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About INS Kursura Submarine Museum
The INS Kursura Submarine Museum is one of the most fascinating attractions in Visakhapatnam and holds the distinction of being the first submarine museum in South Asia. Located along the scenic Rama Krishna Beach, popularly known as RK Beach, this unique museum gives visitors a rare chance to step inside a real submarine that once served the Indian Navy. Unlike ordinary museums that rely on models or replicas, INS Kursura is an actual decommissioned submarine, making the experience far more immersive and memorable.
The submarine museum beautifully showcases the courage, discipline, and sacrifices of Indian naval submariners. Walking through its narrow passages instantly gives visitors a glimpse into the challenging life of sailors who spent months underwater in confined spaces. For history enthusiasts, military lovers, students, and tourists, the museum offers a perfect blend of education and adventure.
History of INS Kursura
INS Kursura (S20) was a Soviet-built Kalvari-class submarine inducted into the Indian Navy in 1969. Over the course of its service, the submarine played an important role in strengthening India’s naval defense capabilities. It also participated in the 1971 Indo-Pak War, making it an important part of Indian naval history.
After serving the nation for more than three decades, the submarine was decommissioned in 2001. Instead of scrapping the vessel, authorities decided to preserve it as a museum so future generations could learn about submarine warfare and naval life. The museum was officially inaugurated on 9 August 2002 and has since become one of Visakhapatnam’s most visited tourist attractions.
Architecture and Structure of the Museum
One of the most striking aspects of the museum is that the submarine has been preserved almost exactly as it was during its operational years. The exterior retains its authentic naval appearance, while the interior still contains original equipment and machinery.
The submarine is approximately 91 meters long and designed to operate deep underwater for extended periods. Inside, every inch of space was carefully utilized. Visitors can observe how compactly submariners lived and worked inside the vessel. The narrow walkways, low ceilings, machinery-filled chambers, and tightly packed rooms create a realistic understanding of submarine operations.
What to See Inside the Submarine
Exploring the interior of INS Kursura is an unforgettable experience. Visitors walk through different sections of the submarine while learning how sailors survived and operated underwater.
Sonar Room
The sonar room was used for underwater detection and navigation. This section demonstrates how submarines identified enemy ships, underwater obstacles, and surrounding movements using sound signals.
Torpedo Section
The torpedo room displays the launch systems and weapons used during naval missions. Visitors can see how torpedoes were stored and fired during combat situations.
Control Room
Often described as the “brain” of the submarine, the control room contains navigation instruments, gauges, steering systems, and operational controls. This area gives a detailed insight into how the submarine was maneuvered underwater.
Engine and Machinery Compartments
The engine compartment highlights the mechanical systems that powered the submarine. The complex machinery reflects the technological sophistication of naval engineering during that era.
Crew Living Quarters
One of the most interesting sections is the crew accommodation area. The tiny sleeping spaces, compact dining arrangements, and limited storage facilities reveal the disciplined and challenging lifestyle of submariners.
Exhibits and Interactive Experience
The museum features preserved submarine equipment, operational models, photographs, charts, and informative displays explaining underwater warfare and naval operations. Detailed descriptions help visitors understand submarine technology, communication systems, and life at sea.
A major highlight of the museum is the guided tours conducted by former Navy personnel. Their firsthand experiences and stories make the visit more engaging and authentic. Listening to ex-submariners explain daily life inside the vessel adds emotional depth to the overall experience.
Audio-visual presentations and multimedia displays further simplify technical concepts and naval terminology for visitors who may not be familiar with military operations.
Photography Rules
Photography inside the submarine is generally restricted due to the narrow interiors and preservation concerns. However, visitors are free to capture photographs outside the submarine, especially with the beautiful backdrop of RK Beach and the Bay of Bengal.
Timings and Entry Fee
The museum remains open:
Weekdays: 2:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Weekends and Public Holidays: 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM
Closed on Mondays
Entry tickets are reasonably priced, making the museum accessible for families, students, and tourists. Discounts are often available for children and student groups.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the INS Kursura Submarine Museum is during the evening hours. The weather near RK Beach becomes more pleasant, and visitors can combine the museum tour with a relaxing walk along the coastline. The illuminated submarine against the evening sky creates a wonderful atmosphere for sightseeing and photography.
The winter season, from October to February, is considered ideal for exploring Visakhapatnam comfortably.
How to Reach INS Kursura Museum
The museum is conveniently located on RK Beach Road in Visakhapatnam, around 5 kilometers from the city center.
By Rail
The nearest railway station is Visakhapatnam Railway Station, situated approximately 5 km away. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and local buses are easily available from the station.
By Air
The nearest airport is Visakhapatnam International Airport, located around 12 km from the museum.
By Road
The museum is well connected by local buses, taxis, and app-based cab services. Since it is situated on the popular beach road, reaching the attraction is convenient from most parts of the city.
Nearby Attractions
Visitors often combine their trip to the submarine museum with other famous attractions nearby.
Rama Krishna Beach – A lively beach known for scenic views and evening walks.
Kailasagiri – A hilltop park offering panoramic views of the coastline.
Victory at Sea Memorial – A war memorial dedicated to Indian Navy heroes.
TU 142 Aircraft Museum – Another popular defense museum located opposite the submarine museum.
Maps and Location
FAQs
1. Why is INS Kursura Submarine Museum famous?
The museum is famous for being the first submarine museum in South Asia and for allowing visitors to explore a real decommissioned Indian Navy submarine.
2. Can visitors go inside the submarine?
Yes, visitors can walk through the interior sections of the submarine and explore areas like the control room, torpedo section, and crew quarters.
3. Is photography allowed inside the museum?
Photography inside the submarine is generally restricted, but visitors can freely take pictures outside the museum.
4. How much time is needed to explore the museum?
Most visitors spend around 45 minutes to 1.5 hours exploring the submarine and its exhibits.
5. Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes, the museum is educational and exciting for children, especially those interested in naval history, science, and military technology.
6. What is the best time to visit the museum?
Evenings and the winter months from October to February are considered the best times to visit because of the pleasant weather and beachside atmosphere.
7. Are guided tours available at the museum?
Yes, guided tours are often conducted by retired Navy personnel who explain submarine operations and share real-life experiences.
8. Which attractions are close to INS Kursura Museum?
Nearby attractions include RK Beach, Kailasagiri Hill, Victory at Sea Memorial, and the TU 142 Aircraft Museum.
