Birla Planetarium

The Birla Planetarium, a scientific and research institution, is located near the Statue Circle. Spread over an area of 9.8 acre, the planetarium has an auditorium, library, science museum, numerous seminar rooms, conference halls, astronomical observatory, etc.
The planetarium is part of the renowned Birla Institute of Scientific Research. Since 1993, the institute offers Postgraduate diploma in Astronomy & Planetarium Sciences, and also conducts evening courses in astronomy.
A replica of the Ganesh Pole of the Amber Fort, the main entrance of the Birla Auditorium is a massive one. The ample use of jails and frescoes is evident, lending the entrance a distinctly royal look.
The auditorium has been recognized as one of the largest in the country, having the capacity to accommodate around 1,350 people. This is in keeping with the international standards of conferencing.
Sky shows are held regularly in the planetarium to provide information on astronomical concepts and mysteries. Also, interactive sessions are arranged for students to understand the universe and learn about scientific expeditions.
A model of a space shuttle: The planetarium has been built to develop an interest in astronomy among the young minds. The pictorial as well as modeled presentations of astronomical entities provides an interesting learning experience.
The gallery inside the planetarium is a treasure trove for the hobbyist. It features details of several astronomical projects, visual presentations, models of star constellations, and a lot more.
This photo on display shows the famous Endurance crater of the planet Mars. Discovered by the Opportunity rover in 2004, this 130-metre crater has confirmed the existence of liquid water on this planet during ancient times.
Detailed art on interior walls: Though the planetarium is a scientific research institute, its interior is done in traditional Rajasthani style. The intricate designs on the walls of the auditorium have been carved in colourful patterns.
Rabindranath Tagore and Albert Einstein met in 1930 and had a brief discussion on the ideas of modern physics and how these apply to everyday life. The photograph was taken during that meeting, and is displayed in the planetarium.

About Birla Planetarium

M.P. Birla Planetarium in Jaipur is one of the main attractions in the itinerary of travellers. The Planetarium was formally inaugurated by the first Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on 2nd July 1963. Prior to that, Birla planetarium was functioning only as an educational, scientific and research body. Today the planetarium is an important landmark within the city, which offers some very interesting facts related to technology and science.

M. P. Birla Planetarium welcomes everyone to the lesser known world of galaxy and stars. It introduces the mother earth in such a fascinating method, which leaves one awestruck at the beauty and depth of the universe. A whole new universe can be explored by simply sitting inside a round dome inside the planetarium, where projectors with audio visuals give you a deep insight into each and every functioning of the planets and the solar system. Anyone can visit the planetarium between 10 a.m. To 7 p.m. and experience the world of stars.

There is an astronomical observatory which has the provision for Celestron C-14 telescope, including its accessories like the ST6 CCD camera, solar filters etc. An automation system was established after two years of rigorous work in the year 1993 in order to carry out special effects for the planetarium shows. Though anyone is welcome here, but students are given a special concession to watch the shows.

Location

M.P. Birla Planetarium is located centrally in Jaipur, near the famous landmark Statue Circle. The Planetarium is housed inside the Birla Auditorium.

Best time to visit

Due to its location near the desert region, the summer season in the city is extremely hot. The months from March till June are unfavourable and not conducive for travelling. Though the monsoon season here starts from July and lasts till September, it doesn't offer much relief from the heat wave as the city doesn't receive abundant rainfall. The scanty rainfall which the city receives, leaves behind a lot of humidity, making it impossible to take a tour of the city. To enjoy the city at its best, the most favourable time to visit would be during the months of October till March. The maximum temperature during these months is around 20- 22 degrees, when the intensity of the scorching sun is at its lowest.

How to reach

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan is well connected to other parts of the country and the world through a multitude of transportation modes. The connectivity from the Jaipur airport with all major metro cities is available without any problem. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or a bus and reach your desired destination in and around Jaipur. The railway station is at a distance of 5 km and is well connected to the main city. There are three main railway junctions in the city; one is the main station at Jaipur, the other at Gandhinagar and the third one at Durgapur. From the railway station you can take a bus, an auto rickshaw or hire a taxi and reach the main city. If you are a luxurious traveller, you may want to give 'Palace on Wheels' a chance. The Rajasthan State Transport Corporation has a fleet of deluxe and semi deluxe buses, Volvo AC and non AC buses, which make travelling comfortable for tourists. There is also an excellent bus service between Delhi and Jaipur, with buses plying at a frequency of every half an hour. From Delhi, you can take a bus from Bikaner house located near India gate and reach the Pink City.

Address	B M Birla Auditorium Statue Circle, Jaipur-302001, India
Entry Fee :	Rs.40
Timings :	10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Phone No (Official)	+91-141-2385224, +91-141-2385094
Official Website	http://birlaauditoriumjaipur.com/
Photography	Allowed
Nearest railway station	Jaipur Railway Station, Railway Road, Shanti Nagar, Hasanpura, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

Last Updated on : September 27, 2016