Must-visit museums in Kerala

Kerala is a beautiful green state brimming with myriad gorgeous tourist attractions such as beaches, parks and temples. The state is also home to some interesting museums which give a perfect insight into Kerala’s glorious past. These museums mirror the region's rich culture and history.

Let’s have a look at some of the most famous and must-visit museums in Kerala.

The Portuguese have been an imperative part of Cochin. Located in Fort Kochi, the Indo-Portuguese Museum is all about the cultural relationship between India and Portugal. The museum showcases the Portuguese influence on the art and architecture of the region.

The museum is named after the former Governor General of Madras, John Napier. The architecture of this museum is a beautiful blend of Indian, Chinese, Kerala, and Mughal styles. A landmark in the city, the museum was designed by Robert Chisholm, and is home to the finest archaeological and historic artefacts, a temple chariot and bronze idols.

The museum is home to 38 life-size tableaux reflecting the rich culture of Kerala. The museum also features a gallery showcasing a wide variety of paintings and sculptures created by eminent artists such as Raja Ravi Varma, M.F. Hussain and F.N. Souza, among others.

Kuthiramalika means palace of horses and when you enter the museum, you’ll be welcomed by 122 smiling wooden horses. This pretty two-storied wooden palace is located close to the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. The museum is home to marble sculptures, Kathakali figures and paintings.

One of the most picturesque attractions in Thrissur, Archaeological Museum is a historical treasure trove. The museum holds an amazing collection of temple models, and manuscripts on dry palm leaves, among other artefacts. There are also some interesting sculptures and weapons from the bygone era.