Air Force Museum

Delhi’s Air Force Museum, tucked away in the Palam neighbourhood, is a walk into a whole different era. With more than 50 real fighter jets bearing marks from actual wars, the museum will leave you in awe.

The collection was the first of its kind in India and is located inside the Air Force Cantonment area of the capital. Tickets are affordably priced. After entering, your first encounter is with the War Memorial, dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives in various wars.

There are a total of four galleries, one of which is open-air. The indoor galleries tell you everything you need to know about army rankings, vintage cameras and photographs, radar systems, and fancy rifles. Don’t forget the missiles and aircraft suits. Hardly any of these exhibits are models; many were actually used by some of the Air Force.

Outside in the open gallery, parked magnificently, are several aircraft. There are also captured army tanks and vehicles from other countries like Pakistan.

Finally, the last gallery gives you a glimpse into the history of the wars between India and Pakistan. After wandering around these galleries, you can catch your breath at the Longwala Lounge, which has plenty of options for snacks. There is also a souvenir shop where you can buy small aircraft-model keychains, along with dashing leather jackets and jerseys.

The highlight's obviously the open-air gallery, which houses multiple aircraft. There's almost everything from small missiles and fighter jets to carrier aircraft and tanks. Even if you take your time, the entire museum will probably not take you more than three hours. 

Nearest metro station: Sadar Bazar Cantonment (Magenta line)