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Located in the remote town of Sasawane, the Karmarkar Museum is renowned for its amazing sculpture collections. A hidden gem for art lovers in the heart of Maharashtra, the Karmarkar Museum is one of those destinations that no one should miss out on exploring. The museum is dedicated to Vinayak Pandurang Karmarkar, one of the most unique sculptors in the country. Getting a glimpse into his individual captivating pieces is truly a fascinating experience. To immerse yourself in the rich artistic heritage of India, it is a must to visit the Karmarkar Museum in Maharashtra.
Quick Details
Location: Road, Sasawane, Bodani, Maharashtra 402201
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Cost/Person: ₹5
Photography: Allowed with permission
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
About Karmarkar Museum
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Karmarkar Museum is dedicated to preserving the life and works of Vinayak Pandurang Karmarkar. Being one of India’s most illustrious sculptors, he was renowned for his “ability to breathe life into stone.” Born in 1891 in Maharashtra, his work offers a blend of Indian cultural themes and Western sculpting techniques that exhibit both traditional and modern styles of sculptures.
Located inside the Karmarkar’s residence in Sasawane, get to witness an extensive collection of his work, ranging from monumental statues to intricate figurines. In addition to that, witness the artist’s creative process by taking a closer look at the tools and the individual materials that he used. While numerous sketches and models are put on display for public viewing, one of the main attractions inside the museum is his famous sculpture Shankha-Dhwani, which is a reflection of Indian classical art.
How To Reach
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Sasawane is a tranquil village situated near Alibaug that is easily accessible from major cities in Maharashtra.
By Air: Reach Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai and take a taxi or bus to Mandwa. From there Sasawane is just a short ferry ride away.
By Rail: Pen is the nearest railway station from Sasawane that is about 30 kms away. Once you reach the station, hire a taxi or take a local bus to get to Sasawane.
By Road: If you are travelling by road, you can either drive yourself, hire a cab or take a bus to Alibaug, from where Sasawane is just 30 minutes away.
Things To Do At Karmarkar Museum
After exploring the museum, one can indulge in numerous activities and things to do nearby.
1. Explore Vinayak Karmarkar’s Sculptures
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The main attraction of the Museum is the extensive range of sculptures that are inside the house. With over 150 sculptures, these artworks are spread across varying themes, materials and techniques. As you walk through the museum, you’ll encounter the diversity from large-scale figurative sculptures to smaller intricate models. From everyday rural life to the Indian deities and mythological scenes, there is an array of sculptures that depict the skills of the sculptor. Don’t miss out on witnessing the iconic Shankha-Dhwani sculpture on your visit.
2. Discover The Sculptor’s Workshop
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One of the unique features of the Karmarkar Museum is the preservation of Vinayak Karmarkar’s original workshop that gives visitors a glimpse into his life and working style. Getting to witness where the sculptor worked is truly a fascinating experience. Get to see the original tools like chisels, hammers, and the files used to carve his masterpieces from wood, and marbles. Additionally, you can also see unfinished models and sketches inside the workshop.
3. Art Appreciation Walk In The Gardens
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In addition to the museum, the surrounding area too is well-maintained with gardens which adds to its charm. Scattered throughout these gardens are additional sculptures by Karmarkar, each strategically placed to enhance the natural surroundings. The outdoor gallery offers a different perspective on Karmarkar’s sculptures, as natural light and the open environment create a dynamic viewing experience. One can enjoy a serene experience by walking outdoors, spending some quiet time, and immersing themselves in the beauty of the place.
4. Enjoy Photography
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Photography is allowed inside the Karmarkar Museum as there are no such restrictions. This allows you to capture the essence of the place, the art in your surroundings and the experience as well. It is one of those places where every exhibit has a story to tell. If you enjoy the visual storytelling experience, this is one of those museums you wouldn’t want to miss out on exploring. However, ensure that you aren’t taking the photos with flash since that is prohibited and might disrupt the decorum of the place as well.
Places To Visit Near Karmarkar Museum
In addition to exploring the museum, you can also spare some time to explore the nearby sightseeing spots.
1. Alibaug Beach
Photo:Gayatri Priyadarshini / Wikimedia Commons
Located at a distance of about 40 minutes from the museum, is the beautiful Alibaug Beach. The long stretch of black sand offers a serene atmosphere which is an experience that none of the travellers should miss out on. If you want to spend some quality time after exploring the museum, Alibaug Beach is one of the best places to visit and relax. There are numerous water activities like jet skiing and parasailing which one can enjoy on the beach.
Distance From The Museum: 18.6 km
Timings: 6 AM until midnight
2. Kolaba Fort
Photo: Paapu07 / / Wikimedia Commons
Kolaba Fort is another one of the popular historical monuments that you can visit if you want a glimpse into the Maratha Empire. The fort, situated in the sea, is accessible during low tide and offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s military history. Also, the fort Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century and there are numerous intricate carvings, temples and cannons reflecting the Maratha architectural style.
Distance From The Museum: 18.8 km
Timings: 24 hours
3. Mandwa Beach
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Mandwa Beach is yet another place near Karmarkar Museum that you can consider exploring in case you’re looking for a less crowded place. It is a perfect spot if you are looking for some peace and solitude with an experience that takes you closer to nature. Also, the beach is quite close to Alibaug, the cities around, and you can also witness the breathtaking views of the Mumbai skyline on a clear day.
Distance From The Museum: 3.3 km
Timings: 24 Hours
Where To Stay Near The Museum
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When you plan your visit to Karmarkar Museum and consider spending a few days in and around Alibaug, there are numerous accommodation options available. A few of the top hotels and resorts worth exploring are Shaant Beach Resort, Opulence Beach Resort Awas, Awas Beach Cottage and Sachu’s Resort.
Where To Eat
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If you want to indulge in some good food, especially Maharashtrian food around Alibaug, some of the restaurants that you can consider exploring are Kokum and Spice, Aparanta, Kiki’s Restobar and Sanman.
Tips For Travellers
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When planning your visit to the Karmarkar Museum, there are several tips to keep in mind for the ultimate travel experience:
- Ensure that you visit the museum during the early morning period.
- Wear comfortable footwear when you are visiting the museum since there’s a lot to explore.
- Since there are a lot of different exhibits to explore around the museum, ensure that you carry a good camera or a smartphone.
- Exploring the museum doesn’t take a lot of time so make sure you plan your day to explore the nearby destinations too.
- The weather around Alibaug is often unpredictable, so you should check the weather conditions before you step out.
Karmarkar Museum is hands down one of the best museums to visit and explore in Maharashtra. The museum is also a perfect reflection of the beautiful Indian art and sculpture, offering the visitors a unique experience. If you like art and the rich cultural heritage around India, ensure that you plan your trip with TripXL for an enriching trip around Maharashtra.
Cover Photo: SafarNama / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
