Arakkal Museum, located at Ayikkara in Kannur, Kerala, preserves the history of the Arakkal royal family, the only Muslim royal dynasty in Kerala. The museum occupies part of Arakkal Kettu, the former royal residence situated near Mappila Bay. It offers visitors an opportunity to understand the family's influence on the history, trade and cultural life of the Malabar Coast.
The Arakkal dynasty followed a matrilineal system of succession. Male rulers were known as Ali Rajas, while female rulers held the title of Arakkal Beevis. Their historical connections extended beyond Kannur to Lakshadweep, with important links to maritime activities and the spice trade.
Inside Arakkal Museum, visitors can explore royal belongings and historical objects, including the family seal, traditional wooden storage chests, swords, daggers, antique furniture, a telescope and copies of the Holy Quran. The palace complex also features traditional Kerala architectural elements, wooden floors, long verandas and distinctive windows.
For travellers interested in historical places in Kannur, Arakkal Museum provides a closer look at a lesser-known chapter of Kerala's royal history. Its location makes it convenient to combine a visit with St. Angelo Fort, Kannur Lighthouse and Payyambalam Beach.
Arakkal Museum is located at Ayikkara in Kannur district, Kerala. It forms part of Arakkal Kettu, the former royal residence of the Arakkal family, near Mappila Bay.
Arakkal Museum is famous for preserving the history and royal belongings of Kerala's only Muslim royal dynasty, the Arakkal family. Its exhibits highlight the family's maritime connections, royal traditions and influence on the Malabar region.
The Arakkal Ali Rajas and Arakkal Beevis were the male and female rulers of the Arakkal royal family. The dynasty followed a matrilineal system of succession, in which the eldest member of the family became its head.
Visitors can see historical objects such as the royal family seal, wooden storage chests called pathayam, document boxes, swords, daggers, antique telephones, a telescope and copies of the Holy Quran.
Arakkal Kettu was the former palace and administrative centre of the Arakkal rulers. It reflects the family's political influence, cultural traditions and maritime connections with regions including Lakshadweep and the Malabar Coast.
Kerala Tourism generally lists the museum's visiting hours as 10 AM to 5 PM, with Mondays as the weekly closing day. Timings and entry arrangements may change, so confirm with the museum before visiting.
St. Angelo Fort, Kannur Lighthouse and Payyambalam Beach are popular attractions near Arakkal Museum. Visitors can explore these places together during a Kannur sightseeing trip.
Yes. Arakkal Museum is worth visiting for travellers interested in Kerala history, royal architecture and the cultural heritage of North Kerala. It offers historical context that complements visits to Kannur's forts, beaches and other heritage attractions.
