Checkout Assam State Museum Guwahati Watch Video
Key Details:
- Official Name: Assam State Museum (Asom Rajya Sangrahalaya).
- Location: Near Dighalipukhuri, GNB Road, Guwahati, Assam, India.
- Significance: The oldest and one of the largest multipurpose museums in Northeast India, showcasing the history, art, archaeology, ethnography, and culture of Assam and the surrounding region.
- Established: 1940 (by the Kamarupa Anusandhan Samiti, taken over by the State Government in 1953).
- Entry Fee (Approximate – verify with official sources for latest):
- Indian Citizens: βΉ20 – βΉ30 per person.
- Foreign Nationals: βΉ100 – βΉ250 per person.
- Students: Often concessional rates (e.g., βΉ5-βΉ10) with valid ID.
- Camera Fee: May apply for still or video cameras.
- Timings π°οΈ:
- Typically 10:00 AM β 5:00 PM (Last entry often by 4:30 PM).
- Lunch Break: Often closed for a lunch break (e.g., 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM or 1:30 PM – 2:00 PM).
- Closed: Mondays, 2nd & 4th Saturdays, and specified Government Holidays. (It is always advisable to verify the exact current timings and holiday closures from official sources or by contacting the museum before your visit.)
Guwahati’s Gateway to Assamese Heritage: The Esteemed Assam State Museum π
The Assam State Museum, located in the heart of Guwahati near the picturesque Dighalipukhuri, stands as a venerable institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the multifaceted heritage of Assam and the broader Northeastern region. Established in 1940, this premier museum invites visitors on an enlightening journey through millennia of history, art, culture, and tradition. From ancient archaeological finds and royal Ahom artifacts to vibrant ethnographic displays of tribal cultures and exquisite traditional crafts, the Assam State Museum offers a comprehensive and fascinating exploration of the land, its people, and their enduring legacy.
Essential Visitor & Museum Information βΉοΈ
- Address: Assam State Museum, Gopinath Bordoloi (GNB) Road, Near Dighalipukhuri Tank, Guwahati, Assam – 781001.
- How to Reach:
- Location π: Centrally located in Guwahati, near the Dighalipukhuri park and tank, making it easily accessible.
- Local Transport ΰ€ΰ€ΰ₯: Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and city buses frequently ply to this area from various parts of Guwahati.
- Nearest Railway Station π: Guwahati Railway Station (GHY) (approx. 1-2 km).
- Nearest Airport βοΈ: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU), Guwahati (approx. 22-25 km).
- Contact Information (Assam State Museum / Directorate of Museums, Assam):
- Phone π (Assam State Museum – often listed): +91-361-2540651 (This is a commonly listed landline number for the museum office. Calling to confirm timings or for specific inquiries is recommended).
- Directorate of Museums, Assam: The museum functions under this directorate. Contact details for the Directorate can usually be found on official Assam Government cultural affairs websites. (For the most current information, checking official Assam Government or Directorate of Museums websites, or calling the museum directly, is advisable.)
A Chronicle of Assam: History & Establishment of the Museum π
- Foundation: Initially established in 1940 by the Kamarupa Anusandhan Samiti (Assam Research Society) to house historical and archaeological collections.
- Government Acquisition: Taken over by the Government of Assam in 1953, it has since grown into the state’s principal museum.
- Purpose: To collect, preserve, document, exhibit, and promote the rich cultural and historical heritage of Assam and Northeast India.
Treasures of the Brahmaputra Valley: Exploring the Museum’s Diverse Galleries πΌοΈπΏπ
The Assam State Museum boasts a rich and varied collection spread across several galleries:
- Archaeology & Sculpture Gallery:
- Features stone sculptures from various historical sites in Assam (e.g., Ambari, Tezpur, Madan Kamdev), dating from the 5th to 13th centuries and beyond. Includes Hindu deities, architectural fragments, and stone inscriptions.
- Terracotta artifacts.
- Epigraphy & Numismatics Gallery:
- Showcases ancient inscriptions (copper plates, stone inscriptions) in scripts like Brahmi, Nagari, and Assamese.
- Displays a collection of coins from different periods, including Ahom dynasty coins.
- Ethnography & Tribal Culture Gallery:
- A highlight of the museum, this section offers a fascinating insight into the diverse indigenous tribal communities of Assam and Northeast India.
- Exhibits include traditional tribal costumes, ornaments, musical instruments, tools, weapons, household items, fishing and hunting implements, and models of tribal dwellings.
- Art & Crafts Gallery:
- Displays traditional Assamese art forms, including ivory carvings (now replicas), wood carvings, metal crafts (bell metal items), and bamboo crafts.
- Showcases traditional Assamese textiles like Muga silk, Eri silk, and Pat silk garments, often with intricate weaving and embroidery.
- Masks used in Sattriya traditions and Bhaona performances.
- Natural History Section (if currently prominent): Some museums of this nature have sections on local flora and fauna.
- Manuscript Section: Preserves ancient manuscripts, often on Sanchi bark (Sanchipat).
- Arms & Armour Gallery: Displays historical arms and armor used in the region.
- Village Life and Miscellaneous Gallery: Depicting aspects of rural life and other interesting artifacts.
- Freedom Movement Section: Highlighting Assam’s role in India’s struggle for independence.
- Ahom Period Gallery: Specific artifacts related to the powerful Ahom dynasty that ruled Assam for nearly 600 years.
More Than Artifacts: Understanding Assam’s Soul π
The Assam State Museum serves as an invaluable educational resource:
- Cultural Understanding: Provides a deep understanding of the diverse cultures, traditions, and lifestyles of the people of Assam.
- Historical Awareness: Narrates the rich history of the region from ancient times through various dynasties to the modern era.
- Artistic Appreciation: Showcases the unique artistic expressions and craftsmanship of Assam.
Insider Tips for Your Assam State Museum Visit π‘
- Allocate Sufficient Time β³: To do justice to the diverse collections, plan for at least 2-3 hours for your visit.
- Focus on Key Galleries β: The Ethnography/Tribal Culture gallery and the Archaeology/Sculpture gallery are often considered highlights.
- Read the Displays Carefully π§: The information panels provide valuable context to the exhibits.
- Photography Rules πΈ: Photography is usually permitted for personal use, often with a nominal camera fee. Flash photography might be restricted for delicate exhibits like textiles and paintings.
- Check for Guided Tours or Audio Guides π£οΈπ§: Inquire at the entrance if guided tours or audio guides are available to enhance your experience.
- Visit Dighalipukhuri Nearby: Combine your museum visit with a relaxing stroll around the adjacent Dighalipukhuri park and lake.
Why Assam State Museum is a Must-Visit in Guwahati β¨
- Richest Collection of Assamese Heritage: The most comprehensive repository of Assam’s historical and cultural artifacts.
- Oldest Museum in Northeast India: A pioneering institution in preserving regional heritage.
- Invaluable Insights into Tribal Cultures: Offers a rare glimpse into the lives of Assam’s diverse indigenous communities.
- Educational & Informative: A great learning experience for students, researchers, and anyone interested in history and culture.
- Centrally Located: Easy to access within Guwahati city.
Preserving the Rich Tapestry of Assamese Culture πΈ
The Assam State Museum plays a crucial role in safeguarding the tangible and intangible heritage of Assam, ensuring that the stories, traditions, and artistic achievements of this vibrant region are preserved and shared with future generations.
Planning Your Journey Through Assam’s Past πΊοΈ
- Best For: History enthusiasts, culture lovers, students, researchers, and anyone interested in learning about Assam and Northeast India.
- What to Expect: A traditional government museum with extensive collections covering archaeology, art, ethnography, and history.
- Facilities: Basic facilities like restrooms and drinking water are usually available. There might be a small publication counter selling books or museum guides.
- Accessibility: The museum building is generally accessible, but it’s advisable to check for specific accessibility features if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
A1: The main highlights include its extensive collection of archaeological artifacts (sculptures, inscriptions), ethnographic displays showcasing the diverse tribal cultures of Assam, traditional Assamese textiles and crafts, Ahom dynasty artifacts, and historical arms and armor.
A2: The Ethnography Gallery is particularly significant as it provides a rare and comprehensive look into the lifestyles, costumes, tools, musical instruments, and traditions of the numerous indigenous tribal communities of Assam and Northeast India.
A3: The museum is typically open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is usually closed on Mondays, 2nd & 4th Saturdays, and specific Government Holidays. There's often a lunch break as well.
A4: Yes, there is a nominal entry fee, with different rates for Indian citizens, foreign nationals, and students. A separate camera fee may also apply.
A5: It is recommended to allocate at least 2 to 3 hours to explore the diverse galleries and collections of the museum properly.
A6: Photography for personal use is generally permitted, often with a camera fee. However, flash photography and tripods might be restricted, especially for delicate exhibits like textiles, paintings, and manuscripts.
A7: The Assam State Museum is centrally located on Gopinath Bordoloi (GNB) Road, near the Dighalipukhuri park and tank, in Guwahati.
A8: The museum often has a dedicated section or exhibits showcasing artifacts from the Ahom dynasty, which ruled Assam for nearly 600 years. This can include royal insignia, weapons, utensils, textiles, and other items related to Ahom royalty and administration.
Rate us and Write a Review
Your request has been submitted successfully.
Own or work here?
