Top 10 art galleries in Delhi

Delhi’s art galleries offer an enchanting glimpse into the country’s artistic heritage and contemporary expressions. From the prestigious National Gallery of Modern Art to the dynamic spaces of private galleries, each art destination in Delhi has a unique story to tell. Whether you’re an art connoisseur or just starting your artistic journey, exploring these galleries is an enriching experience that connects you with India’s diverse cultural legacy and the creative minds shaping its future.

 

Source: Threshold Art Gallery

See also: Popular bookstores in Delhi

 

How to reach Delhi?

By air: Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) is one of the busiest airports in India, with numerous domestic and international flights landing and taking off daily.

By rail: The two major railway stations in Delhi are New Delhi Railway Station and Old Delhi Railway Station. Several superfast, express and local trains ply to and from Delhi.

By road: A well-developed network of national highways and expressways connects Delhi to places like Jaipur, Agra, Chandigarh and more. State-run and private buses operate regular services to and from Delhi, making it a convenient and economical option for travellers. Additionally, Delhi is connected to the Golden Quadrilateral, a network of highways linking India’s major metropolitan cities.

 

The top art galleries in Delhi

National Gallery of Modern Art

Source: Pinterest (Tripadvisor)

 

Located at Jaipur House near India Gate, the National Gallery of Modern Art is a paradise for art lovers. Established in 1954, this art gallery in Delhi houses an extensive collection of Indian contemporary art dating back to the 1850s. From traditional Indian art to modern and contemporary works, the gallery showcases a diverse range of paintings, sculptures and photographs. The serene surroundings and engaging exhibitions make NGMA an absolute must-visit for anyone seeking an in-depth understanding of India’s artistic evolution.

Entry fee (approx): Rs 20 for Indian citizens and Rs 500  for foreign nationals.

Timings: Tuesday to Friday: 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM, Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Address: Jaipur House, Shershah Rd, near India Gate, Delhi High Court, India Gate, New Delhi, Delhi-110003

 

Kiran Nadar Museum of Art

Source:  Kiran Nadar Museum of Art

 

Founded by art collector Kiran Nadar, KNMA is a true testament to India’s burgeoning contemporary art scene. Situated in Saket, South Delhi, this private museum exhibits a remarkable collection of modern and contemporary Indian art. KNMA often hosts exhibitions and events featuring emerging artists and renowned masters alike, fostering a platform for artistic discourse and expression. 

Entry fee (approx): Free

Timings: 10.30 AM to 6.30 PM, closed on Mondays

Address:  No. 145, DLF South Court Mall Saket, Saket District Centre, Saket, New Delhi, Delhi 110017

 

Dhoomimal Art Centre

Source: Dhoomimal Art Centre

 

Established in 1936, Dhoomimal Art Centre is one of Delhi’s oldest and most prestigious art galleries. Located in Connaught Place, the heart of the city, this iconic gallery has been a nurturing ground for generations of artists. Its collection encompasses a wide spectrum of Indian art, from traditional to contemporary. Stepping into Dhoomimal Art Centre is like immersing yourself in a historical treasure trove of Indian creativity.

Entry fee (approx): Free

Timings: 11.00 AM-7.00 PM

Address: 8-A, Connaught Place, New Delhi-110001

 

India Habitat Centre (Visual Arts Gallery)

Source: Pinterest (Ssmariof)

 

Not just a cultural hub, the India Habitat Centre (IHC) houses a dedicated Visual Arts Gallery which showcases contemporary art exhibitions. Located on Lodhi Road, the IHC gallery provides a platform for emerging artists and hosts numerous exhibitions, workshops and art-related events throughout the year. It’s a great place to witness the diverse artistic expressions of the nation’s talented artists.

Entry fee (approx): Free

Timings: 10.00 AM to 8.00 PM

Address: H6QF+RW2, New, Institutional Area, Lodi Colony, New Delhi, Delhi 110003

 

Art Alive Gallery

Source:  Art Alive Gallery

 

Known for its dynamic exhibitions and thought-provoking art displays, Art Alive Gallery is situated in Panchsheel Park, South Delhi. This gallery showcases the works of both established and emerging artists, reflecting the ever-evolving nature of contemporary Indian art. Art enthusiasts and collectors find themselves captivated by the cutting-edge installations and visually stimulating creations on display.

Entry fee (approx) Free

Timings: 11.00 AM to 7.00 PM

Address:  S-221, Gamal Abdel Nasser Marg, Block S, Panchsheel Park, New Delhi, Delhi 110017

 

Triveni Kala Sangam

Source: Triveni Kala Sangam

 

Located in Mandi House, Triveni Kala Sangam is an artistic haven with a legacy that dates back to 1950. This cultural centre hosts numerous art exhibitions, cultural events, dance performances, and music recitals. The art gallery at Triveni Kala Sangam serves as a platform for young and upcoming artists to showcase their talent, making it an essential part of Delhi’s art landscape. 

Entry fee (approx): Free

Timings: 11.00 AM to 8.00 PM

Address: 205, Tansen Marg, Todarmal Road Area, Mandi House, Delhi, New Delhi, Delhi 110001

 

Gallery Espace

Source: Gallery Espace

 

Located in the heart of South Delhi’s New Friends Colony, Gallery Espace is renowned for its dedication to promoting contemporary art. Founded by Renu Modi in 1989, this art gallery in Delhi has hosted exhibitions featuring some of India’s most celebrated artists, as well as international collaborations. With its avant-garde approach and emphasis on pushing artistic boundaries, Gallery Espace is a must-visit for those seeking cutting-edge contemporary art.

Entry fee (approx): Free

Timings: 11.00 AM to 7.00 PM

Address:  16, Community Center, Sujan Mahindra Road, New Friends Colony, New Delhi, Delhi 110025

 

National Museum

Source: National Museum

 

While primarily known for its historical artefacts, the National Museum in Delhi also has an impressive collection of traditional Indian art. The museum’s art galleries feature an extensive range of classical paintings, sculptures and textiles, providing a unique opportunity to witness the artistic excellence of ancient India.

Entry fee (approx): Rs 20 for Indian Citizens, Rs 350 for Foreign Nationalities, Free for students up to class 12th  with an ID card

Timings: 10.00 AM to 6.00 PM

Address: Janpath Rd, Rajpath Area, Central Secretariat, New Delhi, Delhi 110011

 

Nature Morte

Source: Nature Morte

 

Situated in the art district of Lado Sarai, Nature Morte is a contemporary art gallery that has been a significant player in the Indian art scene since its inception in 1997. The gallery focuses on contemporary art forms, including installations, multimedia and conceptual art. Nature Morte has been instrumental in fostering experimental and thought-provoking art in India.

Entry fee (approx):  Rs 20 for Indian Citizens, Rs 150 for Foreign Nationalities

Timings: 11.00 AM to 6.00 PM, closed on Mondays

Address: A-7, Poorvi Marg, Block A, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi, Delhi 110057

 

Threshold Art Gallery

Source: Threshold Art Gallery

 

Tucked away in the art district of Sarvodaya Enclave, Threshold Art Gallery is an inviting space that nurtures the works of talented artists. The gallery showcases a mix of contemporary and traditional art, often featuring solo and group exhibitions that highlight the depth and diversity of Indian artistic expressions.

Entry fee (approx): Free

Timings: 11.00 AM to 7.00 PM

Address: C-221, Block C, Sarvodaya Enclave, New Delhi, Delhi 110017

 

FAQs

What are the opening hours of art galleries in Delhi?

Most galleries are open to the public from 11:00 AM. Some galleries may remain closed on Mondays, but it's best to check their websites or contact them directly before planning your visit.

Are there entry fees to visit art galleries in Delhi?

Galleries supported by the government, such as the National Gallery of Modern Art, often have nominal entry fees for Indian citizens and higher charges for foreign visitors. However, several private art galleries, especially those in commercial areas, do not usually charge any entry fee.

Can I purchase artwork from the galleries, and are they suitable for all budgets?

Yes, you can purchase artwork from most art galleries in Delhi. These galleries serve as a platform for artists to showcase and sell their works.

Do art galleries in Delhi host art-related events and workshops?

Yes, many art galleries in Delhi host a variety of art-related events, workshops and interactive sessions. These events often include artist talks, panel discussions, art appreciation workshops and live demonstrations.

Are photography and video recording allowed inside art galleries?

Photography and video recording policies can vary from one art gallery to another. In general, most galleries discourage photography, especially with flash, to preserve the artwork and ensure a distraction-free environment for visitors.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com