Krishna Menon Museum

Krishna Menon Museum (celebrated across India as the V. K. Krishna Menon Museum and Art Gallery and the premier civic tribute to one of India's most brilliant diplomats and Defense Ministers), situated on the scenic wooded slopes of East Hill just 5 km north of Kozhikode city center in Kerala, is one of Kerala's most prestigious cultural, historical, and fine arts institutions.

Established in 1975 by the Department of Archaeology to commemorate the legendary Indian nationalist, orator, statesman, and architect of the Non Aligned Movement Vengalil Krishnan Krishna Menon (1896 1974), who represented India at the United Nations with historic marathon speeches and served as India's High Commissioner to London and Union Defense Minister under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, this museum showcases his complete personal estate, diplomatic memorabilia, and international awards.

It's the home of an extensive personal memorial wing exhibiting Menon's diplomatic passports, formal academic regalia, personal diaries, rare photographs with world leaders, and international honors, the adjoining Art Gallery showcasing original oil paintings and watercolours by celebrated Indian masters including Raja Ravi Varma and his brother C. Raja Raja Varma, a dedicated modern art section featuring prominent Kerala painters, and the integrated Pazhassi Raja Archaeological Museum campus displaying megalithic urn burials, ancient Roman coins excavated in Malabar, bronze idols, and medieval hero stones (Veerakkallu).

It represents a rich educational and artistic sanctuary where 20th century Indian diplomatic history, 19th century Travancore royal fine art, ancient Malabar megalithic archaeology, and tranquil East Hill botanical surroundings unite in Kozhikode Corporation.

Located in East Hill along the Mini Bypass road, it sits just 5 km from Kozhikode Railway Station (CLT), 4 km from Kozhikode Beach, and 28 km from Calicut International Airport (CCJ), easily accessible by city buses, auto rickshaws, and private taxis.

The V. K. Krishna Menon Diplomatic Memorial

The museum preserves the personal effects of V. K. Krishna Menon bequeathed to the state of Kerala after his demise in New Delhi.

Visitors can view his legendary 1957 UN Kashmir speech manuscripts, international diplomatic gifts from global heads of state, honorary degrees, and personal walking sticks.

Truth is, viewing Krishna Menon's handwritten letters to global diplomats offers an intimate glimpse into the high stakes founding years of modern Indian foreign policy.

Raja Ravi Varma Paintings & Modern Art Gallery

Raja Ravi Varma Masterpieces: The gallery houses original oil portraits and lithographs by Raja Ravi Varma depicting royal Travancore nobility and Puranic episodes with realistic oil glazing.

Contemporary Canvas Works: The modern wing features works by K. C. S. Paniker, M. V. Devan, and other pioneers of the Madras Art Movement and Kerala art renaissance.

Pazhassi Raja Archaeological Complex & East Hill Grounds

Megalithic Relics: The adjoining Pazhassi Raja Archaeological Museum displays iron age burial urns (Nannangadi), umbrella stones (Kudaikallu), and Roman gold coins recovered from Malabar trading posts.

Lush Hilltop Arboretum: The surrounding grounds feature shady banyan trees, manicured lawns, and refreshing breezes overlooking the Kozhikode city plains.

After exploring the Krishna Menon Museum, visit the historic 13th century Muchundi Palli in Kuttichira, stroll along the promenade at Kozhikode Beach, explore Mananchira Square, or tour the ancient 14th century Tali Shiva Temple.