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The Ethnological Museum is a repository of cultural artifacts located in Chittagong, Bangladesh.

The museum building is a two-story concrete structure painted in a pale yellow hue. Its facade features a series of arched windows and a prominent central entrance. The roofline is flat, and the overall architectural style is functional and utilitarian, designed to house and display exhibits.

Location & Access Logistics

The Ethnological Museum is situated at 1070 Agrabad C/A, Chittagong. It is approximately 5 kilometers southeast of the Chittagong city center. Access is via Agrabad Road. Public bus routes serving the Agrabad area provide access, with stops within a 500-meter walk of the museum. Limited on-street parking is available, though it can be congested during peak hours.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The museum was established in 1965. Its original purpose was to collect, preserve, and display the material culture and ethnography of the various indigenous communities residing in Bangladesh, particularly those in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. The building itself was constructed for this specific institutional purpose.

Key Highlights & Activities

Exhibits focus on the traditional lifestyles, tools, clothing, and religious practices of Bangladesh's ethnic minorities. Visitors can observe displays of tribal art, musical instruments, and household items. The museum offers a static display of cultural heritage; no interactive activities are provided.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on both floors. Limited seating is provided within the exhibition halls. Shade is available within the building. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally reliable within the museum premises. No food vendors are located directly at the museum; options are available along Agrabad Road.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a break from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. The best time of day for viewing exhibits is during daylight hours when artificial lighting is supplemented by natural light from the windows.

Facts & Legends

A notable feature of the museum's collection is a life-size diorama depicting a traditional Chakma village scene. The museum houses one of the most comprehensive collections of tribal artifacts in Bangladesh.

Nearby Landmarks

• Chittagong Port Authority (1.2km West)
• Banga Bandhu Sheikh Mujib Memorial Museum (3.5km Northwest)
• Chittagong Circuit House (4.0km Northwest)
• Chittagong War Cemetery (4.8km West)