Assam State Museum
The Assam State Museum, formerly the Assam Provincial Museum, is a premier institution established by the Kamarupa Anusandhan Samiti (Assam Research Society) in 1940. It was later taken over by the State Government of Assam in 1953. Located centrally near the Dighalipukhuri tank, it serves as the la rgest repository of the rich history, culture, and art of Assam and the entire North-East India region. The museum's vast collection is systematically displayed across various sections, including Epigraphy, Sculptures, Miscellaneous, Natural History, Art & Crafts, Anthropology, and Folk Art & Arms. Highlights include stone and terracotta sculptures dating from the 5th to 12th century, ancient manuscripts written on the bark of Sanchi trees, and collections of weapons and armor from the Ahom dynasty and even relics from World War II. It is an invaluable resource for researchers, students, and anyone wishing to understand the historical evolution and diverse cultural fabric of the region. The museum also houses a well-stocked library, which is rich in rare periodicals, journals, and books focusing on the art, culture, and mythology of Assam.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 Hours to cover the major galleries in detail.Place Type:
Museum, Historical Monument, Art & Culture, EducatEntry Fees:
Nominal Entry Fee: The entry fee is very nominal, typically around Rs.10 for Indian adults and lower for students/children. Foreign nationals may have a slightly higher fee.
Photography/Videography Charges: There is a separate and distinct fe...Nominal Entry Fee: The entry fee is very nominal, typically around Rs.10 for Indian adults and lower for students/children. Foreign nationals may have a slightly higher fee.
Photography/Videography Charges: There is a separate and distinct fee for carrying a camera or video camera inside. This fee is essential to preserve the artifacts and to manage commercial photography. This charge can be around Rs.10 to Rs.50 for a still camera and higher for a video camera.
Library Access Fee: Researchers wishing to access the specialized library might have a nominal daily or monthly fee.
Tour Guide Charges: If the museum provides official guided tours, there may be a small fee per person or group.
Free Days: Note that museums sometimes offer free entry on specific days like International Museum Day or Independence Day; it's wise to check in advance.Timing:
Regular Timings: The museum is open generally from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM or 5:00 PM.
Closed Days: The museum observes closure on Mondays, the second and fourth Saturday of every month, and all major Government Holidays. It is crucial to check...Regular Timings: The museum is open generally from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM or 5:00 PM.
Closed Days: The museum observes closure on Mondays, the second and fourth Saturday of every month, and all major Government Holidays. It is crucial to check the calendar before planning a visit.
Ideal Visit Time: The morning hours, right after the opening at 10:00 AM, are the best. This allows visitors to explore the galleries before the mid-day rush and heat, and provides ample time before the early closing time.
Peak Visiting Time: The mid-morning to early afternoon (11:00 AM to 2:00 PM) is usually the busiest. Visiting outside this window ensures a more leisurely experience.Special Events:
Museum Foundation Day: The museum's establishment day in April is often marked with special programs, lectures, and temporary exhibitions to highlight its history and current work.
International Museum Day: Celebrated globally in May, the mu...Museum Foundation Day: The museum's establishment day in April is often marked with special programs, lectures, and temporary exhibitions to highlight its history and current work.
International Museum Day: Celebrated globally in May, the museum often hosts special events, educational programs, and free/reduced entry on this day to promote awareness of heritage.
Special Exhibitions: The museum frequently organizes temporary exhibitions focused on specific themes, such as a particular historical period, a tribal culture, or a specific art form, attracting specialized visitors.Best Photo Spots:
The Main Museum Building Exterior: A classic shot of the stately museum entrance, often with the name visible, provides a clear and professional photograph.
The Large Sculptures in the Courtyard: If any large stone sculptures are displayed o...The Main Museum Building Exterior: A classic shot of the stately museum entrance, often with the name visible, provides a clear and professional photograph.
The Large Sculptures in the Courtyard: If any large stone sculptures are displayed outside in the open area or near the entrance, these make for excellent, well-lit photographs.
The Reconstructed Tribal Huts/Models: The models or reconstructions of tribal living spaces offer colorful and anthropologically rich photo opportunities.
The Entrance of the Epigraphy Section: A subtle picture showing the ancient stone inscriptions (if allowed) is valuable for documenting the oldest parts of the collection. Image of Assam State Museum Building].Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Explore the Sculpture Gallery: Spend time studying the stone and terracotta sculptures, particularly those from the early medieval period (5th-12th century), which showcase the evolution of regional art styles.
Visit the Manuscript Section: Marvel at the rare manuscripts written on Sanchi bark and palm leaves, appreciating the traditional writing and preservation techniques of Assam.
Delve into the Natural History Gallery: Examine the exhibits on the region's rich biodiversity, including specimens of the iconic one-horned rhino and other flora and fauna.
Study the Arms and Ammunition: Inspect the historical weapons from the Ahom and Mughal periods, and the fascinating collection of WWII artifacts.
Browse the Art and Crafts Gallery:
Information
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Why Famous:
Rich and Diverse Collection: The museum is renowned for its vast and exceptionally diverse collection that spans several centuries, from pre-historic relics to artifacts from the World War II era. This comprehensive range provides a single-stop insight into the entirety of ...Rich and Diverse Collection: The museum is renowned for its vast and exceptionally diverse collection that spans several centuries, from pre-historic relics to artifacts from the World War II era. This comprehensive range provides a single-stop insight into the entirety of Assam's history.
Manuscripts on Sanchi Bark: A unique highlight is the collection of ancient manuscripts written on the bark of the Sanchi tree, a traditional form of writing in Assam. This rare method of documentation is a major draw for scholars and tourists alike.
Gateway to Northeast Culture: As the premier state museum, it acts as a cultural gateway, showcasing the distinct indigenous cultures, folk arts, and anthropological diversity of all of Northeast India, making it a crucial educational institution for the region. -
Architecture:
Colonial and Modern Blend: The architecture of the Assam State Museum is a blend of late Colonial influence (from the period it was founded in 1940) and subsequent modern additions made during renovations and expansions. The main building typically features large, open gall...Colonial and Modern Blend: The architecture of the Assam State Museum is a blend of late Colonial influence (from the period it was founded in 1940) and subsequent modern additions made during renovations and expansions. The main building typically features large, open galleries designed for exhibition purposes, characterized by high ceilings and robust construction.
Functional Layout: The building is primarily functional, designed to optimize the display of artifacts. The internal layout is sectioned into several thematic galleries, such as Sculpture Gallery, Epigraphy Gallery, Art and Craft Gallery, and Arms and Ammunition Gallery. This compartmentalization, rather than a single grand architectural theme, is key to its design.
Materials and Dimensions: The structure is predominantly built using concrete, brick, and plaster, reflecting the building standards of the mid-20th century. While exact floor dimensions are not public, the museum covers a significant area to accommodate its large collection, including a dedicated library wing. The emphasis is on space for display and preservation.
Conservation Lab: A key architectural component, though not visible to the public, is the Conservation Lab, established in 1984. This specialized area is designed with controlled environments for the scientific preservation and restoration of the rare artifacts, highlighting the museum's commitment to protecting its heritage. -
How To Reach:
From Place Name:
Guwahati (City Center - Paltan Bazaar) By Air: The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU), about 22 KM away. Hire a taxi or app-based cab to the museum, which is centrally located.
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Near Tourist Places:
1.
Dighali Pukhuri: Approx. 0. 2 KM
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Being an indoor attraction, the risks are minimal. Be sure to check for any restrictions on bag sizes or security procedures upon entry.
Packing: Do not carry large bags, which may need to be deposited at a cloakroom. Brin...
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Information about New and Updated Locations(400+) of Assam Has Been Added :-
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