New Delhi Railway Museum

New Delhi Railway Museum

To learn about the history of Indian railways, there’s no better place to visit than the Railway Museum located in the heart of the capital city, New Delhi—just a stone’s throw away from the diplomatic enclave. Officially inaugurated on February 1, 1977, and planned by the Government of India, this railway-themed museum covers a floor area of more than 45,000 square meters, including a large indoor exhibition hall and an impressive outdoor area featuring vintage carriages and tracks. Locomotives that once roared across the South Asian subcontinent now rest quietly on the rails, like decorated veterans silently recounting the region’s past glories and hardships.

The crown jewel of the New Delhi Railway Museum is the legendary “Fair Lady” locomotive—the only steam engine still in active service at the museum. In 1855, the “Fair Lady” made its long journey from Britain to India and began its first voyage on the tracks of the East India Company. It was retired in 1908 after a distinguished career. But in 1997, the extraordinary “Fair Lady” returned to duty. Starting from the 20th anniversary of the museum, it has pulled a train of over ten carriages every weekend, traveling from New Delhi to Alwar deep in the Rajasthan desert. As a result, the “Fair Lady” has become the “oldest working steam locomotive in the world,” and has been recognized by the Guinness World Records.

National Rail Museum, New Delhi

Must-visit reason: The world’s oldest working steam locomotive

Continent where the attraction is located: Asia【Asia】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: India[India]

Province/State where the attraction is located: National Capital Territory of Delhi [National Capital Territory of Delhi]

City where the attraction is located: New Delhi [New Delhi]