Image Source: vmrda.gov.in
About INS Kurusura Submarine Museum
The INS Kurusura Submarine Museum, located in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, is India’s first submarine museum and a unique maritime attraction on the Eastern coast of India.
Situated near RK Beach (Ramakrishna Beach), it is part of the Eastern Naval Command’s heritage circuit and showcases the life and operations aboard an Indian Navy submarine. The museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, defense students, and tourists seeking an immersive naval experience.
History of INS Kurusura
The museum is housed in the decommissioned INS Kurusura (S20), a Vela-class submarine of the Indian Navy. Commissioned in 1969, the submarine served the Navy for 31 years, performing critical patrol, surveillance, and defense operations along India’s eastern seaboard.
After decommissioning in 2001, it was converted into a floating museum to educate the public about submarine operations, naval life, and maritime defense strategy.
Exhibits and Features
The Submarine Itself: Visitors can explore the actual interiors of INS Kurusura, including the control room, torpedo compartment, crew quarters, and engine room, offering an authentic experience of life on a submarine.
Naval History Displays: The museum includes photographs, charts, models, and information panels detailing the Indian Navy’s maritime operations, submarine missions, and naval technology.
Interactive Experience: Educational tours highlight submarine navigation, underwater warfare, and the technical aspects of operating a vessel under the sea, providing both students and enthusiasts with hands-on learning opportunities.
Educational and Cultural Significance
The INS Kurusura Submarine Museum serves as a learning hub for naval history, engineering, and defense technology. It helps students, researchers, and visitors understand the strategic importance of submarines in national defense and the challenges faced by naval personnel during deployments. The museum also honors the service of Indian Navy officers and sailors, preserving their legacy for future generations.
Tourism and Visitor Experience
The museum is a popular tourist attraction in Visakhapatnam, often visited along with RK Beach, Kailasagiri, and the TU-142 Aircraft Museum. The floating submarine experience, coupled with educational exhibits and guided tours, offers a unique and immersive adventure for families, students, and defense enthusiasts. Photography enthusiasts also appreciate the coastal setting and submarine exterior for memorable shots.
How to Reach INS Kurusura Submarine Museum
By Road: The museum is approximately 7 km from Visakhapatnam city center, accessible via APSRTC buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws.
By Rail: The nearest major railway station is Visakhapatnam Railway Station (7 km), which connects to major Indian cities.
By Air: Visakhapatnam Airport (10 km) provides domestic and limited international connectivity, making the museum easily accessible to travelers.