Manuscripts were usually written on palm leaf, or on the specially prepared bark of a tree known as the birch, which grows in the Himalayas, while inscriptions were engraved either on a stone surface or on bricks or metals.

Major Difference between Manuscripts and Inscriptions:

Manuscripts and inscriptions are two different forms of written records that have been used throughout history. While both serve the purpose of preserving information, there are significant differences between the two.

1. Nature and Medium:
- Manuscripts are handwritten documents that are usually created on materials such as parchment, papyrus, paper, or even birch bark. They are typically bound together in the form of books or scrolls.
- Inscriptions, on the other hand, are typically carved or engraved onto various surfaces such as stone, metal, wood, or clay tablets. They are often found on buildings, monuments, tombs, or other durable structures.

2. Permanence and Durability:
- Manuscripts, due to their organic nature, are generally more susceptible to deterioration over time. Factors such as exposure to light, moisture, pests, and aging can significantly damage manuscripts, leading to loss or degradation of the information they contain.
- Inscriptions, being carved or engraved onto more durable materials, tend to be more resistant to natural decay and environmental factors. They can withstand the test of time and remain legible for centuries, providing a more long-lasting record of historical events.

3. Accessibility and Portability:
- Manuscripts, being in the form of books or scrolls, are relatively portable and can be accessed by individuals who can read the language in which they were written. They can be transported, studied, and shared among scholars or individuals in different locations.
- Inscriptions, on the other hand, are fixed to the surface on which they are carved, making them less accessible and portable. They are often found in specific locations, such as archaeological sites or monuments, and require physical presence for study or interpretation.

4. Variability of Content:
- Manuscripts have the advantage of being able to contain a wide variety of content, including literature, historical accounts, religious texts, scientific knowledge, and personal records. They can be rich sources of information about diverse aspects of human culture and civilization.
- Inscriptions, although limited in terms of content, often focus on specific subjects such as commemorative inscriptions, legal codes, religious decrees, or royal proclamations. They provide valuable insights into the specific contexts, events, or individuals associated with the inscribed object or structure.

In conclusion, manuscripts and inscriptions differ in terms of their nature, medium, permanence, accessibility, portability, and variability of content. While manuscripts offer a broader range of information and are more portable, inscriptions provide a more durable and fixed record that can withstand the test of time. Both forms of written records have played crucial roles in preserving and transmitting knowledge and history throughout the ages.