Tripura State Museum — Attraction in Tripura

This is a cultural museum par excellence.

The Ujjayanta Palace, where the museum is located, is exceptionally beautiful. The spotlessly white structure is a feast for the eyes.

It was constructed by Martin & Company of Great Britain. There are urban legends, bolstered by recent publications, that Martin Burn and Company (some say of Germany, some say of Great Britain - legends vary) constructed it. A similar legend persists that it was the great poet Rabindranath Tagore who named it Ujjayanta. Again, this is not true. The word actually occurs in a Sanskrit shilalipi. However, this is not the correct forum to engage in a debate on these.

The most colourful legend is that this palace was used as the model for a Maharaja's palace in a Tintin adventure named The Cigars of the Pharaoh. One look at Herge's drawing can dispel all doubts. There is no resemblance at all.

These details are less important. What is important is the beauty of the palace and the architectural layout.

The rulers of Tripura were cultured, educated and progressive. Their sense of history and aesthetics enabled them to approve designs which were in consonance with local traditions and culture.

In front of the palace are two huge tanks - Lakshminarayan Dighi and Jagannath Dighi. A walkway separates them.

Walking down the stairs of the palace, the Lakshminarayan Dighi is to the left while the Jagannath Dighi is on the right. The Uma Maheshwar Temple (Kalibari) lies to the left of the palace and the Jagannath Temple to the right. On the front, on either side of the main gate lie the Lakshminarayan Temple and the Durga Bari.

A walk through the palace itself is a pleasure. The palace has been the Assembly Building for long. It is a matter of relief that we commoners can access this lovely structure now.

One section of the palace is still out of bounds. The royal family of Tripura have their residence there. When the family is in present, a flag flutters over one of the domes.

Now, the museum itself. A cultural, historical and overall facet of the state of Tripura and also North East India has been presented here. One gets a glimpse of the various tribal communities that have lived in this land, their culture and traditions.

Sections on geography, zoology, botany and geology cover the non-human aspects of Tripura. The museum highlights some of the recent events which have shaped the state's history, e.g., the martyrs from the police who laid down their lives during the insurgency, the creation of Bangladesh in 1971, etc.

Some of the best attractions are collections of Tripura's indigenous musical instruments, old newspaper cuttings of the 1971 war, weaving implements, ivory items, old kantha stitch clothing and, not the least, a number of antiquities.

For while the museum is a cultural museum, it houses important antiquities as well. The Pala era stone sculptures are exquisitely beautiful. One cannot fail to mention the stone sculpture of Lakshminarayan where they are locked in a sensuous embrace. The gentleness of the caress is one that cannot be described in words.

There are interesting collections of copper plates (tamralipis) and coins too. These coins were minted during the reign of the Manikya rulers through centuries. Statuettes from the Pilak area give an idea of the style of sculpture extant there.

Finally, the piece-de-resistance. That is the palace ballroom. It is adorned by large portraits of erstwhile kings of Tripura, in their royal finery. Court attire, arms borne in the court, etc. are also tastefully displayed.

I must mention here the Curator, Smt S. Midya, with whom I had a chance discussion. With limited resources and staff, she has done an excellent task of embellishing and maintaining this museum. My respects and thanks to her.

To all in Agartala, whether you are a resident, a tourist, or even an itinerant professional on a whirlwind tour, there are few places in India where you get to walk about in such a beautiful palace and also experience a quality museum for a mere Rs. 20/-.

Do...

Visiting the Tripura State Museum, also known as the Ujjayanta Palace, offers a fascinating journey through the rich tapestry of Tripura's history and culture. Nestled in the heart of Agartala, the capital of Tripura, this museum is housed in a majestic royal palace that itself is a testament to the grandeur of the region's past.

As you approach the museum, you're greeted by the splendid façade of Ujjayanta Palace. Built during the early 20th century, the palace exhibits a magnificent blend of Indo-Saracenic architecture, with its towering domes, intricately carved wooden ceilings, and sprawling corridors. This regal structure once served as the residence of the Manikya kings of Tripura, adding a royal charm to your visit.

Inside, the museum's galleries are a treasure trove of artifacts that span the length and breadth of Tripura's history. From ancient sculptures and tribal artifacts to coins and ancient scriptures, each exhibit is thoughtfully curated to offer insight into the diverse cultural heritage of the region. Particularly notable are the displays dedicated to the indigenous tribes of Tripura, showcasing traditional attire, musical instruments, and handicrafts that reflect their vibrant lifestyle.

The museum also delves into the state's more recent history, documenting its journey from a princely state to its current identity as part of modern India. Photographs, documents, and personal items of the erstwhile royalty help narrate this transition in a way that is both engaging and educational.

Visitors find themselves immersed in the stories of Tripura's past, beautifully intertwined with its present. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or someone curious about Indian culture, the Tripura State Museum provides a captivating and enriching experience that leaves a lasting impression. Engaging with the exhibits offers not just a look into history but also a reflection on how the diverse cultural influences have shaped present-day Tripura. As you conclude your visit, the museum's serene gardens provide a peaceful backdrop to reflect on the wealth of history you...

The Tripura State Museum, located inside the iconic Ujjayanta Palace in Agartala, is an absolute gem for anyone interested in history, culture, and architecture. Built in 1901 by Maharaja Radha Kishore Manikya, the palace itself is breathtaking — with its grand white façade, impressive central dome, and sprawling gardens complete with fountains and a peaceful lake.

Inside, the museum offers a fascinating journey through Tripura’s royal legacy and cultural heritage. The galleries are thoughtfully organized, covering a wide range of subjects — from archaeological artifacts and royal belongings to traditional tribal costumes, weapons, coins, sculptures, and paintings. There are also sections dedicated to the folk traditions and performing arts of Tripura, making it a complete cultural experience.

Every exhibit is well-labeled with clear information, which makes the visit both enjoyable and educational. The building’s spacious halls, intricate wooden ceilings, and natural lighting enhance the overall charm.

The staff are polite, helpful, and knowledgeable, always ready to guide visitors and share interesting facts. Cleanliness and maintenance are top-notch, reflecting the importance given to preserving the museum’s treasures.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, a student, or simply a curious traveler, this museum is a must-visit. It beautifully preserves the essence of Tripura’s past while making it accessible to the...