A journey through time and culture

Bihar Museum stands as an oasis of knowledge at the core of Patna, inviting visitors on an exciting journey through history. Over its total 5.6 hectares of land and 24,000-square-metre built-up area, the facility was inaugurated gradually beginning with August 2015 and culminating with unveiling of remaining galleries in October 2017. This remarkable institution transports you back in time, offering a profound insight into Bihar's glorious past. From ancient artefacts to stunning artworks, Bihar Museum enthrals visitors with its diverse cultural tapestry, leaving them in awe of Bihar's rich history and cultural significance. Boasting carefully designed architecture and carefully selected exhibits, this museum stands as a testament to our collective pride for our roots.

Where history meets architecture

Bihar Museum, where architecture meets history, stands as an impressive architectural feat that seamlessly marries past and present. A joint effort by Indian and Japanese firms, its design showcases harmonious collaboration of cultures. Bihar's buildings host galleries, educational spaces and administrative areas that create an experience that lets visitors immerse themselves in its rich past. Terraces and courtyards combine beautifully to bridge indoor and outdoor living spaces, inviting you to discover hidden corners and tranquil nooks. Of particular note are the Waterfall, Peepal, Amphitheatre and Niranjana courtyards where visitors can pause to appreciate and reflect upon nature's wonder.

Journeying through the galleries

Bihar Museum invites visitors to embark on an exhilarating tour through its beautifully curated galleries, each providing unique insight into Bihar's past and culture. An orientation tour sets the scene, taking you on a journey through Historical Art, Regional Art, Visible Storage Bihari Diaspora and Contemporary Art Galleries. Ancient artefacts come to life here and tell tales of civilizations which once thrived here. Three History Galleries display artefacts chronologically to tell Bihar's tale from prehistoric to Mughal Empire and British accession times, along with an abundance of ancient coins evoking stories of trade and prosperity. Additionally, an undiscovered Coin Storage area offers more insight. History Galleries provide detailed information about various dynasties, their rise, reign, and decline. Visitors can gain an understanding of Buddhism and Jainism spread as well as that of Gupta Dynasty, Mauryan Dynasty, Ashoka Magadha Pala Dynasty, and Mughal Empire history.

Timings

Opening time - 06:30 AM

Closing time - 07:30 PM

A wonderland for young explorers

Bihar Museum provides an interactive space where children can unleash their curiosity about wildlife, history, arts, culture and exploration - indulging in not only adult inquisitveness but also nurturing young minds to foster life-long curiosity about knowledge. The Children's Gallery provides six experiential learning zones where young explorers can embark on a voyage of discovery. Engaging activities include storytelling and visual aids which foster children's enthusiasm for learning while sparking their imagination for lifelong discovery! This lively zone creates lifelong learners.

Stories that bring history alive

At Bihar Museum, amazing tales are revealed, adding depth and colour to our exhibits. The Orientation Gallery introduces you to the art of documenting history through engaging audio-visuals and thought-provoking displays. "New Finds," an audiovisual presentation, will transport you back in time to Telhara Excavation and beyond. Another presentation highlights archaeologists at work while showing some of Bihar's archaeological sites. And finally, "How We Know What We Know," offers you an incredible glimpse into how history is pieced together through artefacts, oral traditions, accounts and ancient texts.

A glimpse of Bihar's splendours

Bihar Museum provides an interactive virtual tour of Bihar's historical sites, inviting you to discover Munger, Bodhgaya, Saran Gaya Kaimur and beyond. An orientation movie provides fascinating insight into these magnificent sites and their impact on Bihar's rich heritage - transporting visitors back in time through vivid visuals and captivating storytelling as they experience Bihar's splendours for themselves.

Bihar Museum stands as a testament to Bihar's indomitable spirit, honoring its rich heritage and encouraging visitors to explore our past. Wander through carefully curated galleries and take in architectural splendour as you step back through time; immerse yourself in stories from bygone eras that helped shape Bihar history - creating an amazing sense of reverence for this land we call home!