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Museums

Bhuri Singh Museum

4.3 · 2,015 reviews
A quiet and scholarly environment.
H45C+6V4 Bhuri Singh Museum, Chowgan Mohalla, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh 176310, India
Interesting facts
1

The museum houses rare copper plate inscriptions dating from the 10th to the 17th century.

2

The collection includes 'Rumals', the famous Chamba embroidered handkerchiefs featuring intricate pictorial embroidery.

3

The building was inaugurated in 1908 by the British official J. Ph. Vogel.

4

It contains a specific wing dedicated to the history of the Chamba royal lineage.

5

The museum preserves ancient stone sculptures discovered in the Chamba valley dating back to the 7th century.

6

It holds records of the ancient administrative hierarchy of the Chamba princely state.

Overview

The Bhuri Singh Museum is a historical institution founded in 1908 in Chamba, Himachal Pradesh, to house artifacts from the princely state's royal collection. The museum is named after Raja Bhuri Singh, who reigned from 1904 to 1919 and donated his private art collection to the state. It holds a significant collection of copper plate inscriptions that provide essential records of the ancient administration and land grants of the region. The gallery features a notable collection of Pahari miniature paintings, specifically the Chamba and Kangra schools. Visitors can view traditional wood carvings, weapons, and antique musical instruments reflective of local craftsmanship. The museum architecture mirrors traditional Himachali hill style with intricate wooden details. It serves as a primary repository for the study of the Sharda script. The museum is located in the historic Chowgan area of Chamba town.

Photo spot

The museum's traditional wooden facade and the grand entry gate provide the best perspective.

Insider tips

Engage with the onsite curators who are often knowledgeable about local epigraphy.

Visit the nearby library archives if you are conducting research on Himalayan history.

Check the lighting conditions, as some galleries are dimly lit to preserve sensitive artifacts.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to touch the copper plates or historical manuscripts behind the glass enclosures.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays and national public holidays.

Etiquette

Maintain silence inside the galleries; photography is strictly prohibited for certain sections containing fragile documents.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-1.5 hours
Best time to visit
Morning or early afternoon; the climate is pleasant during the spring and autumn months.
Address
H45C+6V4 Bhuri Singh Museum, Chowgan Mohalla, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh 176310, India
32.558, 76.122
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsCopper plate inscriptions, Pahari miniature paintings, Chamba embroidery (Rumals), and 7th-century stone sculptures.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-1.5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Morning or early afternoon; the climate is pleasant during the spring and autumn months..

The museum's traditional wooden facade and the grand entry gate provide the best perspective.

Close by you'll find Chaugan, Laxmi Narayana Temple, Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir Chamba.