Loading...Located in Shahbagh, Dhaka, the Bangladesh National Museum (Bangladesh Jatio Jadughar) is a true reflection of the entire country. While it’s not possible to tour all of Bangladesh in a day, you can get a sense of the country’s history and culture within a single visit to the museum. It’s a great place to bring children to introduce them to Bangladesh’s history.
The Bangladesh National Museum started its journey on August 7, 1913, under the name “Dhaka Museum.” It was inaugurated by the then Governor of Bengal, Lord Carmichael, in a room at Dhaka Medical College. After the country’s independence, it was renamed the “Bangladesh National Museum” in 1983.
This four-story building boasts stunning architectural design. With an area of 20,000 square meters, it houses over 83,000 exhibits across 46 galleries. It is the largest museum not only in Bangladesh but also in South Asia. The museum is currently under the Ministry of Culture and plays a significant role in introducing the new generation to the history and civilization of Bangladesh.
After purchasing a ticket and passing through the main gate, visitors are welcomed into the museum. Surrounded by lush greenery, the museum offers a serene atmosphere. The entrance features two beautifully designed cannons. Inside, visitors will be greeted by the stunning “Navera” sculptures. On the ground floor, there are a souvenir shop, a bag storage area, and several food stalls. Climbing the stairs, visitors will find gallery indicators on each floor, guiding them to various exhibits.
The first floor of the museum serves as a miniature version of Bangladesh. It begins with a map of Bangladesh and showcases exhibits on the country’s flora, fauna, the Sundarbans, tribal lifestyles, minerals, sculptures, currency, and various ancient sculptures.
The second floor chronicles the evolution of Bangladesh’s civilization and history. It includes weapons, musical instruments, porcelain handicrafts, cottage industries, manuscripts, contemporary artwork, and displays of Bangladesh’s diverse traditions.
The third floor is dedicated to the portraits of various renowned global personalities, paintings, and artifacts representing world civilization.
The Bangladesh National Museum also houses its own library with approximately 30,000 to 40,000 books, which plays a significant role in research. Additionally, the museum has an auditorium used for workshops, seminars, and meetings.
For the convenience of foreign visitors, the museum authorities have arranged for seven guides to assist in tours.
Departments of the National Museum:
- History and Classical Art
- Ethnology and Decorative Arts
- Contemporary Art and World Civilization
- Natural History Department
- Conservation Laboratory
Controlled Museums:
Under the control of the Bangladesh National Museum, several museums across the country are also operated, including:
- Ahsan Manzil Museum, Dhaka
- Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin Collection, Mymensingh
- Osmani Museum, Sylhet
- Zia Smriti Museum, Chittagong
- Palli Kabi Jasimuddin Collection, Faridpur
- Journalist Kangal Harinath Smriti Museum, Kushtia
- Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Memorial Museum and National Four Leaders Memorial Museum, Central Jail, Dhaka
Opening Hours:
April to September (Summer): Saturday-Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM
October to March (Winter): Saturday-Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
During Ramadan: Saturday-Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Friday: 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Entry Fees:
- Bangladeshi Citizens: 20 Taka
- Bangladeshi Citizens (Ages 3-12): 5 Taka
- SARCC countries’ citizens: 20 Taka
- Other Foreign Citizens: 100 Taka
On national holidays, such as Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year), March 26, February 21, etc., children and students can enter for free.
How to Reach:
You can take any bus from Gulistan or any part of Dhaka to Shahbagh. The Bangladesh National Museum is located on the southwest side of the Shahbagh intersection.
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