Background

Indian Museum: A Storied Repository of Indian History and Culture

4.5 (51686)

Explore India's rich history and cultural heritage at the Indian Museum, the oldest and largest museum in the country, located in Kolkata.

The Indian Museum in Kolkata, also known as 'Jadughar' or the 'House of Wonder,' is the oldest and largest museum in India and the Asia-Pacific region. Founded in 1814, it houses a vast collection of artifacts, antiques, fossils, skeletons, mummies, and Mughal paintings, offering a glimpse into India's rich history and cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Indian Museum

  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Indian Museum.

  • Visit during the weekdays to avoid large crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
  • Photography is allowed inside the museum, but there are separate charges for smartphones and cameras.
  • Allocate at least 2-3 hours to explore the museum's vast collection.
  • Check out the prehistoric dinosaur skull fossil in the Geological Section.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Mayo Rd

Discover the Lush Green Heart of Kolkata: Maidan

I Love Kolkata

Explore the Heart of Kolkata at I Love Kolkata

Smaranika Tram Museum

Discover the Charm of Smaranika Tram Museum

Unlock the Best of Indian Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Indian Museum is accessible via the Kolkata Metro. The nearest metro station is Park Street. From Park Street station, walk along Chowringhee Road (Jawaharlal Nehru Road) for about 500 meters to reach the museum entrance. Metro fares for a short trip within the city typically range from ₹10 to ₹20.

  • Bus

    Several buses connect to the Esplanade bus stand, which is a short walk from the Indian Museum. Look for buses displaying "Chowringhee Road" or "Museum" on their destination boards. Bus fares for a short trip typically range from ₹10 to ₹20.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Kolkata. A short taxi ride from nearby areas like Park Street or New Market to the Indian Museum typically costs between ₹85 to ₹150. Parking is available beside the Indian Museum, but it can be difficult to find an empty slot.

Discover more about Indian Museum

The Indian Museum, located in Kolkata, is a treasure trove of Indian history, art, and culture. Established in 1814 by the Asiatic Society of Bengal, it is the oldest and largest museum in India. The museum's foundation marked the beginning of the museum movement in India, leading to the establishment of numerous museums across the country. The museum boasts an extensive collection of over one hundred thousand artifacts, divided into six major categories: Archaeology, Anthropology, Art, Zoology, Botany, and Geology. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing ancient sculptures, coins, manuscripts, fossils, and specimens. Highlights include an Egyptian mummy, Buddhist relics, and fossil skeletons of prehistoric animals. The museum also features a library with a vast collection of books and journals. The Indian Museum's building, completed in 1875, is an architectural marvel in itself. Designed in consultation with Sir Thomas Holland, the building features a grand facade with large pillars, intricate carvings, and beautiful domes. The museum operates as an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.

Explore the best of what Indian Museum has to offer

Mobile App

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.



More about Eastern India

File:Victoria Memorial situated in Kolkata.jpg - Wikipedia

Explore the diverse cultures, rich history, and stunning landscapes of Eastern India, from the lush tea gardens of Assam to the majestic temples of Odisha.

Tell me more about Eastern India

Discover the architectural brilliance and serene beauty of St. Paul Cathedral, a must-visit Gothic landmark in the heart of Kolkata.

St. Paul Cathedral Church

Explore Maidan, Kolkata's vast green sanctuary, home to historic monuments, vibrant culture, and scenic beauty ideal for relaxation and recreation.

Mayo Rd

Select Currency