The museum, established in the year 1985 is widely spread over a landmass of approximately 200 acres. The museum, built centuries ago was designed to show the evolution of man and culture over time, closely integrating this evolution with the Indian culture and development. One of the biggest and most prominent anthropological museums of India, this museum has made its place among the topmost museums to visit in India. The museum has 8 open-air exhibitions and about 12 indoor galleries to its name, justifying its name as India’s largest anthropological museum.

The architecture of the Indira Gandhi Sangrahalaya is a marvel in itself. The indoor and outdoor galleries here complement and complete each other. Not only is this the largest open-air anthropological museum of India, but the variety at display is commendable. The outdoor gallery depicts the beautiful architectural heritage of our country, whereas the indoor gallery adds to the beauty by shedding light on the pre and protohistoric culture of the country.

• The museum's activities include educational programs, seminars, lectures, summits, breakout sessions, conventions, cultural shows, geographical and social events, speeches, art camps, etc. 
• A few of the museum's society initiatives include painters workshops and intercultural initiatives, as well as the production of large-scale community-oriented cultural events. 
• The IGRMS reference library offers a large set of documents on anthropological studies, antiquities, art history, tribal studies, prehistory, sculpture, and construction, among other subjects. 
• It offers a wealth of study options for students, academics, designers, journalists, and others, as well as serves as a vital source of information for college and museum personnel.
   

• By Air: Bhopal Airport is close to the museum and has scheduled flights to other cities around the country, including Delhi, Kolkata, Chandigarh, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai. Transportation services are accessible from the airport to the museum. 
• By Road: Bhopal is connected to several adjacent cities via regular state-run and private bus services. The roadway is well-constructed for self-driving to Bhopal and its varied sights. 
• By Rail: The Bhopal Junction is the district's busiest train station, connecting the city to all corners of the country apart from the north-eastern regions. Rickshaws, taxis, and cabs can take you wherever in Bhopal from the terminal.

Winter weather is the perfect season to explore Bhopal, beginning in October and lasting until early March. The mild weather is tolerable, allowing visitors to take advantage of tourism and leisure adventures to their full potential. Winters are the greatest season to visit Bhopal because of the glorious sunshine. Summertime in Bhopal is warm and muggy, with heavy rain downpours. Monsoons bring heavy rain showers and storms. As a result, certain times are not advised for traveling.

• Rock Shelters Of Bhimbetka
• Upper Lake
• Saanchi Stupa
• Badi Jheel Lake
• Shaurya Smarak 
   

• The following open-air displays are now in the initial stage of development and are now open to visitors: Habitat of the Tribe. Traditional Technology Park, Coastal Town, Desert Town, Himalayan Village, Mythological Route 
• In Mysore, the museum also maintains a regional office for the Southern India province.