The Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing in Jaipur is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in traditional Indian art, especially the art of block printing. This museum showcases the history and techniques of hand block printing, a craft that has been an important part of Rajasthan’s culture for centuries. In this blog, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about visiting this museum, including the entry fees, timings, nearby attractions, and the museum’s rich history.
Entry Fees at Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing Jaipur
If you’re planning to visit the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing, it’s important to know the entry fees before you go. The museum charges a nominal fee for entry:
- Adults: ₹30 per person
- Students: ₹20 per person (with valid student ID)
- Children: ₹15 per person
- Still Camera: ₹50
- Video Camera: ₹150
These fees help maintain the museum and keep its exhibits preserved for future generations.
Museum Timings: When to Visit Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing
Planning your visit is easy when you know the opening hours. The Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing follows the schedule below:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Saturday: 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Note: There will be no live demonstrations of block printing from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM on Fridays and from 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM on other days.
Additionally, the museum is closed from May 15th to July 15th each year for maintenance.
About Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing: A Journey into Rajasthani Art
What Makes the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing Special?
The Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the art of hand block printing, a craft that has been practiced in Rajasthan for hundreds of years. Located in a beautiful building near Amber Fort, the museum is designed in traditional Rajasthani style with pink sandstone and balconies typical of the region’s architecture.
Inside the museum, you can explore several galleries that focus on different aspects of the printing process, including:
- Introduction to Hand Printing: Learn about the history and importance of hand printing in Rajasthan.
- Haveli Restoration: Discover how the museum building was restored to its original glory.
- Regional Textiles: Explore the fabrics used in block printing.
- Natural and Chemical Dyes: Understand the types of dyes used in the craft.
- Block Printing and Carving Tools: See the tools used by artisans to create stunning designs.
- Gold and Silver Printing: Learn about the special techniques used in gold and silver printing.
- Demonstration Area: Watch live demonstrations of block printing in action.
The museum’s collection includes more than 100 items such as printed garments, antique carving blocks, and furniture, some of which date back to the 1960s. Visitors can see firsthand the intricate process of turning simple fabric into beautiful, colorful designs.
Anokhi Museum Store: Take a Piece of Art Home
While visiting the museum, don’t forget to stop by the museum store. It offers a range of handcrafted souvenirs like clothing, home furniture, jewelry, books, and greeting cards, all made using traditional block printing techniques. These products are often limited edition, making them unique keepsakes from your visit.
Location of Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing Jaipur
The Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing is located in Amber, just outside Jaipur city, at:
Anokhi Haveli, Near Badrinath Temple, Kheri Gate, Amber, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 302028, India.
It’s about 12.8 kilometers from the center of Jaipur, and just a 1 km walk from Amber Fort. The museum is easy to reach by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or e-rickshaw. If you’re already at Amber Fort, the museum is within walking distance, and you can simply follow the signs or ask the locals for directions.
History of the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing
The Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing was founded in 2002 by Rachel Bracken Singh and her husband Pritam Singh with the goal of preserving the age-old craft of hand block printing. The museum is housed in a beautiful building that was once an old, crumbling mansion. It was bought and restored by Rachel’s father-in-law, John Singh, starting in the late 1970s. The restoration work took three years and used traditional materials and techniques.
The museum building was awarded the Cultural Heritage Conservation Award by UNESCO in 2000 for its restoration efforts. The opening exhibition, “Print Progress – Innovation and Revival 1970-2005”, marked the beginning of the museum’s journey to showcase Rajasthan’s rich printing history.
Images of Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing
Nearby Attractions: What to See Around Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing
While you’re in the Amber area, there are several other fascinating places to visit:
1. Amber Fort
A stunning fort that offers magnificent views, rich history, and beautiful architecture. A must-see for visitors to Jaipur.
2. Jal Mahal
This palace is located in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. The bottom floors of the palace are underwater, creating a unique and beautiful sight.
3. Jaigarh Fort
Famous for its huge cannon, Jaivana, Jaigarh Fort is a great place to learn about the region’s military history and architecture.
How to Reach Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing
The Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing is easy to reach from Jaipur city. You can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or e-rickshaw. If you are coming from Amber Fort, it’s just a short walk to the museum. You can also hire a cab from any of the top car rental services in Jaipur for a comfortable ride.
Conclusion
The Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing offers a unique and enriching experience that takes you through the history and art of one of Rajasthan’s oldest crafts. With its rich collection, informative exhibitions, and beautiful setting, this museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in traditional Indian art and culture. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of textiles, or just curious about Rajasthan’s rich heritage, the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing promises to be an unforgettable experience.