Bapu Museum, also known as Victoria Jubilee Museum, is a fascinating museum in Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh, India. The museum is named after Kondapalli Bapuji, a renowned freedom fighter and social reformer who fought for the rights of the underprivileged sections of society.
The museum is housed in a beautiful colonial building built in 1887 to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria's reign. The building is a work of art, with its elegant architecture, stained glass windows, and ornate woodwork.
The museum houses many artefacts, including sculptures, paintings, and handicrafts. One of the museum's main attractions is its collection of Buddhist artefacts, which includes a 2nd-century BC marble statue of Buddha and several other sculptures and relics from the Buddhist era.
The museum also features a section dedicated to the history of Andhra Pradesh, with exhibits on the state's rich cultural heritage, its traditions and customs, and its contribution to the freedom struggle. Visitors can also see displays of the state's flora and fauna, geology, and archaeology.
Another highlight of the museum is its collection of paintings, which includes works by renowned artists such as Raja Ravi Varma and KCS Paniker. The museum also houses a library with many books and manuscripts on art, culture, and history.
Places To Visit In Andhra Pradesh Near Bapu Museum:
Vijayawada, where Bapu Museum is located, is a bustling city in Andhra Pradesh with plenty of interesting places to visit nearby. Here are some of the top attractions:
Located about 8 km from Bapu Museum, the Undavalli Caves are a series of rock-cut caves that date back to the 4th and 5th centuries. The caves feature exquisite carvings and sculptures and are a great example of ancient Indian rock-cut architecture.
Kondapalli Fort:
Located about 16 km from Bapu Museum, Kondapalli Fort is a historic fort that dates back to the 14th century. The defence offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is a great spot for photography.
Located about 3 km from Bapu Museum, the Prakasam Barrage is a massive dam built across the Krishna River. The barrage offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding hills and is a popular spot for evening walks.
Kanaka Durga Temple:
Located about 3 km from Bapu Museum, Kanaka Durga Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kanaka Durga. The temple is situated on a hill and offers panoramic city views.
Located about 2 km from Bapu Museum, the Mogalarajapuram Caves are a series of rock-cut caves that date back to the 5th century. The caves feature exquisite carvings and sculptures and are a great example of ancient Indian rock-cut architecture.
Located about 5 km from Bapu Museum, Gandhi Hill is a famous landmark in Vijayawada. The hill features a tall statue of Mahatma Gandhi and is a popular spot for evening walks and picnics.