About Tara Mandir
Tara Mandir — Porbandar's Window to the Universe
Tara Mandir — literally "Temple of Stars" — is Porbandar's beloved planetarium and science centre, operated by the Gujarat Council of Science City. Established to bring the wonders of astronomy and space science to the people of Saurashtra, it remains one of the most accessible and affordable science experiences in Gujarat.
The centrepiece is a dome theatre where digitally projected shows transport visitors across the solar system, through distant galaxies and into the history of India's space programme. The 40-minute shows are available in Gujarati and Hindi, making them accessible to all ages. School groups visit daily — and it is just as enjoyable for adults.
Beyond the dome theatre, Tara Mandir hosts a science exhibit hall with interactive displays covering astronomy, physics, the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) achievements, and the wonders of the night sky visible from Saurashtra. It is 1.2 km from Kirti Mandir and pairs perfectly with a morning heritage visit.
Dome Theatre Planetarium
360-degree digital projection dome showing the night sky, solar system tours and space exploration films. Seats 60–80 visitors per show.
ISRO Heritage Exhibit
Scale models of India's landmark space missions — from Aryabhata to Chandrayaan-3 and Mangalyaan. A proud and inspiring display of India's space legacy.
Interactive Science Zone
Hands-on exhibits designed for children and students — optics, magnetism, electricity and earth sciences. Great for school groups and curious young visitors.
Telescope Observation (Seasonal)
On selected evenings, Tara Mandir opens for public telescope observation sessions. Check with the centre for schedule — typically held during special astronomical events.
Planetarium Shows
Show Schedule & Tickets
Tara Mandir runs 4 planetarium shows daily (Tuesday–Sunday). Each show is approximately 40 minutes. Entry fee covers one show — additional shows require a fresh ticket.
10:30 AM
Journey Through the Solar System
Gujarati
Travel from the scorching surface of the Sun to the icy outer reaches of our solar system. Marvel at the planets, moons, asteroid belts and the Kuiper Belt. Ideal for first-time visitors and school groups.
12:00 PM
India's Space Odyssey — ISRO's Legacy
Hindi
The inspiring story of India's space programme — from the first satellite Aryabhata (1975) to Chandrayaan-3's historic moon landing (2023) and Mangalyaan's Mars mission. A source of national pride.
2:30 PM
Secrets of the Night Sky
Gujarati
A guided tour of the stars, constellations and planets visible from Saurashtra. Learn to identify Orion, the Pleiades, the Milky Way band and seasonal constellations. Perfect for aspiring astronomers.
4:30 PM
Deep Space — Beyond the Milky Way
Hindi
Journey beyond our galaxy into the vast cosmic web of galaxy clusters, superclusters and the observable universe. The grandest possible perspective on our place in existence. Recommended for older students and adults.
Weekend Special — Saturday & Sunday: An additional 6:00 PM show is added on weekends (subject to availability). School and group bookings (15+ persons) can also request private morning shows. Call 0286-2244100 to arrange.
Science Centre
Exhibits & Science Hall
01
ISRO Missions Gallery
Scale models and information displays on every major ISRO mission — from India's first satellite to Chandrayaan-3, Mangalyaan, Aditya-L1 (solar mission) and the upcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme. One of the most comprehensive ISRO display galleries in Gujarat.
02
Interactive Physics Zone
Hands-on exhibits on optics, magnetism, electricity and simple machines. Push buttons, spin gyroscopes, experiment with light refraction and see physics principles demonstrated live. Designed for school students but fascinating for all ages.
03
Earth Sciences Corner
Rock and mineral specimens from across Gujarat, tectonic plate models, weather instruments and a fascinating exhibit on Porbandar's unique geological position on the Saurashtra coastline. The earthquake zone display is particularly memorable.
04
Telescope & Observation Deck
Tara Mandir has a rooftop observation deck with telescopes for solar observation (during the day) and night sky viewing on special event evenings. On Diwali, Gandhi Jayanti and astronomy days, special observation sessions are organised with guidance from resident astronomers.
Plan Your Visit
Timings, Entry Fees & Tips
Opening Hours
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday to Sunday
Closed
Every Monday
Also closed on national holidays
Adult Entry
₹20 per person
Includes exhibit hall access
Children (under 12)
₹10 per child
Under 3: free
Shows Per Day
4 shows (5 weekends)
10:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:30 PM, 4:30 PM
Visit Duration
1.5 – 2.5 hours
One show + exhibits
Group bookings & school visits: Call Tara Mandir at 0286-2244100 to book special morning shows for school groups (15+ students). Discounted group rates available. Advance booking required — popular with schools across Saurashtra.
Around Tara Mandir
Nearby Attractions
Kirti Mandir — Gandhi's Birthplace
Heritage · Museum · Free Entry
1.2 km · ~4 min by auto
Rani Mahal Palace
Heritage · Architecture · ₹20 Entry
0.8 km · ~5 min walk
Sudama Mandir
Temple · Religious · Free Entry
1.5 km · ~5 min by auto
Chowpaty Beach
Beach · Sunset · Free Entry
1.8 km · ~6 min by auto
Suggested itinerary: Morning — Kirti Mandir (free, opens 9 AM) → walk to Sudama Mandir (0.8 km) → auto to Tara Mandir for the 12:00 PM show → lunch → Chowpaty Beach for sunset. A perfect full day in Porbandar.
Getting Here
How to Reach Tara Mandir
Auto Rickshaw
From M.G. Road · ₹20–30 · 4 min
Say "Tara Mandir" or "Planetarium" — most auto drivers know it. Very quick ride from the city centre. Convenient and affordable.
Ideal to combine with Kirti Mandir (1.2 km away) — visit Kirti Mandir first, then auto to Tara Mandir.
Walk from Kirti Mandir
1.2 km · ~15 min walk
A pleasant 15-minute walk from Kirti Mandir through Porbandar's city lanes. Good for active visitors who want to explore the neighbourhood between sites.
Walk through Porbandar Bazar — interesting shops and local food along the way.
Private Car / Bike
City Centre · Easy Parking
Tara Mandir has parking available nearby. Well signposted from the main roads. Search "Tara Mandir Planetarium Porbandar" on Google Maps.
Parking available near the entrance. No parking fees.
City Bus
From Bus Stand · ₹8
Local city buses pass near the Tara Mandir area. Ask conductor for "Tara Mandir" or "Science Centre" stop. Good budget option.
Check local bus routes at Porbandar Bus Stand for current timings.
Visitor Tips
Tips for Visiting Tara Mandir
Arrive 15 minutes before the show to get good seats. The dome show fills up quickly, especially on weekends and during school holidays.
Don't visit on Monday — Tara Mandir is closed every Monday. Also check for national holiday closures before travelling.
The 10:30 AM show is least crowded — arrive at opening time for the most peaceful experience, especially on weekdays.
No mobile phones or flash during the dome show. The experience requires darkness — any light source disrupts the projection for all visitors.
Children love the interactive exhibits — budget extra time beyond the show for the science hall, especially the hands-on physics zone.
Don't expect English shows — all shows are in Gujarati or Hindi. The dome visuals are spectacular even without understanding the narration, but language matters for full experience.