The collection originated from the Sarabhai family's private textile business holdings.
It holds one of the world's finest collections of antique pashmina shawls from Kashmir.
The museum grounds are located within a former private estate featuring traditional Haveli-style architecture.
Some exhibits date back to the 15th century, illustrating the global trade reach of Indian textiles.
The institution focuses heavily on the conservation and documentation of vanishing textile techniques.
It is managed by the Sarabhai Foundation, a public charitable trust.
The Calico Museum of Textiles is one of the world's most comprehensive collections of Indian historical fabrics and artifacts. Founded in 1949 by the Sarabhai family, it is housed within the lush, residential Sarabhai Foundation campus. The collection features hand-woven textiles, royal costumes, and pashmina shawls spanning five centuries of Indian craftsmanship. Visitors explore complex weaving techniques, including bandhani, patola, and zari work. The exhibits are curated to showcase the evolution of design and regional diversity in Indian weaving. Access is strictly controlled, requiring advance booking for guided tours. The museum grounds include serene gardens and traditional Gujarati architecture.
The exterior courtyards and traditional carved wooden facades of the museum buildings.
Book your guided tour weeks or months in advance as visitor numbers are strictly limited.
Carry your official government ID, as entry is strictly verified against your pre-booking.
Prepare for a walking-intensive tour that covers multiple buildings within the garden campus.
Attempting to visit without an advance confirmed booking, as walk-ins are not permitted.
Closed on Wednesdays and public holidays; advance online reservation is mandatory for all visitors.
Photography is strictly prohibited inside the galleries; modest attire is recommended as the site is within a private foundation.
