On the 1st of April, 2025, at Joshi’s Museum of Miniature Railways we celebrated with immense pride our 27th anniversary, honouring all the skillful hands, eager visitors and invaluable efforts of all those who have made it the iconic museum it is today.
Nestled deep in the heart of Kothrud, a bustling suburb of Pune, lies a marvel that has delighted thousands over the years- Joshi’s Museum of Miniature Railways.
As it celebrates its 27th anniversary, the museum continues to enchant visitors with its intricate layouts, moving trains, realistic cityscapes, and a legacy of engineering brilliance. More than just a tourist attraction, it is a dream brought to life by the late Mr. B. S. Joshi, lovingly known as Bhau Joshi.
Whether you’re a seasoned train enthusiast or simply curious about transport history, our museum is a must-visit destination.
The seeds for the museum were sown in the 1980s when Bhau Joshi- an engineer and a passionate model railway enthusiast- began collecting miniature trains from around the world.
He envisioned a travelling model train exhibition that could move from city to city like a fair or circus, sparking curiosity and joy among people everywhere.
After successfully showcasing the layout in Pune and Mumbai, he realized the logistical challenges of running a mobile display- massive manpower, high costs, and difficult transport conditions.
This pivotal moment led to a new idea: creating a permanent Museum of Miniature Railways in Pune.
In 1991, construction began on a dedicated hall within the premises of Soudamini Instruments, a company founded by Bhau Joshi in 1962.
This space would soon transform into a unique and magical world of miniature trains, bustling stations, flyovers, lampposts, traffic signals, and meticulously crafted urban scenes.
The museum officially opened its doors in 1998 and quickly carved a niche for itself in Pune’s cultural and tourism landscape. Today, it draws around 30,000 visitors every year, including tourists, students, railway lovers, and families.
Over 27 years, the museum has not only showcased stunning layouts and model trains but also sparked a passion for railway modelling among young Indians.
The layout inside the museum is an engineering marvel in itself. Designed with hundreds of wires, 65 functioning signals, flyovers, fences, and lampposts, all created using chemical etching techniques, the level of detail is astonishing.
Everything is designed to be operated either manually or through a computerized control panel, allowing synchronized shows with light, sound, and movement.
This immersive experience makes every visit to the museum a unique journey through time- from the earliest steam engines to sleek, high-speed trains of today.
As the museum celebrated its 27th anniversary, it did so with a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation. The event was graced by Mr. Girish Chitale, renowned for his work with Chitale Dairy, who served as the Chief Guest.
He unveiled a brand-new section on the museum’s website dedicated to train modelling– a hobby that is gaining popularity across India.
This initiative aims to provide enthusiasts with resources, model kits, and inspiration, bridging the gap between curiosity and hands-on creation.
One of the highlights of the celebration was the reveal of a new miniature model of the Pune Metro, following the previous year’s successful unveiling of the Vande Bharat model.
These detailed replicas are available for purchase at our online store, enabling hobbyists and collectors to own a piece of India’s railway history.
Mr. Chitale described the museum as a “magical blend of art and science,” praising the dedication and craftsmanship that brings the miniature world to life.
The museum is more than just an exhibition; it is the embodiment of a vision nurtured over decades by Bhau Joshi. Through his unwavering commitment to railway modelling, Bhau laid the foundation for what has become India’s only miniature railway museum.
His belief was simple yet profound: railway modelling is not merely a hobby; it’s a powerful tool for education and skill-building. It integrates elements of:
By engaging with this hobby, young minds can develop a multidisciplinary perspective, gaining insight into how various fields converge to create functional, beautiful systems.
The legacy of innovation is being carried forward by the next generation. Devavrat, the son of Dr. Ravi, and the grandson of Bhau Joshi, has now joined the Soudamini team.
An engineer by qualification, Devavrat brings fresh energy and global exposure to the museum.
He completed a year-long internship with PIKO GmbH, a leading German manufacturer of model trains.
Thanks to this collaboration, Soudamini Instruments is now the official service center for PIKO in India– a huge milestone for railway modellers across the country.
Devavrat specializes in 3D printing, model train part design, and product development, paving the way for a new era where Indian railway models can be manufactured locally for the Indian market.
Future collaborations with international brands like PIKO are also in the works, promising even more innovation and accessibility in the world of miniature trains.
In recent years, Joshi’s Museum has begun to gain recognition outside Pune. Social media and online visibility have helped attract national and international attention.
Visitors often leave glowing reviews, calling the museum a “hidden gem of Pune” and “a must-visit for families and children.”
As more people discover the joy and educational value of railway modelling, the museum’s impact continues to grow. The new e-commerce platform and train modelling section on the website aim to build a community of model train enthusiasts across India.
There are countless reasons to add this unique museum to your Pune itinerary:
Whether you’re a nostalgic adult who once dreamed of toy trains or a curious child seeing miniature locomotives for the first time, the museum has something magical to offer.
As it moves into its 28th year and beyond, the museum has ambitious plans. With the leadership of the Joshi family and the enthusiasm of a growing fan base, Joshi’s Museum of Miniature Railways is poised to become a national hub for railway modelling in India.
The mission remains clear: to inspire, educate, and amaze through the world of miniature railways.
With technology, creativity, and community engagement at the core, the journey promises to be just as exciting as the trains on display.
Celebrating 27 years of Joshi’s Museum of Miniature Railways is not just about marking a milestone- it’s about honoring a visionary legacy, celebrating engineering artistry, and welcoming the future of train modelling in India.
Whether you’re a curious explorer or a passionate hobbyist, this museum promises an experience that’s equal parts education and enchantment.
All aboard for the next chapter in the journey!
1. Where is Joshi’s Museum of Miniature Railways located?
It is located at Soudamini Instruments Campus in Kothrud, Pune, Maharashtra.
2. What are the museum’s show timings?
Show timings may vary, so it’s best to check the official website or call ahead for the latest schedule.
3. Are there guided tours available?
Yes, the museum conducts live shows where a guide explains how the miniature railway systems work.
4. Is the museum suitable for young children?
Absolutely! The museum is a favorite among children and offers an engaging, interactive experience.
5. Can I buy model trains or accessories from the museum?
Yes, select miniature train models like Pune Metro and Vande Bharat are available for purchase, and an online store is being developed.
