Vidisha District Museum is a popular tourist attraction located in Vidisha, a district in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. The museum is in the heart of the city and is home to a rich collection of historical and cultural artefacts dating back to ancient times.
The museum has two floors and various galleries showcasing the artefacts. The ground floor houses a collection of stone sculptures, terracotta figurines, inscriptions, and other artefacts from the Gupta period. The sculptures and artefacts are carved out of sandstone and depict scenes from Hindu mythology and various religious themes.
The first floor of the museum has a collection of coins, pottery, and other artefacts from the ancient times of the Mauryan and Shunga periods. There is also a gallery dedicated to Jainism, displaying various artefacts related to the religion.
One of the museum's main attractions is the Sanchi Gallery, which showcases a collection of Buddhist artefacts from the famous Sanchi Stupa. The gallery houses various sculptures, inscriptions, and other artefacts dating back to the 2nd century BC.
Located just 10 kilometres from Vidisha, the Sanchi Stupa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of India's most famous Buddhist monuments. Other Buddhist structures, including temples and monasteries, surround the stupa.
Situated around 13 kilometres from Vidisha, the Udayagiri Caves are a series of rock-cut caves dating back to the 4th century. The caves contain intricate carvings and inscriptions related to Hinduism and Jainism.
Badoh-Pathari Temple:
This ancient temple is located around 20 kilometres from Vidisha and is famous for its unique architectural style, blends Hindu and Buddhist influences. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features beautiful carvings and sculptures.
Gyaraspur:
Located 40 kilometres from Vidisha, Gyaraspur is a small town known for its ancient temples and ruins. Some of the most notable sites here include the Bajramath Temple, the Maladevi Temple, and the old fort of Asirgarh.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located around 60 kilometres from Vidisha and is home to a series of prehistoric rock shelters and caves. The caves contain some of the earliest known examples of human art and provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of early humans.