Introduction to Archaeological Museum: Though there are many places to visit in Mount Abu, the Archaeological Museum, Mount Abu is a site that would enchant even those not inclined towards art and history. This museum remains open from10.00 A.M. to 4.30 P.M. However, the doors of Mount Abu Archaeological Museum remains closed on Friday and gazetted holidays.
History of Archaeological Museum, Mount Abu: This museum was built in the year 1962 within the Raj Bhawan's premises in order to preserve the archaeological assets of this area.
Description of Archaeological Museum: Mount Abu Archaeological Museum boasts of more than a few archaeological excavations that dates back to 8th-12th century A.D. Visitors can also view brass works and Jain bronze carvings in this museum. Archaeological Museum in Mount Abu has a fine set of art and artifacts apart from some historic objects related to this region. The prominent collection of this archaeological museum is the delicately carved out statues of Nartakis (Dancer) or Devdasi. These statues were erected between 6th century AD and 12th century AD. These magnificent sculptures were procured from an ancient township named Chandravati, located 7 kms from Mount Abu. The image of Chakrabahu Shiva is also a big draw at Archaeological Museum, Mount Abu. In this image, Lord Shiva carries a 'trishul' (trident) in one hand while a 'khadag' dangles from his other hand. Seated on Nandi, the bull, Lord Shiva has dancing girls on each of his sides.
There are two sections in Mount Abu Archaeological Museum. The first section plays host to musical instruments, weapons, ladies ornaments such as 'barly', 'guthma toda', 'damani', 'karna', 'kanksi berla' and 'gaga wala thoomar'. Several other types of earrings and garments are also on display at this section. The second section of Mount Abu Archaeological Museum hosts a series of miniature paintings. These paintings are based on a variety of themes like lain images from Sirohi, raga-raginis, a small canon named 'Topdi', medium sized shields etc. In this section, you will also find some beautiful carvings on local wood.