Assam Museums: Exploring The Rich Culture And Historical Significance Of The Region

An inside view of a tourist attraction of the region with paintings by famous painters.

Assam, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, presents a captivating exploration of history and art at the amazing Assam Museums. Assam, the northeastern gem of India, is renowned for its lush tea gardens, vibrant culture, and diverse wildlife. But beyond its natural beauty, Assam also boasts a rich history and cultural heritage preserved in its many museums. Whether you’re a history aficionado or an inquisitive traveller, this blog post will take you through ten of Assam’s most fascinating museums, what they offer, their timings, ticket prices, and more.

10 Assam Museums

Embark on a captivating exploration of Assam’s cultural and historical treasures at these top 10 Assam Museums.

1. Assam State Museum

An inside view of the famous Assam State Museum, one of the magnificent Assam museums.

Photo: Elizabeth George / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

The Assam State Museum, founded in 1940 in Guwahati, is one of the oldest museums in Northeast India. It offers a rich collection of archaeological artefacts dating back to the 5th century, along with ethnographic displays showcasing traditional Assamese textiles, tools, and weapons. Additionally, the museum houses a library with rare books and manuscripts, providing a comprehensive glimpse into the region’s history and culture. The ticket price for this museum is ₹20 for Indians, ₹100 for Foreigners, and ₹10 for students.

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Mondays and public holidays)

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2. Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra

A front view of the iconic Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra, a hotspot in the region.

Photo: Wolfgang Weiser / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Named after the revered saint Srimanta Sankardev, Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra is one of the famous museums in Assam . It is a vibrant cultural institution that celebrates the art, culture, and traditions of Assam. The space features art galleries showcasing traditional Assamese paintings, a heritage park with traditional Assamese architecture, and an open-air theatre for cultural performances, making it a comprehensive hub for the state’s rich heritage. The ticket price for this museum is ₹30 for adults and ₹10 for children.

Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM

3. District Museum

A mesmerising view of the renowned District Museum, one of the best Assam museums.

Photo: Emmanuel Codden / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Located in the historical town of Tezpur, the District Museum is a treasure trove of the region’s rich history and culture, focusing specifically on the Sonitpur district. It is one of the best museums in Assam which showcases a remarkable collection of ancient stone and bronze sculptures from the mediaeval period, offering a glimpse into the artistic heritage of the area. Visitors can also explore traditional Assamese musical instruments and a vast collection of manuscripts, all of which together provide a comprehensive understanding of the region’s cultural legacy.

Timings:Monday to Saturday, 10 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on Sundays)
Ticket Price: ₹10 for adults, ₹5 for students

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4. Assam Rajyik State Museum

A quaint view of Rajyik State building, one of the best tourist attractions of the region.

Photo: Shrikant Bansod / Wikimedia Commons

The Jorhat State Museum, also known as the Assam Rajyik State Museum, offers an in-depth exploration of the Ahom dynasty, which ruled Assam for six centuries. You can marvel at a collection of Ahom-era artefacts, including royal costumes and weapons, that vividly depict the grandeur of the period. The museum also houses rare manuscripts and coins, providing valuable insights into the region’s history. Additionally, exhibits on the tea industry highlight the development of Assam’s renowned tea heritage, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Ticket Price: ₹20 for adults, ₹5 for children

5. Bhupen Hazarika Museum

A glimpse of the famous Bhupen Hazarika Museum, one of the scenic Assam museums.

Photo: Kirandeep Singh Walia / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

The Bhupen Hazarika Museum in Guwahati pays tribute to the legendary Assamese singer, songwriter, and filmmaker Bhupen Haazrika, celebrating his profound impact on Assamese and Indian music and culture. It is one of the popular museums in Assam which features a collection of personal artefacts, including Haazrika ’s musical instruments, handwritten lyrics, and awards. Visitors can also explore multimedia exhibits showcasing his iconic songs and films, alongside displays of traditional Assamese culture that Haazrika often celebrated in his work.

Timings: Monday to Saturday (10 AM – 5 PM) and Sunday (11 AM – 4 PM)
Ticket Price: ₹25 for adults, ₹15 for children

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6. Science Museum

An inside view of the famous Science Museum featuring renowned paintings and interior.

Photo: Anthony Gucciardi / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

The Science Museum in Guwahati, also known as the Regional Science Centre, is a popular destination for those interested in exploring the wonders of science and technology. The museum offers interactive exhibits and educational programs that make learning science fun and engaging for visitors of all ages. The Science Museum in Guwahati features interactive exhibits, an outdoor Science Park for larger displays and activities, and a planetarium with captivating astronomy shows.

Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM
Ticket Price: ₹25 for adults, ₹15 for children (Additional charges may apply for planetarium shows and 3D films)

7. Tai Ahom Museum

An inside glimpse of the acclaimed Tai Ahom Museum, one of the top Assam museums.

Photo: Terry Browning / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

The Tai Ahom Museum in Sivasagar is a cultural landmark dedicated to preserving the rich heritage of the Ahom dynasty, which ruled Assam for nearly 600 years. It is one of the historical museums in Assam which showcases a collection of historical artefacts, including ancient weapons, manuscripts, coins, and royal items, along with traditional Ahom attire and jewellery. Additionally, it features models and photographs of Ahom architectural marvels, such as temples and palaces, offering a comprehensive glimpse into the history, culture, and traditions of the Ahom people.

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Ticket Price: ₹20 for adults, ₹10 for children

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8. Sualkuchi Silk Museum

An inside view of the famous Sualkuchi Silk Museum, featuring statues and figurines.

Photo: Brett Jordan / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Sualkuchi, known as the ‘Manchester of Assam,’ is renowned for its silk weaving industry, and the Sualkuchi Silk Museum provides an insightful exploration of this traditional craft. The museum features displays of the history of silk weaving in Assam, live demonstrations of traditional weaving techniques, and a gallery showcasing exquisite Assamese silk garments. The ticket price is ₹30 for adults and ₹15 for students.

Timings: Monday to Saturday, 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Sundays)

9. Treasured Wheels Museum

A glimpse of the distinguished Treasured Wheels Museum, one of the best Assam museums.

Photo: Gowthami k / Wikimedia Commons

The Treasured Wheels Museum in Guwahati is a unique destination for automobile enthusiasts, showcasing an impressive collection of vintage and classic vehicles. This privately owned museum offers a fascinating journey through the history of automobiles, featuring everything from vintage cars and bikes to military vehicles. The museum also features an array of antique automobile-related memorabilia, including old fuel pumps, car parts, and signage. The ticket price of this museum is ₹50 for adults and ₹30 for children.

Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM

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10. North East Craft and Handloom Museum

An outside view of the North East Craft and Handloom hub in the region of Guwahati.

Photo: Silvio Pelegrin / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

One of the top museums in Assam, this museum is dedicated to showcasing the rich handloom and handicraft traditions of Assam and the broader Northeast region. It features exhibits on traditional Assamese weaving techniques, and a diverse collection of handcrafted artefacts from various Northeastern states, and offers workshops and live demonstrations of craft-making, providing visitors with an immersive experience of the region’s artisanal heritage. The ticket price is ₹30 for adults and ₹15 for students.

Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM

Exploring these museums in Assam offers a unique window into the vibrant culture and history of the state. Whether you’re interested in ancient artefacts, traditional crafts, or the state’s natural beauty, Assam museums provide something for everyone. Book your trip with TripXL today and let us take care of all your travel needs. From custom itineraries to hassle-free bookings, TripXL ensures you have an unforgettable experience.

Cover Photo: Dannie Jing / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

The Assam State Museum in Guwahati has the largest collection, including archaeological artefacts, sculptures, and manuscripts.
Yes, most of these museums are open year-round, although they may be closed on certain public holidays. It's advisable to check the timings before planning your visit.
Some museums, like the Assam State Museum and Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra, offer guided tours. It's best to inquire at the museum for availability.
Photography policies vary by museum. While some allow photography, others may have restrictions, especially for flash photography or photographing certain exhibits.
Assam is well-connected by air, rail, and road. Guwahati, being the largest city, is the most accessible. From there, you can travel by road or train to other parts of Assam.

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