Patna Museum

Overview

Patna Museum is one of the oldest state museums in India, established in 1917. It houses rare artifacts from the Mauryan, Gupta, and Mughal periods, showcasing Bihar’s spiritual and cultural heritage. Spread across a century-old building with a stunning Mughal-Gothic façade, the museum’s galleries contain ancient manuscripts, sculptures, coins, and paintings that chronicle the region’s historical evolution.

Visitors can explore a vast collection of rock-cut edicts, Ashoka inscriptions, and exquisite Pala-period bronzes, making Patna Museum a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Historical Background

1917: Founded by the British to preserve and display archaeological discoveries from Bihar.
Building: Designed by Rai Bahadur Bisheshwar Nath Reu in Indo-Saracenic style, blending Mughal and Gothic elements.
Collections: Home to Ashoka’s Lion Capital, Mauryan-era sculptures, and rare Jain manuscripts.

Architectural Highlights

Iconic Indo-Saracenic façade with arched porticos and ornate domes.
Spacious central hall with high ceilings and intricate woodwork.
Marble floors and stained-glass windows allowing natural light.

Major Galleries & Collections

Mauryan & Gupta Sculptures

Stone carvings, Ashokan pillar fragments, and Gupta-era Buddha statues.

Numismatic Collection

Rare coins from Magadha kingdom, Mughal emperors, and local dynasties.

Historic Paintings & Manuscripts

Miniature paintings of Mithila art, rare palm-leaf manuscripts, and Mughal-period artworks.

Special Exhibitions & Events

Heritage Week: Themed exhibitions on Bihar’s dynasties and cultures (September).
Artisans’ Showcase: Live displays of local Mithila painters and sculptors (April).
Lecture Series: Talks by historians and archaeologists on Bihar’s archaeology (June).

Educational Programs

Guided tours in English, Hindi, and Bhojpuri (advance booking recommended).
School workshops on archaeology, coin-study, and heritage conservation.
Hands-on sessions for students to learn artifact preservation techniques.

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Friday)

Entry Fee

₹10 (Adult), ₹100 (Foreigner)
Students & Children: Free

Best Time to Visit

November – February

How to Reach

By Air: Patna Airport (8 km).
By Train: Patna Junction (2 km) – auto or rickshaw.
By Road: Regular state buses and private taxis from all parts of Patna.

Travel Tips

Arrive before noon to cover all galleries without rush.
Carry a photocopy of ID to avail student or senior citizen discounts.
Keep an eye on exhibit timings—some displays close earlier in the day.
Photography is permitted without flash or tripod.

Facilities & Amenities

Cafeteria

Book & Souvenir Shop

Restrooms

Parking

Nearby Attractions

Golghar

Iconic granary offering panoramic views of Patna from the top.

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Buddha Smriti Park

Peaceful park built around a grand stupa, near Patna Junction.

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Bihar Museum

Modern museum featuring immersive galleries on Bihar’s heritage.

Learn More

Testimonials

“An impressive collection—felt like walking through India’s past. The Ashoka pillar is a highlight!”

— Rakesh Singh

“The colonial-era building itself is a masterpiece. Loved the guided tour.”

— Neha Kumari

“Great place for research—access to rare manuscripts and inscriptions. Highly recommended for scholars.”

— Prof. Ali Ahmed

FAQs

Yes, photography is allowed without flash or tripod.

Yes, guided tours can be arranged at the information desk in English and Hindi.

Yes, a small cloakroom and a book & souvenir shop are available near the entrance.

Overview

Historical Background

Architectural Highlights