Art Gallery And Krishna Menon Museum: History, Artefacts & More

The Art Gallery and Krishna Menon Museum, Kozhikode, in Kerala, is a treasure trove that holds both historical and artistic value. Once housed to commemorate V.K. Krishna Menon, one of India’s top-ranked freedom fighters cum diplomats of India, this museum provides a peep into India’s rich cultural and political history. The museum is dedicated to the life and works of V. K. Krishna Menon, a great Indian nationalist and diplomat. The Krishna Menon Museum is said to be one of the most indispensable places for lovers of history and art, housing personal belongings of Krishna Menon and different types of art, among them rare photographs.

Location

Dive into the historical heritage of Kerala at the Krishna Menon Museum, Kozhikode

Photo: Smenon07 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Art Gallery and Krishna Menon Museum’s address is in the city’s heart and you can reach Kozhikode in multiple ways.

By Road: A good road network connects to Kozhikode from nearby cities. The museum can be reached by local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws.

By Rail: The Kozhikode Railway Station is connected by road to the museum. Thus, provides an easy commute from any part of the country.

By Air: The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport, about 28 km from the museum, and taxis and buses are available from the airport to the museum.

Suggested Read: Palm-Leaf Manuscript Museum Guide

Places To Visit Nearby Art Gallery And Krishna Menon Museum

Discover a range of attractions near the Art Gallery and Krishna Menon Museum, from scenic spots and historic landmarks to cultural sites offering a glimpse into the region’s heritage and charm.

1. Kozhikode Beach

View of kids and adults enjoying at the Kozhikode Beach, a famous tourist spot in Kerala

Photo: Sajith Erattupetta / Wikimedia Commons

Kozhikode Beach is a scintillating stretch of sand on the Malabar Coast and is therefore well-suited for travellers who crave natural charm alongside cultural exposure in one place. It is famous for its sunsets and is always bustling with much activity. Hence, Kozhikode Beach comes out as an entertaining getaway to relax beside the sea. However, that’s not all there is to this coastal city. This is close to the famous art gallery and Krishna Menon Museum and pictures the rich heritage and past of this region.

2. Mananchira Square

A beautiful daytime view of a road in Mananchira with lush green trees on the roadside

Photo: Vengolis / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Mananchira Square is an urban park located at the heart of Kozhikode in the state of Kerala. A sombre green square, named after the iconic Mananchira pond, gives a glimpse of history, culture, and nature. Perfectly adorned art galleries and the Krishna Menon Museum are the major cultural landmarks of this place. The cultural tapestry of Mananchira Square provides a singular way of experiencing the heritage richness and artistic brilliance of Kerala.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Kozhikode For A Remarkable Experience

3. Pazhassi Raja Museum & Archaeological Museum

Colonial-era bungalow with red roof and white pillars, housing the Pazhassi Raja Museum

Photo: Pradeep717 / Wikimedia Commons

Set on East Hill in Kozhikode, the Pazhassi Raja Archaeological Museum & Art Gallery is a charming colonial building dating back to 1812. Once the home of British collectors, it became a museum in 1976 and was renamed in 1980 to honour Pazhassi Raja. Managed by the Kerala State Archaeology Department, it displays relics from 1000 BC to 200 AD, coins from various eras, bronze idols, murals, and temple models. The adjoining gallery features striking works by Raja Ravi Varma, making it a highlight among things to do in Kozhikode during your visit.

4. Mishkal Mosque, Kuttichira

Historic four-storey mosque in Kerala with tiered tiled roofs and carved wooden arches

Photo: Navaneeth T M / Wikimedia Commons

In Kozhikode’s historic Kuttichira area, the 14th-century Mishkal Mosque is a remarkable blend of history, faith, and artistry. Built by Arab merchant Nakhooda Mishkal, it once stood five storeys high but was partly destroyed during a Portuguese raid in 1510. Today, its four-storey structure features intricate wooden carvings, 24 pillars, and 47 ornate doors. The mosque reflects Kerala’s traditional architecture without domes or minarets. As one of the unique places to visit in Kerala, it beautifully symbolises resilience, cultural harmony, and centuries-old maritime connections.

Suggested Read: Serene Mosques In Kerala For A Spiritual & Divine Experience

5. Deepanjali Lamp Museum

Elegant gold and red pendant lamps hang in a modern interior, casting soft warmth around

Photo: Etienne Girardet / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

In Puthiyangadi, the Deepanjali Lamp Museum offers a rare and fascinating stop among the many things to do in Kerala. Set inside the home of former lighthouse engineer I. C. R. Prasad, it showcases hundreds of lamps made from stone, brass, bronze, wood, and more. Each piece, from simple village lamps to ornate Persian and Dutch designs, comes with its own story. As the museum is small and run privately, visits are by appointment, with only a few guests welcomed at a time.

6. Valiyangadi (Valiyangadi) Market

Bustling street bazaar in Palakkad lined with shops, goods and people amid bright daylight

Photo: Shafeeq basheer / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Valiyangadi Market, near the Art Gallery and Krishna Menon Museum, Kozhikode, Kerala, is one of the city’s oldest trading hubs, still bustling with life. Once central to the Samoothiri’s commerce, this market stretches over a kilometre, lined with tiled-roof shops selling spices, textiles, grains, and traditional sweets like halwa. Traders from diverse communities have worked here for generations, preserving age-old customs. The narrow lanes, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere offer travellers a genuine glimpse into Kozhikode’s trading heritage and enduring cultural spirit.

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Kozhikode

7. Regional Science Centre & Planetarium

Mobile Science Exhibition bus used by the Regional Science Centre and Planetarium, Kozhikode

Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons

Located near Jaffer Khan Colony in Kozhikode, the Regional Science Centre and Planetarium, established in 1997, invites visitors to enjoy a fun mix of learning and exploration. Spread over 15,000 sq ft, it features interactive attractions like the Fun Science Gallery, Aqua Life Corner, Mirror Magic, and a lively Science Park. The highlight is its hybrid planetarium, offering mesmerising sky shows with advanced projection technology. With daily sessions, a 3D Science Theatre, and engaging exhibits, it’s a great spot for families and science lovers alike.

Where To Stay

Enjoy a comfortable stay Art Gallery and Krishna Menon Museum in Kozhikode, Kerala.

Photo: Amit Jaison / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The places to visit near the art gallery and Krishna Menon Museum make it the cultural and historical hub of the city. From here, a tourist gets a glimpse of both the artistic and historical traditions that form a part of this land in Kerala and can easily reach out to other places in this city. Accommodation in Kozhikode ranges from budget inns to five-star luxury resorts. Some of the recommended ones are The Gateway Hotel Beach Road, Westway Hotel, and Hotel Asma Tower.

Suggested Read: Best Museums In Kerala To Plan Your Next Cultural Visit

Where To Eat

Explore the relihing culinary scene at places around Art Gallery and Krishna Menon Museum

Photo: Cats Coming / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

One of the places to visit in the city of Kozhikode is the Art Gallery and Krishna Menon Museum. The museum is located at the centre of the town. It is known for its wide collection of artefacts and exhibits showing Kerala’s cultural heritage and history. Kozhikode is very famous on the global map for its gastronomic delights in Malabar cuisine. Some of the main eating joints will be Paragon, Zain’s Hotel, and Rahmath Hotel famed for biryanis and seafood preparation.

Other Factors To Consider

Some common things to keep in mind while planning your getaway to the museum in Kerala

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The major factors to keep in mind while visiting this place are as follows:

Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit the museum would be from October to March. It is the time when the weather is delightful, and it is perfect for fun sightseeing.

Average Cost Of The Trip: The average budget per person ranges from ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 for accommodation, food, and local travel in Kozhikode. The Art Gallery and Krishna Menon Museum’s ticket price is INR 10 for adults and INR 5 for kids.

Tips For Travellers: Carry a hat, and some sunblock if visiting during the day. Also, wear comfortable walking shoes and some cash for entry fees and local purchases.

Suggested Read: Kerala State Science And Technology Museum

The Art Gallery and Krishna Menon Museum is a place in Kozhikode that defines the convergence of art, history, and culture. From a history enthusiast or lover of art to a simple curious tourist, this museum gives a peek into the interior of India’s past. It shines a light on the life of one of the most influential personalities that ever’s footprints walked the Indian soil. Plan a visit to the Krishna Menon Museum with TripXL and discover the grand traditions and vibrant culture of Kerala.

Cover Photo: Pradeep717 / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

The museum opens from 10 AM to 5 PM, Tuesday to Sunday. It is closed on Mondays and public holidays.
Yes, guided tours are conducted so that visitors can get more information regarding the various displays.
The entry fee for the museum is INR 10 for adults and INR 5 for children.
The Calicut Railway Station is 6 km away and Calicut International Airport is approximately 31 km away from the museum. So, you can hire a taxi or take local transportation to reach the museum.
No, photography is not allowed inside the museum. But, you can capture the glorious architecture and the beautiful views outside the museum for lifelong memories.
The Krishna Menon Museum, also known as the Krishna Menon Museum & Art Gallery, is located in the East Hill area of Kozhikode (Calicut) in Kerala, India.
It’s quite central, only about 1.5 km from Kozhikode Railway Station, so you can comfortably walk or take a quick auto‐rickshaw ride.
Since it’s small and privately run, photography rules may vary, best to check directly when you book.

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