80 Results found for Search: museums
1. A tour of Periyar Science and Technology Center, Chennai.
The Periyar Science and Technology Center is housed in a sprawling complex that has numerous exhibits on science and technology. Spread across five galleries, each of the interactive exhibits offers visitors a great learning experience. The first gallery is the Periyar Gallery dedicated to Thanthai Periyar, an illustrious and revolutionary leader in the South. Here you will find quotes by the great leader including life-size portraits of great scientists.
2. Ahar Cenotaphs and Museum, Udaipur.
About 3 kilometers (2 miles) east of Udaipur, Ahar is a small town famous for the cenotaphs of the royal rulers and an archaeological museum. There are regular state buses from the city; you can even hire a private taxi to Ahar. Here you will come across cenotaphs of 19 Mewar rulers built over four centuries. Take a walk around this royal cremation ground; take a closer look at the cenotaph of Maharana Amar Singh, it is massive and beautifully carved complete with embellished domes and arches.
3. Albert Hall, Jaipur.
The Albert Hall is a picturesque remnant of the British Raj in Jaipur. The foundation stone of the building was laid by Prince of Wales Albert in 1868 and for many years the palace was used for recreation by Jaipur’s kings. It was only in 1887 that the Albert Hall Museum (also known as the Central Museum) was established. One of the oldest museums of Rajasthan, it displays Rajasthan’s rich historical and cultural heritage. Galleries are exclusively dedicated to dressing styles of Rajasthani tribes and classes; art of henna or Mehendi; and Rajasthan’s music and art forms. Other exhibits include traditional Rajasthani puppets, miniature paintings, and rare samples of metal and wood craft, textiles, pottery pieces, armaments. A Persian carpet and an Egyptian Mummy are also housed in the museum.
4. Elephant Ride And Visit Amer fort, Jaipur.
Amer, or Amber Fort was the capital of the Kachchwaha Rajput rulers of Rajasthan, before water scarcity forced them to moved down from the mountains and establish the city of Jaipur. Sited atop the Aravalli hills, this majestic Rajput fortress stands guard over the newer city below. Built by Raja Man Singh Ji, the fort has rough, craggy walls and the glistening Maotha Lake in front. Later extensions and embellishments to the fort include traditional Rajput architecture and striking Mughal décor.
5. Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing, Jaipur.
Hand printed textiles are a traditional and much admired craft of Rajasthan. The Anokhi Museum is a unique attempt to preserve and showcase this art to the world. Housed in a beautifully restored pink haveli, the museum offers an up-close look at this art. Its many exhibits show the development of hand-printed textiles under successive generations of Rajput rulers. The museum showcases the rich history of hand printed textiles in Rajasthan and also offers a change to learn from the old styles and even experiment with the new. While here, you can tour the beautiful collection of historical textiles and also watch an artisan at work.
6. Archaeological Museum, Khajuraho.
In 1910, Mr. W.A. Jardine who was the local officer-in-charge of the British government in Bundelkhand realized that the loose sculptures and architectural features of the ruined temples were lying strewn across the countryside of Khajuraho. Under his initiative they were collected and preserved in an enclosure built adjoining Matangeshwar Temple of Western Group of Temples. The open-air collection continued to be known as Jardine Museum until the Archaeological Survey of India took it over in 1952, when its name was changed to Archaeological Museum. Now this open-air museum is being used for reserve collection and the public entry is prohibited inside this enclosure.
7. Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery, Goa.
Undoubtedly one of Goa’s most popular museums, the Archaeological Museum & Portrait Gallery is housed in the abandoned convent of St. Francis of Assisi, adjacent to Se Cathedral in Old Goa. Set up in 1964 and maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the collection at the museum is displayed in eight galleries which include antiques, coins, ceramics, bronze statues, photographs, paintings and sculptures from the prehistoric to the late medieval period. Most popular of the lot are the sculptures of Hindu deities such as the Uma Mahesh sculpture.
8. Ayemenem House, Kumarakom.
Arundhati Roy’s Booker prize winning novel ‘The God of Small Things’ was set in this sleepy backwater village, Ayemenem or Aymanam, on the western bank of Vembanad Lake. About two-thirds of Aymanam is rice fields, two meters below sea level; the river Meenachil provides water to the village. The low-lying areas flood from June to August. If you are taking the road, Aymanam is about 8 kilometers (5 miles) on the Kottayam-Chunkam route. The nearest railway station is Kottayam Railway Station. Aymanam is about 85 kilometers (53 miles) from Cochin International Airport.
9. Bagore-ki-Haveli, Udaipur.
Bagore ki Haveli is a beautiful mansion on the waterfront of Lake Pichola at Gangaur Ghat. Built in 1751 by the then Prime Minister of Mewar, Amirchand Badwa, this elegant haveli has now been converted into a museum of traditional puppetry, and holds musical performances every evening. There are some hundred rooms in the haveli with terraces, corridors, courtyards and balconies, but only a few display ethnic costumes and modern art. Browse the Queen’s Chamber and appreciate the quintessential Mewar painting, in addition to the two peacocks made of small pieces of colored glass.
10. Bay Island Driftwood Museum, Kumarakom.
Bay Island Driftwood Museum in Kumarakom displays a unique collection of twisted stumps of driftwood etched into sculptures. These interesting pieces of wood were collected over the years from the serene beaches of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on Bay of Bengal by Mrs. Raji Punnoose, a retired teacher, which she hand-sculpted to create different life forms. The museum is one-of-its-kind in the country, having a unique synergy between nature’s art and extensive persuasive imagination. Most of the pieces on display resemble living creatures such as animals, birds, fish, amphibians and reptiles.
11. Bharat Kala Bhawan Museum, Varanasi.
Towards the south of town is a museum with impressive exhibits called Bharat Kala Bhawan. Located within the Banaras Hindu University campus, it has a fabulous collection of miniature paintings, sculpture, contemporary art and bronzes. One of the highlights here is an exquisite nineteenth-century map. The varied art displays have Hindu, Buddhist and Mughal influences. The museum stocks among others works of Jamini Roy, Nicholas Roerich and Alice Boner. It was established in 1920, and remains very relevant. Research scholars gravitate towards this museum particularly for its miniature painting collection, said to be one of the finest in the country.
12. Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandal, Udaipur.
Your trip to Udaipur is incomplete without seeing some gems of Rajasthani folk art. Visit Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandal and pan through its brilliant range of folk articles from Rajasthan including ornaments, masks, puppets, traditional dresses, folk musical instruments, dolls, folk deities and miniature paintings. Located near Chetak Circle in Udaipur city, the museum gives you a glimpse into the culture and tradition of Rajasthan especially the Mewar region. In fact, the Lok Kala Mandal is a part of a program that exhibits the best in art and craft work of Mewar, given the popularity of Rajasthani handicraft and objet d’art world-over.
13. Birla Planetarium, Jaipur.
While Jantar Mantar is the original attraction for astronomy enthusiasts in Jaipur, The Birla Planetarium is a modern and as interesting activity. One of the many such centers built by one of India’s premier industrialists, the Birla Planetarium is very popular with school children and tourists in Jaipur. The planetarium conducts sky shows and other audiovisual education programs that educate young visitors on the many wonders of the universe.
14. Central Sikh Museum, Amritsar.
Right at the entrance of the Golden Temple complex is the Central Sikh Museum. Established in 1958, the exhibits include important religious documents, old coins, paintings, and weapons used by important figures from Sikh history.
People interested in history and culture will particularly enjoy themselves here. It chronicles the lives of people who have left an indelible mark in propagating Sikh philosophy. A selection of old hand-written manuscripts and weapons of Sikh warriors can also be seen here.
15. City Palace And Museum, Jaipur.
The erstwhile residence of Jaipur’s royal family, a part of the palace has been opened to the general public as a museum. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II built this ornate palace as a royal retreat in the early part of the 18th century. Now a museum to Rajasthan’s royal way of life, the museum features numerous treasures of the royal family, such as jewelry, royal attire, weapons, vessels, and other items of daily use. Along with the exhibits, the palace complex is a striking attraction. Its many palaces, gardens, gates, and royal halls are beautifully designed and intricately decorated. Complemented by the many treasures on display, the city palace brings its royal past vividly to life.
16. City Palace and Museum, Udaipur.
City Palace is Rajasthan’s largest palace complex and stands on the east bank of the serene Lake Pichola. The palace offers grand sweeping views of Lake Palace hotel and Jag Mandir on one side, and Udaipur city on the other. Built of marble and granite in 1725 by Maharana Udai Singh, the palace today is home to the 74th Maharana of Udaipur, Shri Arvind Singh and his family. A fine blend of medieval Indo-European architecture, you will be amazed by the sheer lavishness of its courtyards, overlapping partitions, terraces, corridors and lush green gardens. When at City Palace, also tour the in-site museum, Pratap Museum, housing an impressive collection of old sculptures and inscriptions.
17. Dixit Wada Museum, Shirdi.
A very interesting museum, Dixit Wada located at the centre of the Sansthan complex in Shirdi, is a store house of memorabilia of the great ascetic, Sai Baba. It is a charming and compact museum housing an impressive collection of rare black and white photographs of Sai Baba. You will also come across a display of his kafni (the long robes), leather padukas (footwear) and his smoking pipe.
18. Fort St. George, Museum, Chennai.
Built as a trading post in 1640, and later developed into garrison fortress, the St. George Fort was probably the first British establishment in India. An architectural marvel, the structure houses a museum, and the magnificent St. Mary’s Church. A must-visit for all history and architecture lovers!
19. French War Memorial, Pondicherry.
An excursion to Pondicherry is incomplete without free-wheeling down the peaceful promenade, Goubert Avenue, locally known as Beach Road. Here you will come across this awe-inspiring tribute to the uniform. The French War Memorial is beautifully illuminated every year during a solemn ceremony on 14th July, Bastille Day. This elegant French monument was built to commemorate the soldiers who had lost their lives in the First World War. On a stroll down the lively Beach Road, pause for a while to pay tribute to the brave heroes who served the society and country.
20. Gandhi Museum, Madurai.
This quaint museum dedicated to the ‘Father of the Nation’ M.K Gandhi, is housed in the old palace of Nayak queen Rani Mangammal known as Tamukkam Bungalow – a unique building with a high roof supported by columns without walls. Gandhi Museum highlights India’s struggle for freedom, and contains a photo gallery of the Gandhian movement, a gallery of relics, a separate section for Khadi and village industries which Gandhiji revived, and a South Indian handicraft section. Gandhiji’s photographs, quotations and paintings are also displayed here, not to mention a few of his letters in their photocopied state.
21. Government Museum And National Art Gallery, Chennai.
Dating back to the late 19th century, the Government Museum and National Art Gallery is one of the oldest museums in India, and serves as a gateway to India’s rich past and colorful culture through a range of extensive exhibits. Sprawled across 16.25 acres, the museum complex has 46 galleries with exhibits on archeology, zoology, botany, numismatics, anthropology, traditional and contemporary art, in addition to a separate museum for children.
22. Himachal State Museum and Library, Shimla.
The Himachal State Museum and Library was established in 1974 in an endeavor to preserve Himachal Pradesh’s rich culture. While the museum is mainly known for its Pahari miniature paintings that depict the simple lifestyle of the hill folk during the pre-British eras, it also exhibits Mughal and Rajasthani miniature paintings, relics from the Stone Age, magnificent wall paintings from the palace of Chamba and stone sculptures. The building in which the museum is housed is an attraction in itself due to its colonial architecture. The library within the museum is a treasure-trove of ancient documents and manuscripts.
23. Jaigarh Fort, Jaipur.
Jaigarh Fort is an archetypical Rajput fortress - moated, built on the top of a scraggy hill, with might walls that stretch for miles across the Aravalli hills. Built by successive generations of Rajput rulers between the 15th to 18th centuries, Jaigarh is especially remarkable as most of the original structure is still intact. The fort first served as an armory and many of its products are on display, such as the canon Jaivan - the world’s largest canon on wheels. The engineering and design of the fort is an impressive reminder of Rajasthani skills. The fort has a unique water harvesting system and a network of canals to ensure water supply to Amer Fort.
24. Jain Museum, Khajuraho.
A modern circular gallery, it houses more than hundred Jain sculptures of the 24 tirthankars, along with sculptures of yakshis and other figures of Jains. Inaugurated in the year 1987, it is located within the Jain Temple Complex in the Eastern Group of Temples. The circular building is also known as Sahu Shantiprasad Jain Kala Sangrahalaya.
25. Jaisalmer Folklore Museum , Jaisalmer.
This is the brain child of Mr. N.K.Sharma bestowed with the National Teacher’s award, and the author of the book Jaisalmer The Golden City. Set up in 1984, the folklore museum has steadily grown in stature. It is an excellent place for those interested in understanding the finer cultural aspects of the region. For example, the significance of colors and designs of headgear and costume are key pointers of an individual's status in the traditional society. The museum helps a visitor get an insight into such finer aspects! Puppets and other traditional items of daily use are on display here.
26. Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer.
To catch the first glimpse of Jaisalmer Fort, is to start an enduring romance with this town. Sitting pretty atop Trikuta Hill, the fort rises above the surrounding desert floor. It is visible from a distance, and instantly captures the imagination. Add a dash of history to its picturesque setting, and there's no escaping the charm of the fort, and by extension the town. For the fort forms the heart and soul of Jaisalmer!
Also known as the 'Golden Fort' or 'Sonar Kila', it is built with the local sandstone of the region - one that has a distinct yellow tone. It was built in 1156 CE by the Bhatti Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal, from whom the fort derives its name.
27. Maharana Pratap Memorial, Udaipur.
The life-size bronze statue of gallant warrior Maharana Pratap and his loyal horse Chetak, stands tall atop Moti Magri (Pearl Hill). Overlooking the calm waters of Fateh Sagar Lake, this memorial was built by Maharana Bhagwat Singh Mewar with the help of a pubic trust. From the hill you can capture in your lens some wonderful views of Fateh Sagar Lake, the sandstone and white-washed houses of Udaipur city, the ramparts of an ancient fort and the sprawling Japanese Rock Garden. Scores of visitors climb up the hill to pay tribute to Maharana Pratap, the brave ruler of Mewar, and his favorite horse ‘Chetak’ that carried its master to every battlefield and stood by him till he breathed his last.
28. Mansion of Ananda, Pondicherry.
This old-world mansion boasting Indo-French architecture belonged to Ananda Rangapillai, the courtier (Dubash) of Joseph Francois Dupleix, the popular French Governor of Pondicherry. Rangapillai built this beautiful mansion in 1773, and since then has been an architectural specimen in Pondicherry. Apart from his administrative acumen, Rangapillai had another facet to his personality – a flair for writing. His skillful writing is evident in the diaries he maintained between 1736-60. The mansion houses a good collection of diaries penned by Rangapillai that are a valuable source of information on the history of Pondicherry and the French rule in India.
29. Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur.
This 15th-century fort is one of the most imposing in India. As Rajasthan’s largest fort, Mehrangarh forms a looming presence over Jodhpur with walls that soar 120 meters (400 feet) high above the surrounding cityscape. Visible from miles around, it is a grand statement of Rajput valor. Visitors have the option of approaching it by foot from the busy lanes around the Clock Tower/Ghanta Ghar area, or by taxi or rickshaw from the longer (5 kilometer/ 3 mile) road through Nagauri Gate to the north of the city.
The foundation of the fort was laid by Rao Jodha in 1459 on the advice of a hermit.
30. Our Lady of Fatima Cathedral, Udaipur.
If you are looking for a church in Udaipur, visit Our Lady of Fatima Cathedral in front of St. Paul’s School in Bhupalpura. The cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Udaipur.
31. Pondicherry Museum, Pondicherry.
The Pondicherry Museum is located in Bharati Park on Saint Louis Street (behind the Governor’s House), and is home to an exclusive collection of stone sculptures, among other fascinating relics. The museum is housed in the former residence of the French Administrator, complete with large, airy rooms, expansive windows and high ceilings. Look out for the gallery with sculptures; here you will find an impressive display of bronze gods and goddesses, a range of temple lamps used by different dynasties across centuries, and handicraft, including remains from archaeological findings from Arikamedu, an ancient port site some 7 kilometers (4 miles) from the city.
32. Ramnagar Fort and Museum, Varanasi.
This is the residence of the Maharaja of Varanasi, popularly known as ‘Kashi Naresh’. The Ramnagar Fort lies about 14 kilometers (9 miles) south of Varanasi along the eastern bank of Ganga. Its picturesque location by the river makes it popular with visitors. A pontoon bridge connects the fort to the city. During monsoon months the bridge is dismantled and replaced by a ferry. By road it can be approached from the long main road that crosses the Malaviya Bridge up north near Raj Ghat. You then drive down the eastern bank of the river. Chartering a boat from Dashaswamedh Ghat or Asi Ghat are other options.
33. Ranthambore School of Art, Ranthambore.
The Ranthambhore School of Art at Sawai Madhopur exhibits and sells beautiful paintings of the Great Indian Tiger against the dense foliage. This is in an attempt to spread awareness about Project Tiger. Youngsters from the local villages are provided vocation training, and inspired to infuse life into the conservation efforts through paintings, demonstrations and talks. Artists from this school are often invited to exhibit their paintings at prestigious art galleries across the globe.
34. State Museum of Tribal and Folk Art , Khajuraho.
Get a taste of Madhya Pradesh's vibrant tribal culture through the museum's collection of metal craft, woodcraft, tribal and folk paintings, tattoos, jewelry, terracotta sculptures, masks, statues and bamboo flutes. Many of these are masterpieces. Forms, styles and designs that have evolved over centuries.
35. Taj Museum, Agra.
Part of the main Taj complex, the Taj Museum was established in 1982 is the erstwhile Naubat Khana or Jal Mahal. A veritable treasure trove of historical artifacts and documents relating to the construction the Taj Maha, the museum has many other exhibits dating back to the Mughal era.
36. Tea Museum and processing unit, Munnar.
On a sightseeing excursion in Munnar, a trip to the Tea Museum run by Tata Tea is highly recommended. The museum has been built in the Nallathanni estate of Tata Tea. Its collection of memorabilia and artifacts takes you back in time when the tea industry had just begun to make its presence felt in Munnar in 1880s. Browse the museum for its array of curios, photographs and machineries, each depicting important events that contributed to a flourishing tea industry. While panning through the museum, you are bound to notice and compare the rudimentary tea roller with the modern fully automated tea factory.
37. The French Cemetery At Karaikal, Pondicherry.
Easily accessible from the main town of Pondicherry, at Karaikal you can take a look at the tombs of who’s who of 19th century Pondicherry. Take a trip to the French Cemetery on Rue de Marche (French for Market Street), and pan through the curious tombs of a veritable section of people, from administrators, landlords, port officials, women to children, who lay buried under headstones with thought-provoking inscriptions.
38. Umaid Bhawan, Jodhpur.
This monumental piece of architecture stands on a sprawling 26 acre estate on Chhattar hill, on the eastern fringe of town. Built between 1929 and 1943 by Maharaja Umaid Singh, grandfather of the present owner, the primary idea behind the project was to employ and provide relief to 3,000 workers during a long famine. No cement was used in its construction, and the interlocking blocks of sandstone simply take your breath away, especially while standing under the imposing 56 meter (183 feet) high central dome.
39. Aga Khan Palace, Pune.
Moved by the plight of the famine-affected villagers of the neighboring areas, in 1892, Sultan Aga Khan III offered a helping hand by providing them employment in building an eponymous structure—Aga Khan Palace. Located to the north, across the Mula at Yerawada, it is equally famous as Gandhi Memorial, because of its ties with Gandhiji, who alongside his wife and personal secretary were placed under house arrest within the premises during the Quit India Movement. In 1969, Aga Khan IV bequeathed the palace to the Indian Government as homage to the Father of the Nation.
40. Chacha Nehru Children's Museum, Trivandrum.
Chacha Nehru Children’s Museum is located less than a kilometer north of Trivandrum central bus station. Set up in 1980, it is one of the city’s more popular museums and has been named after India’s first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru who was very fond of children. Browse the museum for its impressive collection of over 2000 dolls from all over the world. In addition to dolls, there is a rare collection of stamps, masks and paintings. You will come across a mini aquarium home to an array of colorful fish.
41. Gobind Ballabh Pant Public Museum, Almora.
A stalwart of the Independence Movement, Gobind Ballabh Pant was born and brought up in Almora. He was posthumously honored with the country’s highest award – Bharat Ratna. This museum honors his memory. One of the prize exhibits are letters exchanged between him and Sardar Patel regarding the protest marches that were being organized in response to the house arrest of leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru among others in 1932. Among other exhibits are items of archaeological, historical and cultural significance. Chand dynasty that ruled the region over a significant part of Almora’s history is well represented in the museum’s collection.
42. Kangra Fort, McLeodganj.
Kangra Fort was the largest fort in India north of Delhi. This was the arbiter of much of Kangra's history for a millennium. The earliest definitive reference of the fort is in 1009 AD in the chroniclers of the invader, Mahmud of Ghazni. Built on a rocky hill over the confluence of the Banganga and Manjhi rivulets, its high ramparts and walls have a circumference of approximately four kilometres. It was heavily damaged in the earthquake of 4 April 1905, but several gates, the shrines of Ambika Devi, Adinath and Lakshminarayan, and the remains of its palaces are still there. A small cemetery outside the fort has some seventeen graves that date to the time when it was under British control. There is a small museum near the entrance gate that has been established by the Archaeological Survey of India.
43. Kerala State Science and Technology Museum, Trivandrum.
The Kerala State Science and Technology Museum is located close to the Napier Museum and the Postmaster General’s Office in Trivandrum. A study-cum-recreation centre, the museum displays an array of exhibits on all disciplines of science, technology and electronics. The place gets a lot of students studying science. It serves as a dynamic medium of science communication, with the activities aimed at instilling a scientific temper and awareness among common men. There are dedicated galleries with working/animated and participatory kind of exhibits. It organizes and conducts mobile and temporary science exhibitions and competitions along with science film shows.
44. Koyikkal Palace, Trivandrum.
On the way to the Ponmudi hill station and the Courtallam Waterfalls, about 18 kilometers (11.25 miles) from Trivandrum at Nedumangad you will come across a lovely two-storied palace. Koyikkal is a quaint 17th century palace built for Umayamma Rani of the Venad royal family (1677 to 1684) in the traditional Nalukettu style with gabled roofs and a sprawling inner courtyard. Worth a stopover, the palace today is home to Asia’s biggest folklore museum and a numismatic (coin collection) museum set up by the Department of Archaeology. Browse the museum for its fascinating collection of ancient musical instruments and models of folk art.
45. Kuthiramalika Palace Museum, Trivandrum.
Located on the south-eastern side of Padmanabha Swamy Temple, the Kuthiramalika Palace appears rather nondescript from outside. Only once you enter through the narrow gate, past a narrow corridor and step onto its sprawling courtyard garden, do you get an estimate of its scale and architectural detailing. Mostly a wooden palace, Kuthiramalika is a traditional Kerala-style structure built in the 1840s by the king of Travancore Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma. Interestingly, the palace gets its name from the 108 horses carved into the wooden brackets that reinforce the southern roof. Though, the official name of the palace is Puthenmalika, meaning new mansion.
46. Mahatma Phule Museum, Pune.
The former residence of Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, a 19th century social activist and philosopher of Maharashtra, which was later converted into a Museum. It has on display several items related to natural history, arms and armory, geology, handicrafts, agriculture, forestry, and textiles; besides statues, stone carvings, and oil paintings.
47. Napier Museum and Zoo, Trivandrum.
A sprawling 19th century Indo-Saracenic structure with a dash of Chinese and Mughal styles, the Napier Museum is home to a treasure trove of archaeological finds. It is an architectural landmark in Kerala’s capital city and houses a zoological garden and the popular Sree Chithra Art Gallery within its premises. The original structure was erected in 1855 by the Maharaja of Travancore. A new structure was conceived by Chisoln in 1874, the consulting architect of the Madras Government. The building was completed only in 1880, and named after the erstwhile Governor of Madras Presidency, Lord Napier.
48. Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, Pune.
Located on Baji Rao Road, Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum lies inside a three-storied traditional ‘Wada’. Named after Raja—the only son of renowned Marathi poet Dr Dinkar Gangadhar Kelkar, who met an untimely death—the artifacts in the museum, numbering over 21,000, are all personal belongings of the poet, meticulously collected over a period of four decades. The 2500-odd objects on display—a charming assortment of 18th and 19th century artistry—includes household containers, musical instruments, replica of weapons of war, paintings, beauty accessories, etc. with the pièce de résistance being a mock-up of the Mastani Mahal of the Shaniwarwada Palace.
49. Tibetan Library and the Men See Khang, McLeodganj.
Created in 1970, the Tibetan Library of Works and Archives (LTWA) is one the most important Tibetan libraries in the world. This lies a little below the Dalai Lama's complex within the premises of the Tibetan Government in Exile; this is along the sharp slope, the 'shortcut' to Dharamsala bazaar. The core of the collection is formed by the books and manuscripts that were carried to India during the great Tibetan exodus of 1959. The Library, the Gangchen Kyishong (commonly called 'the Gangkyi'), has around eighty thousand books, manuscripts, photographs and numerous papers and documents. The LTWA has a three-fold vision - preservation, protection and promotion. Opposite the Library is the Men See Khang, the Tibetan Medical and Astrological Institute that was founded in 1961.
50. Tribal Museum, Pune.
The land of the mighty Marathas, Maharashtra is also home to 47 tribes, including the Wagdheos, Marais, Danteswaris and Bahirams, who inhabit the Sahyadri and Gondwana regions. To catch a glimpse of their little-known lives, all one needs to do is visit the Tribal Museum off Koregaon Road. Open from 10am to 5pm, it offers a rare peek into the tribal culture of the land, via dance masks, artifacts, musical instruments, costumes, weapons, Worli art, wedding paintings, etc. Run by the Tribal Research and Training Institute, the museum has over 1700 exhibits on display belonging to all the 47 tribes.
51. War Memorial and Kangra Art Gallery., McLeodganj.
The town of Dharamsala is the administrative headquarters of the district of Kangra. This lies below McLeodganj along the same set of hills. The Kotwali Bazaar is the main thoroughfare which connects up to McLeodganj. Two of the area’s ‘must do’ places are located here – the War Memorial and the Kangra Art Gallery. The War Memorial commemorates the war heroes of Himachal Pradesh. The Kangra Art Gallery is located in the heart of Dharamsala. This has artefacts that date back to the fifth century. The displays include the area’s famous miniature paintings. The gallery also houses sculptures, pottery, anthropological artefacts, coins, jewellery and manuscripts. 'Shaminas', canopies, and dresses used by local royalty, old carved doors, intricately carved 'jalis' that once served a windows or railings, lintels and 'pandals' - small platforms - are also on display.
52. Jim Corbett Museum, Corbett.
The heritage bungalow where Jim Corbett lived is tucked away about 3 kilometers (1.87 miles) ahead of Kaladhungi towards Nainital. It is opposite the crossroad that leads to Nainital via Khurpatal. Jim Corbett was a prolific writer, renowned environmentalist and a torch bearer in tiger conservation. Kaladhungi museum, Jim Corbett’s erstwhile winter retreat, now houses his memorabilia, plaques, life-size oil paintings, sketches, letters written by him and his friends, antiques such as a palanquin, some memorable photographs, furniture, and manuscripts including the last hunt of its owner. Peruse the collection; it gives a great insight into his life and times.
53. Dhangarhi Museum, Corbett.
Near Dhangarhi gate, the Dhangarhi Museum is a good stopover for first-time visitors. The place gives you a feel of the time when man-eating tigers were a reality, and how they were hunted down. Life and the atmosphere of Corbett were stark - very different from what it is now. Browse the museum, and look out for the hunted erstwhile wildlife species.
54. Amar Mahal Museum and Library, Jammu.
Towards the end of town in the direction of Srinagar, atop a hill by the highway are three old palaces. The Hari Niwas Palace is now a heritage hotel and the Ranbir Niwas Palace is the residence of the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir. The third – which is actually the first that meets the eye when you come up on the sweeping driveway though well-tended grounds – is the French chateau-inspired Amar Mahal. Instead of overlooking the river Seine, this, a world away from its setting, overlooks the Tawi. A section of this palace now houses the Amar Singh Museum and Library. This is a repository of several rare artifacts, documents and works of art.
55. Government Museum, Kanyakumari.
Located in the heart of the city in Bharathidasansan Salai, the Government Museum is a treasure trove of rare bronze and stone sculptures from different dynasties that ruled Tamil Nadu. The place sees a lot of art and sculpture enthusiasts from within the country and outside.
56. Government Museum, Tiruchirappalli.
Located in the heart of the city in Bharathidasansan Salai, the Government Museum is a treasure trove of rare bronze and stone sculptures from different dynasties that ruled Tamil Nadu. The place sees a lot of art and sculpture enthusiasts from within the country and outside.
57. Government Museum, Tiruchirappalli.
Located in the heart of the city in Bharathidasansan Salai, the Government Museum is a treasure trove of rare bronze and stone sculptures from different dynasties that ruled Tamil Nadu. The place sees a lot of art and sculpture enthusiasts from within the country and outside.
58. Government Museum, Kanyakumari.
Located in the heart of the city in Bharathidasansan Salai, the Government Museum is a treasure trove of rare bronze and stone sculptures from different dynasties that ruled Tamil Nadu. The place sees a lot of art and sculpture enthusiasts from within the country and outside.
59. Innovative Film City, Bangalore.
Innovative Film City is situated around 35 km from Bangalore on the Bangalore- Mysore highway. Set against mountains with a lake to add to its environs, this attraction works on the premise that films are a great crowd-puller in India.
60. Raja Rajan Manimandapam and Museum, Thanjavur.
The structure was built during the 8th World Tamil Conference in the heart of Thanjavur. It has a small, but well-manicured garden with slides and swings, and a museum on the ground floor of the main mandapam. Today, its maintenance and upkeep is under the State Archaeological Department. This museum was set up in 1984 to mark the 1000th birth centenary of Raja Raja Chola, the greatest Chola king of all time. Raja Raja Chola I (985-1014 CE) is looked up with awe for his military conquests, administrative prowess, religious tolerance, and penchant for art, culture and architecture.
61. Venkatappa Art Gallery and Government Museum, Bangalore.
If you are an art lover, don’t give this a miss. This gallery has two halls of exhibits ranging from paintings to sculptures and other artifacts, some of which date back to the Indus Valley civilization. The gallery has about 600 paintings displayed through the year. On the ground floor, you’ll see the paintings of K Venkatappa -- a panoramic view of the Ooty Lake, view from Church Hill - Ooty, Nilgiri Mountains, Kodaikanal, Sunrise in Ooty and a painting on Monsoon are just some of them.
62. Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum, Bangalore.
Science comes alive at the Sir Vishvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum. Even kids who normally nod off during science classes are all eyes and ears here. In fact, that was the objective of the museum when it was established in 1965 as part of the centenary celebrations of the engineer-statesman Sir M. Visvesvaraya, (1861–1962), one of the architects of modern Karnataka: To popularize science and bring it to the common man. The museum has six themed galleries. The first is the engine hall which displays the evolution of engines.
63. Sri Pratap Singh Museum, Srinagar.
The broad heads under which the collection is displayed are - numismatics, manuscripts, miniature paintings, weapons, utensils, musical instruments, furniture and decorative artifacts, textiles, carpets, leather-ware and grass and willow work. Sculptures, tiles and other artifacts excavated from various archaeological sites in the state various parts form a part of the display as do items of natural history and stuffed birds and animals.
64. Folklore Museum, Mysore.
The Folklore Museum was set up in 1968 and true to its name it has a spectacular collection of more than 6,500 unique folk items from themes related to music, dance and drama. The museum is located in the Mysore University Campus which also houses the Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion.
The museum has a great collection of regional garments, musical instruments and ceremonial headgear, leather puppets, lamps and ornamental wooden altar. A wide variety of objects belonging to Soliga tribe are also exhibited at the museum - village deities, saw dust dolls, jewellery, cooking utensils etc. The museum has the costumes, masks and puppets from the classic art form -Yakshagana.
65. Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum, Bikaner.
Located inside Lalgarh Palace, the Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum was established in 1937 to commemorate the 50th year of Maharaja Ganga Singh’s reign. Divided into numerous sections, this two-storeyed structure houses archaeological artifacts from the Harappan and early Gupta period; ancient Rajput war weaponry including jade-handle daggers, shields made of camel hides; silk robe of Prince Salim; litho prints from the British era; hunting trophies belonging to royalty; exquisite gold leaf paintings on camel hides; antique gold and silver howdahs; swings and palanquins; a pair of drums of Jambhoji, a famous saint; alongside portraits, glasswork, terracotta ware, pottery, carpets and coins.
66. Karanji Lake & Regional Museum of Natural History, Mysore.
Karanji Lake is one of the prime lakes of Mysore and a major tourist attraction managed by the Mysore Zoo. Located around the Karanji Lake is the Regional Museum of Natural History exhibiting the flora, fauna and geology of South India. India’s biggest walk through aviary is based on the shores of Karanji lake. It has been beautifully built with two water falls and small ponds and is home to 40-50 birds of different species. The aviary has birds like hornbill, kingfisher, white-peacock, turkey an
67. Maritime Museum, Kochi.
The key to understanding Kochi's pre-eminent position in India is to unravel its naval legacy. Kochi played home to some of the leading naval powers of the past, and that experience has helped shape India's contemporary naval prowess, presently rated among the top ten naval powers in the world. This museum showcases India's journey to its pre-eminent position. The Maritime Museum, located at INS Dronacharya in Fort Kochi, is about a kilometer (half a mile) south of the Chinese Nets. Two fortified ammunition bunkers built by the British around World War II have been turned on their head and made into a fascinating museum. While one bunker showcases the maritime history of Kerala, the other highlights the evolution of Indian Navy.
68. Rail Museum, Mysore.
Set up in 1979, the railway museum is one of the oldest of its kinds in India. The museum has an exuberant collection of vintage items with stories to tell. The Chamundi Gallery, named after the overlooking Chamundi Hills, had an exhibit of photographs and paintings which show the development of railways. The Sriranga Mantapa section holds the royal train compartments of the Kings and Queens of Mysore. This section also has a pillar from the Old Srirangapatna railway station along with a wired fence from the old times. The museum also displays a few old steam locomotives
69. Rajasthan State Archives, Bikaner.
The Directorate of the Rajasthan State archives is located at Bikaner. An internationally acclaimed research center, among its impressive collection lie an assortment of administrative records from the Mughal period and those belonging to the princely state era of Rajasthan.
70. Sculpture Museum, Mahabalipuram.
Sculpture Museum is a must-do on your trip to Mahabalipuram. It opens up a world of sculptures most of which are depictions of gods and goddesses’ from Hindu mythology. On display are over 3000 sculptures, monolithic statues, chariots, sculpted reliefs and paintings that leave the history lover in you spellbound. The exhibits here are of immense historical significance, and reflect the glory of the bygone era.
71. Srirangapatna, Mysore.
Srirangapatna, located on an island in the Cauvery river has both historical as well as religious significance. This region was controlled by Hyder Ali and later his son, Tipu Sultan. The famous summer palace of Tipu Sultan – Daria Daulat Bagh has now been transformed into a museum dedicated to Tipu Sultan. Under Tipu Sultan’s rule, the state of Mysore extended its territories across South India. Tipu Sultan had set his base in Srirangapatna and was later killed during the Battle of Srirangapatha against the British. Most of Tipu's work of art, gold, cash, clothes and firearms are now a part of the British Museum. However, the Srirangapatna Museum stores some of Tipu Sultan's garments and weapons made from the most up to date technology of that era. Surely a must see
72. The Hill Palace Museum, Kochi.
This sprawling 52-acre estate was once the official residence of the Raja of Kochi. Now, it is avatar, it is one of the largest archaeological museums in India. And has the distinction of being the first museum in Kerala to achieve heritage status. Originally built in 1865, the complex comprises 49 buildings, all designed in Kerala’s traditional architectural style. There is substantial variety within the style. The complex also houses a deer park. Being a one-time royal residence, the erstwhile horse riding facilities are available to visitors at large. A wide variety of flora including rare medicinal plants, add another dimension to the overall appeal of the complex
73. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Darjeeling.
Himalayan Mountaineering Institute or HMI for short, is a museum and also a training centre for budding mountaineers. The equipments used by the famous duo Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay are on display at the centre including their boots, their torch, their personal items, clothing and mountaineering essentials that they had carried along when scaling Mount Everest, the world's highest peak in 1953. The humble start of the Sherpa is highlighted. Born in the village of Moyey, he was raised in Nepal and was a resident of India for much of his adult life. Tenzing never learnt to read or write, but had an active mind and was fluent in several languages. Known for his daring spirit and competence in trekking, Tenzing Norgay (1914-1986) went to Everest as a high altitude porter on the 1935, 1936 and 1938 Expeditions. In 1952, he was a climbing member of the Swiss expedition's attempt on Everest. The following year with Edmund Hillary, Tenzing completed the same route, thus making the first successful summit ascent. Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, then Prime Minister and a visionary to commemorate the famous Everest feat and to laud the enthusiasm of the youth opened a mountaineering institute (HMI) in Darjeeling and equipped the institute with a technical expertise that could be imparted to young and keen mountaineers. Today it is one of the foremost mountaineering institutes of the world.
74. Namgyal Research Institute of Tibetology, Gangtok.
Located strategically on a hill that is easily accessible from the main market of Gangtok, the Namgyal Research Institute of Tibetology stands tall in its commanding structure. The structure itself is a work of art with exquisite murals and paintings adorning the walls. The site on which the institute was established was donated by the late Chogyal (king) of Sikkim, Sir Tashi Namgyal in memory of his departed son Paljor Namgyal. The foundation stone of the institute was laid by the 14th Dalai Lama in the year 1957 and the institute was declared open by the late Prime Minister of India Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on the 1st of October 1958.
75. International Doll's Museum, Chandigarh.
Located in Sector 23 of Chandigarh, the International Dolls’ Museum of Chandigarh is a unique fantastical and education attraction. Established in 1985 with the help of the Rotary Club of Chandigarh at the Bal Bhavan, the museum is managed by the city authorities. Divided into sections and exhibiting over 300 dolls from even the remotest parts of India to the most exotic international destinations, the museum provides an interesting peak into the way the world lives through a collection of beautiful dolls. An interesting exhibit at the Museum is This is a Small World, a replica of a life-size exhibit from Disney World.
76. Kodaikanal Observatory, Kodaikanal.
Located at 2,343 meters (7,690 feet), on the southern tip of Palani Hills, the Kodaikanal Observatory is the highest point in the area. Established in 1898 CE, it is a solar observatory, owned and operated by Indian Institute of Astrophysics. It also houses an Astronomical Science Museum that organizes public tours and night sky observation events. Science enthusiasts can also stop by and admire the many models and pictures in the gallery, or spend hours in the library. But the highlight for any visitor is the Kodaikanal Terrestrial Telescope, which offers striking views of the surrounding sights.
77. Lahaul & Spiti Tribal Museum, Keylong.
To help preserve the distinct cultural and religious identity of the area, Himachal’s Department of Art and Culture established a community museum of tribal and folk art in Keylong in 2008. The museum has archaeological and anthropological artifacts. Other exhibits include utensils made of stone – which are still used in some homes; farm implements and traditional apparel. Handmade carpets are also on display. Other items include the collection of rare manuscripts in the Bhoti and Tankri scripts. Rare thangka paintings are there too.
78. Madikeri Fort, Coorg.
Originally made in mud, the 110 feet long Madikeri Fort was re-built in stone (with secret underground passages) by Tipu Sultan. Much later Lingarajendra Wodeyar II reconstructed this two-storied fort with brick and mortar between 1812 - 1817. Now the District Collector’s Office, this palace has a stone formation of a tortoise with the initials of King Vijayarajendra and two life size stone replicas of the royal elephants killed by King Veera Raja. In 1855, the British built a Gothic styled Anglican St. Mark's Church which has now been converted into a museum. After a couple of facelifts a Clock Tower and a portico were added by the British in 1933.
79. Shenbaganur Museum of Natural History, Kodaikanal.
Shembaganur Museum of natural history, also known as the Flora & Fauna Museum, is dedicated to preserving the archeological remains of the flora and fauna of the hills. A Spanish priest, Father Ugarthe founded the Museum in 1895 CE. The Sacred Heart College now maintains and manages the Museum. Among the many attractions of the Museum is a taxidermy collection of over 500 species of birds, animals, and insects as well as an orchidorium, with over 300 different types of orchids.
80. The Government Museum and Art Gallery, Chandigarh.
The Government Museum and Art Gallery is one of the most important and impressive multi-dimensional museums in India. With a collection that predates even the partition of India, the Museum showcases its very rich collection of Gandharan sculptures, Pahari and Rajasthani miniature paintings, as well as a Natural Science Museum, with separate sections for evolution of life, evolution of man and even dinosaurs in India. The exhibits aside, the Museum building alone is worth a visit. Designed by Le Corbusier himself, and located in the heart of the city, the museum is housed in a sprawling campus which also offers stunning views of the Shivalik range that surrounds the city.