National Museum Guide
A Treasure Trove of Indian Art, History, and Culture Guide
The National Museum in New Delhi is one of the largest museums in India, holding an impressive collection that covers Indian history, art, and culture from prehistoric times to the modern era. It's a fantastic place to immerse yourself in the rich heritage of India and gain a comprehensive understanding of its diverse artistic traditions. The museum's vast collection includes artifacts from the Indus Valley Civilization, sculptures from various dynasties, paintings, textiles, decorative arts, and much more. The National Museum was established in 1949, initially housed in the Rashtrapati Bhavan. The core of its collection came from the Indian Exhibition held at the Royal Academy in London during the winter of 1947-48. The museum moved to its current location on Janpath in 1960. Over the years, the museum has expanded its collection through acquisitions, donations, and explorations. It serves as a vital institution for preserving and promoting India's cultural heritage. Visitors can explore a wide range of galleries, each dedicated to a specific period or art form. Highlights include the Indus Valley Civilization Gallery, the Maurya and Sunga Art Gallery, the Gupta Art Gallery, the Medieval Art Gallery, and the Decorative Arts Gallery. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and educational programs. While in Delhi, be sure to sample the diverse culinary scene, from street food like *chaat* and *parathe* to Mughlai dishes like *biryani* and *kebabs*.
Transportation
The National Museum is located on Janpath, near India Gate. The nearest metro station is Central Secretariat on the Yellow and Violet Lines. From the metro station, you can take an auto-rickshaw or walk to the museum. Several DTC (Delhi Transport Corporation) bus routes also serve the area, including routes 181, 410, 450, 505, and 522.