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Growing up watching Jurassic Park was how the majority of the kids spent their childhood. The rage was real and no one would deny that we all wanted to be a part of their lives. If you have even been slightly fascinated by their existence, Balasinor Dinosaur Museum is undoubtedly one of the best spots for experiencing that in real time. It is known as Dinosaur Fossil Park and Museum and is a haven for children. Be it the magnanimous dinosaur exhibits or the interesting tales of the dinosaurs and their fossils, this museum has it all.
Quick Details About Balasinor Dinosaur Museum
Balasinor Dinosaur Museum Address: Raiyoli, Balasinor, Mahisagar District, Gujarat, India
Balasinor Dinosaur Museum Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (Monday closed)
Balasinor Dinosaur Museum Ticket Price: ₹70 per adult, ₹30 per child and ₹300 for foreigners
Established: June, 2019
Best Time To Visit: October to March
About Balasinor Dinosaur Museum Gujarat
Photo: Zhangzhugang / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Balasinor Dinosaur Museum, more commonly known as the Dinosaur Fossil Park and Museum, was inaugurated in June 2019, becoming India’s very first dinosaur museum and fossil park. This museum focuses on the country’s geological and paleontological history and is spread across an area of 25,000 square feet, offering visitors access to an immersive experience through the well-curated exhibits. Inside the museum, you can also find life-size dinosaur models, 3D projections, and interactive displays too. One of the main attractions of the museum is the fossil gallery where you can explore real dinosaur bones, eggs, and other fossilised remains. Some exhibits show timelines related to the Mesozoic Era as well.
How To Reach
Photo: Apurba Biswas / Wikimedia Commons
The dinosaur museum is located in the city of Balasinor, which is accessible from all the nearby cities of Gujarat:
By Air: If you are taking a flight, the nearest and major airport from Balasinor Dinosaur Museum is the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, which is around 73 km away. From the airport, taxis are available to take you to the museum.
By Road: There are state-run buses and private taxis that are available throughout the city if you want to reach Balasinor comfortably. The drive through the scenic rural landscape of Gujarat adds to the charm of the journey as well.
By Train: If you are taking a train to reach Balasinor, the nearest railhead is Anand, which is roughly 63 km away.
Things To Do
The charm of the Balasinor Dinosaur Park lies in its fossil park and the museum that is located adjacent to it. Being the first of its kind, you are going to have a pretty immersive experience inside:
1. Explore The Fossil Park
Photo: Diego F. Parra / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The highlight of your visit to the Balasinor Dinosaur Park will be exploring the Fossil Park. It is extensive and located right beside the museum. The entire fossil park is spread across an area of 72 acres and it is believed that the park was once a nesting ground for the dinosaurs, probably millions of years in the past. You can also witness the fossilised dinosaur eggs and bones inside the park, which are also displayed in natural settings, adding to the charm of the experience.
2. Interact With Princess Aaliya
Photo: Harshit khunt18 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Another interesting activity inside the Dinosaur Park that many skip out on is interacting with Princess Aaliya. Her full name is Nawabzadi Aaliya Sultana Babi and she hails from the Babi Royal Family. They currently reside in Grand Palace Balasinor. It was her fascination with dinosaurs that made discussions with her inside the dinosaur park quite a fun experience. You get to learn about dinosaurs and fossils from her and even get a chance to unfold the details of prehistoric times that most of the guides won’t be able to tell you.
3. Virtual Reality Dinosaur Experience
Photo: Zhangzhugang / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
It is one thing to see the galleries and it is an entirely different experience getting to witness the dinosaurs and their actions in 3D, 5D and VR (virtual reality) experience. The 3D experience is available free of charge, which is a benefit as well. The VR experience takes you back 65 million years, allowing you to interact with life-like dinosaurs in a simulated environment. Not just for kids, the entire experience is truly magical, even for the adults.
4. Explore The Galleries
Photo: FabSubeject / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Inside the Dinosaur Museum, you will find 10 galleries, each showcasing all the details you’d need to know about the different types of dinosaurs that once existed on this planet before us. Each exhibit is accompanied by detailed information, making it an educational experience that enhances the overall visit to the museum. You also get to learn about the three different types of dinosaurs that were discovered there in Raiyoli.
Places To Visit Around Balasinor Dinosaur Museum
Once you finish exploring the Balasinor Dinosaur Museum, there are a lot of unique sightseeing spots around, which you can add to your travel plans next:
1. Galteshwar Mahadev Temple
Photo: Nirmal Katariya3 / Wikimedia Commons
Located in Sarnal, Galteshwar Mahadev Temple is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in Gujarat. It is roughly 44 km from the dinosaur museum and on the banks of River Mahi, adding to the charm of the visit. It is one of the most ancient temples in the area and dates back to the 12th century. One of the alluring parts of this temple is the architecture, which is built in the central Malwa style.
Distance from Balasinor Dinosaur Museum: 44 km
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
2. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park
Photo: Nirmal Katariya3 / Wikimedia Commons
If you are interested in ruins and forts and archaeological findings, in general, Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park is another popular tourist attraction to visit in the area. It is home to numerous historical monuments including mosques, palaces, and temples. The park is situated at the base of Pavagadh Hill, enabling you to witness panoramic views around.
Distance from Balasinor Dinosaur Museum: 91 km
Timings: 8:30 AM – 5 PM
3. Dakor Temple
Photo: Sneha G Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
Another religious site that you must visit when you are in Gujarat is the Dakor Temple. It is also known as Ranchhodray Temple and is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. Legends say that it was the Dakor Temple where Lord Krishna came to reveal himself in Dakor after he left his home in Dwarka. The temple’s beautiful architecture makes it worth visiting.
Distance from Balasinor Dinosaur Museum: 57.7 km
Timings: 6:45 AM to 12 PM and 4 PM – 7:30 PM
Where To Stay
Photo: Jonathan Borba / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Balasinor is a prominent tourist attraction, so you will find numerous hotels, resorts and guest houses in the city. To prolong your stay there, you can book your accommodation in Garden Palace Heritage Homestays, Hotel Aakash, Shreeji Sadan (Dilen Motel) and SPOT ON 71912 Hotel Aakash and Guesthouse.
Where To Eat
Photo: Atulmaharaj / Wikimedia Commons
Since the Dinosaur Fossil Park and Museum is of prime attraction among tourists, there are numerous restaurants located in close vicinity. Some of the popular restaurants that you can consider visiting are Greenworld Garden Restaurant, Manubhai Tea, and Manav Restaurant.
Other Tips To Consider
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If you want to have a comfortable time exploring the museum and fossil park, October to March is the peak season. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 30°C during these months, and the skies are clear too, ensuring no hindrance.
Tips For Travellers:
- The fossil park requires a fair amount of walking, so it’s advisable to wear comfortable footwear.
- The Gujarat sun can be harsh, especially if you’re visiting the excavation sites, so protect yourself from sunburn.
- To get the most out of your visit, consider hiring a guide who can provide detailed information.
- There are limited facilities near Fossil Park, so it’s a good idea to carry your water and light snacks.
- The fossil park is a protected area, so avoid touching or disturbing the fossils.
Exploring the Balasinor Dinosaur Museum is an experience that every traveller needs to experience, irrespective of their age. A walk through the museum takes you back in time and offers an educational experience that you wouldn’t want to trade for another. You can plan your visit to the Fossil Park and the museum with TripXL for an unforgettable adventure.
Cover Photo: Kgbo / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
