Lok Virsa Museum
- The Lok Virsa Museum, also known as the Heritage Museum, is a celebration of Pakistan’s rich cultural diversity and history. Located in Shakarparian, Islamabad, this ethnographic museum showcases the traditions, art, music, and crafts of various ethnic groups from across Pakistan. Established in 1974, the museum is managed by the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage (Lok Virsa) and serves as a repository of the country's cultural heritage, preserving and promoting the unique folk traditions, handicrafts, and indigenous lifestyles of different regions.
- Spanning 60,000 square feet, the museum features indoor and outdoor exhibits, including life-sized dioramas, cultural artifacts, embroidered textiles, woodwork, ceramics, and musical instruments. The displays represent the diverse cultures of Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Azad Jammu & Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan, offering visitors a glimpse into the everyday lives of people from these regions. The museum also has replicas of traditional village homes, shrines, and market scenes, creating an immersive cultural experience for visitors.
- One of the highlights of Lok Virsa Museum is its extensive collection of folk music and oral traditions. The museum houses an audio-visual archive featuring recordings of traditional songs, storytelling sessions, and classical performances, preserving Pakistan’s rich musical legacy. Visitors can listen to Qawwali, Sufi music, and regional folk tunes, which reflect the deep spiritual and historical roots of Pakistan’s artistic traditions. Additionally, the Lok Virsa Library provides researchers and students with access to books, manuscripts, and academic resources on folklore, history, and anthropology.
- Apart from its exhibitions, Lok Virsa regularly hosts cultural festivals, craft fairs, and workshops, where artisans and performers from all over Pakistan showcase their talents. Events like the Lok Mela (Folk Festival) attract visitors from across the country, allowing them to experience live folk music, traditional dance, and handicraft-making demonstrations. With its commitment to preserving and promoting Pakistan’s cultural heritage, Lok Virsa Museum is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, artists, and travelers who want to explore the country’s rich and diverse traditions.