
The
state of
Mizoram, also known as the land of the hill people is located in the north eastern part of India. The geographical terrain of this state is characterized rolling hills, valleys,
rivers like
Chhimtuipuiand lakes like Palak
Lake and
Tam Dil Lake. The natural beauty of Mizoram, along with its
flora and fauna and pleasant
climate draw tourists to this state.
Museums of Mizoram are no exception in this regard. They have also added value to the
tourism of this state. These museums will familiarize its visitors with the past and cultural heritage of the state. They serve as ideal places for historical buffs.
The two significant museums of Mizoram are
Mizoram State Museum and Mizoram Science Centre.
Mizoram State Museum
Mizoram State Museum is a multipurpose and ethnological museum situated in the heart of the capital city of Mizoram called
Aizawl, in Bawlhmun, Macdonald Hill, Zarkawt. This museum is considered to be the most sought after tourism product of Aizawl. This museum was established in April, 1977. The
Tribal Research Institute under the Education Department is credited with the birth of this museum. The Art and Culture Department was later given the responsibility of handling this museum in 1989. This museum is headed by the museum curator. The various assistants of the museum are technical assistant, taxidermist, photographer, museum assistant, counter attendant and gallery attendants. This museum also has clerical staffs. State Museum is a building with 4 floors and six galleries. The galleries are named according to the type of artifacts preserved in them. They are the textile gallery,
archaeological gallery, ethnological gallery, history gallery, anthropology gallery and
zoological or natural
history gallery. As per estimations, more than 2500 objects are housed in this museum. Some of the exhibits of this museum are tribal textiles, archaeological objects, natural history specimens,
musical instruments, arms and weapons, photographs, utensils and stone sculptures. Under the supervision of the
Indian Museum,
Kolkata, the galleries of Mizoram State Museum were upgraded and modernized.
Mizoram Science Centre
Mizoram Science Centre is also located in Aizawl. This museum has been developed and designed by the
National Council of Science Museums, Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Department of Culture,
Government of India; in association with Technology, Science and Environment, Planning Department, Government of Mizoram. The aim of this museum is to spread awareness through amusement and fun. Some of the activities in this museum include the organization of science article and essay writing competition. This is carried on to encourage high school, secondary and college students in the fields of science.
(Last Updated on : 28-10-2016)