Established in 1917, Patna Museum is situated on Budh Road, at
Patna, the capital city of
Bihar. The building is a unique blend of European, Mughal and Rajput architectural styles. The museum houses a First World War cannon and an excellent collection of stone and terracotta sculptures especially from the
Mauryan period.
Didarganj Yakshi, carved out of a yellowish stand stone, is the most noteworthy piece in the museum. The sculpture is over 2,000 years old, but still remains soft and shiny owing to its lustrous finish. A 16 m long fossilized tree housed here is another point of attraction.
Mother goddess figures, clay toy animals, figurines of women, couples and deities, Chinese paintings, Thangkas (Tibetan cloth paintings) and early Buddhist figures, including a standing Buddha and Bodhisattvas, made of bronzes are the other artifacts on display.
Visiting hours are set between 10:30 to 16:30 hrs, except Mondays and government holidays.
