Saktan Thampuran Archaeological Museum, Thrissur, is one of the largest museums in Kerala in terms of megalithic remains. In 2005, the Department of Archaeology converted the Vadakkechira Kovilakam, the palace of 19th century King of Kochi, Ramavarma Saktan Thampuran, into a museum. Started in 1948 by the Department of Archaeology of the State of Kochi, it later grew into the Sakthan Thampuran Museum. The main exhibits of this museum are the innumerable artefacts collected by Anujan Achan, who was the head of the Department of Archaeology in Kochi. The room used by Ramavarma Saktan Thampuran has been retained as such in the palace.
The Weapons Gallery, Coin Gallery and Kochi State History Gallery are the special attractions. Here, you can see the extensive armoury of the Kochi army, including the weapons donated by Sardar Mannadiyar (the military chief of Kochi) and the family of the Kongad Nair commander. Names of Kochi kings, portraits and a brief history of Kochi can be found in the Kingdom History Gallery. The museum exhibits include granite sculptures from the 9th century, bronze sculptures from the 12th century, ancient coins from Kerala and outside, royal furniture, royal chaturangappalaka, chariot, kitchen utensils, specimens of Kerala art forms, etc. It holds a rich collection of archaeological records including palm leaves, stone scripts and other inscriptions. The Nannagadis and implements found during excavations in Kodungallur, Porkalam and nearby districts displayed here give a glimpse of the megalithic era. The Archaeological Park, Heritage Garden, Butterfly Garden, Umbrella Stones, Ramavarma Saktan Thampuran's ossuary, Tipu Sultan's flagpole, the famous Vadakkechira and many other sights that shed light on history await visitors here.
Visiting Time: 9.00-5.00
Ticket Time: 9.00-4.30
Holidays: Monday, National Holidays
Ticket rates
Adult-25
Children-5
Mobile phone Camera-20
Camera-60
Video Camera-260
Documentary/Telefilm-10500
Feature Film-26500
Address: Sakthan Thampuran Palace Museum, Chembukkavu P.O, Thrissur 680020.
Phone: 0487 2323631
