The Indian partition of August 1947 is responsible for the establishment of this museum. The sculptures and paintings were stored at the Central Museum in Lahore before the partition. After India and Pakistan separated in 1947, the museum's artifacts, mementos, and statues were divided between the two countries. Sixty percent of the collection was sent to Pakistan on April 10, 1948, while the remaining forty percent, which included Indian miniature paintings and Gandharan sculptures, remained on the Indian continent. These were introduced to Amritsar in April 1949, and later to cities such as Shimla and Patiala. In 1968, the museum was re-established with the remaining history collection.

The museum is well-known for its beautiful architecture as well as its historic collections of paintings, antiquities, and sculptures. The library, experiment lab, exhibition hall, and auditorium are all located on the third level of the building. The building's architect has thoughtfully constructed the structure to make the most of natural light. The skylight lets light in from the northeast and southwest. The museum's artifacts are illuminated with just the correct quantity of the building's light. A rainwater collection mechanism is also included in the project. It collects rainwater and then distributes it to the rest of the building.

• Artists from all around the world present contemporary exhibitions here.
• Aside from that, the center hosts seminars, workshops, and other activities about the study of art, culture, and other creative subjects.
• Visitors can take photos and record videos inside and outside of the Museum. 

• A guided tour can be requested in advance at the museum. Guided tours are available in Hindi, English, and French.
• An audio guide is available for free at the ticket booth.
• Do not take any food items inside the museum. 

Avoid the summer days as much as possible because staying outside during this moment is difficult. The time during the spring season is the best time to visit Chandigarh. February through April are most likely the best months to visit this city.

• Chandigarh Architecture Museum
• Nek Chand’s Rock Garden of Chandigarh
• International Dolls Museum
• Le Corbusier Centre
• Zakir Hussain Rose Garden

The museum houses one of the world's largest collections of Gandharan antiques. The separation of collections took place on April 10, 1948, after the partition. Pakistan retained 60% of the items, while India received 40% of the collection.