Indian Museum

Overview

Founded in 1814, the Indian Museum is the oldest and largest museum in India. Located on Chowringhee Road, it houses an extensive collection spanning archaeology, art, anthropology, geology, and zoology.

Highlights

• Egyptian Mummy: One of the museum's most famous exhibits, a well-preserved Egyptian mummy dating to around 2000 BCE.
• Bharhut Stupa Gallery: Features original stone railings and gateways from the 2nd-century BCE Buddhist stupa at Bharhut.
• Fossil Collection: Includes Siwalik fossils and a skeleton of the prehistoric Baluchitherium.

History

Established by the Asiatic Society under Dr. Nathaniel Wallich, the museum moved to its current Italianate building in 1875. It was a key center for colonial-era scholarship and scientific research.

Visitor Tips

• Photography: Allowed in most galleries; no flash permitted.
• Must-See Galleries: Art Gallery (Indian miniatures), Archaeology Gallery (Gandhara sculptures), and the Bird Gallery.
• Duration: 2–3 hours.