Antiquities that stood the test of time

Visakhapatnam is a place for beach lovers. Yet, it’s not true that Visakhapatnam only amazes beach lovers. Situated in Visakhapatnam, the Archaeology Museum comprises an exquisite variety of antique items in its gallery. The antiquities vary from shining bronze items to copper plates and other objects. It is a famous tourist spot and visitors come to witness an array of antiquities from the past.

Basically, there is one Visakha Museum in Visakhapatnam that will quench the thirst of any history lover. This Visakha Museum has two parts: a maritime or Naval Museum and the Archaeology Museum. The Naval Museum has inscriptions and pictures from Vedic era to the present times. It also has statues, submarines and technical details to it. However, the Archaeology Museum has everything dating back from prehistoric to historic and modern times.

A hub for history buffs

The Archaeology Museum houses a diverse collection of antique items in its gallery, ranging from shining bronze artefacts to copper plates and other objects. This popular tourist spot attracts visitors who come to see a wide array of antiquities from the past. It is a treasure trove that spans from prehistoric times to the modern era, offering a captivating journey through history.

A collection of historic displays

After the formation of Andhra Pradesh as a state, the Department of Archaeology merged, extending archaeological activities throughout the state. This led to the establishment of the Archaeological Museum in Andhra Pradesh, which consists of five galleries: the Evolution of Man and Prehistoric Gallery, Stone Sculptures Gallery, Bronze Gallery, Coins Gallery, Pottery Gallery, and Celadon & Enamel Ware Gallery.

When you visit the sculptural gallery, you will have the opportunity to see stone sculptures dating from the 1st century AD to the 16th century AD. The gallery features images from Buddhist, Jain, Shaivite, and Vaishnavite cultures. You will be amazed by the diverse variety of images and artefacts representing almost every religion and lesser-known tribe.

The displays are not only for attracting tourists but also for research and studies. For instance, there are Buddhist sculptures from Central India that are displayed for comparative studies in art styles.

The museum also houses copper and stone plate inscriptions dating back to the 1st century BC in Brahmi characters. One of the inscriptions reads "Bandhukasa Damura," indicating that the particular slab was donated by one of the Bandhukas.

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Timings

Opening time - 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Monday to Friday

Closing time - 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday

Inscriptions of time

In the Archaeology Museum, there is an intriguing inscription written in Tamil characters. It documents the name change of Visakhapatnam to Kulothunga Chola Pattanam by the general of the military of Kulothunga. The museum also features other similar inscriptions that provide valuable historical information and are bound to pique your interest.

Aside from the inscriptions and pictures, visitors can closely observe ancient armour, coins, silk costumes, stuffed animals, jewellery and the shells of an unexploded bomb dropped by the Japanese during World War II. These artefacts are special attractions of the Archaeology Museum. Additionally, the museum houses several manuscripts, letters, scrapbooks, diaries and periodicals that are sure to amaze all visitors.

Embark on a trip beyond the museum

If you love adventure, you will be mesmerised by Katiki Waterfalls. These waterfalls are located close to the museum, and many people come here to spend time in solitude. Don't miss the famous Rama Krishna Beach in Visakhapatnam. Additionally, make sure to visit Araku Valley, which is situated at an elevation of around 3200 ft, about 112 kilometres southeast of Visakhapatnam. Araku is well-known for its vast coffee plantations, streams, waterfalls, gardens and lush green valleys.