State Museum Ranchi: Your Ultimate Guide To The Cultural And Historical Hub

Inside the halls of the state museum Ranchi, displaying antiques

The State Museum Ranchi, also known as the Jharkhand State Museum, is one of the lesser-known historical sources and cultural heritage in the capital of Jharkhand. It aims to preserve the tribal heritage of this area, as well as the art, archaeological findings, and social history of this state. The museum was established in 1974, and the new building was opened in 2009 with an even more extensive collection. It offers a glimpse into the ancient history of Ranchi with all the historic relics and artefacts.

Quick Details About State Museum Ranchi

Location: Morabadi, Ranchi, Jharkhand
State Museum Ranchi Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (Tuesday to Sunday)
Entry Fee: ₹20 – ₹30
Nearest Airport: 9 km away from Birsa Munda Airport, Ranchi
Nearest Railway Station: 5 km away from Ranchi Junction Railway Station
Best Time To Visit: October to March

Location

State museum Ranchi is the ideal location for curious travellers with an informational experience

Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The museum is located in the Morabadi area of Ranchi. It is near Hotwar Khelgaon mega sports complex in Khatanga and is adjacent to Ranchi University and Birsa Football Stadium. The road parallel to the museum is Khelgaoj, Tatisilwai road which is connected to the Hazaribagh- Ranchi express highway. The nearby landmarks are the Badminton Academy Thakur Vishvanath indoor stadium Hotwar, Khelgaon Complex and JK Trust Gram Vikas Yojana, which is opposite the stadium.

How To Reach State Museum Ranchi

Artificial view of the jungle and animals inside the museum

Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

By Air: The Birsa Munda International Airport is only 9 km from the museum, making it easily accessible for visitors travelling by air. Once you land, a short ride by cab or auto rickshaw will take you to the museum within 20 minutes.

By Rail: Since the museum is located just 5 km from the nearest railway station, Ranchi Junction, you have various options to choose from, such as by cab, auto, or even public buses.

By Bus: Ranchi has a well-developed roadways network, you can get on a local bus to Morabadi. The nearby bus station is Booty More Bus Stand and from there you can either walk to the museum or take a rickshaw.

Things To Do In State Museum Ranchi

At the State Museum Ranchi, visitors are offered a diverse range of experiences related to the tribal heritage, history, and art of Jharkhand.

1. Explore The Tribal Artefacts

Display of traditional musical instruments used in tribal culture at folk art museum

Photo: KimeRilla221 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Tribes exhibited here are Asur, Munda, and Birhor. In this gallery, the practice of manufacturing iron equipment of the Asura tribes, along with agricultural activities, is shown. The illusions of their festivals, such as Kachdel, Phagua, Navakhans, and Sarhul, are displayed in sculpture form to offer glimpses of their culture. Munda tribe is the other main community of Jharkhand present in this museum. The people of this tribe were mainly hunters and agriculturists.

2. Historical Sculptures And Galleries

Traditional tribal artefacts used for day-to-day activities by Jharkhand tribes

Photo: UnpetitproleX / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The museum has an exceptional exhibit of ancient sculptures and manuscripts. The premises accommodate mediaeval artefacts, specifically those sourced from the old temples of Jharkhand. These are the precious stone sculptures, deities’ idols, and other pieces that inform about this place’s spiritual history and culture. The other pottery gallery depicts the pottery of history and pre-historic times. In ancient times, people used only mud-made potteries for their day-to-day work.

Places To Visit Near State Museum Ranchi

After exploring the State Museum Ranchi, there are several other places nearby that are worth visiting. These attractions are located within the heart of the city, making it easy to plan a full day of exploration.

1. Tagore Hill

Top of the Tagore hill with rocky slopes and stone steps leading up, surrounded by trees

Photo: Vaibhavraj241 / Wikimedia Commons

Just 7 km from the museum, there is a tourist spot called Tagore Hill. The hill is named after Rabindranath Tagore and is also known as Morabadi Hill in Morabadi, Ranchi, Jharkhand. It is 300 feet high (900 metres) and 4 kilometres from Albert Ekka Chowk. The site is also of historical significance as the former home of Jyotirindranath Tagore, who was Rabindranath Tagore’s elder brother.

Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: None

2. Ranchi Lake

Serene view of the lake against the clear blue sky in the backdrop

Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Go on a picnic to Ranchi Lake, which is 8 km from the state museum. It offers boating activities and fascinating photo opportunities. The lake was dug in 1842 by the British, making it an important city landmark due to its historical roots and natural beauty. Ranchi Lake is well connected with the main city areas; hence, this place is very accessible and ideal for a relaxing visit, stroll, or amusement for families.

Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹10 for adults, ₹5 for children

3. Ranchi Science Centre

Ranchi Science Centre building with its modern design surrounded by greenery and pathways

Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons

Just about 8 km from the museum, the Ranchi Science Centre is an interactive science museum with a specific aim to enlighten science education. It was opened in 2010 and has several galleries, Fun Science, Space & Astronomy, and Agriculture, which portray scientific principles through hands-on exhibits. It is operated by the National Council of Science Museums and acts as a centre for science workshops, lectures, and exhibitions in the state of Jharkhand.

Timings: 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: Adults – ₹25, Children – ₹10

4. Rock Garden

Wide view of the Rock Garden and Kanke Dam near the lake, surrounded by hills

Photo: Gshashidhar125 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Situated at Kanke Road, with Kanke Dam nearby, the Rock Garden in Ranchi is an excellent mix of natural beauty combined with man-made craft. Such garden sculptures and seating areas are carved into the landscape using large rocks throughout this area, providing scenic views around the surroundings, including that of the great Kanke Dam.

Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹10 for adults

Where To Stay

Accommodations near the museum offer a variety of facilities  according to the budget

Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

The accommodations near State museums Ranchi offers a diverse range of facilities according to tourists budget and needs. Some of these options are Hotel Coral Grand, Hotel Soft petal, Hotel Raindew, Aura Hotel Rajdhani Residency and Pavitram Hotel. It is advised to make booking in advance for a better options,

Where To Eat

Authentic litti chokha served at a restaurants near the State museum Ranchi

Photo: RASHMITHAKURSHARMA /Wikimedia Commons

There are many restaurants and eateries located nearby the State Museum of Ranchi. Some of the best options serving the local delicacies are Kaveri Restaurants, The Oriental Kitchen, Jashn Restaurant, The Midtown Restaurant and Seven Heaven and Cafe Bae. Retreat to these restaurants that offer both authentic dishes and your go to comfort meals to delve into after long days of travel.

Other Factors To Consider

View inside the galleries of the museum with relics hanging on the wall

Photo: Matheus Natan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

  • Weather: The best time to visit Ranchi is during the winter season, from October to March. The weather is convenient for sightseeing. The summer season is hot, and the monsoon months receive heavy rainfall.
  • Tips For Travellers: Visitors are advised to respect and follow the rules of the museum, especially concerning photography. Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds at both the museum and nearby landmarks.
  • Costs And Expenses: The entry fee is low, so Indian and foreign tourists can afford to visit this place. The prices of travel and food in Ranchi are also moderate for tourists.

The State Museum Ranchi is not merely a storehouse of objects; it is a reflection of the diverse culture and history of Jharkhand. Transitioning from tribal displays to sculptures and manuscripts, the museum offers a rare view of the state’s past. Prominently situated near attractions like Tagore Hill and Ranchi Lake, tourism enhances the accessibility of the venue. Plan your exploration today with TripXL.

Cover Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, photography is allowed, but in some galleries, it is restricted.
Generally 2-3 hours, but it depends on your interest in exploring the area.
Some of the best accommodation facilities near the State Museum Ranchi include Capitol Hill, Radisson Blu Ranchi, Hotel Rajdhani Plaza, and Hotel Le Lac, among others.
Some of the good restaurants near the State Museum Ranchi include Kaveri Restaurant, Prana Lounge, The Yellow Sapphire, and Angithi Restaurant.
The state museum is famous for its collection of tribal artefacts from the Asur, Munda, and Birhor tribes. On the rocks of the museum, the Navgrah and Kurmavatara concept is also crafted.

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