Established in 1979 by the Indian Railways, the Mysore Rail Museum reflects the rich history and development of rail transportation in India. Located in Mysuru, Karnataka, this museum serves as the second of its kind in the country, following the National Railway Museum in Delhi. With its extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and locomotives, the museum offers visitors a fascinating journey through the evolution of Indian railways.
History of Mysore Rail Museum
The roots of the Mysore Rail Museum trace back to the earlier exhibits housed within the Mysore Palace premises. Over time, these exhibits found a permanent home at the museum`s current location on Krishnaraja Sagar Road, near the Mysore Railway Station. Since its establishment, the museum has been a repository of railway heritage, showcasing significant milestones and technological advancements in the realm of Indian railways.
Exhibits at Rail Museum
Central to the museum`s allure are its vintage locomotives, prominently displayed in the Chamundi Gallery. Here, an extensive array of pictures and paintings depict the evolution and growth of railways in India. Of particular interest are the royal coaches showcased in the Sri Ranga Pavilion, once belonging to the Maharajas of Mysore. These opulent carriages provide a glimpse into the luxurious travel experiences of royalty, complete with lavish amenities such as dining car units and royal toilets.
The Austin Railway Car, a converted 1925 Austin model, adds another layer of intrigue to the museum`s collection. Originally designed for road travel, this unique railcar was repurposed by a railway employee, symbolizing innovation and adaptability in transportation. Notably, some of these locomotives remain operational, showcasing the enduring legacy of railway engineering.
Beyond locomotives, the museum houses an assortment of rare artifacts that offer insights into bygone eras. Visitors can marvel at the first steam engine built in India, alongside historical signals and railway paraphernalia. Wooden pillars and doors from the Old Srirangapatna railway station evoke a sense of nostalgia, preserving architectural elements of railway infrastructure.
Among the notable exhibits are a hand-operated steam water pump dating back to 1934 and an 1885 hand-operated crane, showcasing early engineering ingenuity. The museum also features an eclectic assortment of lights, tickets, ticketing machines, signal signs, clocks, and black-and-white photographs, each serving as a testament to the varied phases of railway development in India.
For families and younger visitors, the museum offers a delightful excursion aboard a mini toy train, operated by battery. This charming attraction allows visitors to traverse the museum grounds, adding an element of interactive exploration to the experience. Particularly popular among children, the mini train ride provides a memorable highlight of the museum visit.
Major Attractions
Several locomotives stand out as major attractions within the Mysore Rail Museum:
ES 506 4-6-2 locomotive
Austin Railway Car, originally a 1925 model automobile
YP - 2511, a meter gauge steam engine built by Telco in 1963
Royal coaches belonging to the Maharajas of Mysore
Maharani`s Saloon carriage, dating back to 1899
W.G. Bagnall - 1625, constructed in 1900
Class E - 37244 4-4-4T from Surrey Iron Railway, built by North British Locomotive Co. in 1920
Class TS/1 -37338 2-6-2T from Southern Railway, built by W.G. Bagnall in 1932 for Mysore State Railways
The Mysore Rail Museum displays the rich heritage and technological advancements of Indian railways. From vintage locomotives to rare artifacts, the museum offers visitors a captivating journey through the evolution of rail transportation. With its diverse exhibits and family-friendly attractions, the museum continues to be a cherished destination for railway enthusiasts and history aficionados alike.