The trip was enhanced by the friendly and highly informed staff that went all out to answer our queries and provided us with valuable information about this museum that we can truly be proud of. It was, to say the least, a unique learning that will remain in our minds for a long time to come.
—MALVIKA SINGH, IX B,
— MANVITA GANDHI, IX A

Spread over 10 acres of land and one of the finest outdoor museums, the Rail Transport Museum or the National Rail Museum is one of the most suitable places to be visited by the people of all ages, professions and regions. I was fortunate to be taken there along with my classmates. The National Rail Museum displays a wide range of locomotives and carriages. It wonderfully chronicles 150 years of proud service of the Indian Railways. We were all amazed to see the collection of Royal Saloons and their grandeur. It was like a visit to Fairy Land. The museum also has a little toy train on which the children are take for a joyride which is loved not only by children but their parents as well.

Constructed by British architect M G Satoo in 1957, the National Rail Museum is a heritage site now. Even the skull of an elephant which struck a mail train in 1894 is showcased here. Restaurants and libraries are also there. Beautiful Tibetan handicrafts brought with the Dalai Lama are also on display.

The museum has some fantastic collection of locomotives. Some of the saloons that are on display and are still in working condition are the Viceregal Dining Car, Prince of Wales Saloon, Maharaja of Mysore’s Saloon and the Maharaja of Baroda’s saloon. The elaborate interior design of the royal saloons is definitely worth a look. The Fairy Queen is the star attraction in the museum and is the best preserved locomotive. The very first steam engine that rolled in India from Bombay to Thane is also proudly displayed at the museum. The locomotives are displayed in the open, even though there is a shed. This is a treasure trove of information on the Indian Railways.

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