Museums are a rich collection of treasure. It’s an intrigue documentation of history, reservoir of knowledge, and all things arts & sciences. Every year, May 18th marks the International Museum Day. This day was original acclaimed by the International Council of Museum (ICOM) in 1977. According to ICOM, there’s an objective to celebrate Museum Day. “Museums are an important means of cultural exchange, enrichment of cultures and development of mutual understanding, cooperation and peace among peoples.” In-line with Sustainable Development Goals 4 & 9, theme for 2024 is “Museums for Education & Research.” This step encourages creativity and sustainability. Across nations, events and activities are being held to spread the awareness about Museums. Our state-Gujarat is no behind in terms of reserving the comprehensive archival. Here is the list of top 10 museums to visit in Gujarat.
Role and Importance of Museums
Museums are pivotal to society as they serve in multi-dimensions. From serving as educational hubs, preserving culture, community engagement to a space for innovation and inspiration. All this leads to social cohesion and economic development via attracting tourism and employment opportunities. Museums are the gigantic structure that provide access to knowledge. Through exhibits and collections, academic research, and offering diverse programs Museums cater to all age groups. By representing and celebrating cultural diversity, museums promote inclusivity. It is to understanding and appreciating different traditions and histories. Moreover, museums inspire creativity and innovation.
Must visit Museums in Gujarat
Moreover, Gujarat being a point of attraction for tourists also holds a rich history. Therefore, its art, history, and heritage have been preserved in the prolific Museums across the state. In addition, the best way to celebrate International Museum Day is by visiting nearby Museums. Furthermore, as they not only enlighten you but offer you a deep glance into historical happenings. Here follows, Gujpreneur’s guide on visiting top 10 Museums of Gujarat:
1. Smritivan Earthquake Memorial Museum
Known for: Built in the loving memory of the people of Kutch who were affected by the horrific 2011 earthquake.
📍 Location: Bhujio Dungar, Bhuj, Gujarat 370020
It is vast museum, honouring the victims of the devastating 2001 earthquake. It mainly celebrates the resilience of the people of Kutch. Spanning over 470 acres, it’s the largest memorial and museum in modern India. The Smritivan in literal terms mean-Forest of Memories. It features a Miyawaki forest, a solar power plant, check-dams honouring victims, and a museum with seven unique educational galleries. These galleries explore the history of earthquake, the rescue efforts, and disaster preparedness.
2. Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery
Known for: The Archaeal of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad’s development policy
📍 Location: Kamatibaug, Dak Bunglaw, Sayajiganj, Vadodara, Gujarat 390020
It was founded by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. This museum is a testament to his belief in education’s power to uplift society. Built in the Indo-Saracenic style, the two buildings feature a blend of European and Indian architectural elements. The museum building, designed by R.F. Chisholm, combines traditional Maratha elements with European details, while the picture gallery by Major R.N. Mant is simpler but incorporates Indian columns and open pavilions. Connected by a covered bridge, the museum, established in 1894, and the picture gallery, completed in 1914, offer a vast space (40,000 sq ft) for showcasing art, artefacts, and cultural heritage.
3. Gandhi Memorial Museum
Known for: Depicting the Life and Principles of Mahatama Gandhi
📍 Location: Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya, Ashram Rd, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380027
Ahmedabad’s Sabarmati Ashram, also known as Gandhi Sangrahalaya, is a museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Showcasing his personal belongings – paintings, manuscripts, and even the writing desk and spinning wheel he used – the museum offers a glimpse into Gandhi’s life and philosophy. Rare photos and a rich collection of books on Gandhi further inspire visitors. Designed by renowned architect Charles Correa, the museum is a must-see for those inspired by Gandhi’s nonviolent struggle for India’s freedom.
4. Vikram Sarabhai Space Exhibition
Known for: Glimpse into Indian Space Programmes
📍 Location: Space Application Center, Satellite Rd, Jodhpur Tekra, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380015
The VSSE is a free, interactive museum showcasing India’s space program achievements. Explore satellites, rockets, and their applications, all designed to spark scientific curiosity and inspire future space scientists. Learn about ISRO’s impact on daily life through exhibits, a 3D auditorium, and even a virtual presenter. With dedicated sections for kids and quizzes, VSSE offers a fun and educational journey through the cosmos.
5. Calico Museum of Textiles
Known for: India’s Premier Textile Preservation
📍 Location: Jain Colony, Shahibag, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380004
The Sarabhai Foundation is a leader in textile research who founded this museum. It is for the collections of bronzes, sculptures, and paintings. Founded in 1949, the Calico Museum boasts textiles from across India’s history. The museum’s unique layout encourages a holistic view of the exhibits, breaking away from traditional, sterile museum design. The Sarabhai Foundation has published extensive research on textiles, making it a cornerstone of Indian textile studies.
6. Patan Patola Heritage Museum
Known for: Gujarat’s Patola artwork preservation
📍 Location: Rani Ki Vav Road, opp. New Kalika Mandir, Gujarat 384265
The Patola Heritage Museum, run by the Salvi family, showcases the art of double-ikat Patola silk weaving, a skill passed down for generations since the 11th century. Visitors can observe live demonstrations and admire the family’s work alongside single-ikat textiles from around the globe. This museum celebrates a centuries-old tradition, with roots potentially tracing back to the Ajanta cave paintings.
7. Vallabhbhai Patel and Vithalbhai Patel Memorial
Known for: Documentation of Immense Contribution of Patel Brothers
📍 Location: Anand-Sojitra Road, Nr. Shri Krishana Hospital, Karamasad – 388 325
It spread across seven landscaped acres in Karamsad, Gujarat, honors the Patel brothers. The building features an auditorium, photo gallery, and soon, a walk-in exhibition showcasing Sardar Patel’s life and journey in unifying India. Built with contributions from the Indian government and local donors, the memorial offers a serene garden with walking paths, a children’s playground, and visitor amenities.
8. Rotary Doll Museum
Known for: Everything just dolls!
📍 Location: 2nd floor, Nagrik Bank Building, Dr Yagnik Rd, opp. Heera-Panna, Jagnath Plot, Rajkot, Gujarat 360001
Additionally, it boasts over 1600 dolls from 102 countries, offering a glimpse into global cultures. Donated by Rotary Clubs worldwide, the dolls are displayed with backdrops reflecting their origin. Established in 2001, this museum fosters love, care, and global understanding through dolls, serving as a resource for children and adults alike.
9. Aina Mahal Musuem
Known for: Extensive mirror work
📍 Location: Maharav Of Kutch, Chowk, Darbar Gadh Rd, Old Dhatia Falia, Bhuj, Gujarat 370001
Built in 1752, this museum is a captivating mix of European and Indian design sensibilities. Commissioned by Maharao Lakhpatji, the palace reflects his fascination with European styles. The most striking feature is the elaborately mirrored 18th-century interior, adorned with blue-and-white Delphi-style tiling, a Venetian-glass chandelier, and a Harding lithograph series. Despite losing its top floor in an earthquake, the lower floor offers a glimpse into Kutch’s royal life. Additionally, it is complete with a 15.2-meter scroll depicting a state procession. Furthermore, the palace also houses a museum showcasing Kutch’s jewellery, weaponry, and art.
10. Hiralaxmi Memorial Craft Park
Known for: Preservation of Kutch Art
📍 Location: Near Bhujodi Village, Off. Bhuj-Anjar Highway, Bhuj, Gujarat 370001
It’s situated in a 10-acre haven for artisans and visitors alike. Moreover, craftspeople can showcase and sell their wares while receiving free meals and lodging. Furthermore, the park rotates artists monthly to ensure inclusivity. In addition, with 4,000 visitors weekly, it’s a thriving centre for Kutch art, attracting not just tourists but also students, researchers, and NGOs. Besides, the park’s success is further bolstered by the nearby Vande Mataram Memorial, a cafeteria, a serene temple, and a lotus pond, making it a well-rounded cultural destination for all ages.
Conclusion
Museums are truly a place to grasp innovation and inspiration. Additionally, it is a place to get the best of its kind insights. One should definitely visit these museums in Gujarat and grab its deliverables. Furthermore, from history, arts to space, museums cater to everything. Keep reading Gujpreneur for such learning insights!
