Srimanthi Bai Memorial Government Museum
A hidden gem in Mangalore, this museum showcases a vast collection of artifacts in a historic bungalow, a testament to philanthropic generosity.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Srimanthi Bai Memorial Government Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden gem in Mangalore, this museum showcases a vast collection of artifacts in a historic bungalow, a testament to philanthropic generosity.
"A hidden gem in Mangalore, Karnataka, home to a vast collection of archaeological and geological artifacts."
Carry Cash for Entry & Parking
Tickets and parking fees are nominal (around Rs. 20-30). It's best to have cash on hand as digital payment options might be limited. :moneybag:
Allow 2-3 Hours for Exploration
With a diverse collection, you'll want ample time to appreciate the artifacts. Don't rush your visit! :stopwatch:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dr. Mirajkar's International Collection
Main Exhibition Halls
Explore artifacts from Africa to Nepal, showcasing a remarkable global collection donated by Dr. Vaman Raghunath Mirajkar.
Historic Mirajkar Bungalow
The Museum Building
Step back in time within the charming, historic bungalow that once belonged to Dr. Mirajkar, adding to the museum's unique ambiance.
Ancient Sculptures and Idols
Various Galleries
Admire a range of ancient sculptures and idols, offering a glimpse into historical artistry and religious practices.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to This Hidden Gem
Understanding the Museum's Legacy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Carry Cash for Entry & Parking
Tickets and parking fees are nominal (around Rs. 20-30). It's best to have cash on hand as digital payment options might be limited. :moneybag:
Allow 2-3 Hours for Exploration
With a diverse collection, you'll want ample time to appreciate the artifacts. Don't rush your visit! :stopwatch:
Drive Carefully Uphill
The road to the museum is narrow and steep. Drive slowly and cautiously, especially with larger vehicles. :car:
Check for Renovations
The museum sometimes undergoes renovations. It's wise to check for temporary closures or ongoing work before your visit. :construction:
Tips
from all over the internet
Carry Cash for Entry & Parking
Tickets and parking fees are nominal (around Rs. 20-30). It's best to have cash on hand as digital payment options might be limited. :moneybag:
Allow 2-3 Hours for Exploration
With a diverse collection, you'll want ample time to appreciate the artifacts. Don't rush your visit! :stopwatch:
Drive Carefully Uphill
The road to the museum is narrow and steep. Drive slowly and cautiously, especially with larger vehicles. :car:
Check for Renovations
The museum sometimes undergoes renovations. It's wise to check for temporary closures or ongoing work before your visit. :construction:
No Photography Inside
Photography is generally not permitted inside the museum to preserve the artifacts. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Srimanthi Bai Memorial Government Museum is a hidden gem offering a vast collection of historical and international artifacts within a charming, historic bungalow. While praised for its affordability and unique exhibits, some visitors note inconsistent maintenance, a lack of information about the founder, and a prohibition on photography inside.
"Visited in December 2024. There was some renovation work going on at that time. The museum is actually maintained well. There were descriptions of the artifacts shown and presented them very well too."
Athul Jeev
"Shrimathi Bai museum is a must visit for every native resident . The collection of artifacts belonged to Dr Vaman Raghunath Mirajkar. He was a renowned Indian surgeon in pre-partition India. Dr Mirajkar served in the army medical corps in various wars and received the honour from the then king of England. The museum mainly contains collection of precious items and artifacts including international collections from Africa to Nepal. He treated many poor patients for free at the Local Seva Mandal clinic. He and his family donated this prized possession and this spectacular bungalow to the people of Mangalore in memory of their late mother. A man this reputable unfortunately has no mention anywhere today.
There is not even a poster about this founder at the museum . It is saddening that large taxidermy collections have been given away to Mysore.
The location where the Bungalow( called Mirajkar's bungalow then) is on what once was called Bhattara gudde ( Bhat's Hill)
Simply the location of this place itself takes you back to the golden days of Mangalore.
Pointers: Good for all kids and adults.
Easily spend two or 3 hours here.
Parking fee some 20-30 rupees
Adult tickets 20Rs
Carry cash
Road is narrow and uphill . The museum is at the top of the hill at dead end.Drive slow.
What I didn't like:
No information about the founder, the man that donated this wealth for the society
No guides
Poor museum maintenance
No description of the items
The showcases are poorly lit
Most old precious statues are not protected
Many items left out in open damage in rain
Most items are dusty.
Coins and metal idols corroded and unclean
Leather puppets in unattended boxes .
We don't know how long we have before the rest of the items at the museum get damaged due to poor maintenance. I suggest you visit this place soon. Take your friends and family along. May be this place will get the care and attention it deserves."
Robin H
"A Hidden Gem in Mangalore
"The Srimanthi Bhai Memorial Government Museum is a hidden gem in Mangalore, Karnataka. It is home to a vast collection of archaeological and geological artifacts, spanning centuries of history. The museum is located in Bejai, a little off the main road, but it is worth the effort to find.
The museum is housed in a beautiful two-story building that was once the home of a wealthy merchant. The building itself is a piece of history, and it adds to the museum's charm.
The collections at the museum are extensive and impressive. There are artifacts from all over India, as well as from other parts of the world. The museum also has a large collection of natural history specimens, including fossils and rocks.
The museum is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, seven days a week. Admission is INR 15 for children and INR 20 for adults. Photography is not permitted inside the museum.
Here are some of the things you can expect to see at the Srimanthi Bhai Memorial Government Museum:
Ancient sculptures and paintings
Coins and other artifacts from different eras
Geological specimens, including fossils and rocks
Ethnographic artifacts, including clothing, tools, and weapons
If you are interested in history, art, or culture, then the Srimanthi Bhai Memorial Government Museum is a must-visit. It is a great place to learn about the history of Mangalore and Karnataka."
Restroom : Present, not cleanly maintained
Water: Available
Parking : Available, 10/- car
Expect second Saturday and govt holidays, Monday weekly off"
vasista k.j
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Bejai, a bit off the main road. The road leading up is narrow and steep, so drive cautiously. Paid parking is available on-site, or you can park outside. :car:
Yes, there is paid parking available for cars, typically around Rs. 10-30. :parking:
While specific public transport routes aren't detailed, local buses to Bejai would be a starting point, followed by a short auto-rickshaw or taxi ride to the museum's uphill location. :bus:
The road is narrow and uphill, which might be challenging for larger vehicles. Drive slowly and carefully. :road:
The museum is situated on what was historically known as Bhattara Gudde (Bhat's Hill) in Mangalore. :round_pushpin:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is quite affordable, with adult tickets costing around Rs. 20 and children's tickets around Rs. 15. :ticket:
The museum is typically open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, seven days a week. However, it is closed on Mondays and second Saturdays. :clock1:
Currently, there is no mention of online ticket booking. It's recommended to purchase tickets directly at the museum counter. :credit_card:
Yes, there is a nominal entry fee for children, usually around Rs. 15. :child:
While not explicitly stated, school groups are encouraged to visit. It's advisable to inquire at the museum for any group or student discount possibilities. :school_satchel:
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The museum houses a diverse collection including ancient sculptures, paintings, coins, manuscripts, geological specimens, ethnographic items, and international artifacts. :scroll:
No, photography is not permitted inside the museum to protect the exhibits. :no_photography:
Unfortunately, there are no guides available at the museum, so you'll explore the exhibits independently. :walking:
Visitors can easily spend two to three hours exploring the collections, especially if they are interested in history and artifacts. :hourglassflowingsand:
Reviews indicate that maintenance can be inconsistent, with some areas appearing dusty or poorly lit, and some artifacts showing signs of wear. :mag:
Restrooms are available on-site, though their cleanliness may vary. :toilet:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no specific food or dining facilities mentioned within the museum itself. It's advisable to eat before or after your visit. :forkandknife:
While not explicitly forbidden, it's generally best practice to consume outside food and drinks away from museum exhibits to maintain cleanliness. :apple:
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the museum to preserve the delicate artifacts. :camerawithflash:
The historic bungalow itself and its surroundings offer some aesthetic appeal for exterior shots. The uphill location might also provide some scenic views. :camera:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that photography is not allowed inside, and the maintenance can be inconsistent. It's advisable to manage expectations regarding exhibit conditions. The nominal ticket prices make it an affordable outing. Remember to carry cash for tickets and parking, and allow a couple of hours for a relaxed exploration.
💰 Budget Travelers
Parking is also inexpensive (around Rs. 10-30). The museum offers a wealth of historical artifacts and a glimpse into the past without a significant financial outlay. Just remember to bring cash, as digital payment options might not be readily available.
🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
Exploring the historic Mirajkar bungalow itself adds another layer to the experience, providing a tangible connection to the past. While some visitors note inconsistencies in maintenance, the sheer volume and diversity of the exhibits make it a worthwhile visit for anyone passionate about history and cultural heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Dr. Vaman Raghunath Mirajkar
Despite his significant contributions, many visitors note a surprising lack of information or recognition for Dr. Mirajkar within the museum itself. This absence of acknowledgment is a point of disappointment for some, highlighting a disconnect between the founder's legacy and the museum's current presentation. The collection includes precious items and international artifacts, reflecting Dr. Mirajkar's broad interests and global connections.
It's a poignant reminder of how legacies can sometimes be overlooked. The museum's existence is a direct result of his philanthropic spirit, making the lack of dedicated information about him a notable aspect of the visitor experience.
Navigating the Museum's Collections and Condition
However, the condition of the museum and its exhibits receives mixed reviews. While some describe it as well-maintained and neat, others point out issues such as dusty showcases, poorly lit displays, corroded coins, and idols left unprotected from the elements. There's a concern that some precious statues and items might be damaged due to inadequate maintenance and protection.
Despite these concerns, the museum is considered a 'hidden gem' by many, offering a unique and enriching experience for those interested in historical artifacts. The advice to visit sooner rather than later stems from the hope that increased attention might lead to better preservation efforts.
The Historic Setting of Mirajkar's Bungalow
The location on Bhattara Gudde (Bhat's Hill) further enhances the sense of stepping into a bygone era. The architecture and the setting contribute to the overall appeal, making it more than just a repository of objects but an immersive historical site. The building's preservation, alongside its contents, is key to appreciating the full legacy of Dr. Mirajkar's donation.
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