry involved. The museum often highlights the specific communities and regions associated with each textile, offering educational context. For anyone interested in fashion, history, or simply the beauty of human creativity, this gallery is an absolute highlight. It’s a vivid display of India’s vibrant cultural tapestry, woven into every thread.
Hands-On Heritage: Artisan Demonstrations
Observing these hands-on processes offers a unique perspective that goes beyond static displays. It allows visitors to understand the effort, skill, and dedication required to create these beautiful objects. It’s a chance to connect with the artisans, ask questions, and gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural significance of their craft. This interactive element makes the museum experience incredibly dynamic and memorable, turning a visit into an educational and inspiring journey.
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