The State Museum of Lucknow is a fascinating destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural and historical heritage of Uttar Pradesh. Located in the heart of the city, the museum is a must-visit for history and art lovers. It houses an impressive collection of artifacts, exhibits, and galleries that showcase the art, culture, and history of Uttar Pradesh.

History of the Museum:

The State Museum of Lucknow was established in 1863 and was originally located in the Chattar Manzil palace. It was later shifted to its present location in 1963. The museum was founded with the aim of preserving and promoting the cultural and historical heritage of Uttar Pradesh.

Collections:

The State Museum of Lucknow has an impressive collection of artifacts, exhibits, and galleries that showcase the art, culture, and history of Uttar Pradesh. The museum has several sections, including archaeology, anthropology, art, and natural history. The galleries are organized chronologically and provide visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the region's rich cultural and historical heritage.

The Archaeology Gallery:

The Archaeology Gallery is one of the most popular sections of the museum. It showcases the ancient history of the region, with exhibits dating back to the 3rd century BC. The gallery houses a vast collection of coins, sculptures, terracotta figurines, and pottery from the Gupta, Maurya, and Kushana periods. The gallery also has a fascinating collection of seals and inscriptions from the Indus Valley Civilization.

The Anthropology Gallery:

The Anthropology Gallery is dedicated to the cultural and social history of Uttar Pradesh. It features exhibits on folk art, textiles, costumes, and musical instruments. The gallery also has a section dedicated to the life and works of Mahatma Gandhi.

The Art Gallery:

The Art Gallery of the museum showcases the rich artistic heritage of Uttar Pradesh. It has a vast collection of paintings, including miniatures, Mughal and Rajasthani paintings, and modern art. The gallery also has a collection of sculptures, including stone sculptures from the Mathura school.

The Natural History Gallery:

The Natural History Gallery is dedicated to the flora and fauna of Uttar Pradesh. It houses a vast collection of preserved specimens of animals, birds, reptiles, and plants. The gallery also has exhibits on geology, minerals, and fossils.

Visiting the Museum:

The State Museum of Lucknow is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:30 am to 5:00 pm. The museum is closed on Mondays and all public holidays. The entry fee for Indians is Rs. 10 and for foreigners, it is Rs. 100. Visitors are not allowed to carry cameras or any other electronic devices inside the museum.

In conclusion, the State Museum of Lucknow is an impressive destination that offers visitors an opportunity to explore the rich cultural and historical heritage of Uttar Pradesh. With its vast collection of artifacts and exhibits, the museum is a must-visit for history and art lovers.