Permanent Mission Of India To The United Nations
Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations, New York City: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Information
Date: 03/07/2025
Introduction
Located in Midtown Manhattan at 235 East 43rd Street, New York City, the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations is a cornerstone of India’s diplomatic engagement on the world stage. Just steps from the iconic United Nations Headquarters, this Mission is India’s official liaison to the UN—advancing national interests on key issues such as peacekeeping, sustainable development, climate change, and human rights. While the Mission primarily serves as a working diplomatic office, it also provides meaningful opportunities for visitors to engage with Indian culture and international relations through carefully curated public events and educational briefings.
Access inside the Mission is generally restricted due to stringent security protocols. Public visits are by prior appointment or invitation, especially for group tours, academic delegations, or cultural events. The Mission operates Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. All visitors must comply with security screenings and present valid government-issued identification. Photography inside is typically prohibited, but the building’s distinctive exterior—featuring red granite facades inspired by North Indian heritage and grand Rajasthani timber doors—offers excellent photographic opportunities.
Designed by renowned Indian architect Charles Correa in collaboration with Bond Ryder and Associates, the Mission’s architecture elegantly blends traditional Indian aesthetics with modern design. The building, completed in 1993, houses diplomatic offices, event spaces, and artwork by celebrated Indian artists such as M.F. Husain, further enriching visitor experiences.
Its prime Midtown location allows visitors to combine their trip with tours of nearby landmarks such as the United Nations Headquarters (with guided access to its General Assembly and Security Council chambers), Grand Central Terminal, the Chrysler Building, and Tudor City. The area is easily accessible via public transportation, with Grand Central–42nd Street subway station just steps away.
For those interested in attending cultural events or arranging visits, it is recommended to consult the Mission’s official website and contact the Public Diplomacy Office in advance to understand schedules, registration procedures, and visitor protocols. The Mission actively celebrates India’s heritage through events like the International Day of Yoga and Diwali, providing a unique intersection of diplomacy and culture.
This guide equips prospective visitors with essential details on visiting hours, security protocols, architectural highlights, leadership, nearby attractions, accessibility, and practical travel tips, ensuring a meaningful and well-prepared visit. For up-to-date information and event notifications, refer to the Permanent Mission of India to the UN official website and the United Nations Headquarters visitor information.
Table of Contents
- Discovering the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations
- Visiting the Permanent Mission: Hours, Architecture, and Leadership
- Visiting Protocols, Arranging Visits, and COVID-19 Guidelines
- United Nations Headquarters: Visiting Hours, Tours, and Diplomatic Etiquette
- Summary and Final Tips
- References
Discovering the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations
Visiting Hours and Accessibility
The Mission is located in a secure diplomatic zone, and entry is generally restricted. Public access is possible during special events, cultural programs, or by invitation for group tours and academic delegations. All visits require prior arrangement. Details on event schedules and participation can be found on the official Mission website.
Guided Tours and Visitor Information
Due to security protocols, regular public tours are not available. However, special group visits for diplomats, students, and international delegations can be arranged upon request. These visits offer valuable insights into India’s engagement at the UN.
Nearby Attractions and Historical Sites
Enhance your visit by exploring nearby landmarks:
- United Nations Headquarters: Guided tours of the UN complex are available.
- Grand Central Terminal: Renowned for its architecture and history.
- Chrysler Building: A famous Art Deco skyscraper.
- Tudor City: Historic residential complex.
Photography and Cultural Events
Photography is prohibited inside the Mission, but the building’s exterior offers excellent photo opportunities. The Mission regularly hosts cultural events celebrating Indian art, music, and festivals such as the International Day of Yoga.
Getting There and Travel Tips
- Subway: Grand Central–42nd Street (4, 5, 6, 7, S lines) is the nearest station.
- Bus: Several city buses operate along 2nd and 3rd Avenues.
- Parking: Limited street parking; several garages nearby.
- ID: Valid government-issued identification required.
- Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes for nearby sightseeing.
Visual Highlights
- The Mission’s red granite façade and Rajasthani doors.
- Interior artwork by M.F. Husain (for approved visitors).
- Proximity to the East River and UN gardens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is public access allowed?
A: Only by prior appointment or invitation, especially during events.
Q: Are tours available?
A: No regular tours; special group visits may be arranged upon request.
Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: No, photography is restricted inside the Mission.
Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM; public access is by appointment.
Q: What else can I visit nearby?
A: United Nations Headquarters, Grand Central Terminal, Chrysler Building.
Visiting the Permanent Mission: Hours, Architecture, and Leadership
Location and Accessibility
Address: 235 East 43rd Street, New York, NY 10017 (embassies.info).
The Mission is within walking distance of the UN Headquarters, Chrysler Building, and Grand Central Terminal.
Subway Access: Grand Central–42nd Street (4, 5, 6, 7, S lines).
Accessibility: The building is equipped with ramps and elevators for visitors with disabilities.
Visiting Hours and Security Protocols
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (embassies.info).
- Entry: Prior arrangement required; security screening mandatory.
- ID: Valid government-issued photo identification is needed.
- Photography: Prohibited inside.
Architectural Features
- Design: Completed in 1993, designed by Charles Correa with Bond Ryder and Associates (pminewyork.gov.in).
- Materials: Red granite façade inspired by North Indian architecture; grand Rajasthani timber doors.
- Artwork: Works by M.F. Husain and a prominent mural by Victor Ash on sustainable development (pminewyork.gov.in).
- Layout: 27 stories of diplomatic offices, event spaces, and meeting rooms.
Leadership Structure
- Permanent Representative: Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish (as of September 2024) (en.wikipedia.org).
- Deputy Permanent Representative: Ambassador Yojna Patel (pminewyork.gov.in).
- Senior Staff: Includes a Minister, Counsellors, Legal Advisor, Secretaries, and Military Advisor (en.wikipedia.org).
- Team Expansion: Additional staff during India’s tenure on the Security Council.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Check official website for updates.
Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, but prior arrangement is required for entry.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Only for special group visits upon request.
Q: Is the building accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps and elevators.
Visiting Protocols, Arranging Visits, and COVID-19 Guidelines
Arranging a Visit
- Delegations: Coordinate via India’s Ministry of External Affairs or relevant UN departments.
- Academic/NGO Groups: Submit a written request with details of your group and purpose.
- Media: Accreditation required; coordinate with the Mission’s press office.
Security and Dress Code
- Security screening and valid photo ID are mandatory.
- Business or smart casual attire is recommended.
- Photography is generally prohibited inside.
COVID-19 and Health Protocols
- As of July 2025: Vaccination recommended, masks optional.
- Check for latest updates before your visit.
Contact Information
- Address: 235 East 43rd Street, New York, NY 10017
- Phone: 212-490-9660
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: Permanent Mission of India to the UN, New York
United Nations Headquarters: Visiting Hours, Tours, and Diplomatic Etiquette
Location, Tickets, and Security
- Address: 405 East 42nd Street, New York, NY 10017.
- Visitor Center Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:45 PM; closed weekends and UN holidays (visit.un.org).
- Tickets: Guided tours are free but require pre-registration (UN registration portal).
- Security: Pre-registration and government-issued photo ID required; airport-style screening at entry.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible.
Guided Tours and Highlights
- General Assembly Hall
- Security Council Chamber
- International art and gifts, including Indian contributions
Book at www.un.org/visit.
Indian Mission: Events and Etiquette
- The Mission is not open for casual visits but hosts select cultural events (e.g., Diwali, International Day of Yoga) by invitation or prior arrangement.
- Dress respectfully, use formal titles, and observe etiquette during events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I visit the UN Headquarters without a ticket?
A: No, pre-registration is required.
Q: Are there age restrictions?
A: Visitors must be at least 16 years old unaccompanied; under 16 must be with an adult.
Q: Is the facility accessible?
A: Yes.
Summary and Final Tips
Visiting the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations provides a window into India’s diplomatic presence in New York—a blend of cultural heritage, modern architecture, and global engagement. Visits require advance planning and adherence to security protocols. Participation in cultural events or arranged group visits can deepen your understanding of India’s role at the UN.
Complement your visit with a tour of the United Nations Headquarters, Grand Central Terminal, or the Chrysler Building for a rich, educational experience. For the latest information on visiting hours, events, and protocols, consult the Mission’s official website and the UN Headquarters visitor portal. Download the Audiala app for detailed guides, maps, and insider tips.
References
- Explore the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations: A Unique Diplomatic Landmark in New York City, 2025 (pminewyork.gov.in)
- Visiting the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations in New York: Hours, Architecture, and Leadership, 2025 (embassies.info)
- Visiting the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations in New York: Hours, Protocols, and Key Information, 2025 (pminewyork.gov.in)
- United Nations Headquarters Visiting Hours, Tours, and Diplomatic Etiquette in New York City, 2025 (visit.un.org)
