Kerala is one of the most fascinating, historical, and beautiful states of India. The museums of Kerala are a reservoir of the history and culture, which exhibit the extensive and glorious legacy of the magnificent land. The museums of Kerala are silent bards of the ancient Keralite history. They are hosts of the cultural, architectural, and social background of generations, deemed as history now, and of the generation, which will be termed as history in future. So, what better way can it be to keep track of cultural and traditional changes with time that these manmade timekeepers called museums? With an awesome collection of art and craft dating back to the 2nd century, the museums of Kerala are a treasure house of archaeological specimens, local flora and fauna, and a mirror of the historical and cultural evolution of the inhabitants of Kerala.Kerala is home to museums which even store a vast collection of murals and paintings made by artists and craftsmen from all over Kerala. These places of tourist interest host a wide variety of belongings, related to science and technology. The museums are not only popular for their distinct and primeval exhibits, but also for the architecture and designing of the buildings that exude allure and magnificence. With this section, journey yourself through various museums of Kerala en-route scenic beauty, breathtaking environs, and ancient history.
Ambalavayal Heritage Museum
The history and culture of Wayanad is extremely diverse. The city inherits the crux of Keralite heritage and located in one remote part of this place is Ambalavayal Heritage Museum, housing the chronological history in the form of artifacts and scriptures. The museum is ideally situated in the hilly regions of Western Ghats, sheltered with coconut and palm trees, providing cultural and scenic beauty to spellbind you.
Archaeological Museum
Formerly known as Sree Mulam Chithrasala, Archaeological Museum Thrissur was set up as an art gallery in 1938. Initially situated at the Town Hall Road, the museum now stands tall and delightful at the Kollengode Palace. The vast collection of murals and relics from all over Kerala make this museum an architectural marvel to view.
Hill Palace Museum
The largest archaeological museum in Kerala, Hill Palace Museum lies in the picturesque Tripunithura, 12 km southeast of Ernakulam on your way to Kottayam. Formerly the residence of the Kochi royal family, the museum is a 49-building palace complex, enclosed by 52 acres of awe-inspiring terraced land with ponds, fountains, gardens, and lawns.
Indo Portuguese Museum
Located in Fort Kochi, the Indo-Portuguese Museum is a perfect specimen Portuguese influence in art and architecture of Kerala in general and Kochi, in particular. The Portuguese were inevitably linked with the south-western city of the peninsula, Kochi. The museum serves as an important and thrilling center to discover the Indo-Portuguese art heritage, making attempts to keep the ancient time alive and fresh.
Madhavan Nayar Foundation
An 8-hour drive from Ernakulam lands you at the remote and tranquil town of Edapally in central Kerala. The town welcomes you with a showcase of historic episodes, right from the Neolithic to the modern era, as Madhavan Nayar Foundation. Nestled peacefully away from the hustles and bustles of city life, the foundation, housing the museum, is sited amid lush green greens and scenic natural beauty.
Maritime Museum Kochi
The Maritime Museum, situated at INS Dronacharya in Fort Kochi, is just a kilometer south of the Chinese Nets. It is a demonstration of the genesis, evolution, and history of the Indian Navy. The two fortified ammunition bunkers built by British around World War II have been converted into a captivating and enthralling museum.
Museum of Kerala History
Kerala is a land of culture, myths and epics which form a backdrop for the contemporary state of Kerala. The Museum of Kerala History is dedicated to such a glorious past which stores in itself the ethnic and splendid stories of bravery, valor, and comprehension of the art and literature. Famed poets like Kalidas have described Kerala as the "land of picturesque imagery and scenic beauty". This museum is situated about 10 kilometers from Ernakulam, Cochin at Edapally.
Napier Museum and Art Gallery
The 19th century old Napier Museum and Art Gallery is located in the Napier Museum compound, in the center of the city. The museum is a classic example of Kerala's rich cultural heritage, with the structure built in the Indo-Saracen style. An extraordinary and distinctive piece of architecture, the museum is a treasure house of a rare collection of archaeological and historic artifacts, ancient ornaments, bronze idols, ivory carvings, and a chariot.
Pazhassiraja Museum
Pazhassiraja Museum is located in the beautiful and exotic city of Kozhikode, which is famous for natural beauty and its cultural heritage. As such, the museum becomes an absolute treasure trove for historians and connoisseurs of art. The Pazhassiraja Museum is located at East Hill, 5 km from Kozhikode, the land of spices which tempted navigators to step into this part of the world, right from time immemorial down to the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama in 1498.
Tea Museum Munnar
Munnar is one of the most beautiful and striking places in Kerala. Known for its tea plantations which are a treat to watch, Munnar is a sought-after destination by people across India and abroad. The Tata Tea Museum set up at Munnar showcases and highlights some of the finest and fascinating aspects which took place during the evolution and growth of tea plantations in this part of Kerala.
Teak Museum Nilambur
The Teak Museum at Nilambur is a great place for nature enthusiasts and people dying to seek information on the wonder tree, teak. The world renowned Teak Museum is situated just 4 km from the town of Nilambur, in the Malappuram district. The museum is set up in the campus of the Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) and has been honored with the world's first teak museum.
