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Gujarat is a land of rich culture, heritage and traditions. Its diverse traditions, customs, and arts shape the existence of this state. Shreyas Folk Museum or Lokayatan Folk Museum makes that possible with their extensive galleries and exhibits showcasing the culture and heritage of Gujarat. It especially showcases unique art, textiles, and craftsmanship. If you are interested in exploring intricate embroidery to traditional crafts around Gujarat, a visit down to the Shreyas Folk Museum is a must.
Quick Details About Shreyas Folk Museum
Shreyas Folk Museum Address: Shreyas Tekra Rd, Opposite, Mithila Society, Bhudarpura, Ayojan Nagar, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380015
Shreyas Folk Museum Timings: 9 AM – 2 PM (Sunday closed)
Shreyas Folk Museum Ticket Price: ₹100 for adults and ₹50 for children (under 12)
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Exhibits: Showcasing Gujarat’s culture, art, textiles and craftsmanship
About Shreyas Folk Museum
Photo: Tayon Siddique / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Shreyas Folk Museum, also known as the Lokayatan Museum, was established in 1977 as a part of the Shreyas Foundation. The concept and the foundation behind the museum were orchestrated by Leelavati Lalbhai, a philanthropist and visionary. Her primary aim in establishing this museum was to preserve and showcase the traditional art forms and crafts of Gujarat. The main attraction inside the museum is folk art, which is expressed via a comprehensive collection including costumes, ornaments, paintings, crafts, and everyday items. Majority of these elements and exhibits offer a glimpse into the lifestyle of rural Gujarat. You can also witness the intricacy of the embroidery work for which Gujarat is famous across the country and internationally.
How To Reach
Photo: Apurba Biswas / Wikimedia Commons
Shreyas Folk Museum is located centrally in Ahmedabad, so you can reach the site via flights, road and rail:
By Air: If you are taking a flight from any of the surrounding cities or states, you have to reach Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, from where autos, public buses and taxis are available to reach the museum.
By Rail: For travellers taking a train to reach Gujarat, Ahmedabad Junction is the nearest railhead. It is a major railway hub with trains connecting to various parts of India and taxis, auto-rickshaws, or local buses are available from the station.
By Road: Ahmedabad is well-connected by road to other cities in Gujarat and neighbouring states. National Highway 8 passes through Ahmedabad, making it easy to reach by road.
Things To Do
The folk museum is spread across a large space, housing numerous exhibits, enabling you to have a well-rounded time exploring the area.
1. Explore The Textile Collection
Photo: Kritzolina / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The primary attraction inside the Shreyas Folk Museum is its textile collection, sporting an extensive collection of traditional textiles. You can spot different textures, prints and types of fabrics and textiles, including embroidered fabrics, bandhani (tie-dye), and block-printed textiles. These offer a glimpse into the story of Gujarat’s diverse communities. Also, the collection of textiles includes wedding attire, daily wear, and ceremonial garments.
2. Discover The Tribal Artefacts
Photo: Swapnil.Karambelkar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Next on the agenda is to head to the exhibits and galleries in the folk museum where you get a glimpse into the tribal artefacts. Since Gujarat boasts a diverse tribal community, getting a glimpse into their lifestyle and their cultural heritage is truly fascinating. You can find items in daily life, such as pottery, tools, and utensils, as well as ceremonial objects like masks, musical instruments, and religious icons. Having a separate section dedicated to these tribal artefacts is a way to preserve the traditions in the state.
3. Admire The Folk Art
Photo: Yann Forget / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
After the textile collection, the Shreyas Folk Museum also has a separate section that offers travellers a glimpse into the folk-art collection of the region. It is home to an impressive collection of folk art from varying communities across Gujarat like Vania, Brahmin, Miana, Meman, Charan, Koli, and Kanbi. Each art piece and the art style are unique. Also, with the art, you get a glimpse into the symbolic meanings and cultural narratives.
4. Attend A Puppet Show
Photo: Sagar Dani / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Among the interactive events in the museum, puppet shows are one. They are held pretty much every day at specific times, so you’d need to confirm that at the ticket country or the administrative office. Getting to witness the puppet shows narrating about the Gujarati culture and traditions is a pretty entertaining experience inside the museum. Puppetry, known as Kathputli, is a significant part of Gujarat’s folk culture, so they have professionals conducting the shows.
Places To Visit Around Shreyas Folk Museum
Exploring the Shreyas Folk Museum takes around 1-2 hours in total. After you are done, there are numerous tourist attractions in Ahmedabad and around, waiting to be explored:
1. Sabarmati Ashram
Photo: Snehrashmi / Wikimedia Commons
One of the primary tourist attractions in Ahmedabad is the Sabarmati Ashram, also known as Gandhi Ashram. The ashram is built on the banks of the Sabarmati River and historically, it served as the residence of Mahatma Gandhi from 1917 to 1930. It also played a significant role in India’s freedom struggle. Inside the ashram, you will find an archive that houses letters, photographs, and other memorabilia and offers a glimpse into Gandhi’s life.
Distance From Shreyas Folk Museum: 8.6 km
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
2. Kankariya Lake
Photo: Arjuncm3 / Wikimedia Commons
Another popular destination to visit and explore around the Shreyas Folk Museum is the Kankaria Lake. It was built in 1451 and named Hauz e Qutub. Recently, it has been transformed into a recreation centre, offering respite from the chaos of the city. Also, it is the second-largest lake in Ahmedabad. One of the primary activities there is the tethered hot-air balloon. Also, you can visit the One Tree Hill Garden located on the lake’s west side.
Distance From Shreyas Folk Museum: 8.8 km
Timings: 4 AM – 8 PM and 9 PM – 10 PM
3. Jama Masjid
Photo: Iamarfat / Wikimedia Commons
Also known as Jumah Mosque or Jami’ Masjid, Jama Masjid is another one of the most iconic landmarks. The mosque was built in 1423 by Ahmed Shah I. Back in the day, the mosque was reportedly the largest in the Indian subcontinent. Beyond the intricate carvings, the mosque also spots a large courtyard that can accommodate thousands of worshippers, offering a glimpse into the city’s Islamic heritage.
Distance From Shreyas Folk Museum: 6 km
Timings: 6 AM – 10 PM
Where To Stay
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Since Shreyas Folk Museum is located centrally in Ahmedabad, finding accommodation around isn’t a hassle. There are affordable hotels, luxury resorts and properties that you can book your stay in. A few of the best properties are Hotel New Empire, Hotel Stay Inn, WelcomHeritage Mani Mansion, Hotel Eldorado and Hotel Heritage.
Where To Eat
Photo: Wizard.vishalbhatt / Wikimedia Commons
Ahmedabad is home to numerous restaurants and local eateries where you can try the local Gujarati cuisine. Some of the popular restaurants include Jassi de Parathe, Agashiye, and Rajwadu. You can also explore local canteens around the museum if you want something affordable.
Other Tips To Consider
Photo: Sonika Agarwal / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The ideal time to explore Shreyas Folk Museum is during the winter months, between October and February. The museum is generally open throughout the year, so you can visit anytime.
Tips For Travellers:
- Visit the museum early in the morning to avoid the crowd and the heat as well.
- If you are visiting during the summer months, carry a water bottle and keep yourself hydrated.
- If you are interested in exploring the cultural performances, ensure that you check the event list before visiting.
- Taking Shreyas Folk Museum photos inside isn’t allowed so avoid taking pictures.
Shreyas Folk Museum offers a glimpse into the rich culture and traditions that flourish in and around Gujarat. Not only will you be mesmerised by the artefacts, the interactive exhibits are an even better experience. To get a glimpse into the state’s cultural traditions, ensure that you book all the experiences of your vacation to Gujarat with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Nizil Shah / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
