Arakkal Museum (Kannur)

About this place

Arakkal Kettu Museum in Kannur offers visitors an opportunity to explore the history and heritage of the Arakkal Ali Rajas, Kerala’s only Muslim royal family. Located at Ayikkara, the museum occupies the historic Durbar Hall of Arakkal Kettu, the former royal palace complex of the Arakkal dynasty, and was opened to the public in 2005 after the Government of Kerala converted part of the palace into a museum. The Arakkal rulers played an important role in the history of the northern Malabar coast and maintained strong maritime connections, including involvement in the spice trade and relationships with European colonial powers. The museum presents artefacts and heirlooms associated with the royal family, giving visitors an insight into the administration, lifestyle and cultural heritage of the dynasty. Exhibits include the family seal, wooden grain-storage boxes known as pathayam, document boxes, swords and daggers, an old-fashioned telephone, a telescope and royal copies of the Holy Quran. The collection also helps illustrate the Arakkal family's connections with Arab, Indian and European cultural influences and its historic links with the maritime world. Arakkal Kettu itself is an important heritage structure, comprising interconnected buildings arranged around an open courtyard, along with administrative spaces and mosques. Its architecture combines traditional Kerala characteristics with influences reflecting the complex history of the palace and its later colonial associations. The Arakkal family followed a matrilineal system of succession, with the eldest member traditionally serving as the head of the family; male rulers were known as Ali Rajas and female rulers as Arakkal Beevis. The dynasty exercised authority over parts of the northern Malabar coast and Lakshadweep and remained an influential power in the region for centuries. Today, Arakkal Kettu Museum forms an important part of Kannur’s heritage attractions and provides historical context for understanding the region’s royal, commercial and maritime past. The museum is particularly suitable for history enthusiasts, students, cultural travellers and visitors interested in Kerala’s diverse religious and royal traditions. Located close to Kannur town and other attractions in the Ayikkara area, it can also be incorporated into a wider Kannur heritage itinerary. Visitors should allow time to explore the wider palace complex in addition to the museum section and check current opening arrangements before travelling. As a preserved royal heritage site with a distinctive connection to Malabar’s maritime history, Arakkal Kettu Museum provides a valuable introduction to the legacy of one of Kerala’s most distinctive royal families.

🚉 Nearest Railway Station & Distance: Kannur Railway Station – approximately 3 km from Arakkal Kettu Museum.

🚌 Bus: KSRTC and private buses are available from Kannur town towards the Ayikkara area. The Kannur KSRTC Central Bus Terminal is approximately 2 km away from Arakkal Kettu.

🏨 Stay: Yes – Hotels, homestays and other accommodation options are available in Kannur and the surrounding areas.

✅ Notes: Arakkal Kettu Museum is located in the former palace complex of the Arakkal Ali Rajas, Kerala’s only Muslim royal family. The museum is closed on Mondays and is listed by Kerala Tourism as open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on other days