Vizag’s Flying Past: Inside India’s Only UH-3H Helicopter Museum

Visakhapatnam, or Vizag, one of India’s oldest port cities, lies along the scenic Bay of Bengal, bordered by the Eastern Ghats. Known for its bustling port, industrial hubs, and sandy beaches, it also serves as the headquarters of the Eastern Naval Command of the Indian Navy. Among the city’s must-see attractions is the Helicopter Museum which showcases the evolution of helicopters in India, from military to civil aircraft, offering insight into their engineering and history.

Explore The Skies

The Helicopter Museum in Visakhapatnam, managed by the Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA), sits on scenic Beach Road, a stretch renowned for naval heritage and home to five maritime museums within 500 metres – a unique distinction in India. Vishakhapatnam already has the TU-142 aircraft museum, the submarine museum, and the Sea Harrier museum. The VMRDA was entrusted with this latest project. The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) leased the land to VMRDA, which developed the museum to honour the UH-3H helicopter’s legacy and inspire future generations.

The Helicopter And Its Legacy

The museum’s centrepiece is the UH-3H helicopter, nicknamed Saaras and also known as the Sea King. Acquired from the United States in 2007 alongside INS Jalashwa, six helicopters were inducted on March 24, 2009 and served with distinction under INAS 350 Squadron at INS Dega until de-induction on June 28, 2024.

The amphibious, all-weather helicopter featured a semi-monocoque, boat-type hull, an automated folding system for shipboard storage, a top speed of 210 km/h, a range of 675 km, and could carry up to 19 passengers. Equipped for anti-submarine warfare, it carried sonar systems, torpedoes, and missiles, and historically could carry a B-57 nuclear bomb during the Cold War.

After 17 years of service, the Indian Navy officially bid farewell to the UH-3H during a de-induction ceremony in June 2024. To preserve its legacy, one helicopter was permanently installed in Visakhapatnam, with navy officials handing over a commemorative plaque to the state government.

Visitors can explore the interior, learn about naval aviators’ duties, and view exhibits showcasing humanitarian missions, search-and-rescue operations, and the helicopter’s storied history, making the museum a tribute to India’s naval aviation and a source of inspiration for generations to come.

The Information

Timings and Fees: The entry fee for the Helicopter Museum is INR 100. It is open from Monday to Saturday between 2 PM and 8:30 PM, while on Sundays it welcomes visitors in two slots: from 10 AM to 12 PM, and then from 2 PM to 8:30 PM.

Address: Helicopter Museum, Beach Rd, HPCL Colony, Pandurangapuram, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh 530003.

Things To Do In Visakhapatnam

Visakhapatnam, or Vizag, offers a perfect blend of coastal charm and natural beauty. The city’s popular beaches, such as Ramakrishna Beach, with its promenade and food stalls, Rushikonda Beach, known for water sports, and the tranquil Yarada Beach, framed by hills and the Bay of Bengal, attract both locals and tourists. For maritime enthusiasts, the INS Kurusura Submarine Museum and TU-142 Aircraft Museum provide fascinating insights into India’s naval history.

Hilltop parks like Kailasagiri and Tenneti Park offer panoramic views, while nature lovers can explore Indira Gandhi Zoological Park, Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary, and the nearby Kondakarla Ava Bird Sanctuary. A trip to Lambasingi, the “Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh,” reveals misty hills, coffee plantations, and a refreshing hill-station climate.

Getting There: The nearest airport is Visakhapatnam International Airport (VTZ), and the nearest railway station is Visakhapatnam Railway Station. The airport is only about seven kilometers from the railway station.

FAQs

What is the museum all about?

The museum showcases the de‑commissioned UH‑3H Sea King helicopter (nick‑named “Saaras”), which served with the Indian Navy for around 17 years. It is now on display at Beach Road, Visakhapatnam, and honours the helicopter’s contributions to search‑and‑rescue, humanitarian relief, maritime operations, and more.

Where is the museum located?

The museum is located on Beach Road (RK Beach/Bheemunipatnam stretch) in Pandurangapuram, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. It is easily accessible by taxi, auto‑rickshaw or local bus from Visakhapatnam Railway Station or the airport.

What are the entry fee and opening hours?

• Entry fee: Approximately INR 100.

• Opening hours:

  • Monday to Saturday: ~2 pm to ~8:30 pm

  • Sunday: Morning slot ~10 am–12:30 pm, then afternoon

Can visitors go inside the helicopter?

Yes. One of the museum’s highlights is the opportunity to view the helicopter up close, walk around its exterior, and in some areas step inside (subject to museum rules).