Bankura, West Bengal
Bankura District Museum, officially known as the Acharya Jogesh Chandra Purakriti Bhawan, is the premier custodian of the region's rich history and cultural heritage. Located in Bishnupur, this museum was established in 1951 and is the only archaeological museum in the Bankura district. It houses an impressive collection of artifacts ranging from the Mesolithic era to the British period, with a special focus on the art, music, and literature of the Malla dynasty and the Rarh region.
Archaeological Gallery: Displays microliths from the Mesolithic age and stone sculptures from the 10th to 12th centuries AD, including Jain and Hindu idols.
Terracotta & Folk Art: A vast collection of exquisite terracotta tiles, figurines, and traditional folk art items that define the artistic identity of Bankura.
Manuscripts: Preserves over 5,000 rare palm-leaf and paper manuscripts, including ancient Ayurvedic texts and copies of the Chaitanya Charitamrita.
Music Gallery: A dedicated section documenting the illustrious history of the Bishnupur Gharana, showcasing instruments and portraits of legendary musicians.
Numismatics & Textiles: Features ancient coins from the Gupta and Pal dynasties, alongside specimens of traditional Baluchari textiles.
Entry Fee: A nominal entry fee is charged for visitors (approx. ₹5-₹10). Ticket counters close before the museum closing time.
Photography: Photography is generally restricted inside the galleries to preserve the artifacts; please check with the authorities.
Silence: Visitors are requested to maintain silence and not touch the exhibits.
Timings: Open from 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM. Closed on Thursdays and official public holidays.
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata – approx. 140 km
Major Railway Stations:
Bishnupur Railway Station – approx. 3 km
The museum is located near the Dalmadal Para area in Bishnupur town. It is easily accessible by rickshaws, totos, and cars from the railway station and bus stand.
Bishnupur town is well-connected by road and rail. Local transport within the town relies heavily on cycle rickshaws and electric totos, which are convenient for navigating the narrow streets to reach the museum. Taxis and private cars can be hired for day trips covering the museum and nearby terracotta temples.
The best time to visit the Bankura District Museum is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for exploring the town. The museum offers a cool retreat during the day. Mornings and early afternoons on weekdays are less crowded, allowing for a detailed observation of the exhibits. Avoid visiting during major festivals like Rash Mela if you prefer a quiet experience, as the town gets very busy.