Get lost in a maze, go on a space odyssey or learn about human evolution on a visit to Science City, Kolkata.
Sprawled across 49.6 acres off the EM Bypass, India’s largest science centre was set up in 1997.
Science City is open on all days except Holi, from 10am to 7pm. The entry ticket costs only Rs 60 per person and entry is free for children below three years.
Visitors’ safety comes first at Science City. “We have implemented several COVID-safety measures. The number of visitors has been restricted for shows at the Space Theatre. We have also improvised many things to make sure visitors are safe,” said Anurag Kashyap, the director of Science City.
The seating capacity of all theatres at Science City have been halved and all 3D shows have been temporarily stopped. Foot pedals have been introduced near the exhibits and the exhibits can also be operated via smartphones by scanning a QR code.
Washrooms have gone hands-free and pedals have been installed in the washbasins. Masks and hand sanitisation are mandatory.
The food court beside the Science Park is also open now.
Join Edugraph on a tour of Science City.
Science Park
As you enter Science City, the Science Park welcomes you with an incredible playground that boasts a host of outdoor science activities such as road train. The Science Park has bushy hedges laid out in a maze-like structure. There is a children’s play corner as well.
Earth Exploration Hall
The hall has a huge globe at the centre. Around it are several multi-media presentations on global issues. There are exhibits on Geology, Physical Geography, people, flora and fauna.
Space Odyssey
The Space Odyssey section houses various exhibits and activity areas related to Astronomy and Space Science. There are two models of rockets in this section and is also a giant screen providing information on various planets.
Some of the attractions here are:
Time Machine: Two time machines take you on a bumpy ride with a 3D film. The motions of the ride are synchronised with what you see on screen.
Space Theatre: The dome-shaped theatre screen is the first of its kind in India. Various 3D movies are screened in the 360-seat theatre.
Reflections Gallery: The first floor of Science City has been transformed into the Mirror Magic gallery with popular exhibits such as Head on a Platter, Mirror Maze, Fun Mirror and Floating Mirror.
Dynamotion Hall
The Dynamotion Hall has exhibits based on interesting scientific facts and concepts. There are interactive exhibits that can keep you engaged for hours. The exhibits include Illusions, Infinity Well, Floor Piano and more. The hand-operated switches for the exhibits have been replaced with foot pedals after the pandemic. The exhibits can be now operated from your phone by scanning a QR code at the entrance.
A souvenir store has opened recently in this section selling toys, books and other educational models for children.
Science Exploration Hall
The four sections in the Science Exploration Hall are the most engaging.
Science and Technology Heritage of India: This gallery showcases various scientific and technological methods used in India over the years. The exhibits include a replica of the Konark Wheel, Indus Valley Civilisation, the invention of pottery and other such historical inventions.
Emerging Sciences: There are various exhibits here that portray the future of innovations in science. The special attraction of this gallery is the 3D printing machine that can make any 3D model. The technology is expected to be used in medical science in near future. There is information provided on other innovations of modern-day science.
Evolution of Life-A Dark Ride: This is the most exciting part of the Science Exploration Hall. There is a cart that takes you inside a cave that has various phases from the origin of life on earth, the evolution of dinosaurs, Ice Age, evolution of animals and more. The ride gives you valuable information in English, Hindi and Bengali. The moving models of animals add to the thrill of the ride.
Panorama on Human Evolution: This section has a ramp that takes you around from the evolution of humans from apes to the civilisation of human beings in different ages. The evolution of humans is beautifully depicted with models showing the Stone Age, invention of wheels and more. There is also a giant projector screen that shows a film on the evolution of man.
Maritime Centre
This pavilion is set up in association with the Kolkata Port Trust. The building is in the shape of a ship. There are interesting exhibits on historical ships, boats and sea vessels. There are models and pictures with information.
Musical Fountain
Music, light and water are synchronised in this fountain functional after sunset. It is a relaxing experience.
Butterfly Nursery
Located in the garden of Science City, exhibits here show the life cycle of butterflies from a small larva. Different species of butterflies can be spotted here.
Cable Cars
If you what to relax while enjoying an aerial view of the Science City and its neighbourhood then you must get on the cable car. From the top, you will also be able to see the Maa flyover and the skyscrapers of Kolkata.