Not the best of pictures, this is the quila house (taken from the roof of their guesthouse)
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Jalan Museum Quila House

4.3
·208 reviews·Patna, India

A private museum in Patna showcasing R.K. Jalan's vast collection of Asian & European art, antiques, and historical artifacts.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mon-Sat mornings

Beat the crowds, enjoy quiet viewing

CrowdLow
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Not the best of pictures, this is the quila house (taken from the roof of their guesthouse)

Jalan Museum Quila House

Best Time

Mon-Sat mornings

Beat the crowds, enjoy quiet viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A private museum in Patna showcasing R.K. Jalan's vast collection of Asian & European art, antiques, and historical artifacts.

4.3
(208 reviews)

"Must visit place in Bihar with an exquisite one-man collection of antique, art, and porcelain."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Ahead: 48 Hours Minimum

A prior appointment is mandatory. Book at least 48 hours in advance to guarantee entry.

⏰ Strict Visiting Hours

Adhere to the specific visiting hours: Mon-Sat 9-11 AM, Sun 10 AM-4 PM.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Exquisite Private Collection

Exquisite Private Collection

Throughout the house

Discover a vast private collection of Asian & European art, antiques, fossils, and royal furniture.

Napoleon III's Bed

Napoleon III's Bed

Display area

Marvel at the historical significance of Napoleon III's bed, a unique piece within the collection.

The OM-Sounding Gong

The OM-Sounding Gong

Display area

Experience the unique 'OM' sound produced by this ancient gong, a truly captivating artifact.

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Planning Your Visit

Prioritize Your Visit: Appointment is Key

Jalan Museum Quila House is a private residence and museum, meaning prior appointment is essential. Plan at least 48 hours in advance to secure your visit and avoid disappointment at the gate. This ensures you can experience its exquisite collection.

Understand Visiting Hours

Visiting hours are specific: Monday-Saturday, 9-11 AM, and Sundays, 10 AM-4 PM. Arriving outside these times, even with an appointment, may result in being turned away. Check these times carefully when booking.

Best Times

When
Mon-Sat mornings
Why
Beat the crowds, enjoy quiet viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Sunday afternoons
Why
Extended hours for weekend visitors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎯 Book Ahead: 48 Hours Minimum

A prior appointment is mandatory. Book at least 48 hours in advance to guarantee entry. Reddit

⏰ Strict Visiting Hours

Adhere to the specific visiting hours: Mon-Sat 9-11 AM, Sun 10 AM-4 PM. Reddit

📸 Respectful Photography

While photos are often allowed, be mindful of the private nature of the residence. Ask permission if unsure.

🧐 Appreciate the Details

This is a personal collection; take time to absorb the stories behind each unique antique and artwork. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Ahead: 48 Hours Minimum

A prior appointment is mandatory. Book at least 48 hours in advance to guarantee entry. Reddit

⏰ Strict Visiting Hours

Adhere to the specific visiting hours: Mon-Sat 9-11 AM, Sun 10 AM-4 PM. Reddit

📸 Respectful Photography

While photos are often allowed, be mindful of the private nature of the residence. Ask permission if unsure.

🧐 Appreciate the Details

This is a personal collection; take time to absorb the stories behind each unique antique and artwork. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(208 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Jalan Museum Quila House is lauded for its exquisite and extensive private collection of Asian and European art and antiques, offering a unique glimpse into a personal curation. Visitors appreciate the historical significance of items like Napoleon III's bed and the unique OM-sounding gong. However, the strict requirement for prior appointments and limited visiting hours can be a point of frustration for some.

"Awesome collection at beautiful place"

sandhya gautam

"It is not a museum anymore they'll not let you to visit even from outside and make you leave the place directly from main gate I've got only one picture"

VIKRAM VERMA

"Exquisite One Man Collection of Antique, Art, porcelain, European furniture sets of Royal family, Bed of Napoleon III at Quila House"

Shivang Swaminarayan

What People Like

Exquisite private collection
Unique historical artifacts
Well-curated exhibits

What People Dislike

Strict appointment needed
Limited visiting hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Jalan Museum Quila House is located in the old town of Patna, on the banks of the Ganga river. Visitors typically arrive by taxi or auto-rickshaw. It's advisable to share the exact address with your driver, as it's a private residence. Reddit

As it's a private residential house, dedicated visitor parking might be limited. It's best to inquire about parking options when you make your appointment or consider using ride-sharing services.

Patna is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Airport (PAT) has domestic flights, and Patna Junction is a major railway hub. National highways also connect it to other cities.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, a prior appointment is absolutely essential. You must book at least 48 hours in advance to visit this private museum. Reddit

The museum is open Monday to Saturday from 9 AM to 11 AM, and on Sundays from 10 AM to 4 PM. Reddit

Information on admission fees is not widely publicized, as it's a private collection. It's best to inquire about any potential charges or donation requests when you make your appointment.

No, prior appointment is a strict requirement. Visitors without a confirmed booking will likely be turned away at the main gate. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The collection is extensive, featuring around 10,000 objects from the modern period. You'll find stone, metal, terra cotta, ivory, glass, and porcelain items, alongside European and Asian art. Reddit

While the collection is fascinating, it's a private residence with valuable antiques. Parents should supervise children closely to ensure they do not touch or damage any exhibits.

Photography policies can vary in private residences. It's advisable to ask for permission from the hosts before taking pictures to ensure you respect their privacy and the collection. Reddit

Given the vastness of the collection, a visit can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in each piece. Allow ample time to appreciate the details. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Jalan Museum Quila House is a private residence and does not have public dining facilities. You'll need to dine at restaurants in Patna before or after your visit.

Patna offers a range of dining options, from local eateries serving Bihari cuisine to more contemporary restaurants. Explore areas like Boring Road or Exhibition Road for diverse choices.

📸 📸 Photography

The unique antiques, intricate porcelain, and European furniture sets offer excellent photographic subjects. The architecture of Quila House itself, built in English and Dutch styles, is also picturesque. Reddit

As it's a private home, it's always best to ask the owners or caretakers about photography rules. Some sensitive artifacts might not be allowed to be photographed. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Jalan Museum Quila House with children requires a delicate balance. While the collection is rich and diverse, it's a private residence filled with valuable and potentially fragile antiques. Parents should maintain close supervision to ensure children do not touch or mishandle any exhibits. The unique items, like the OM-sounding gong or Napoleon III's bed, might capture a child's imagination, but emphasizing respectful observation is key. Reddit

Consider visiting during the morning hours when the atmosphere is generally quieter, which can be more conducive to managing younger visitors. It's also wise to manage expectations regarding interactive elements; this is a viewing experience rather than a hands-on one. Ensure children understand the importance of quiet behavior and respecting the private nature of the home.

🧐 Art & History Enthusiasts

For those with a deep appreciation for art and history, Jalan Museum Quila House offers an unparalleled experience. The sheer volume and variety of R.K. Jalan's collection, spanning Asian and European art, fossils, and historical furniture, provide a rich tapestry of cultural heritage. Reddit

Take advantage of the intimate setting to study the intricate details of porcelain, the craftsmanship of European furniture, and the historical significance of items like Napoleon III's bed. The unique artifacts, such as the OM-sounding gong, offer a glimpse into esoteric traditions. This is an opportunity to engage with a meticulously curated private collection that tells a compelling story of a collector's lifelong passion.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of R.K. Jalan's Collection

Jalan Museum Quila House is a testament to the passion and dedication of Diwan Bahadur Radha Krishna Jalan (1882–1954), a prominent businessman and avid art collector. His personal achievement lies in amassing an extraordinary collection of approximately 10,000 objects, primarily from the modern period. This private endeavor showcases a remarkable range of materials, including stone, metal, terra cotta, ivory, glass, and porcelain, reflecting a deep appreciation for diverse artistic expressions. Reddit

The collection's scope extends beyond local artifacts, featuring a significant number of European pieces alongside select items from the Far and Near East. This international curation highlights Jalan's discerning eye and his commitment to preserving a broad spectrum of art and antiques. The house itself, known as Quila House, is an architectural blend of English and Dutch styles, built in 1919, providing a fitting and elegant backdrop for this impressive private museum. Reddit

Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities and Etiquette

Visiting Jalan Museum Quila House requires careful planning due to its nature as a private residence. The most crucial step is securing a prior appointment, with a minimum of 48 hours' notice required. This ensures the hosts can accommodate your visit and that you won't be turned away at the gate. Reddit

Be mindful of the specific visiting hours: Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 11 AM, and Sundays from 10 AM to 4 PM. Arriving outside these windows, even with an appointment, can lead to disappointment. When you visit, remember that you are a guest in a private home. While photography is often permitted, it's courteous to ask for permission before capturing images, especially of more personal or sensitive items. Reddit

Take your time to truly appreciate the depth and breadth of the collection. Each piece has a story, and the intimate setting allows for a more personal connection with the art and antiques. This is not a typical museum experience; it's an invitation into a curated world built by a passionate collector. Reddit

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