National Museum: A Visitor’s Guide to One of India’s Prime Attractions
India is a country blessed with a wealth of fascinating attractions and one of the most beloved among them is the National Museum. Located in the heart of New Delhi, the National Museum is a veritable treasure trove of India’s cultural and historical heritage. From sculptures and coins to anthropological artifacts and paintings, this museum showcases the best of India.
For those planning a visit to the National Museum, here is a comprehensive guide.
Overview of the National Museum
Established in 1949, the National Museum is India’s largest museum and one of the premier attractions of the capital city. It is home to over 200,000 artifacts and artworks, representing the diversity of India’s culture and history. Spanning 11 galleries, the museum houses galleries dedicated to different aspects of India’s history, such as prehistoric, Buddhist, Hindu, Jain, and colonial periods.
The museum also features a gallery of Indian contemporary art, showcasing works by renowned Indian artists. In addition to this, the main tourist attraction is the Indian Art Heritage Gallery, which displays some of the most famous sculptures and artworks from India’s rich history.
What To See At The National Museum
The National Museum boasts a wealth of attractions that will surely delight and educate visitors. Some of the must-see attractions of the museum include:
- -Bronzes and Manuscripts: The museum houses an impressive collection of bronze sculptures and manuscripts from different periods in India’s history. These include sculptures of gods and goddesses, coins, paintings, and manuscripts from the Gupta, Maurya, and Chola dynasties.
- -Indian Contemporary Art: Art lovers will be enthralled by the museum’s impressive collection of Indian contemporary art. Here, visitors can find works by some of India’s most renowned contemporary artists, such as M. F. Husain, Jamini Roy, and S.H. Raza.
- -Anthropological Artifacts: The museum also houses a unique collection of anthropological artifacts, such as masks, weapons, jewelry, and clothing from various regions of India. These artifacts will give visitors a better understanding of Indian culture and traditions.
- -Royal Artifacts: The museum also features a gallery dedicated to royal artifacts, such as thrones, crowns, and swords of India’s former rulers. This gallery is a must-visit for those who wish to learn more about India’s royal past.
How To Reach The National Museum
The National Museum is easily accessible by both public and private transport. It is located in the heart of New Delhi, near India Gate and Janpath. The nearest metro station is Central Secretariat.
Visiting Hours and Ticket Prices
The National Museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm, except on Mondays and national holidays. The ticket prices are as follows:
- Adults: INR 50
- Children: INR 20
- Senior Citizens: INR 25
Conclusion
The National Museum is a must-visit for all culture and history enthusiasts. From sculptures to paintings and coins, this museum is a veritable treasure trove of India’s cultural and historical heritage. It is a great place to explore India’s past and gain a deeper understanding of its culture and traditions.