Have you ever wondered what it would be like to travel back in time and witness the glorious past of Bihar? If yes, then you should definitely visit the Patna Museum, one of the oldest and most prestigious museums in India.
The Patna Museum, also known as Jadu Ghar, is a state museum that houses a vast collection of historical artefacts, ranging from prehistoric times to the modern era. Whether you are interested in archaeology, art, religion, science or politics, you will find something fascinating and enlightening at the Patna Museum.
In this article, we will explore the various aspects and attractions of the Patna Museum and why it is worth visiting.
Architecture of the Patna Museum
The first thing that will catch your eye when you approach the Patna Museum is its magnificent architecture. The museum building was constructed in 1917 by the British Raj and is a fine example of Mughal, Rajput and Indo-Saracenic styles. The building features domes, arches, pillars, windows and balconies that reflect the influence of these cultures.
The building also has a central hall that is adorned with a large chandelier and a staircase that leads to the upper floors. The museum building is surrounded by a lush green garden that adds to its beauty and charm.
Collections of the Patna Museum
The main attraction of the Patna Museum is its diverse and rich collections that showcase the history and culture of Bihar. The museum has over 20,000 items on display, spread across 16 galleries. Some of the most notable and unique items are:
Relics of Gautama Buddha: The museum has a special gallery dedicated to the life and teachings of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. The gallery displays some of the most sacred relics of Buddha, such as his ashes, bone fragments and a casket that contains them. These relics were discovered in 1958 at Vaishali, a historical site in Bihar where Buddha preached his last sermon.
Fossil of a 200-million-year-old tree: The museum has a rare and remarkable fossil of a tree that dates back to the Jurassic period. The fossil was found in 1927 at Rajmahal Hills in Bihar and is believed to be one of the oldest fossils in India. The fossil measures about 16 meters in length and 2 meters in diameter and is preserved in its original form.
Didarganj Yakshi statue: The museum has a stunning and graceful statue of a female figure known as Yakshi, which means fairy or nymph in Sanskrit. The statue was carved out of a single piece of sandstone in the 3rd century BC during the Mauryan Empire. The statue depicts a woman holding a chauri (fly-whisk) in her right hand and wearing elaborate jewelry and garments. The statue is considered to be one of the finest examples of ancient Indian art and sculpture.
Paintings of Rajendra Prasad: The museum has a collection of paintings that depict the life and achievements of Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India. Rajendra Prasad was born in Bihar and played a key role in the Indian independence movement. The paintings portray his childhood, education, political career, social work and presidential tenure.
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Timings, Entry Fee and Location of the Patna Museum
If you are planning to visit the Patna Museum, here are some practical details that you need to know:
Timings: The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm. It is closed on Mondays and public holidays.
Entry Fee: The entry fee for Indian visitors is Rs. 15 per person and for foreign visitors is Rs. 250 per person. Children below 10 years of age are free of charge.
Location: The museum is located near Kotwali Thana on Budh Marg in Patna, the capital city of Bihar. It is about 6 km from the Patna Junction railway station and about 11 km from the Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport.
How to Reach: You can reach the museum by auto-rickshaw, taxi or bus from any part of the city. You can also use online cab services or apps to book your ride.
Other Museums That You Can Visit!
Some other museums to visit in Patna are:
Bihar Museum:
A modern museum that showcases the art, culture and heritage of Bihar from prehistoric times to the present day. It has various galleries that display sculptures, paintings, manuscripts, coins, textiles and more. It also has a children’s zone, an auditorium and a cafeteria.
Jalan Museum:
A private museum that displays a collection of art pieces from all over India by RK Jalan, a businessman who enjoyed collecting them. The museum is also known for its unique architecture influenced by English and Dutch styles.
Srikrishna Science Centre:
A science museum named after the first Chief Minister of Bihar, Sri Krishna Singh. It exhibits various galleries that teach visitors about physics, maths and evolution. It also has a Jurassic Park with 3D dinosaurs that attract children.
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The Patna Museum is a treasure trove of Bihar’s history and culture that offers a glimpse into its glorious past and present. It is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to learn more about Bihar’s heritage, art, religion, science and politics. It is also a great place to spend some quality time with your family and friends.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets online or check out other articles or websites related to the Patna Museum and plan your trip today!
