Pazhassi Raja Museum is a museum and art gallery in Kozhikode, Kerala, India, that showcases the life and legacy of Pazhassi Raja, a brave king and freedom fighter who resisted the British colonialism in the 18th century. The museum also displays the rich cultural and historical heritage of Kozhikode and Kerala. In this article, we will explore some of the features and attractions of Pazhassi Raja Museum that make it a must-visit place for travelers. Visit during One Day Calicut Local Sightseeing Trip by Private Cab
Location/ Timing / Entry Fees of Pazhassi Raja Museum
Pazhassi Raja Museum is located at East Hill, about 5 km from Kozhikode city center. It is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport, which is about 28 km away. The nearest railway station is Kozhikode Railway Station, which is about 3 km away. There are also buses and auto-rickshaws available from the city to the museum.
The museum is open to visitors from 9 am to 1 pm and from 2 pm to 4:30 pm every day except Mondays and public holidays. The entry fee for the museum is Rs. 10 per person for adults and Rs. 5 per person for children.
How to Reach Pazhassi Raja Museum
There are several ways to reach Pazhassi Raja Museum from the city. One of the most convenient and scenic ways is to take a walk along the East Hill Road, which starts from the Mananchira Square and ends at the museum. The walk takes about an hour and offers a panoramic view of the city and the hills. The East Hill Road also has some landmarks and monuments along the way, such as the CSI Cathedral, the Commonwealth War Cemetery, the Gandhi Statue, etc.
Another way to reach Pazhassi Raja Museum is to take a bus from the KSRTC bus stand or the Moffusil bus stand in the city. There are frequent buses that ply between the city and the museum. The bus fare is Rs. 10 per person and the journey takes about 15 minutes.
Alternatively, one can also hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw from the city to the museum. The taxi fare may vary depending on the distance and traffic, but it usually ranges from Rs. 100 to Rs. 200. The auto-rickshaw fare may be around Rs. 50 to Rs. 100.
Things to Do / Must See in Pazhassi Raja Museum
Pazhassi Raja Museum offers a glimpse into the past and present of Kozhikode and Kerala, with its rich collection of artifacts, paintings, sculptures, coins, models, etc. Some of the things to do and must see at Pazhassi Raja Museum are:
- Learn about Pazhassi Raja: Pazhassi Raja Museum is dedicated to Pazhassi Raja, born Kerala Varma of the Padinjare Kovilakom of the Kottayam Royal Family. He was also known as the Lion of Kerala, as he led a fierce resistance against the British East India Company in the second half of the 18th century. He was one of the earliest freedom fighters in India who used guerrilla warfare tactics in the hills of Wayanad to fight against the British forces. He was shot dead by a British soldier in an encounter on 30 November 1805 at Mavilanthod near Pulpally. The museum has a statue and a memorial stone of Pazhassi Raja at its entrance. The museum also has exhibits that depict his life, achievements, battles, weapons, etc.
- Visit the art gallery: Pazhassi Raja Museum has an art gallery that displays the paintings of Kerala’s renowned artists, Raja Ravi Varma (1848 – 1906) and his uncle Raja Raja Varma. Raja Ravi Varma was a celebrated painter who brought international fame to Kerala with his realistic and elegant portraits of Indian gods, goddesses, kings, queens, etc. He also introduced oil painting and lithography in India. His paintings are considered as masterpieces of Indian art history. The art gallery has some of his famous paintings such as Shakuntala Patralekhanam (Shakuntala writing a letter), Hamsa Damayanthi (Damayanthi with a swan), etc.
- Explore the archaeological museum: Pazhassi Raja Museum has an archaeological museum that showcases the ancient and medieval history and culture of Kozhikode and Kerala. The museum has exhibits from the megalithic age, the Indus Valley civilization, the Sangam period, the Chera dynasty, the Zamorin kingdom, etc. The exhibits include pottery, toys, stone and metal sculptures, coins, models of temples, burial urns, umbrella stones, dolmenoid cists, etc. The museum also has a collection of mural paintings, antique bronzes, and Panchaloha idols.
Significance of Pazhassi Raja Museum
Pazhassi Raja Museum is not only a scenic destination but also a historic one. It is here that one can learn about the glorious and courageous legacy of Pazhassi Raja, who was one of the first heroes of Indian independence. His valour and patriotism inspired many other freedom fighters in India. He is also regarded as a symbol of Kerala’s pride and culture.
Pazhassi Raja Museum is also a cultural hub, as it showcases the rich and diverse heritage and art of Kozhikode and Kerala. The museum exhibits the ancient and medieval civilizations that flourished in Kerala, the artistic and literary achievements of Kerala’s eminent artists and writers, the architectural and religious traditions of Kerala’s temples and monuments, etc. The museum also reflects the harmony and tolerance of Kerala’s society, which welcomed and assimilated various cultures and religions from different parts of the world.
FAQ’s
Q: Is Pazhassi Raja Museum suitable for children?
A: Yes, Pazhassi Raja Museum is suitable for children, as it has educational and recreational value for them. The museum teaches them about the history and geography of Kozhikode and Kerala. The museum also offers them a fun and engaging place to see and learn about various artifacts, paintings, sculptures, etc.
Q: What are the best times to visit Pazhassi Raja Museum?
A: The best times to visit Pazhassi Raja Museum are from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool. The summer months from April to June can be hot and humid, while the monsoon months from July to September can be rainy and windy
Q: What are some other attractions near Pazhassi Raja Museum?
A: Some other attractions near Pazhassi Raja Museum are:
Kozhikode Beach: A lively and beautiful beach that attracts tourists and locals alike. It is also known as Calicut Beach, as it is located in the city of Kozhikode (also known as Calicut), which is the historical and cultural capital of Malabar.
Mananchira Square: A well-maintained park that surrounds a man-made pond called Mananchira. The park has a musical fountain, an open-air theatre, a library, a mosque, a temple, etc. It is also a venue for various cultural events and festivals.
Thali Temple: An ancient temple that is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the oldest temples in Kerala and has a unique architectural style.
Conclusion
Pazhassi Raja Museum is a perfect destination for those who want to experience the history, culture, and nature of Kozhikode. It is a place where one can learn about the past and present of Kozhikode, which was once a flourishing port and a hub of cultural exchange. It is a place where one can admire the beauty of the museum building, the charm of the statue and memorial stone of Pazhassi Raja, the diversity of the exhibits in the museum and art gallery. Pazhassi Raja Museum is a place that will leave you with unforgettable memories and impressions.
