Arrakkal Museum in Kerala is a museum dedicated to the Arakkal family, the only Muslim royal family in Kerala, south India. The museum is actually a section of the Arakkalkettu (Arakkal Palace). The durbar hall section of the palace has been converted into a museum by the Government of Kerala. India Travel Places for holidays …..
About Arakkal Museum in Kerala :
Arakkal Palace is situated in Kannur district. This palace is the Royal residence of the Arakkal family who is the only Royal Muslim dynasty in Kerala to control the coastal areas and Lakshadweep. The palace is around 200 years old and is known as Arakkal kettu. This palace is considered as a protected monument by the Archaeological department. The Arakkal kettu consists of the palace, administrative block, mosques and residential building. There is a bell tower near the gate and has a huge bronze bell is hung there. The mosques here are worth seeing.
This museum is a part of the Arakkal palace. The museum was once the durbar hall and it was converted into a museum in the year 2005. Even though the renovations have been done by the state government, it is still under the ownership of the Arakkal family. The museum is double storied and the various artifacts are kept for display in the second floor. Some of the items that are displayed here include a shehnai which is a musical instrument, old model fans, telephones, ancient compass, royal furniture, glass, silver and bronze utensils, wooden box, hunting equipments such as spear, sword etc.
Nearby places to visit :
Madayi mosque
This ancient mosque was built in 1124 A.D. by a Muslim preacher named Malic Iben Dinar. The material used is white marble and is believed to be brought from Mecca.
Dharmadam Island
This private island is located hundred meters offshore surrounded by river and sea. One can take tranquil walks along the island when the tide is low. Permission should be taken by the owners of the island.
Moppila Bay Harbour
A natural harbour located in Kannur town, Kerala. On one side is the Arakkal palace and on the other side is fort St. Angelo built in the 15th century.
Fort St. Angelo
The first Portuguese viceroy of India, Don Francisco D. Almeida built this fort in 1505 AD. The fort was owned by the Dutch, the Arakkal family and finally to the British. The cannons, barracks and ruins of the chapel are beautiful to watch.
How to reach Arakkal Palace:
By Air: Karipur International airport
By Train: Kannur railway station
By bus: Kannur bus stand
Best time to visit:
August to March