The Indian Naval Maritime Museum, located in the vibrant city of Kochi, is a window to the glorious maritime history of the Indian Navy. The museum, formally known as the Naval Museum Kochi, elaborates on the transformation aspect of the Indian Navy through a vast collection of artefacts, documents, and exhibits. The museum takes visitors through the journey of the Indian Navy becoming an independent armed force. Whether a history buff, a naval enthusiast, or an inquisitive traveller, the enriching experience adds varnish to one’s appreciation of the maritime heritage of India.
Location
Photo: Anurag R Naik / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Indian Naval Maritime Museum’s address is easily accessible for tourists. Hence, visitors can drop by the museum during their sojourn around Kochi. The streets of the island and the colonial architectural beauty, along with cultural heritage, make this museum a beautiful place to visit. The location of the museum entices visitors to learn about the heritage and history of the Indian Navy.
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How To Reach
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You can reach the museum by following ways:
By Road: The museum can be reached by hiring taxis or auto rickshaws available from any part of Kochi. The local bus service is also available to reach the Indian Naval Maritime Museum, Kochi.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Ernakulam Junction from where the tourists can hire a taxi or take a bus to Fort Kochi.
By Air: Cochin International Airport is located at a distance of about 37 km from the museum. Visitors can reach by hiring a cab or on public transport.
By Sea: Fort Kochi can be reached from the mainland through ferries, offering a picturesque route to the museum.
Places To Visit Near The Museum
Here’s a list of some famous tourist attractions located near the museum:
1. Mattancherry Palace
Photo: Ranjith Siji / Wikimedia Commons
The Portuguese rulers built the Mattancherry Palace in 1557 and it showcases a variety of architectural styles under one roof. In addition to the depiction of the grandeur and lifestyle of past royals, the Dutch Palace houses murals highlighting Kochi’s art and culture. Travellers from all over the world visit this place to experience the magnificence and glory of the bygone era.
Entry Fees: INR 5 for Indians & INR 100 for foreigners
Distance From The Museum: 2 km
Best Time To Visit: Morning hours to avoid crowd
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2. Jew Town
Photo: SijiR / Wikimedia Commons
Jew Town is located in Kochi, Kerala, and is a hidden treasure trove with its little avenues and marketplace full of antique stores, spice shops, and historic homes that make you feel like you’ve travelled back in time. Jews began to settle in Kerala after the destruction of the second temple in Jerusalem. It is believed that Jewish traders arrived in Kerala for the first time around 70 CE when they started establishing colonies here.
Entry Fees: Free
Distance From The Museum: 2.5 km
3. St. Francis Church
Photo: Ranjith Siji / Wikimedia Commons
One of the earliest churches constructed in India by Europeans is believed to be the St. Francis Church in Kochi, which is renowned for its exquisite architecture and ambience. The church is a tall building with a tile-covered gabled timber frame roof. Retaining its old-world charm, the façade features an impressive stepped pinnacle on both sides. When the Dutch invaded Kochi, they occupied this location and set up this church there.
Entry Fees: Free
Distance From The Museum: 1 km
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Where To Stay
Photo: Vis M / Wikimedia Commons
Starting from low-cost to expensive, Fort Kochi has it all. For a pocket-friendly stay, The Fort Bungalow can be opted for with minimum basic facilities provided. Travellers with a mid-range budget can get comfort and tranquillity in the Fort House Hotel, which boasts peaceful surroundings and waterfront views of the place. Brunton Boatyard offers luxurious rooms and sterling services, amalgamating colonial structures with modern luxuries. Staying in Fort Kochi means you are never far from the museum and other places of interest, making it convenient for visitors.
Where To Eat
Photo: Jackson Dsilva Kochi / Wikimedia Commons
Kochi is a foodie’s paradise. Begin the day with a filling breakfast at Kashi Art Café, an artistic place with delicious food. For lunch and dinner, Seagull would be a nice eat-out with its seafood and local food against the beautiful view of the waterfront. Situated within Taj Malabar Resort is the upmarket eatery called The Rice Boat, serving traditional Kerala cuisine. Adding to this, the restaurants here have cuisines of their own that will make your culinary journey a delight equivalent to your experience at the museum.
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Best Time To Visit
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The best time to visit the Indian Naval Maritime Museum is from October to March. It is in these months that Kochi experiences pleasant and cool weather, most suited for sightseeing or any other outdoors-related activity. It is particularly during the monsoon period, June to September that heavy rainfalls may mess up your travel plans. April to June will test your endurance against the summer heat and humidity. Visiting during the cool months will allow walking around the museum and other places of interest in much comfort, hence ensuring a more enjoyable and memorable experience.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost: The Indian Naval Maritime Museum’s ticket price is INR 40 for adults and free for children. It costs around INR 1500 per day for a budget trip that covers food, travel, and entry fee.
Tips For Travellers: Wear comfortable shoes, carry a water bottle, don’t touch the exhibits, and be respectful.
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The Indian Naval Maritime Museum is a treasure trove of maritime heritage that shows, with intricate detail, the journey through India’s naval history. The thematic arrangement of the exhibits and historical artefacts in series makes it a very zestful learning experience for any visiting individual. For locals and tourists alike, a visit to this museum will leave one with much more appreciation of the Indian Navy. Make sure to visit this wonderful place on a visit to Kochi with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Vis M / Wikimedia Commons