The popularity of tourism in Kumarakom dates back to the 1980s when the local government made the place public for its natural beauty and rich cultures and traditions. Among the many sightseeing spots there, the Kumarakom Craft Museum stands out as one of the best. Although it is a fairly needed addition to the list of tourist attractions, the comprehensive exhibits including boats, traditional utensils, furniture, etc. showcase the beauty of Kerala’s ancestral heritage and architecture. As you plan your next vacation, including the Kumarakom Craft Museum in the travel plans will transport you to the history of Kerala’s art culture.
About The Kumarakom Craft Museum
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The Kumarakom Craft Museum is a relatively new addition to Kerala’s tourist map, but it has quickly established itself as a must-visit destination. It is housed in a charming heritage building, which adds an old charm to the museum. The combination of the waterways and lush greenery in the surroundings adds to the beauty of the museum, giving more reasons for the tourists to visit. However, beyond all these alluring arts and handicrafts, the true highlight of the craft museum lies in getting to witness the traditional craftsmen and artisans at work. Most of the techniques that you witness in the museum are ones that are passed down through generations and will most likely continue to happen in the future too.
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More Information About The Museum
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Thanks to Kerala’s coastal location, the state experiences a calm and tropical weather condition throughout the year. So, as you plan your next visit to Kumarakom to explore their Craft Museum, then keep this information in mind:
Museum Timings – The museum is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, seven days a week.
Museum Tickets – INR 100 per person for the adults.
Location – Craft Museum, PO, Cheepunkal, Kavanattinkara, Kumarakom, Kerala 686563.
Best time to visit the museum: November to February
If you’re interested in experiencing Kerala’s vibrant culture, plan your visit around Onam (harvest festival) in August or September or Vishu (Malayalam New Year) in April. However, this is always optional and not a mandate.
Things To Do At The Museum
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As soon as you enter the Kumarakom Craft Museum, you will have plenty of options to explore. From the craft exhibits and displays to the interactive demonstrations, you have to experience it all.
Explore The Exhibits: Here you can discover Kerala’s artistic legacy by exploring every exhibit one by one. There are intricate wood carvings that depict scenes from mythology or everyday life. There are unique exhibits dedicated to the craft of weaving, which is quite an alluring sight too.
Watch Live Demonstrations: The museum also arranges demonstrations showcasing their age-old techniques of creating exquisite pieces of art and craft. This is the biggest highlight of the craft museum. You get to witness the artisan in action, weaving the piece of art right in front of you.
Stop At The Gift Shop: Not just art, the shops also sell different kinds of souvenirs that you can consider buying as a token of gift for your friends and family.
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Places To Visit Near The Kumarakom Craft Museum
While the Kumarakom Craft Museum offers a captivating glimpse into Kerala’s artistic soul, the surrounding area boasts a plethora of experiences waiting to be explored.
Following are all the spots worth visiting:
Kumarakom Backwaters
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Undoubtedly the crown jewel of Kumarakom, the backwaters offer an experience unlike any other. Getting to ride in the houseboat as it weaves through the serene canals and the green paddy fields is truly a revelation. You can spot the mangrove ecosystem in the surroundings and spot kingfishers on the tall logs amid the water. Also, the views of the sunset from the backwaters are truly a one-of-a-kind experience.
Distance from Kumarakom Craft Museum: 300 Metres
Timings: 11:30 am to 7:30 pm
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
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No trip to Kumarakom is complete without a visit to the bird sanctuary. With over 500 species of resident and migratory birds, the bird sanctuary is spread across 14 acres and is one of the most popular sites among birdwatchers. The inside of the sanctuary boasts a rich ecosystem of man-made canals, paddy fields, and mangrove forests. Keep your binoculars ready as you explore the well-maintained trails that are present along the sanctuary.
Distance from Kumarakom Craft Museum: 0 Metres
Timings: 6:30 am to 5 pm
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Bay Island Driftwood Museum
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If you don’t mind visiting another museum, add the Bay Island Driftwood Museum to your itinerary as well. This unique museum is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Unlike traditional museums filled with meticulously crafted artefacts, the Bay Island Driftwood Museum showcases the artistry of nature itself. Here, you’ll find a collection of captivating sculptures created from naturally-sculpted driftwood.
Distance from Kumarakom Craft Museum: 1.3 Km
Timings: 10 am to 5 pm from Tuesday to Saturday; Sundays: 11.30 am to 5 pm.
Sree Kumaramangalam Subramanya Swamy Temple
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For those seeking a spiritual experience, the Sree Kumaramangalam Subramanya Swamy Temple is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site. Dedicated to Lord Subramanya, a powerful Hindu deity, the temple is renowned for its architectural beauty and serene atmosphere. Besides offering your prayers to the deity, stop to marvel at the architectural intricacies on the walls of the temple.
Distance from Kumarakom Craft Museum: 3.7 Km
Timings: 6 am to 5:30 pm
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How To Reach The Kumarakom Craft Museum?
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The nearest airport to Kumarakom is the Cochin International Airport and the nearest railway station is the Kottayam Railway Station. So, once you reach either one of those spots, making your way to the craft museum is simple. There are local transportation options like taxis, auto-rickshaws, etc., which are readily available to take you to the airport. Once you reach Kumarakom, reaching the craft museum will be a breeze. It’s ideal to walk to the museum from the city centre.
Further Read: Best Places To Visit In Kerala
The Kumarakom Craft Museum offers a captivating glimpse into the soul of Kerala. From its exquisite collection of artefacts to the opportunity to witness live craftsmanship demonstrations, the museum provides a unique and enriching experience for visitors of all ages and backgrounds. On your next trip to Kerala, indulge in Kerala’s native art history through this museum.
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Cover Image credit: By Vis M for Wikimedia Commons.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kumarakom Craft Museum
Why is visiting the Kumarakom Craft Museum important?
The Kumarakom Craft Museum plays a vital role in preserving and promoting Kerala's rich artistic heritage. It showcases the skills and techniques of traditional artisans and craftsmen.
What is the Kumarakom Craft Museum Entry Fees?
The Kumarakom Craft Museum entry fee is INR 100 per person.
Are there any facilities for children at the museum?
While the museum itself might not have a dedicated children's play area, the live demonstrations and vibrant displays can spark curiosity and keep children engaged.
Does the museum host any workshops or events?
The museum might hold occasional workshops or events showcasing specific art forms or crafts. Checking the museum's website or social media pages for updates is recommended.
What languages are the exhibits labeled in?
The exhibits are typically labeled in English and Malayalam.
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