Varendra Research Museum

The Varendra Research Museum houses extensive collections of archaeological artifacts including stone sculptures, metal objects, inscriptions, coins, manuscripts, and paintings spanning several millennia of Bengal's history.

Established in 1910 as the oldest museum in Bangladesh, the institution was founded by the Varendra Research Society under the leadership of Saratkumar Ray to preserve and study the archaeological heritage of the ancient Varendra region.

The museum showcases artifacts from the Indus Valley civilization, Buddhist and Hindu sculptures, Islamic period inscriptions, and indigenous tribal culture, representing the diverse religious and cultural traditions of northern Bangladesh.

Currently managed by Rajshahi University, the museum operates with galleries displaying archaeological collections, a research library containing over 10,000 volumes, and conservation laboratories for artifact preservation and restoration.

The museum contains 265 objects excavated from the ancient Sompur Bihara monastery complex at Paharpur, including rare Buddhist sculptures and relics that provide insights into medieval monastic life in Bengal.

Location: Rajshahi

Inception: 1910

Website: https://ru.ac.bd/facilities/varendra-research-museum

GPS coordinates: 24.36710,88.59240

Latest update: July 25, 2025 23:09