Arakkal Kettu, Kannur / 2023

Arakkal Kettu, a palace which was converted into a museum, attracts tourists with its royal history and artifacts. Located a few kilometres away from Kannur town, the palace lies in the proximity of Mopila Bay. A few centuries ago, the palace served as the royal residence of Arakkal Ali Rajas (a Muslim Royal Family) who were the then rulers of Kannur and Lakshadweep islands.

The palace is an interesting piece of artwork carved out in wood and laterite stones that combine both traditional Kerala and classic English styles of architecture. The structure of the palace comprises of a vast courtyard, several independent units, mosques, long verandahs, durbar halls, wooden floors and windows with coloured glasses.

The durbar hall of Arakkal Kettu has been renovated and converted into a museum by the Government of Kerala. However, the entire palace complex is still under the ownership and administration of the Arakkal Family Trust which charges a nominal fee from visitors.

An excellent collection of royal heirlooms is exhibited in the museum including family seals, old pathayams (wooden boxes for storing grains), Holy Koran used by the members of the royal family, an old telephone, swords, bronze and silver vessels daggers, royal furniture and a telescope.