India’s planetarium journey began in 1954 with the Kusumbai Motichand Planetarium in Pune, the country’s first. The iconic M. P. Birla Planetarium in Kolkata followed in 1963, inaugurated by Prime Minister Nehru. Delhi’s Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium opened in 1984, and in 2012, India launched its first laser planetarium, the Aryabhatt Planetarium. These centres have played a key role in popularising astronomy and inspiring generations across India. The Indira Gandhi Planetarium in Lucknow, established in 1988 and inaugurated in 2003, stands out with its unique Saturn-shaped design.
Located on the banks of the River Gomti in Surajkund Park, Lucknow’s Indira Gandhi Planetarium is designed in the shape of Saturn, complete with its five rings. The planetarium features daily shows that use advanced projection technology to simulate the night sky, allowing visitors to observe stars, galaxies, and various celestial phenomena. Alongside these presentations, the facility hosts exhibitions highlighting India’s satellite missions and space exploration efforts.
Founded in 1988, with its official inauguration in 2003, the planetarium’s programmes are designed to educate visitors about astronomy in an accessible manner. The presentations aim to explain complex cosmic concepts clearly, making it suitable for audiences of all ages, from school groups to astronomy enthusiasts.
The 21-metre diametre spherical building sits on a platform that illustrates crater formation on celestial bodies, surrounded by a water pool with fountains. Located on the banks of the Gomti River, it is close to notable landmarks such as Bara Imambara and Rumi Darwaza. The planetarium offers virtual journeys through space, making distant celestial events accessible within minutes. Established by the Uttar Pradesh government, its goals include promoting astronomy, popularising science, supporting amateur astronomers, and organising educational activities like exhibitions, quizzes, and art competitions.
The Indira Gandhi Planetarium offers multiple shows daily at 1 pm, 2:30 pm, 4 pm, and 5 pm, with additional shows at 6 pm during summer vacations. The first show on Saturdays and Sundays is conducted in English, while all other shows throughout the week are in Hindi.
Each show lasts between 34 to 45 minutes. The planetarium is open for bookings from 11 am to 5 pm and remains closed on Mondays. Admission is INR 25 per person for those above three years, with a concessional rate of Rs 10 for groups of 30 or more, and free entry for handicapped visitors. For groups of 100 or more, special shows can be arranged at 11 am and 12 noon. Entry is free for persons with disabilities.
Near the Indira Gandhi Planetarium in Lucknow, visitors can explore several historic and cultural landmarks. The Bara Imambara, renowned for its intricate Bhul Bhulaiya labyrinth, is a must-see, alongside the Rumi Darwaza, a striking gateway often photographed by tourists. The Chota Imambara, also called the Hussainabad Imambara, impresses with its ornate architecture, while the Shah Najaf Imambara offers further historical insight.
For more leisurely pursuits, the nearby Marine Drive provides a scenic riverside walk along the Gomti, and the vibrant Jama Masjid stands out as a notable example of religious architecture. These attractions together present a well-rounded experience of Lucknow’s rich heritage and culture.
The months of October through March are ideal for a trip to Lucknow because of the pleasant weather. On the other hand, July through September is the prime monsoon season to visit Lucknow. Meanwhile, the summer season starts from April and lasts till June.
The Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (LKO) is the airport for Lucknow, and the nearest major railway station to the airport is Lucknow Charbagh railway station (LKO), both of which are well-connected by metro. You can easily travel between the two via the Lucknow Metro.
