Kolkata, West Bengal
Indian Museum in Kolkata, established in 1814, is the oldest and largest multipurpose museum in the Asia-Pacific region. Located at 27, Jawaharlal Nehru Road in the Park Street area of Kolkata, West Bengal, India, the museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts across six major sections: archaeology, anthropology, art, zoology, economic botany, and geology. The museum features notable exhibits including an Egyptian mummy, the Bharhut stupa railings, and a vast array of sculptures and paintings, making it one of India's most significant cultural and educational institutions and a must-visit destination for history, art, and science enthusiasts.
The Indian Museum was established in 1814, making it the oldest and largest multipurpose museum in the Asia-Pacific region. The museum was founded during the British colonial period and has played a crucial role in preserving and showcasing India's rich cultural, historical, and scientific heritage. Over the decades, the museum has amassed an extensive collection spanning multiple disciplines, including archaeology, anthropology, art, zoology, economic botany, and geology. The museum has been instrumental in research, education, and cultural preservation, serving as a repository of knowledge and artifacts that reflect India's diverse history and natural heritage. The museum's collections have been built through various means including archaeological excavations, donations, acquisitions, and research expeditions. Today, the Indian Museum continues to serve as a vital institution for education, research, and cultural appreciation, attracting visitors from around the world who come to explore its vast and diverse collections.
Archaeology Section: Extensive collection of archaeological artifacts including the Bharhut stupa railings, sculptures, coins, and artifacts from various historical periods
Anthropology Section: Collections showcasing human evolution, cultural anthropology, and ethnographic materials from various regions
Art Section: Vast array of paintings, sculptures, and artworks from different periods and regions of India
Zoology Section: Extensive collection of animal specimens, skeletons, and natural history exhibits
Economic Botany Section: Collections related to plants, their uses, and their economic significance
Geology Section: Geological specimens, minerals, fossils, and earth science exhibits
Egyptian Mummy: A notable exhibit featuring an Egyptian mummy, one of the museum's most famous attractions
Bharhut Stupa Railings: Significant Buddhist artifacts and railings from the Bharhut stupa
Exploring the six major sections covering archaeology, anthropology, art, zoology, economic botany, and geology
Viewing the Egyptian mummy, one of the museum's most famous exhibits
Admiring the Bharhut stupa railings and Buddhist artifacts
Studying archaeological artifacts and sculptures from various historical periods
Exploring the zoology section with animal specimens and natural history exhibits
Learning about Indian art through the extensive collection of paintings and sculptures
Discovering geological specimens, minerals, and fossils
Understanding cultural anthropology through ethnographic collections
Participating in educational programs and guided tours
Visiting Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Closed on Mondays and public holidays
Entry Fees: Adults: INR 75; Visitors below 18 years: INR 20; Foreign Nationals: INR 500; Organized school groups (up to Std. XII): Free
Photography Charges: Smartphone Camera: INR 50; DSLR Camera: INR 100
Gallery Closures: Some galleries may be temporarily closed due to ongoing maintenance work; check the official website for current information
Best Time to Visit: During visiting hours, preferably on weekdays to avoid crowds
Online Booking: Tickets can be booked online through the official website
Location: 27, Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Park Street Area, Kolkata, West Bengal 700016, India
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata – approx. 19 km
Major Railway Stations:
Sealdah Railway Station – approx. 4 km
Howrah Railway Station – approx. 6 km
Kolkata Railway Station – approx. 5 km
Metro Station: Park Street Metro Station – directly accessible, providing convenient access via the Kolkata Metro network
The museum is strategically located in the Park Street area, one of Kolkata's prominent cultural and commercial zones, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city and well-connected to major transportation hubs.
Indian Museum is well connected by road, metro, and rail. The museum is located at Jawaharlal Nehru Road in the Park Street area, which provides excellent connectivity to Kolkata city center and surrounding areas. The Park Street Metro Station is directly accessible, offering convenient access via the Kolkata Metro network. Public bus services operated by the West Bengal Transport Corporation and other operators provide regular connectivity to the area. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cab services operate regularly in the area, offering convenient access for visitors. The museum is easily accessible from major railway stations including Sealdah, Howrah, and Kolkata stations, and the international airport, making it convenient for both local visitors and tourists. The museum's location in the Park Street area, near other cultural institutions and landmarks, makes it easily accessible and a popular destination for history enthusiasts, students, researchers, and tourists exploring Kolkata's rich cultural heritage.