Information on Arakkal Kettu (Kannur, Kerala) - History & Architecture

Arakkal kettu (Arrakkal Palace) is a particular monument turned museum that was used a part of the residence by the royal family of Arakkal. In the present day scenario the monument is used by the Family Trust of the Arakkal. The place was renovated by the government of Kerala in the year 2005 to attract tourists. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) looks after and maintains the museum.

Arakkal Kettu Architecture

The palace i.e. Arakkal kettu has various units in large open area. The area included mosques as well as other buildings used by British officials. The palace was mainly constructed with the used of materials like laterite blocks. Furthermore, most part of the house has the work of wood further providing the interior and exterior of the monument a splendour finish. The palace, which also has terraces depicts the combination of the local and the colonial style of architecture. The chief building within the palace is built in a two storey format while the upper end has only halls with wooden flooring. The windows which are made of colourful glasses has the potential to catch the attention of the tourist when light is put on them. One interesting architectural feature of the building is that a lamp is kept lit throughout the year as it is considered to be sacred by the Hindu. After converting the monument into museum, government has displayed the seal of the royal family along with other ancient remains associated with the palace. Copies of Koran and fashioned telephone used by royal family were also displayed within the museum.

Arakkal Kettu History

Arakkal Kettu served as the residence for Ali Rajas which were the only Muslim royal family living in Kerala in the ancient time. The palace now turned museum has many objects and inheritances displayed within its interior. The palace is positioned at the opposite side of the Ayikkara Moplah Bay near to the Kannur town. The dynasty of the Arakkal rajas is recorded to have ancestry of the rajas of Kolathiri Rajas. They later adopted Islam as a religion and changed the name as Mammali. The king once saved a little girl with which He was married. The palace was believed to be given by the girl's father to Mammali. The royal family residing in the palace use to follow the matriarchal system where there was no gender difference practice while giving the throne. The British rulers occupied the kingdom of Mysore in the late 18th century in which they also took control over the Arakkal Kettu. The palace further become the headquarters for the 'Collector of Malabar'.

Arakkal Kettu Tourism Importance

Since being converted into museum, the palace has become a hub for thee tourists all over the country and the world. The splendour and beauty of the palace is a visual treat for the visitors. The fusion of the colonial and Hindu architecture is also a unique experience for visitors in its own terms. Furthermore, only a nominal fee is being levied on the visitors by the Arakkal Family Trust. Moreover, the fact that it is quite near to Kannur town is also a potential boost for the tourism sector. All these factors will influence the flow of large number of tourists in the place.