Showcasing the best manuscripts, artifacts and history of Odisha
Dating back to 1932, the Odisha State Museum is the oldest and largest museum of the state, housing various collections of antique items. It is a treasure trove that offers a glimpse into Odisha’s past from various eras.
The collection at the museum situated at Kalpana Square is displayed in various galleries. Epigraphy and numismatics gallery focuses on coins of the ancient and medieval age of Odisha while the natural history segment showcases specimens of rare mammals and birds through evolution of the species. Similarly, the armoury gallery, one of the most enchanting sections of the museum, displays weapons excavated in archaeology sites as well as personal weapons of prominent kings of Odisha.
Another interesting gallery is the mining and geology section which exhibits specimens of minerals like iron-ore, manganese ore, fireclay, radioactive minerals, colourful minerals, various types of rocks, models of Rourkela Steel Plant and maps of Odisha showing the centres of mineral deposits. One of the major attractions of this gallery is the collection of plant fossils of 200 million years old and a log of 300 million years old collected from Talcher (in the district of Dhenkanal) and Phulbani.
The state museum has a rich collection of ancient manuscripts which are probably the highlight of the museum. The museum even offers an online catalogue for the same. At the museum INTACH works on preserving ancient manuscripts engraved on palm leaves.
Archaeology, anthropology and even art and craft galleries are must visit sections. The newest addition – the Paika revolution gallery displays various rare documents bearing testimony to the first uprising for independence in British India. The museum also houses a wonderful library that has books for scholars and researchers as well as visitors in general.
| What to Expect | Learn about rich history of Odisha through the various exhibits |
|---|---|
| Timings |
10AM till 5PM Closed on Mondays |
| Entry Fee |
Indian - Adults Rs 10 & Children Rs 2 Foreigners - Rs 100 |
| Contact | 0674-2431597 |
| Website | www.odishamuseum.nic.in |
