Top 12 Popular Museums in Varanasi

There are some fascinating museums within the city of Varanasi. These museums display all types of artifacts from past days, mostly of a religious nature. The Sarnath Archaeological Museum’s exhibits are related to the Maharajas of Banaras within the famous fortress of Ramnagar Fort. The Bharat Kala Museum is one of the most visited of all the museums in Varanasi. It exhibits several large galleries with stone sculptures and Buddhist reliefs.

The list of 12 Famous Museums in Varanasi are:

1. Archaeological Museum Sarnath

Archaeological Museum Sarnath was established in 1910. Claiming it to be the oldest museum of archaeological surveys in India won’t be wrong.

There are five galleries and two verandahs which display the archaics found in Sarnath between the 3rd century BC and the 12th century AD.

Price: Entry Fees – ₹5

The museum offers free entry for children below the age of 15 years. A guide facility is available.

Timing: 9 A.M. – 5 P.M., every day, except Friday. It remains closed on Fridays.

Location: Sarnath, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Nearby Attractions:

1. Dhamek Stupa: An iconic Buddhist monument.
2. Mulagandha Kuti Vihara: An ancient Buddhist temple.
3. Chaukhandi Stupa: A historical Buddhist site.
4. Deer Park: Where Buddha gave his first sermon.
5. Ashoka Pillar: A famous monument erected by Emperor Ashoka.

2. Bharat Kala Bhavan

Initially founded as Bharat Kala Parishad in 1920 at Godaulia, Bharat Kala Bhawan displays the history of India. The growth record of this museum is consistent.

More than 1 lakh objects in this museum are dedicated to archaeological antiques and art. Some of the objects which are kept on display here date back to the 1st-15th centuries.

Ticket Price: For Indians: ₹20 / For foreigners: ₹250

Timing: Mon-Sat: 10:30 A.M. – 4:30 P.M. It remains closed on Sunday.

Location: Banaras Hindu University Campus, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Nearby Attractions:

1. Banaras Hindu University (BHU): One of the largest residential universities in Asia.
2. New Vishwanath Temple: A replica of the Kashi Vishwanath temple inside BHU.
3. Alamgir Mosque: Overlooking the Ganges, this mosque offers a beautiful view.
4. Durga Temple: A popular temple dedicated to Goddess Durga.
5. Tulsi Manas Temple: Dedicated to Lord Rama, featuring beautiful gardens.

3. Ramnagar Fort Museum

Established in 1917, Ramnagar Fort Museum is popularly known as Maharaja Banaras Vidya Mandir Trust Museum. The Ramnagar Fort in which this museum is made belongs to the 17th century. There are five galleries in this museum.

It begins with collecting old vehicles and palanquins and then is followed by the gallery of textiles. The Fort, along with the background of the setting sun, is a mesmerizing treat to the eyes. Moreover, there is a place dedicated to watching the sunset view over the river.

Timing: Mon-Sun: 10 A.M. – 5:30 P.M.

There are no entry fees.

Location: Ramnagar Fort, Near the Ganges River, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Nearby Attractions:

1. Ramnagar Fort: A historical fort offering panoramic views.
2. Shri Ram Rekha Mandir: A temple with a rich history.
3. Vyas Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Sage Vyas.
4. Raja Ghat: A serene spot by the Ganges river.
5. Chet Singh Ghat: Historically significant and offers a picturesque view.

4. Government Museum

Established in 1874, The Government Museum has a good collection of antiquities from the 3rd century to the 12th century.

Clay objects, pottery, bronze items, terracotta bowls, and paintings are the main highlights of this museum. Moreover, one can find several archaeological remains excavated from the region of Mathura in this museum.

Timing – 9.30 A.M. to 6.00 P.M.

Closed on – Public holidays

There are no entry fees.

Location: Sarnath, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Nearby Attractions:

1. Sarnath Archaeological Site: A must-visit site for history lovers.
2. Japanese Temple: A symbol of peace and harmony.
3. Sarnath Museum: Showcasing artifacts from the Buddhist era.
4. Thai Temple: Beautiful architecture representing Thai Buddhist tradition.
5. Chinese Temple: A serene temple with distinct Chinese architectural features.

5. Trade Facilitation Center and Craft Museum

This museum is one of the leading businesses in the Art Galleries. Other than being a museum, it also trades in art stuff.

It is pretty famous in the category of Art galleries in Varanasi. They get their customers and visitors not only from Varanasi but from the whole country.

Timing: Mon to Sun:- 11:30 A.M. – 7:00 P.M.

There are no entry fees.

Location: Bajardiha, Near the Varanasi-Lucknow National Highway, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Nearby Attractions:

1. Banaras Silk Weaving Center: Experience the making of the world-renowned Banaras silk.
2. Assi Ghat: Popular for evening aartis and boat rides.
3. Kedar Ghat: Known for its picturesque beauty and the Kedareshwar temple.
4. Sankat Mochan Temple: Dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
5. Durga Kund: A scenic pond next to the Durga temple.

6. Ruchika Art Gallery

Tucked away in the vibrant lanes of Varanasi, Ruchika Art Gallery stands as an emblem of artistic brilliance. This sanctuary for art lovers boasts a diverse array of modern masterpieces, each echoing the soul and spirit of the locale.

By offering a stage for indigenous artists to shine, the gallery not only preserves the city’s rich artistic heritage but also beckons visitors to dive deep into Varanasi’s creative heartbeat.

Timing: Mon to Sun:- 11:00 A.M. – 8:00 P.M.

There are no entry fees.

Location: Durgakund Road, Near Bank of India, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Nearby Attractions:

1. Ghats of Varanasi: A stretch of steps leading to the Ganges river.
2. Dashashwamedh Ghat: Famous for the Ganga Aarti in the evening.
3. Kashi Vishwanath Temple: One of the most sacred temples in Hinduism.
4. Manikarnika Ghat: A significant cremation ghat.
5. Scindia Ghat: Offers a serene view of the river.

7. Kriti Gallery

Kriti Gallery stands as a testament to Varanasi’s rich artistic heritage. The space is dedicated to promoting emerging artists and their innovative creations.

With exhibitions changing regularly, visitors get a glimpse into the diverse art forms, from traditional to abstract, reflecting the city’s dynamic spirit.

Timing: Mon to Fri:- 11:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.  It remains closed on Saturday and Sunday.

There are no entry fees.

Location: Mahmoorganj Road, Near Sigra, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Nearby Attractions:

1. Shivala Ghat: A peaceful spot by the Ganges.
2. Marnikanika Ghat: Historically significant.
3. Banaras Toy Museum: Showcasing traditional toys of the region.
4. Jantar Mantar: An ancient observatory.
5. Nepali Temple: Unique wooden architecture and carvings.

8. Man Singh Observatory

A masterpiece of design, the Man Singh Observatory stands as a glowing tribute to India’s age-old astronomical genius. Commissioned by the visionary Maharaja Man Singh, the observatory is home to an impressive array of celestial instruments, revealing the advanced scientific insights of its era.

Blending its distinctive architecture with a rich historical backdrop, this observatory is a magnet for those with a penchant for history and an ardor for the cosmos.

Timing: Mon to Sun:- 9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

Ticket Price: For Indians: ₹20 / For foreigners: ₹250

Location: Man Mandir Ghat, Dashashwamedh, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Nearby Attractions:

1. Jantar Mantar: A historical astronomical observatory.
2. Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary: A short drive away, great for nature lovers.
3. Dashashwamedh Ghat: Vibrant surroundings and the evening aarti.
4. St. Mary’s Cathedral: A beautiful church with impressive architecture.
5. Gyan Vapi Mosque: A historical monument showcasing Mughal architecture.

9. Mehta Art Gallery

Mehta Art Gallery radiates with an energy that weaves together hues and sentiments. A brainchild of the Mehta lineage, this gallery is a steadfast champion for both renowned and emerging talents in the art world.

Displaying an expansive spectrum of artistic expressions, from tranquil nature scenes to avant-garde abstractions, it invites visitors into a deeply engaging aesthetic journey.

Timing: Mon to Sun:- 11:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M.

There are no entry fees.

Location: Mahmoorganj Road, Near Sigra, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Nearby Attractions:

• Hanuman Ghat: Peaceful and less crowded than other ghats.
• Baba Black Sheep Boutique: For shopping enthusiasts.
• Rana Mahal Ghat: Known for its intricate architecture.
• Chousatti Ghat: Offers a serene view and is historically significant.
• Kedar Ghat: Beautiful surroundings and an ancient temple.

10. Ganga Darpan Interpretation Centre

Ganga Darpan is not just a museum; it’s a journey through the cultural, spiritual, and ecological significance of the revered Ganges River.

The center offers interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations, shedding light on the river’s role in India’s history and its current challenges. A visit here deepens one’s understanding and appreciation of this sacred waterway.

Timing: Mon to Sun:- 10:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M.

There are no entry fees.

Location: Assi Ghat, Near Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Nearby Attractions:

• Ghats of Varanasi: Perfect for a boat ride or a walk.
• Ganga Aarti: Witness the grandeur of the evening aarti.
• Marnikanika Ghat: Historically and culturally significant.
• Banaras Art Gallery: Showcasing local art.
• Kashi Vishwanath Corridor: A newly developed stretch with gardens, temples, and eateries.

11. Lal Bahadur Shastri Family Home Museum

A tribute to India’s esteemed former Prime Minister, Lal Bahadur Shastri, this museum provides an intimate window into his life and illustrious legacy.

Located within the walls of his familial abode, it curates a rich collection of memorabilia, candid photographs, and cherished possessions, sketching a vivid image of a leader whose humility and principles profoundly shaped the nation’s ethos.

Timing: 10 A.M. – 5 P.M., every day, except Tuesday. It remains closed on Tuesday.

There are no entry fees.

Location: Ramnagar, Near the banks of the Ganges, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Nearby Attractions:

1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple: A major religious attraction.
2. Man Mandir Ghat: Historic observatories and a beautiful view.
3. Gyan Vapi Well: Historically significant.
4. Kaal Bhairav Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to the fierce form of Lord Shiva.
5. Ann Kuan: A historic well with legends.

12. Pratibha Art Gallery

Pratibha Art Gallery is a symphony of artistry and vision. This enclave showcases a kaleidoscope of creations, from classic depictions echoing India’s opulent past to avant-garde expressions aligning with today’s zeitgeist.

Emerging as a luminous landmark for aficionados of art, the gallery unfolds as a realm of inspiration and artistic discovery.

Timing: Mon to Sun:- 11:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M.

There are no entry fees.

Location: Maldahiya, In front of the Vidyapeeth Gate, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Nearby Attractions:

1. Bharat Mata Mandir: A unique temple dedicated to the Indian nation.
2. Sankat Mochan Temple: Peaceful surroundings and devoted to Lord Hanuman.
3. Durga Temple: Also known as the Monkey Temple.
4. Banaras Toy Museum: A delightful visit for kids and adults.
5. Tulsi Ghat: Named after the great poet Tulsidas, offers a serene view.

Conclusion

Museums have been of great importance for a long time for their educational, archeological, and historical significance. Hardly anybody will say no to museums. Moreover, children also love to visit such places, and these are important from their educational point of view. So, don’t miss a chance to explore new things.

Read Also:

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• 10 Popular Things to Do in Varanasi
• 10 Famous Reasons to Visit Varanasi Once in Your Lifetime
• List of Popular Ghats in Varanasi that You Must See
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• The Best Way to Travel from Delhi to Varanasi
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FAQs about Varanasi Museums:

1. What are the operating hours of the museums in Varanasi?

Answer: Typically, Varanasi’s museums welcome visitors from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Nevertheless, operational hours can shift due to special events or public holidays. For the most precise timings, it’s wise to consult the respective museum’s official website or get in touch with them directly.

2. Is there an entry fee for the museums?

Answer: Indeed, the majority of Varanasi’s museums have an admission fee, and the cost often fluctuates based on the museum and visitor category, such as adult, child, or student. Several establishments provide concessions for students, the elderly, and group visits. To ascertain specific prices, it’s best to refer to the museum’s primary website or seek information at its entrance.

3. Are the museums in Varanasi accessible to people with disabilities?

Answer: A significant number of Varanasi’s museums have prioritized inclusivity, equipping their premises with features like ramps, wheelchair amenities, and disability-friendly restrooms. However, given the antiquated architecture of some establishments, certain sections may pose accessibility challenges. For personalized assistance or specific queries, reaching out to the museum beforehand is a prudent step.

4. Can I take photos inside the museums?

Answer: Photography policies vary across museums. While some museums allow non-flash photography, others might restrict photography entirely or charge an additional fee for it. Always look for signs indicating the museum’s photography policy or ask the staff before taking pictures.

5. How much time should I allocate for a visit to a museum in Varanasi?

Answer: Your duration at a museum in Varanasi often aligns with your personal interests. Typically, guests allocate between 1 to 3 hours for a museum visit. However, for larger or more detailed exhibitions, you might want to allocate half a day. Always check if there are guided tours available, as they can provide deeper insights into the exhibits.