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Mahasthan Archaeological Museum: Echoes of Ancient Bengal

Explore ancient Bengal's history at Mahasthan Archaeological Museum, showcasing artifacts from Mahasthangarh and offering insights into past civilizations.

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The Mahasthan Archaeological Museum in Bogura, Bangladesh, established in 1967, showcases artifacts from the ancient city of Mahasthangarh and surrounding areas, dating back to the 3rd century BCE. It offers a glimpse into the region's rich past, with collections spanning the Maurya, Gupta, Pala, and Muslim dynasties.

A brief summary to Mahasthan Archaeological Museum

  • Monday 2 pm-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6:15 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Plan your visit to include both the museum and the extensive archaeological site of Mahasthangarh for a comprehensive experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring both the museum and the surrounding archaeological site involves a fair amount of walking.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the historical significance of the artifacts and the Mahasthangarh site.
  • Photography is prohibited inside the museum.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bogra town, the most common way to reach the Mahasthan Archaeological Museum is by CNG auto-rickshaw or local bus. CNGs are readily available at major points in Bogra, such as Satmatha মোড় (intersection) or Chelopara CNG stand. A direct CNG ride to the museum takes approximately 30-45 minutes. Local bus services also operate on this route. The bus fare is approximately 20 BDT. CNG fare is approximately 300-450 BDT.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Ride-sharing services like Uber or Pathao may be available in Bogra, though their availability in the Mahasthangarh area might be limited. Taxis can be hired from Bogra town, but it's best to negotiate the fare before starting your journey. The approximate cost is 300-450 BDT.

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Discover more about Mahasthan Archaeological Museum

Located near the ancient city of Mahasthangarh in the Shibganj Upazila of Bogura District, the Mahasthan Archaeological Museum is a treasure trove of Bengal's ancient history and culture. Established in 1967, the museum preserves and exhibits archaeological finds from Mahasthangarh and its surroundings, including Paharpur, Dinajpur, and Sherpur. These artifacts represent various historical periods, including the Maurya, Gupta, Pala, and Muslim dynasties, providing a comprehensive understanding of the region's rich past. Mahasthangarh, dating back to at least the 3rd century BCE, was the capital of Pundravardhana, an ancient kingdom in Bengal. The museum commemorates this historical significance by preserving items from royal dynasties and commonplace goods from earlier civilizations, offering an intriguing insight into the region's history. The museum's location near the Karatoya River and the ancient ruins of Mahasthangarh enhances the visitor experience, creating a tangible connection to the past. The museum houses four galleries, each displaying a diverse range of artifacts. One of the most significant items is the ancient inscription, a stone inscription considered one of the oldest relics discovered in Bangladesh. The museum also boasts an extensive collection of terracotta plaques, showcasing detailed depictions of mythological and social scenes, offering valuable insights into the daily lives, religious beliefs, and artistic traditions of the people who inhabited this region centuries ago. Stone and bronze sculptures from various periods illustrate the diverse artistic styles that flourished in ancient Bengal. These sculptures depict Hindu and Buddhist deities, reflecting the religious syncretism that characterized the region's history. Visitors can also find weapons and tools used for self-defense and daily activities, providing a glimpse into the practical aspects of life in ancient Pundranagara. Architectural elements, such as stone carvings, black basalt, and sandstone statues, along with clay tablets, further enrich the museum's collection. Miscellaneous relics, including pottery, beads, buttons, and ornaments made of various metals and stones, offer a more intimate connection to the lives of ordinary people. The museum's collection also includes vivid historic photos from the site that showcase its past excavations.

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