Salar Jung Museum: History, Timings, Entry Fee & Location

The Salar Jung Museum in Hyderabad is one of the largest and most prestigious museums in India. Housing an incredible collection of art, artifacts, and antiques from around the world, this museum is a haven for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and tourists alike. Situated on the banks of the Musi River, the museum offers a rich glimpse into Indian and international heritage, with items dating back centuries.

This article provides a detailed look at the history of Salar Jung Museum, its timings, entry fee, location, and tips to help you plan your visit.

History of Salar Jung Museum

The Salar Jung Museum was established in 1951 and named after Mir Yousuf Ali Khan, popularly known as Salar Jung III, the Prime Minister of the erstwhile Hyderabad State. Salar Jung III was an avid art collector and devoted much of his wealth to amassing an unparalleled collection of artifacts, art, manuscripts, and sculptures from across the world.

After his death in 1949, his priceless collection, comprising over 43,000 art objects, 9,000 manuscripts, and 47,000 printed books, was donated to the Indian government. In 1961, the museum was declared an institution of national importance. Over the years, the museum has expanded, and today it stands as one of the most prominent museums in India, spread across two floors with numerous galleries displaying treasures from different parts of the globe.

Some of the museum’s most famous artifacts include:

• Veiled Rebecca: A stunning marble statue by Italian sculptor Giovanni Maria Benzoni, known for its intricate detailing.
• The Double Statue: A unique wooden sculpture showing two faces—one male and one female—from different angles.
• Jade Collection: Salar Jung Museum’s jade collection includes items belonging to Mughal emperors like Aurangzeb and Shah Jahan.

Salar Jung Museum’s Collections and Exhibits

The museum is divided into several sections and galleries based on geography and type of artifacts. Some of the major collections include:

• Indian Art: This section includes sculptures, paintings, textiles, and carvings from various regions of India. Notable items include Mughal miniature paintings, Rajasthani art, and Tanjore paintings.
• Middle Eastern Art: The museum boasts a fine collection of Middle Eastern art, particularly from Iran, Egypt, and Syria, featuring carpets, glassware, and metalwork.
• European Art: Housing works from Italy, France, and England, this collection includes oil paintings, furniture, and porcelain. The clocks gallery is a must-visit.
• Far Eastern Art: This gallery is dedicated to artifacts from China, Japan, and Burma, featuring ceramics, jade sculptures, and beautiful silk paintings.

The museum also houses a children’s section, a library, and rare manuscripts, including Qurans with exquisite calligraphy and illustrations.

Timings of Salar Jung Museum

Salar Jung Museum is open throughout the week except for Fridays and certain public holidays. Here are the detailed timings:

• Visiting Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Tuesday to Sunday)
• Closed on Mondays: The museum remains closed every Monday and on national holidays like Republic Day, Independence Day, and Gandhi Jayanti.

Visitors are advised to allocate at least 2 to 3 hours to explore the museum thoroughly, given its vast collection spread across multiple galleries.

Entry Fee for Salar Jung Museum

The entry fee for Salar Jung Museum is affordable, and there are different rates for Indian citizens and foreign nationals:

• Indian Citizens: ₹20 per person
• Foreign Nationals: ₹500 per person
• Children (Below 5 years): Free entry
• Students with ID: ₹10 per person
• Camera Charges: ₹50 for still cameras (Mobile cameras are usually allowed without any fee)

The museum also offers discounted rates for large groups and school visits, making it an accessible attraction for everyone.

Location and Address of Salar Jung Museum

The Salar Jung Museum is located near the Old City of Hyderabad, on the southern bank of the Musi River. It is easily accessible from all parts of Hyderabad and is located close to other iconic landmarks like Charminar and Mecca Masjid.

• Address: Salar Jung Museum, Near Minar Function Hall, Darulshifa, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002, India

How to Reach Salar Jung Museum:

• By Road: Salar Jung Museum is well-connected by local transport, including buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. It’s located around 4 km from Hyderabad’s city center.
• By Metro: The nearest metro station is Charminar Metro Station, located about 3 km from the museum.
• By Train: The closest railway station is Hyderabad Deccan Railway Station (Nampally), which is around 5 km away.
• By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport is about 20 km from the museum, and taxis or app-based cabs are easily available for a convenient ride.

Best Time to Visit Salar Jung Museum

The best time to visit Salar Jung Museum is from October to March, when the weather in Hyderabad is pleasant, allowing for comfortable sightseeing. During these months, the temperature is moderate, making it the ideal time to explore both indoor and outdoor attractions in the city.

Visiting during weekdays is preferable as weekends can get crowded with both locals and tourists. Plan to visit the museum in the morning or late afternoon to avoid long queues.

Attractions Near Salar Jung Museum

Salar Jung Museum is located close to several iconic landmarks in Hyderabad’s Old City, making it easy to combine multiple attractions in one day:

1. Charminar: One of India’s most iconic structures, located around 2 km from the museum.
2. Mecca Masjid: One of the largest mosques in India, located near Charminar.
3. Chowmahalla Palace: The former residence of the Nizams, located about 2 km away.
4. Laad Bazaar: A lively market famous for Hyderabadi bangles and traditional jewelry, located near Charminar.

Tips for Visiting Salar Jung Museum

• Plan Your Visit: Allocate at least 2 to 3 hours to explore the museum thoroughly.
• Photography: If you’re interested in photography, make sure to pay the camera fee and capture the museum’s unique artifacts.
• Carry Water: The museum has basic facilities, but carrying your own water bottle is a good idea, especially on hot days.
• Read the Signage: Many of the exhibits come with detailed descriptions, so take the time to read and appreciate the historical significance of the artifacts.
• Group Tours: If visiting with a large group, inquire about guided tours to get in-depth insights into the museum’s collections.

Conclusion

The Salar Jung Museum is a treasure trove of global art, history, and culture, making it one of India’s premier museums. Its vast collection, ranging from ancient manuscripts to priceless sculptures, provides an immersive experience for visitors. Whether you're an art lover, history enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, Salar Jung Museum is an unmissable stop in Hyderabad. Plan your visit and delve into centuries of artistic brilliance housed under one roof.