Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh, is home to many cultural and historical attractions. One of the most unique and fascinating ones is the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya, or the National Museum of Humankind. This museum is an anthropology museum that showcases the evolution of man and culture with special reference to India. Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya covers an area of about 200 acres on the Shyamla Hills and offers a variety of exhibitions and activities for visitors. Here are some of the reasons why you should visit this museum when you are in Bhopal. Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya famous tourist attraction in Bhopal, visit during Bhopal local sightseeing by cab
Location of Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya
The museum is located on the Shyamla Hills, which overlook the Upper Lake of Bhopal. The museum can be accessed either from Lake View Road or from another road near Demonstration School. The museum is about 8 km away from Bhopal Junction Railway Station and about 15 km away from Raja Bhoj Airport.
Timing/Entry Fees Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya
The museum is open to visitors from 10 AM to 5 PM on all days except Mondays and national holidays. There is an entry fee of Rs. 50 for Indians and Rs. 200 for foreigners for visiting the museum. There is also a fee of Rs. 100 for still camera and Rs. 500 for video camera.
How to Reach Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya
You can reach the museum by various modes of transport such as bus, cab or auto. There are frequent buses that ply from different parts of the city to the museum. You can also hire a cab or an auto from any point in the city to reach the museum.
Things to do/Must See Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya
There are many things to do and see at the museum. Some of them are:
- Explore the open-air exhibitions that depict various tribal habitats, coastal villages, desert villages, Himalayan villages, mythological trail and traditional technology park. You can see various types of houses, crafts, costumes, rituals and lifestyles of different communities of India.
- Visit the indoor galleries that display various aspects of human evolution, culture and diversity. You can see various exhibits such as fossils, tools, weapons, pottery, textiles, paintings, sculptures, musical instruments, etc.
- Visit the Bhopal Gallery that showcases the history and culture of Bhopal from ancient to modern times. You can see various exhibits such as coins, maps, photographs, documents, etc.
- Visit the online exhibitions that present various themes and topics related to anthropology and museology. You can access these exhibitions through the museum’s website or mobile app.
- Participate in various activities and programs that are organized by the museum such as workshops, seminars, lectures, film shows, festivals, etc. You can also interact with various experts and scholars who visit the museum.
- Visit the regional centre of the museum at Mysore in Karnataka that focuses on the culture and heritage of South India.
Significance of Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya
The museum is not only a place of learning but also a place of inspiration and appreciation. The museum has the following significance:
- It is one of the largest anthropology museums in India and one of its kind in Asia.
- It is a living museum that involves various communities and stakeholders in its creation and management.
- It is a repository of India’s rich and diverse cultural heritage that reflects its unity in diversity.
- It is a platform for dialogue and exchange among various cultures and disciplines.
- It is a centre for research and education in anthropology and museology.
FAQ’s
Some of the frequently asked questions about the museum are:
- Q: Is photography allowed inside the museum?
- A: Yes, photography is allowed inside the museum with a valid ticket for still camera or video camera.
- Q: Is there any facility for food and water at the museum?
- A: Yes,
Conclusion
The Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the human and cultural diversity of India. The museum is a place of wonder and discovery, where you can see, hear and feel the stories of mankind in time and space. The museum is also a place of respect and harmony, where you can appreciate the similarities and differences among various cultures and communities. Whether you are a student, a researcher, a tourist or a citizen, you will find something to learn and enjoy at the museum.
