Pakistan may not have a long history - it came into existence in 1947 - but it charms travellers with its numerous museums. These museums give an understating of history and culture of this region. The guests would have opportunity to sample the past of this relatively young country through various exhibits and artefact showcased here. Here we give a lowdown on top museums in Pakistan.
National Museum of Pakistan, Karachi, Sindh
Karachi, the capital of Sindh province of Pakistan, is one of the major tourist destinations in Pakistan and attracts travellers from around the world for business and leisure. Apart from hosting other things, Karachi also houses the National Museum of Pakistan where artefacts reflect on the main phases of the country’s history. The tourists would be able to sample exhibits on pre- and proto-history, Gandhara, the Islamic era and the Independence struggle. The Quranic gallery is a fine place to see exquisite calligraphic collections.
Archaeological Museum, Banbhore, Sindh
Those nurturing love for ancient history and archaeology should plan a trip to Archaeological Museum, Banbhore where they can have several excavated remains that include thing belonging to Parthian, Hindu-Buddhist and Islamic periods. Pottery shards, metal work, ornaments and utensils are other things on display.
Archaeological Museum, Moenjodaro
Mohenjo Daro, which is famous worldwide for its archaeological remains, is popular for its several archaeological remains. And archaeological museum in Mohenjo Daro is frequented by a large number of visitors. On their visit to the museum, the tourists would be able to sample artefacts that include jewellery, tools, toys, and the famous seals. The un-deciphered script of the Indus Valley Civilization is also on display.
Archaeological Museum, Taxila, Punjab
Taxila which was a centre of learning during the ancient times still charms a large number of travellers. And there can’t be a better way to have a glimpse of life of that period then a visit to Taxila Museum which is situated between Sirkap and Bhir Mound. The museum has large collection of Buddhist sculptures and stupas, coins and ornaments that give a glimpse into the life of that era.
Archaeological Museum, Harappa, Punjab
Another important archaeological site in Pakistan, the name of Harappa is not new to history buffs as the place is considered important in the ancient history. The archaeological Museum of Harappa has several exhibits from the cemetery and other parts of the site. Carnelian beads, shell objects, tools, domestic equipments, toys, seals, animal and human figurines are important things on display.
Archaeological Museum, Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Archaeological Museum in Swat is a good place to see Buddhist sculptures and friezes that exhibits the development of the Gandhara art form. The ethnographic section has a vast collection of local Swati handicrafts such as silver jewellery and embroidery.
Allama Iqbal Museum, Lahore, Punjab
Javed Manzil which was the home of the acclaimed poet Allama Iqbal has now been converted into a museum to keep alive his memories. The museum houses the personal collection of the great poet Allama Iqbal including his letters and manuscripts.
Quaid-i-Azam Birth Place Museum, Karachi, Sindh
Quaid-i-Azam Birth Place which is also called the Wazir Mansion was the birthplace of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the Founder of the Nation, where he spent his early childhood where he spent his early years. The house has served as a monument of national importance by the government of Pakistan.
Umerkot Museum, Umerkot, Sindh
Situated in the historic city of Umerkot, the museums are housed in a former Rajput Fort. The museum is a good place to see exhibits on Mughal armament, miniatures, coins, official documents and manuscripts. The museum remains open for public from 8 am to 4 pm daily barring holidays. The museum was inaugurated in 1968.
Islamabad Museum, Islamabad
Islamabad museum is a fine place to understand history and culture of this region of Pakistan, beginning from prehistoric times. On their arrival, the visitors would be able to see exhibits include fossil remains from 20 million years ago. Man-made stone tools from the prehistoric times, pre-Indus Valley, Gandhara Grave Culture and Gandhara art are also on display.
Allama Iqbal Museum, Sialkot, Punjab
This should not be confused with the museum of same name in Lahore. The Allama Iqbal Museum in Sialkot is actually the birthplace of great poet. It is the place where he spent his early years. This well preserved museum in Sialkot is well known for its tranquil atmosphere besides its lovely setting.
Quaid-i-Azam House Museum (Flag Staff House), Karachi, Sindh
Flag Staff House was the Quaid-i-Azam’s official residence from 1944 till his death in 1948. Now it has been converted into museum and draws a large number of visitors willing to have a peek into the life of this great leader of Pakistan. The museum showcases original furniture, his library and letters.
Monument Museum, Islamabad
One of the must visit attractions in Islamabad, the Pakistan Monument Museum, is an ideal destinations to have historical perspective on Pakistan. A trip to this museum is highly popular among locals as well as foreigners and generations to come. There are several books and audio visual documentaries that could be a great research material for the foreigners.
Heritage Museum, Lok Virsa, Islamabad
Those with love for history and culture should plan a trip to Heritage Museum of Pakistan in Islamabad where they can have a great understanding of Pakistan its history and living traditions. Apart from covering the cities of Pakistan the museum also covers the tradition of the remotest regions of the country. Spread over an area of 60,000 sq. ft, the museum showcases its exhibit in several halls.
Lahore Museum, Lahore, Punjab
With a vast historical and cultural legacy, Lahore has a history of its own which is best manifested in its museums. The Lahore Museum founded in 1864, enjoys a beautiful location on Mall Road. The magnificent building of Lahore Museum was designed by ace architect Sir Ganga Ram. A large number of travellers visit this museum for its good collection of pre-historic and historic period. The museum is a fine specimen to see artworks of Mughal, Sikh and British period.
Peshawar Museum, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Want to have an insight into the history of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region? Peshawar Museum with a collection of more than 14000 items have a good collection of Gandharan sculptures, coins, manuscripts and copies of the Holy Quran, inscriptions, weapons, dresses, jewellery and effigies belonging to several historical periods.
Bhawalpur Museum, Bhawalpur, Punjab
Founded in 1976, the Bahawalpur Museum is a museum that caters to several genres. The guests can find exhibits on archaeology, art, heritage, modern history and religion. This museum in Bahawalpur Punjab province of Pakistan is frequented by a large number of travellers.
Chitral Museum, Chitral, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Situated in the town of Chitral in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Chitral Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology is an ideal place to understand history of chitral. The town enjoys a stunning position at Polo Ground, Chitral. On their visit to the city, the travellers would be able to see a slice of ancient heritage and historical things from the Kalash Valley antiquity. The artefacts discovered from Parwak excavation in 2003 giving evidence of Aryan Graves dating back to 1800 to 600 B.C are also on display.