Weather: 15 - 28°C
Tags: Museum
Time Required: 2-3 hours
Timings: 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM (Closed on Wednesdays and Public Holidays)
Entry Fee: Free
Overview
The Calico Textile Museum, founded in 1949 by Gautam and Gita Sarabhai, is India’s oldest textile museum, located on Airport Road. The museum showcases a remarkable collection of Indian textiles, fabrics, and artwork spanning centuries. It also features South Indian bronze art, Jain artifacts, and more. Initially housed at Calico House, it moved to "The Retreat" in 1983. Managed by the Sarabhai Foundation, the museum also boasts a library and gallery sections.
History
Inspired by Tamil philosopher Ananda Coomaraswamy, the museum was established in the 1940s to preserve India's textile heritage. Ahmedabad, a hub of the country’s textile industry, was a perfect location for this museum, which houses fabrics from the 15th to the 19th centuries.
Exhibits
The museum consists of two main sections: the Haveli, showcasing temple fabrics and Jain artwork, and the Chauk, with royal items like carpets, Mughlai attire, and royal tents. Visitors can explore intricate art forms such as Kutch embroidery, Pichwai paintings, and Patan Patolas, along with textiles from Kashmir, South India, Punjab, and more.
How to Reach
The museum is easily accessible, located just 5-8 km from the city center and around 6 km from Sardar Vallabhbhai International Airport. Taxis or public transport provide easy access from major transport hubs.
Tips
- Entry is on a first-come-first-serve basis.
- Groups of 15+ should book in advance.
- Tickets are available between 10:30 AM and 1:45 PM or 2:45 PM to 6:45 PM.
