NIMHANS Brain Museum: A Journey into the Human Brain
Explore the intricate world of the human brain at Bengaluru's NIMHANS Brain Museum, a unique and educational experience.
The NIMHANS (National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences) Brain Museum in Bengaluru is a one-of-a-kind institution dedicated to neuroscience education and awareness. Founded by Dr. S. K. Shankar, the museum displays a collection of over 400 human brains, meticulously collected over 35 years, exhibiting the impact of various diseases, injuries, and disorders. The museum aims to demystify the complexities of the human brain, offering visitors a rare opportunity to explore its anatomy and functions. Specimens include brains affected by strokes, tumors, infections, neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, and even parasitic infestations. In addition to human brains, the museum also features specimens from various animal species, providing a comparative perspective. Visitors can participate in guided tours, typically available on Wednesdays and Saturdays, which include an introductory lecture, a guided walk through the exhibits, and the opportunity to touch and feel real human brains and other organs. This hands-on experience provides a visceral understanding of the brain's structure and the impact of various conditions. The museum also displays smokers' lungs and other organs affected by disease. The museum is dedicated to promoting neuroscience literacy and encouraging organ donation.
Local tips
- Visit on Wednesdays or Saturdays, the only days the museum is open to the public.
- Arrive by 10:30 am on Saturdays to catch the demonstrative lecture about brain specimens.
- Take advantage of the opportunity to touch real human brains and organs.
- Photography is not allowed inside the museum.
A brief summary to NIMHANS Brain Museum
- Hosur Main Road, Bengaluru, Lakkasandra, Laljinagar, Wilson Garden, Karnataka, 560029, IN
- +918026995786
- Visit website
- Wednesday 2:30 pm-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-4:30 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Majestic Bus Stand (Kempegowda Bus Station), take BMTC bus number 71, 171c, 165, or 168 towards Wilson Garden. Alight at Lakkasandra bus stop, which is a short walk to NIMHANS on Hosur Main Road. Bus fares typically range from ₹10-₹25.
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Taxi/Ride-sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Ola and Uber are readily available throughout Bengaluru. A ride from the city center (e.g., MG Road) to NIMHANS typically costs between ₹200-₹400, depending on traffic and the time of day. Alternatively, from Bengaluru Airport (BLR), a taxi to NIMHANS costs approximately ₹1100-₹1400 and takes around 40 minutes, depending on traffic.
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Walking
If you are in the Jayanagar area, you can walk to the NIMHANS Brain Museum. Start at the Jayanagar 4th Block bus stop, head southwest towards 1st Main Road, and turn left. Walk straight for about 900 meters until you reach Jayanagar 5th Block. Continue straight and turn right onto 2nd Cross Road. Cross Hosur Main Road and continue straight for approximately 1 kilometer. The NIMHANS Brain Museum will be on your left side in Lakkasandra, Laljinagar.
