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With an enriching history encompassing the reign of Mughal emperors, Buddhists and Jain have influences over the centuries and a significant role in India’s independence, Gujarat comprises some of the most historical spots across India. Among them, the Darbar Hall Museum, located in Junagadh, Gujarat is one such destination. What previously served as the residence and royal courts of the Nawabs of Junagadh, has now been transformed into a museum. The next time you are planning an exploration of Junagadh and the area around it, including the museum in the itinerary is an absolute must.
Quick Details About Darbar Hall Museum
Address: Taj Manzil Building, Nagar Road, Duruvesh Nagar, Shashikunj, Durvesh, Junagadh, Gujarat 362001
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (Wednesday closed)
Darbar Hall Museum Ticket Price: ₹5 per Indian and ₹50 per Foreigner
Number Of artifacts: 2900
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Nearest Railway Station: Junagadh Junction
Nearest Airport: Rajkot Airport
About
Photo: The Crazy Tourist / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Darbar Hall Museum is in a grand building that was once the royal court of the Nawabs of Junagadh. The royal court and hall were transformed and founded as a museum in 1964 under the Department of Museums, Government of Gujarat. One fascinating thing about the Darbar Hall Museum is that most of the artefacts are kept as they were originally to maintain the authenticity of the experience for the visitors. Inside the museum, there are five main sections, under which a total of 2900 artefacts are preserved.
How To Reach
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By Air: If you are opting for a flight, the nearest airport from the Darbar Hall Museum is Rajkot Airport, which is around 106 km away. Once you are outside the airport, there are taxis available to take you to Junagadh, from where you can visit the museum.
By Train: Junagadh Railway Station is the nearest railhead from the museum and quite easily accessible with regular trains from nearby cities and states too. The museum is only 1.7 km from the station, so you can take an auto-rickshaw or walk.
By Road: Junagadh is connected to the nearby cities via national highways and well-maintained roads. You can either choose to drive, take a public bus or hire a taxi up to the museum for a comfortable experience.
Things To Do
The moment you step foot inside the Darbar Hall Museum, aka the Junagadh Museum, you are going to be in awe of the interiors and the architectural brilliance. Beyond admiring that, there are numerous other activities to explore.
1. Admire The Collection Of Weapons
Photo: Sergeev Pavel / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There are 2900 artefacts spread across various exhibits in the museum. Among them, one of the most fascinating exhibits is the one dedicated to arms and ammunition. It is unique and features an extensive collection of weapons, both modern (at that time) and primitive like swords, daggers, etc. Each weapon is a work of art, with intricate designs and engravings. Some of the swords even have precious stones embedded into their handles, further depicting the royal and regalness of the weapons too.
2. Examine The Silverware Collection
Photo: Birmingham Museum of Artṣ / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Among all the exhibits in the Darbar Hall Museum, one of the most notable exhibits to immerse yourself in is their silverware collection. This exhibit includes a variety of silver utensils, ornaments, and ceremonial objects used by the Nawabs and their families. Not just the precious nature of the metal itself, these also come carved and engraved, which adds to the intrigue and exclusivity of each of these individual items.
3. Discover The Personal Belongings Of The Nawabs
Photo: Greg Gjerdingen / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Last but not least is to explore the extensive personal belongings of the Nawabs. This collection includes items such as clothing, accessories, and everyday objects used by the royal family. The traditional attire that the Nawabs wore during the royal court is also on display, further adding to the charm of the experience. You can also spot a variety of grooming items like combs, mirrors, and perfumes in the exhibits.
Places To Visit Around Darbar Hall Museum
Since you are already in Junagadh exploring the museum, there are a few nearby tourist attractions that you can’t miss out on.
1. Uparkot Fort
Photo: Hariom Raval / Wikimedia Commons
Starting in the Uparkot Fort, which is part of the Junagadh Fort group. With a history dating back 2000 years in the past, it is one of the oldest forts in India. Inside the fort, you can explore ancient Buddhist caves, step wells, and a mosque, each adding to the fort’s historical significance. Reportedly, the fort was constructed in 319 BC by Mauryan emperor Chandragupta. Also, it is one of the only forts in India that has been besieged 16 times.
Distance From Darbar Hall Museum: 2.6 Km
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
2. Mahabat Maqbara
Photo: Snehrashmi / Wikimedia Commons
Another popular sightseeing spot around the Darbar Hall Museum is the Mahabat Maqbara, which is one of the oldest mausoleums in Gujarat. It was of Nawab Mahabat Khan II of Junagadh (1851–82) and is a living example of the stunning Euro-Indo-Islamic architecture in Gujarat. Beyond the domes and the intricate carvings, the French windows and Gothic columns add to the charm of the place.
Distance From Darbar Hall Museum: 2.1 Km
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
3. Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden
Photo: Aamirsama / Wikimedia Commons
Also known as Junagadh Zoo, Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden is another popular tourist attraction that you can consider visiting the next time you are in the area. Being one of the oldest zoos dating back to 1863, the zoo is primarily known for the habitat of Asiatic lions and also their breeding and conservation program. Jeep Safari enables you to explore the expanse of the zoo and spot wildlife and the local vegetation too.
Distance From Darbar Hall Museum: 3.5 Km
Timings: 9 AM – 12:15 PM and 3 PM – 6 PM
Where To Stay
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Junagadh attracts numerous tourists due to its historical sightseeing attractions. So, if you are planning to spend a few days around, there are numerous hotels and accommodations for you to book including The Fern Leo Resort & Club, Hotel Sapphire, Hotel Magnum Inn, Click Hotel, Junagadh and Hotel Greenland.
Where To Eat
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After hours of walking and exploration, hunger is bound to hit you hard. Some of the popular restaurants in Junagadh that can appease your hunger with delectable food include Swati Restaurant, The Grand Kesar, Sadhna Restaurant and Pandeyji Restaurant.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Precondo CA / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers
For a conducive time exploring the Darbar Hall Museum and the area around, ensure that you keep the following tips in mind.
- While some places in Junagadh accept digital payments, it is advisable to carry cash for entry fees and purchases.
- When visiting religious sites like temples and mausoleums, it is important to dress modestly.
- The climate in Gujarat can be quite dry, hence, carrying a water bottle is recommended.
- Photography is not allowed inside the Darbar Hall Museum, so be mindful of the rules and respect them.
- Consider hiring a local guide to explore the museum.
The beauty of Darbar Hall Museum and the experience in it is something that every tourist should immerse themselves in while in Junagadh. Be it the architecture or the expansive exhibits around the museum, there’s a lot that you have to soak in. You can plan your trip with TripXL to discover the regal charm of this historical gem in Gujarat.
Cover Photo: user:Flicka / Wikimedia Commons
