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Among the serene backwaters of Kumarakom, Kerala, lies the Bay Island Driftwood Museum. Started by Mrs Raji Punnoose, a school teacher from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands with an unending passion, it is a beautiful collection of sculptures she made by collecting driftwood from the Andaman Sea.There are interesting sculptures of animals, birds, fish, amphibians, and reptiles. Perfection is attained after polishing, and each piece has an individually framed description that is meant to turn your imagination wild. This viewing experience could be very interesting, more so if you have a vivid imagination.
Quick Details About Bay Island Driftwood Museum
Location: Chakranadi, Vayitharamattom, Kumarakom, Kerala 686563
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM, closed on Mondays
Sculpted By: Mrs Raji Punnoose
How To Reach: By bus, train, or taxi
Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Kochi International Airport
About Bay Island Driftwood Museum
Photo: Aflotsperdus / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Bay Island Driftwood Museum is home to many life-sized sculptures that bear witness to the whims of nature and the excellent brilliance of the artist. Intricate sculptures, such as roots and tree trunks have been used to create sculptures resembling various creatures and objects. Some of them were even lit up with small spotlights, creating interesting shadows on the walls.
One of the museum’s most popular exhibits is the life-size crocodile sculpted out of driftwood. Another crowd puller at the gallery is the display of birds in flight. An eagle, very majestic, and a swan, very graceful, seem to soar through the air.
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Places To Visit In and Around Bay Island Driftwood Museum
1. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons / image For Representation Only
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a 14-acre bird sanctuary situated along the banks of Vembanad Lake, which is a crib of birds. It is home to over 200 species of birds, including the endangered Siberian stork. Scenic boat rides through the waters and glimpses of an assortment of bird species can be relished in this most preferred natural retreat. You can very easily trail into the green sanctuary and view the vast avian collection that abides in this protected ecosystem.
Timings: 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹250
Best Time To Visit: November to February
2. Vembanad Lake
Vembanad Lake is among India’s largest freshwater lakes. It’s an ideal paradise to relax through boat riding and fishing. You can pass through the scenic shores of the lake and backwaters while cherishing the tranquil beauty of Kerala. In this respect, the lake forms a very invincible part of the Kumarakom tourism experience, allowing you to get a real taste of the unique ecosystem and traditional lifestyle of the place.
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
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3. Alleppey Beach
Photo: Mohanrangaphotography / Wikipedia
Located about 16 km from Kumarakom, Alleppey Beach provides you with an ideal view of golden sand and clear water. Here, you can enjoy swimming, and learn about the fishing colonies around. A day on the beach with the Arabian Sea is leisure for both locals and visitors. You could also visit the nearby Alappuzha Lighthouse and the grand Krishnapuram Palace for a unique experience.
Timings: Open all day
4. Mango Meadows Agricultural Theme Park
Photo: Indianbeauty / Wikipedia
Mango Meadows Agricultural Theme Park offers a unique learning experience about agriculture and nature. You can participate in farming activities, such as planting and harvesting crops, and wander amidst this scenic beauty. The park is quite a refreshing departure from the more traditional tourist destinations, offering an insight into the agricultural history of the state and a general alertness about sane farming practices.
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: ₹350
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5. Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls
Photo: Mckurup / Wikipedia / Image For Representation Only
Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall is about 20 km from Kumarakom. It is a wonderful natural beauty where you can literally plunge into cold water and view the greenery. It is also considered one of the best picnic spots and places for a nature walk, far from the hustle and bustle of the city. Flora and fauna all around in their natural surroundings are a paradise for both botanists and zoologists.
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: NA
6. Revi Karunakaran Museum
Photo: Una Laurencic / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Just about 17 km away from the Bay Island Driftwood Museum location, the Revi Karunakaran Museum is known for displaying the life and works of the celebrated artist Revi Karunakaran himself. The paintings and sculptures that adorn the museum may capture the interest of art lovers among its visitors, reflecting knowledge about Kerala’s rich artistic heritage.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹100
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7. Kadathanadan Kalari Centre
Photo: Ginu C Plathottam / Wikipedia
Kadathanadan Kalari Centre is a cultural centre where the traditional form of the martial art of Kerala, Kalaripayattu, is portrayed. The place offers demonstrations of this ancient form of physical and mental discipline in front of visitors. Training sessions regarding Kalaripayattu are also available here for interested candidates.
Timings: 9 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: ₹200
8. Kurisumala
Photo: Shijan Kaakkara / Wikimedia Commons
Situated near Kumarakom is the hill station of Kurisumala, one of the renowned pilgrim source centres. The area is very scenic with undulating hills covered in lush green vegetation. In and around this area, many churches and monasteries are located, some of which hide treasures of religious history. This area also serves as a popular trekking and hiking destination, with patrons witnessing the breathtaking view of the surroundings.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: NA
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9. Museum of Kerala History
Photo: Akhilan / Wikimedia Commons
The Museum of Kerala History is a museum that spreads over the history and culture of Kerala. Exhibitions on Kerala’s rich heritage can be seen by the public in this museum, which gives insight into the ancient trade routes of the state, current-day achievements, and everything in between. The place is quite interesting, for it provides an insight into the past of this state and, therefore, a context for the many cultural sources that merge into its present.
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹100
Where To Stay
Photo: Hakim Santoso / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Kumarakom has different types of accommodation that suit various budgets and tastes. Starting from luxurious resorts to budget homestays, here is a list of some popular hotels and resorts that offer you a comfortable stay along with numerous amenities and facilities. The list includes: Kumarakom Lake Resort, Palmar Lake Resort, Kumarakom Homestays, Lilly Ribera, and Lovedale Lakeside Homestay.
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Where To Eat
Photo: Valeria Boltneva / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
To cherish sumptuous cuisines, you can wander around to find some amazing restaurants and cafes that will be a treat in themselves. The list of recommended restaurants and cafes include: Lime Tree, Cocobay Restaurant, Lakshmi Hotel and Resorts Restaurant, Ettukettu, and Cafe Samsara.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Fabrizio Verrecchia / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of Trip
Though the Bay Island Driftwood Museum ticket price is around ₹50 per person, your average cost of trip can range in between ₹4,000 and ₹7,000 depending on the accommodation, restaurants, and other things you opt for.
Tips For Travellers
- Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.
- Bring your camera along to click some fabulous prehistoric sculptures set against picturesque surroundings.
- Be sensitive to the art on display and follow all instructions that the museum staff suggest.
- Try local food, such as popular dishes like Meen Moilee, Appam, rice pancakes, Puttu, and steamed rice cake.
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The Bay Island Driftwood Museum is unique and has a magnificent presentation of nature’s artistic strokes. It is one place that you cannot afford to miss visiting; rather, it is most suited for art lovers, nature buffs, and, indeed, for everyone looking forward to a memorable, different experience in Kerala that is going to leave its impression on your heart and mind. So, plan your getaway with TripXL, and ensure a hassle-free experience for yourself.
Cover Photo: Lina Kivaka / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
