Jageshwar Archaeological Museum
| Place | Jageshwar |
|---|---|
| State | Uttarakhand |
| Virtual Museum | No |
| Year of Establishment | 2002 |
| Museum Type | Archaeological / Art / History |
| National Importance Museum | Yes |
| Address | Dandeshwar-Jageshwar Rd, Jageshwar Dham, Uttarakhand 263623 |
| Visiting Time | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM. Closed on Fridays and second Sundays of the month |
| Entry Fee | Free Entry |
Museum Introduction
Located within the ancient Jageshwar Dham temple complex in the Almora district, this museum was established by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to house and protect the exquisite stone sculptures discovered during excavations in the Jageshwar valley. The collection represents the artistic zenith of the Katyuri and Chand dynasties, dating primarily from the 9th to the 13th centuries AD.
General Collections
The museum consists of two main galleries housing approximately 174 artifacts. The collection is primarily composed of Hindu stone sculptures, architectural fragments, and stone lingams recovered from the various groups of temples including the Jageshwar, Dandeshwar, and Kuber groups.
Unique Historical Collections
The center hall features the museum's most significant artifact: the "Pona Raja" (or Paun Raja) sculpture, a highly revered local cult figure or king. Other highlights include the Uma-Maheshwar sculpture and a stunning representation of Surya (the Sun God) with his seven-horse chariot.
Additional Information
| Archaeological Survey of India | Yes |
|---|---|
| Notes | The museum is a critical addition to the temple visit, as it provides protection for the original idols that were once housed in the open-air shrines of the Jageshwar valley. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the galleries to ensure the preservation of the artifacts. |
| Artifacts | Pona Raja statue, Uma-Maheshwar sculptures, Navagraha panels, Surya statues, and various intricately carved architectural pillars and lintels. |
| Highly Descriptive | Yes |
| Contact Details | +91 5962 263 108 |
| Email ID |
info@mahamritunjayjageshwar.com (General temple queries) asiddn.cor-uk@nic.in (ASI Dehradun Circle) |