Introduction

Situated in the heart of the sprawling green Ram Niwas Bagh, Albert Hall houses many interesting exhibits from Rajasthan’s rich historical and cultural heritage. Established as a museum in 1887, Albert Hall was built in honor of King Edward VII’s visit to Jaipur. The building itself is an architectural landmark.

Designed by Sir Swinton Jacob, the hall is a great example of a harmonious design style that incorporates elements of Hindu, Mughal, and European architecture. Albert Hall has many similarities with its much admired counterpart, the Victoria and Albert Museum of London, which also includes many courtyards, eaves, archways, and towers.

The oldest museum in Rajasthan, Albert Hall remains a popular attraction with tourists and locals alike. The ground floor of the museum is a treasure-trove of Rajasthan’s heritage. While Rajasthan’s music and art forms have the place of honor in the central gallery, exclusive galleries have been created for the different dressing styles of Rajasthani tribes and classes. A separate gallery has been dedicated to the art of henna or Mehendi with special emphasis on its traditional designs.

You can also view the museum’s collection of carpets, which include pieces from the 10th century as well as an intricately woven Persian carpet featuring the famed garden design. Other exhibits on the ground floor include an exhaustive collection of metalwork, armaments, and pottery pieces.

The first floor is dedicated to exhibits from the Mughal era, such as royal portraits and important pieces from the royal wardrobe. Other exhibits here include traditional Rajasthani puppets, miniature paintings, rare samples of metal and wood craft, ivory artifacts as well as jewelry. A major attraction in the museum is a 2278 year old Egyptian Mummy housed in the Egyptian Gallery.

Special Attributes

Rajasthan’s oldest museum, dedicated to preserving and showcasing Rajasthan's rich historical and cultural heritage. Other exhibits include an Egyptian Mummy.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

None, wear whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Buses, Taxis, Auto Rickshaws

Enjoyed by

All

Exposure

No exposure to the sun, except when getting tickets and waiting to enter.

Avoidable Season

April, May, June

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly.

Things Not Allowed

Cameras, Video Cameras

Tip

Tourists can combine their visit to the museum with a tour of the zoo and aviary, which are part of the Ram Niwas Bagh complex

Type of site

Museum