Udaigiri Museum : Best Museum In Udaigiri

Udaigiri Museum is a museum near the Udaigiri Caves, which are a group of 20 rock-cut caves that date back to the early years of the 5th century CE. The museum houses various artifacts that were found during the excavations at Udaigiri and its surrounding areas. The museum was established in 1981 by the Archaeological Survey of India. Visit during One Day Bhopal to Sanchi-Udaigiri Trip

The museum showcases the history and culture of Udaigiri and its significance in the development of Hinduism and Jainism in India. Best 10 Places To Visit in Bhopal

Overview of Udaigiri Museum

Udaigiri Museum is located on a hilltop, overlooking the Udaigiri Caves and the Betwa River. The museum consists of a main hall and two galleries, besides a verandah and a few open courtyards. The museum displays objects that belong to different periods of Indian history, ranging from the 3rd century BCE to the 12th century CE. The objects include sculptures, coins, pottery, inscriptions, seals, terracotta, and metal objects. The museum also has a section on the history and culture of Vidisha and its people. The museum aims to provide information and education on the archaeology, art, and architecture of Udaigiri and its vicinity.

Location of Udaigiri Museum

Udaigiri Museum is situated on the NH-86, near the town of Udaigiri, in the district of Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh, India. The museum is about 4 km from the Sanchi Stupa, and about 13 km from the Vidisha Railway Station. The museum is easily accessible by public transport, such as buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws.

Timing/Entry Fees Udaigiri Museum

Udaigiri Museum is open to the public from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, from Tuesday to Sunday. The museum is closed on Mondays and public holidays. The entry fee for the museum is Rs. 10 for Indian visitors and Rs. 100 for foreign visitors. There is no entry fee for children below 12 years, students, and senior citizens. There is an additional fee of Rs. 10 for photography and Rs. 20 for videography. The museum also offers guided tours and audio guides for a nominal charge.

How to Reach Udaigiri Museum

Udaigiri Museum can be reached by various modes of transport from different parts of Bhopal and other nearby cities. Some of the options are:

• By Bus: There are several buses that ply to Udaigiri Museum from various bus stops in Bhopal and other cities, such as Vidisha, Raisen, and Sagar. The nearest bus stop to the museum is the Udaigiri Bus Stop, which is about 500 meters away.
• By Taxi: Taxis are another convenient way to reach Udaigiri Museum from anywhere in Bhopal and other cities. The fare depends on the distance and the traffic conditions, but it usually ranges from Rs. 500 to Rs. 1000. One can also book a taxi online or through a mobile app, such as Ola, Uber, or Meru.
• By Auto-Rickshaw: Auto-rickshaws are the most common and affordable mode of transport in Bhopal and other cities. They can be hailed from any street corner or stand, and they charge according to the meter or by bargaining. The average fare to Udaigiri Museum from Bhopal is around Rs. 300 to Rs. 500.

Things to Do Udaigiri Museum

Udaigiri Museum is a place where one can experience the history and culture of Udaigiri and its surroundings. There are many things to do and see in and around the museum, such as:

• Explore the museum and admire its architecture, design, and decor. See the various exhibits and displays, and learn about their history and significance. Marvel at the diversity and unity of Indian culture and civilization, and the achievements and challenges of Udaigiri and its monuments.
• Enjoy the view and the nature. Take a walk around the museum, which offers a panoramic view of the Udaigiri Caves and the Betwa River. Watch the sunrise and sunset from the museum terrace, which is a popular spot for photography and meditation. Relax in the lawns and gaze at the fountains and ponds. Watch the birds and animals that inhabit the museum premises.
• Visit the Udaigiri Caves and other nearby attractions. The Udaigiri Caves are a group of 20 rock-cut caves that date back to the early years of the 5th century CE. They contain some of the oldest surviving Hindu temples and iconography in India, as well as some Jain sculptures. The most famous and impressive cave is Cave 5, which has a colossal relief sculpture of Vishnu in his incarnation as the boar Varaha, rescuing the earth goddess Bhudevi from the demon Hiranyaksha. The caves also have inscriptions in Brahmi and Sanskrit, which provide information about the history and chronology of the Gupta period. Other nearby attractions include the Sanchi Stupa complex, the Udayagiri Fort, the Bhojpur Temple, and the Bhimbetka Rock Shelters.

Significance of Udaigiri Museum

Udaigiri Museum is not only a tourist attraction, but also a symbol of the heritage and identity of Udaigiri and its vicinity. The museum represents the vision and mission of the Archaeological Survey of India, which is to preserve and protect the archaeological and cultural heritage of India. The museum also reflects the religious diversity and harmony of Udaigiri and its vicinity, which has been influenced by various regions and religions over the centuries. The museum is a source of pride and inspiration for the people of Udaigiri and its vicinity, who cherish and preserve its beauty and value.

FAQ’s

Here are some of the frequently asked questions about Udaigiri Museum:

Conclusion

Udaigiri Museum is a must-see destination for anyone who visits Udaigiri and its surroundings. It is a place where one can witness the history and culture of Udaigiri and its vicinity. It is a place where one can learn about the archaeology, art, and architecture of Udaigiri and its monuments. It is a place where one can enjoy the view and the nature of the hilltop and the river. It is a place where one can visit the Udaigiri Caves and other nearby attractions. Udaigiri Museum is a place that offers something for everyone, and leaves a lasting impression on the visitors.