The Doll Museum Kolkata: A Nostalgic Journey Through the Nehru Children's Museum
In a Nutshell
Place: Nehru Children’s Museum (Popularly known as the Doll Museum).
Location: 94/1, Chowringhee Road, Kolkata (Near Exide Crossing).
Timings: Wednesday to Friday (11:00 AM – 7:00 PM), Saturday & Sunday (10:00 AM – 7:00 PM). Closed on Mondays & Tuesdays.
Ticket Price: ₹20 for Adults (16+ years), ₹10 for Children.
Best For: Kids, families, and anyone looking for a slice of 90s nostalgia.
A Walk Down Memory Lane
If you grew up in Kolkata during the 90s or early 2000s, there’s a high chance your school took you on a field trip to a specific white building on Chowringhee Road. It wasn’t the Victoria Memorial, and it wasn’t the Museum on Park Street. It was the Nehru Children’s Museum, or as we all affectionately call it, " The Doll Museum."
I recently revisited this gem, not as a school kid holding my teacher's hand, but as Sahil, your fellow explorer from Kolkata Tales. And let me tell you, the wave of nostalgia hit me harder than a crowded metro at Dum Dum!
But why is this place still relevant in 2026? In an era of iPads and VR headsets, does a museum full of static dolls and clay models still hold charm? The answer is a resounding YES.
Whether you are a parent looking for a budget-friendly (and educational) Sunday outing, or a solo explorer wanting to reconnect with the simpler times of Kolkata, this guide covers everything you need to know about the Doll Museum Kolkata.
Why Is This Place So Important?
Before we dive into the exhibits, let's understand the soul of this place.
The Nehru Children's Museum was inaugurated on November 14, 1972, on the birthday of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. It was founded by Jugal Srimal under the banner of the National Cultural Association.
The vision was simple yet profound: Education through Entertainment.
In a city like Kolkata, which is often called the Cultural Capital of India, this museum holds a special place. It was designed to introduce children to global cultures (through dolls) and Indian heritage (through the epics) long before the internet made the world a global village.
When you walk in today, you aren't just seeing toys; you are witnessing a legacy that has educated over 100 million adults and 10 million underprivileged children since its inception. That, my friends, is the true heartbeat of Kolkata.
What You Can Explore: The 4 Floors of Wonder
The museum is spread across four floors. Be prepared to climb some stairs (don't worry, it's worth it). Here is a breakdown of what you will see.
1. The International Doll Gallery (Dolls from 88+ Countries)
This is the star attraction—the reason everyone calls it "The Doll Museum."
Imagine traveling the world without a passport. The Doll Gallery houses an extensive collection of dolls from over 88 countries. As you walk past the glass cases, you travel from the kimono-clad figurines of Japan to the flamenco dancers of Spain, and from the tribal attire of Africa to the classic English aristocracy.
What to notice: Look closely at the costumes. The detailing on the traditional dresses gives you a crash course in global fashion history.
Sahil’s Observation: It’s fascinating to see how the concept of a "doll" changes across cultures. Some are realistic, some are caricatures, but all of them tell a story of the land they come from. It’s a brilliant way to teach kids about geography without opening a textbook.
2. The Indian Epics: Ramayana & Mahabharata Galleries
For me, this is the underrated hero of the museum. While the dolls get the fame, the clay model galleries on the upper floors are absolute masterpieces.
The Ramayana Gallery: This section depicts the entire story of the Ramayana through miniature clay models. From the birth of Lord Rama to the Sita Swayamvar, the exile, and the great war with Ravana. The lighting and the chronological arrangement make it feel like you are walking through a 3D comic book.
The Mahabharata Gallery: Similarly, this gallery captures the complex saga of the Mahabharata. The sheer number of tiny figures used to depict the battle of Kurukshetra is mind-blowing.
Why it’s cool: The craftsmanship is local. The clay work reflects the famous pottery skills of Bengal (think Kumartuli style but in miniature). For kids who find reading ancient texts boring, this visual storytelling is a game-changer.
3. The Ganesha Gallery
Did you know there are hundreds of ways to depict Lord Ganesha? This gallery displays over 300 idols of Ganesha in various forms, moods, and materials. It’s a smaller section but visually very quirky and interesting.
4. The Toy & Car Collection
There is also a section dedicated to miniature cars and toys. If you are an automobile enthusiast or have a little one who loves "vroom-vroom" sounds, they will be glued to the glass cabinets here. It features vintage models that trace the evolution of transport.
How to Plan Your Visit (The Practical Guide)
Being a Kolkata explorer, I know that timing is everything. Here is how to plan a hassle-free visit.
Step 1: The Timings (Don't Get Locked Out!)
This is the most common mistake people make.
Monday & Tuesday: CLOSED. (Do not go on these days!)
Wednesday - Friday: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Pro Tip: The ticket counter closes 30 minutes before the museum shuts, so aim to reach by 5:30 PM at the latest.
Step 2: The Tickets
It is incredibly affordable.
Children (Under 16): ₹10
Adults (16+): ₹20 (Note: Prices are subject to minor changes, but it remains one of the cheapest tickets in Kolkata).
Step 3: How to Reach
The museum is located at a prime spot—Chowringhee Road, right near the Exide Crossing.
By Metro (Recommended): The nearest metro station is Rabindra Sadan (Blue Line).
Exit the station towards the Exide crossing/Nandan side.
Walk towards the Tata Centre building. The museum is just a 2-minute walk from the Exide crossing, right next to the PC Chandra Jewellers showroom.
By Bus: Any bus going towards Exide, Rabindra Sadan, or Maidan will drop you right in front.
By Car: Parking is notoriously difficult in this area. I strongly suggest using a cab or the Metro. If you must drive, try finding parking near Nandan or on the side roads of Camac Street, but it’s a gamble.
Sahil’s "Day Out" Itinerary
Making the most of your trip to Exide/Rabindra Sadan.
Since the Doll Museum will take you about 45 minutes to 1 hour to explore fully, you should combine it with other nearby gems to make a full day of it. Here is my recommended itinerary:
Morning (11:00 AM): Start with The Doll Museum. It’s less crowded right when it opens.
Lunch (12:30 PM): Walk over to the nearby Nandan complex. You can grab a quick bite at the canteen or head to the food court at Merlin Homeland nearby. If you want authentic Bengali food, Bhuter Raja Dilo Bor is a short taxi ride away.
Afternoon (2:00 PM): Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral (just across the road). The gothic architecture is stunning.
Late Afternoon (3:30 PM): Walk to Victoria Memorial or take a stroll in the Maidan if the weather is nice.
Evening (5:30 PM): End your day with some Cha and Adda outside Nandan, watching the artistic crowd of Kolkata.
Location: Nehru Children's Museum, 94/1, Chowringhee Rd, Kolkata, West Bengal 700020
