About Us >> Genesis
Genesis
Palampur Science Centre, Palampur, the first science centre established in Himachal Pradesh, stands as a landmark achievement of the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) to bring interactive science communication to the heart of the Himalayas. Conceived as a joint initiative between the Central Government and the Himachal Pradesh Government under the Scheme for Promotion of Culture of Science (SPoCS), this centre was developed at a cost of approximately Rs. 9.0 crores. The foundational vision was to portray the growth of science and technology in industry and human welfare while nurturing a scientific temperament among the youth.
The journey toward its establishment reached a significant milestone on February 16, 2013, when the foundation stone was laid at the Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Palampur campus by then Hon’ble Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh Sh. Virbhadra Singh and Smt. Chandresh Kumari, the then Hon’ble Union Minister of Culture. The centre was meticulously planned to suit the specific geographic and educational needs of the region. It now operates under the administrative control of National Council of Science Muesums and is maintained through its North Zone headquarter- National Science Centre, Delhi.
The centre was designed to be a unique "Dream Castle" of discovery, featuring specialized thematic galleries that resonate with its location. Notable among these is the "Untamed Earth Gallery," which focuses on the sensitive Himalayan tectonic belt, educating visitors on natural disasters like earthquakes and landslides through interactive exhibits. To ignite curiosity in younger minds, the centre houses a "Fun Science Gallery" filled with hands-on exhibits covering mechanics, optics, and electromagnetism. Outside, the beautifully landscaped Science Park offers 30 interactive exhibits, providing an "edutainment" experience for families and tourists.
Beyond its physical galleries, the Palampur Science Centre is a hub for active learning and outreach. It is equipped with a multi-disciplinary Innovation Hub where students can develop patent-legible innovations, a 130-seat Auditorium, and facilities for 3D Science Film Shows, Science show and Taramandal. Since its inception, the centre has been committed to reaching remote areas through outreach programmes and Mobile Science Exhibition, ensuring science education is accessible to those in far-flung regions of the state.
The centre was formally inaugurated and dedicated to the nation on May 14, 2022, by Shri Anurag Thakur, Hon'ble Union Cabinet Minister for Information & Broadcasting and Youth Affairs & Sports. The ceremony was held in the august presence of Shri Kishan Kapoor (Member of Parliament), Shri Ashish Butail (MLA Palampur), Shri A. D. Choudhury (Director General, NCSM), and several other dignitaries. Today, the Palampur Science Centre stands as a premier science communication hub, fulfilling its mandate to engage society through interactive exhibitions and justifying its identity as a vital educational landmark in North India.
Visit NSCD and Explore the Wonders of Science
Plan your visit
Book tickets and plan your day including exhibitions, facilities, access, food and travel.
NSCD Location
Navigate the NSCD with ease, using our floor-by-floor plan and discover what not to miss.
Galleries
Walk through two million years of history and culture across more than 50 galleries.
Group Visits
From Group facilities to activities and events, discover how to make the most of your day at the Nscd.
