Kerala Museum, Kochi

Kerala Museum is one of the state’s oldest and most engaging cultural institutions. Established by philanthropist R. Madhavan Nayar in 1987 under the Madhavan Nayar Foundation, the museum offers a multidimensional glimpse into Kerala’s historical and artistic evolution. It features three distinct sections—the Museum of Kerala History, the Modern Art Gallery, and the Dolls Museum each offering a unique experience to visitors.


The Museum of Kerala History narrates the state’s past through life-size dioramas and a captivating light-and-sound show, portraying 87 influential personalities from over 2,000 years. The Modern Art Gallery houses nearly 230 original works from India’s leading artists, including Raja Ravi Varma, M. F. Husain, and Jamini Roy. The Dolls Museum, a favorite among children and cultural enthusiasts alike, showcases over 150 handcrafted dolls dressed in traditional attire representing India’s diverse communities.

Set in a serene campus near Kochi’s bustling cityscape, the museum also hosts regular art workshops, educational tours, and cultural events. With its rich collections and immersive storytelling, Kerala Museum stands as a must-visit destination for those interested in the art, culture, and history of the region.

🚗 How to Reach

By Road: Located along Kochi–Salem Highway (NH 544), near Pathadipalam Metro Pillar 349 in Edappally

Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam Town Railway Station (North) – approx. 5 km away; Ernakulam Junction (South) – approx. 8 km away.

Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK) – approx. 22 km away via NH 544

🎟️ Entry & Visiting Info

• Open Tuesday–Sunday, 10 AM–5:30 PM (closed Mondays & public holidays).


• Entry Fee: ₹100 (Adults), ₹75 (College students with ID), ₹50 (Children).


• Light-and-sound show runs approximately every 30 minutes; allow 1–2 hours for a full visit.


• Photography allowed in most galleries; please check gallery-specific rules.

🎨 Highlights & Experiences

→ Immersive Kerala History Gallery: Captivating dioramas and narrated scenes in English and Malayalam.

→ Modern Art Collection: Works by major Indian artists—over 200 on display.

→ Dolls Museum: Displays traditional attire and customs via handcrafted dolls.

→ Events & Workshops: Hosts art workshops, film screenings, guided ArtWalks, and exhibitions in the Centre for Visual Art.

📞 Contact & Address

Address: Pathadipalam, Edappally, Kochi, Kerala – 682024, India.

Phone: +91 484 2541768 / 4020506 / 4020509 (also mobile: +91 8129051880).

📌 Nearby Attractions

→ Lulu Mall & Oberon Mall: Major shopping & dining hubs just minutes away.

→ Hill Palace Museum: Kerala’s largest archaeological museum, ~10 km away.

→ Indo‑Portuguese Museum & Fort Kochi: Heritage sites within 10–12 km.