Bangladesh National Museum
Dhaka
The Bangladesh National Museum, located in the Shahbagh area of Dhaka, is the premier repository of Bangladesh's cultural, historical, and natural heritage. Established originally as the Dhaka Museum in 1913, it was renamed and reorganized after Bangladesh's independence in 1971 to reflect the nation's identity. The museum's comprehensive collection spans archaeology, ethnography, decorative arts, history, classical art, natural history, and world civilizations, featuring over 90,000 artifacts including ancient coins, Gandhara Buddhist sculptures, and items related to the 1971 Liberation War. The museum building, opened in 1983, houses specialized departments and modern facilities for conservation and public education. It serves as a vital cultural institution, attracting thousands of visitors daily, including international tourists. The museum has embraced digitization and virtual tours to enhance accessibility and preservation. Its diverse exhibits offer a deep insight into Bangladesh’s rich past, cultural diversity, and natural environment, making it an essential destination for those interested in South Asian history and heritage.
Plan your trip to Bangladesh with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors are advised to visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and to allocate at least 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the extensive collections. Tickets can be purchased on-site, with discounts available for children under 3 and physically challenged persons. The museum also offers a virtual gallery accessible online, which can be a great preliminary introduction or alternative for remote visitors.
Interesting facts
- •The museum's collection includes over 50,000 ancient and medieval coins, representing a vast numismatic heritage.
- •It houses Buddhist sculptures from the Gandhara period, dating back over 2,000 years.
- •The museum holds significant artifacts related to the 1971 Liberation War of Bangladesh.
- •In 2017, the museum launched a 360-degree virtual gallery to provide global access to selected exhibits.
- •UNESCO has collaborated with the museum since 2010 on intangible cultural heritage projects.
History
The museum was founded as the Dhaka Museum on March 20, 1913, initially located in a room at the old Secretariat building.
It opened to the public in August 1913 with about 500 objects.
Over the decades, the collection expanded and the museum moved locations, including the Nimtali Baroduari building.
After Bangladesh's independence in 1971, it was renamed the Bangladesh National Museum and reorganized to incorporate war artifacts and broaden its scope.
The current building in Shahbagh was inaugurated in 1983, marking a modernization milestone.
Since then, the museum has grown its collection to over 90,000 items and embraced digitization and international collaborations, including with UNESCO.
Place Guide
History and Classical Art Department
This department showcases artifacts from ancient and medieval Bangladesh, including sculptures, coins, and manuscripts that highlight the region's historical development and classical art traditions.
Ethnology and Decorative Arts Department
Dedicated to the diverse ethnic groups of Bangladesh, this section displays traditional crafts, textiles, folk art, and cultural artifacts representing the country's rich ethnic heritage.
Contemporary Art and World Civilization Department
This department presents modern art pieces alongside artifacts from global civilizations, illustrating Bangladesh's place in world history and contemporary cultural dialogues.
Department of Natural History
Showcases Bangladesh's natural environment, including specimens of flora, fauna, and geological samples, providing insights into the country's biodiversity and ecological heritage.
Conservation Laboratory
A facility dedicated to the preservation and restoration of artifacts, employing modern techniques to maintain the integrity of the museum's extensive collection.
Contact
Phone: 01793-947169
