Saturday, February 16, 2013

Ambalavayal Heritage Museum


The history and cultural heritage of picturesque Wayanad district nestled in the hilly region of Western Ghat comes alive with the amazing display items preserved in Ambalavayal Heritage Museum, Kerala. Belonging to an early time of 2nd century A.D. the fascinating array of exhibits sheds lights into the unknown chapters of history.
Ambalavayal Heritage Museum, also known as the Wayanad Heritage Museum, is located in Ambalavayal Town, around 11 km from Sulthan-Battery. Collections of rare artefacts that date back to the 2nd century Ad are exhibited in this museum. It is segregated into four blocks, namely the Gothrasmruthi, Devasmruthi, Jeevanasmruthi and Veerasmruthi.

The Veerasmruthi Block showcases relics of primitive wars and tiger hunts that showcase the life of the primitive man. Gothrasmruthi, the second block, showcases various interesting artefacts like the fish collecting bags, cow bells and ploughs that reflect the lifestyles of the tribal communities of Wayanad. Various artefacts belonging to the the Neolithic Age and the 17th century are displayed at the Devasmruthi Block. This block also holds display of around 20 idols that are made of stones and belong to the period between the 12th century and the 16th century.

The last block of this museum, the Jeevanasmruthi, exhibits a variety of hunting traps, bangles, ear ornaments and necklaces that were used by various tribes of Wayanad. The museum also houses a separate section for the artefacts excavated from Muniyaras. Muniyaras are also referred to as the rock monuments that belong to the Megalithic age. The museum also has models of burial chambers of these tribes that have four stones placed on the edges and are roofed by a fifth one known as a cap stone.

These are evidences of an advanced civilisation that existed in the mountains of Wayanad. The articles are fascinating for the historian, the archaeologist and the common folk alike. At the museum are articles as varied as clay sculptures, ancient hunting equipment, stone weapons and curios.

How to Reach:
Nearest Railway Station : Kozhikode, 97 km from Sulthan Bathery.
Nearest Airport : Karipur International Airport, Kozhikode

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