Jorhat Science Centre & Planetarium
The Jorhat Science Centre & Planetarium is a flagship institution in Upper Assam, dedicated to promoting science literacy and curiosity, especially among the youth. Inaugurated in 2013, it was developed by the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), under the Ministry of Culture, Government of I ndia, in collaboration with the Government of Assam. The center is a vibrant educational space that goes beyond traditional classroom learning. Its core philosophy is to make complex scientific concepts accessible, engaging, and fun through interactive, hands-on exhibits. The facility is broadly divided into a main Science Centre and a state-of-the-art Planetarium. The Science Centre houses permanent thematic galleries, including the popular 'Story of Oil' gallery, which is highly relevant to the region's petroleum history, and a 'Fun Science' gallery that uses play to demonstrate principles of physics and mechanics. The Planetarium is equipped with modern digital projection technology, offering immersive shows that take visitors on a virtual journey through the cosmos, exploring everything from our solar system to distant galaxies. Surrounded by a lush Science Park featuring outdoor exhibits and a prehistoric park, the institution serves as a crucial knowledge hub, hosting regular educational programs, workshops, and science demonstrations. It plays a significant role in fostering a scientific temperament in the region, attracting students, researchers, and families alike. The center also features models of various prehistoric animals, adding an element of natural history to the scientific themes.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 hours (Allows time for the Planetarium show and exploration of all indoor and outdoor exhibits)Place Type:
Educational, Science Museum, Planetarium, CulturalEntry Fees:
Standard Entry Fees (Science Centre) The basic entry fee to access the Science Centre exhibits is typically very nominal and affordable for the general public. As of recent information, the standard entry fee for the Science Centre is generally around Rs. 20 to Rs. 30 per person. This fee grants acces...Standard Entry Fees (Science Centre) The basic entry fee to access the Science Centre exhibits is typically very nominal and affordable for the general public. As of recent information, the standard entry fee for the Science Centre is generally around Rs. 20 to Rs. 30 per person. This fee grants access to the permanent indoor galleries like the 'Fun Science' and 'Story of Oil' exhibits, as well as the outdoor Science Park and the Prehistoric Park area. Planetarium Show Fees (Separate Ticket) It is important for visitors to note that the Planetarium show requires a separate ticket in addition to the Science Centre entry fee. The ticket price for the Planetarium show is usually slightly higher than the basic entry, often ranging from Rs. 30 to Rs. 50 per person. Visitors must check the Planetarium's show schedule and purchase a ticket for a specific time slot, as seating capacity is limited.
Concessional Rates for Students and Groups: Significant discounts, or concessional rates, are offered to school students visiting in organized groups. The entry fee for students in an educational group can be substantially lower, sometimes as low as Rs. 10 to Rs. 15 per person for the Science Centre, and a reduced rate for the Planetarium show as well. Groups are typically required to provide an official letter from their school/institution to avail of these rates.
Special Events and Workshop Fees: Fees for special events, workshops, or temporary exhibitions (like those held on National Science Day or during specific holidays) are usually charged separately and can vary. These fees are generally higher than the standard entry but include the cost of materials and expert instruction. Visitors should enquire about the pricing for these specialized programs well in advance.Timing:
Regular Timings (Science Centre) The Jorhat Science Centre typically operates from Tuesday to Sunday. The general opening hours are from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM or 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The center remains closed on Mondays and on certain public holidays. Visitors are strongly advised to confirm the cu...Regular Timings (Science Centre) The Jorhat Science Centre typically operates from Tuesday to Sunday. The general opening hours are from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM or 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The center remains closed on Mondays and on certain public holidays. Visitors are strongly advised to confirm the current hours on the day of their visit.
Planetarium Show Timings: The Planetarium shows run on a scheduled basis, not continuously. There are usually 3 to 4 shows per day, with specific timings for each show. Common time slots might be around 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, and 3:30 PM. Since tickets are limited, it is essential to check the show timings immediately upon arrival and purchase tickets to secure a seat for the desired slot. Ideal Visit Time (Time of Day) The ideal time to visit is immediately after opening at 10:00 AM on a weekday, Tuesday to Friday. Arriving early allows visitors to explore the indoor and outdoor exhibits at a relaxed pace before the crowds, especially school groups, arrive. This also ensures a better chance of securing tickets for the first or second Planetarium show.
Best Day to Visit: The best day for a peaceful visit is generally a Tuesday or Wednesday. Weekends (Saturday and Sunday) and school holiday periods see the highest footfall, making the experience more crowded and requiring longer queues for exhibits. For school group visits, booking on a weekday is highly recommended.Special Events:
National Science Day Celebration: The most significant annual event is the celebration of National Science Day on February 28th. The center organises a massive program that includes competitions, exhibitions, and lectures. This often features renowned scientists or educato...National Science Day Celebration: The most significant annual event is the celebration of National Science Day on February 28th. The center organises a massive program that includes competitions, exhibitions, and lectures. This often features renowned scientists or educators from the region, special planetarium shows, and public viewing of science projects created by local students.
Astronomical Observation Events: The center frequently hosts stargazing sessions and telescopic viewings to coincide with major astronomical phenomena like meteor showers, planetary alignments, or eclipses. These events are highly popular, as they allow the public to use high-quality telescopes under expert guidance. The best events usually take place during clear winter nights.
Workshops and Training Programs: Throughout the year, the center organises various educational workshops for teachers and students, especially during holidays like the summer vacation or the Puja holidays. These cover diverse subjects like coding, model-making, and basic mechanics, serving as a non-formal supplement to school education.
Commemoration of Science Icons: Special events are held to commemorate the birth and death anniversaries of famous scientists, such as Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam or Sir C. V. Raman. These commemorations usually involve special talks, film screenings, and quiz competitions, aiming to inspire young minds by highlighting the achievements of Indian and global scientific pioneers.Best Photo Spots:
The Planetarium Dome Exterior: The exterior of the Planetarium dome is the most iconic photo spot. Its futuristic, semi-spherical shape provides a dramatic, sleek backdrop. Photos taken from a low angle can emphasize the dome’s size and structure, making it look like a c...The Planetarium Dome Exterior: The exterior of the Planetarium dome is the most iconic photo spot. Its futuristic, semi-spherical shape provides a dramatic, sleek backdrop. Photos taken from a low angle can emphasize the dome’s size and structure, making it look like a celestial observatory. The entrance sign is often incorporated into this shot to mark the location.
The Interactive Fun Science Exhibits: For candid, dynamic shots, the interactive exhibits in the 'Fun Science' gallery are ideal. Capture the moment when a child is fully immersed, such as trying to lift themselves using a pulley system or being visually tricked by an optical illusion display. These photos convey the joy of hands-on learning and make for engaging, memorable images.
The Prehistoric Park Dinosaur Models: The life-size models of dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures in the Science Park offer playful and dramatic photo opportunities. Posing next to the models provides a sense of scale and fun. Capturing a picture with a large, roaring dinosaur or a creature from the past is a favourite among family visitors.
The Science Park Water and Sound Displays: The outdoor exhibits, especially those dealing with parabolic sound reflectors or water flow systems, provide unique photo spots. A photo taken between the two sound reflectors, capturing a whispered conversation, is a classic shot. Similarly, pictures taken with the lush greenery of the Science Park in the background, contrasting with the metallic/geometric nature of the exhibits, offer an aesthetically pleasing blend of nature and technology.
The 'Story of Oil' Dioramas: Inside the 'Story of Oil' gallery, there are often meticulously crafted dioramas and historical models. A photo focused on one of the large-scale models of an oil rig or a historical drilling site can provide a unique visual narrative, paying homage to the industrial heritage of Assam.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Explore the Core Thematic Galleries: Start your visit by immersing yourself in the main exhibition halls. The 'Story of Oil' gallery is a must-see, explaining the fascinating geological, historical, and technological journey of petroleum exploration in Assam and the world. The interactive displays use models, dioramas, and digital media to bring this complex subject to life. Simultaneously, the 'Fun Science' gallery is designed for high engagement, where you can test the principles of physics through hands-on exhibits like inertia tables, gear systems, and optical illusions.
Experience the Planetarium Show: The centerpiece of the attraction is the Planetarium. Plan your visit around the scheduled show timings. The presentation, projected onto the large dome, takes you on a guided tour of the night sky, covering topics like t...
Information
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Why Famous:
Regional Pioneer in Science Communication: The center is famous for being one of the most prominent science communication institutions in Upper Assam. Before its establishment, there was a significant gap in accessible, hands-on science education in the region. It serves a...Regional Pioneer in Science Communication: The center is famous for being one of the most prominent science communication institutions in Upper Assam. Before its establishment, there was a significant gap in accessible, hands-on science education in the region. It serves as a vital bridge between formal science education and public awareness, making it a well-known institution for school field trips and academic events.
The Immersive Planetarium Experience: Its fame is largely driven by the fully automated computerized Planetarium. The dome-based digital shows offer a spectacular and accurate simulation of the night sky, taking visitors on cosmic tours. This feature is a massive draw, providing a unique and captivating educational experience that is difficult to replicate outside of major metropolitan cities.
The 'Story of Oil' Gallery: A distinct factor contributing to its fame is the thematic gallery dedicated to the 'Story of Oil'. Jorhat and the surrounding areas are historically and economically tied to the petroleum industry (with nearby Digboi being the site of one of Asia's oldest operating refineries). This gallery provides a localized and highly relevant context for scientific and industrial history, making it particularly resonant and famous in the region. It showcases the processes of exploration, drilling, and refining.
Hands-on Learning Environment: The emphasis on interactive, hands-on exhibits in the 'Fun Science' gallery makes it famous, especially among younger visitors and parents. By allowing visitors to touch, manipulate, and experiment, the center turns learning from a passive activity into an active process of discovery. This practical approach to science education is what sets it apart as a popular destination. -
Architecture:
Modern Institutional Design: The architecture of the Science Centre & Planetarium is characterized by a contemporary, functional institutional design, prioritizing visitor flow and the accommodation of large, interactive exhibits. The main building typically features a blen...Modern Institutional Design: The architecture of the Science Centre & Planetarium is characterized by a contemporary, functional institutional design, prioritizing visitor flow and the accommodation of large, interactive exhibits. The main building typically features a blend of concrete, glass, and durable finishes, creating a clean and modern aesthetic suitable for a public educational facility. The design is practical, focusing on maximizing natural light in the exhibition areas where possible, and ensuring the complex itself is sturdy and easy to maintain.
The Planetarium Dome and Dimensions: The most distinctive architectural feature is the Planetarium dome. This is a semi-spherical structure, typically situated atop or integrated into the main building block. The dome has a dimension of approximately 8 meters in diameter, which is a standard size for regional planetariums, and is designed to act as a projection screen for celestial shows. The planetarium theater has a seating capacity of around 50 to 51 seats, optimized for a focused and immersive viewing experience.
Total Exhibit Area and Campus Layout: The center's exhibit area covers an impressive space of approximately 1300 square meters. The indoor space houses the main galleries. Complementing this is the outdoor Science Park, which is a landscaped area where large-scale, robust exhibits are placed. This includes models and interactive installations that demonstrate physical laws and engineering principles. The overall design effectively separates the quiet, dark, immersive experience of the planetarium from the bright, hands-on, interactive environment of the science galleries and the open space of the park. -
How To Reach:
By Air (Nearest Airport and Connectivity) The nearest airport is Jorhat Airport (JRH), also known as Rowriah Airport. It is located approximately 5. 8 KMS from the Science Centre. The airport has direct flight connectivity to major Indian cities like Kolkata and Guwahati. Upon arrival at JRH, you... -
Near Tourist Places:
1.
Raja Maidam: Historical burial ground (approx. 3. 5 KMS)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety and Emergency Contact: Always carry a basic first-aid kit including medication for general ailments, especially if traveling with children. In the monsoon or post-monsoon seasons, carry mosquito repellent. The facility is generally safe, but keep a close ey...
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