International Coir Museum: A Unique Attraction in Alleppey
If you are looking for a place to learn about the history and culture of coir, the natural fibre extracted from coconut husk, then you should visit the International Coir Museum in Alleppey, Kerala. This museum is the first of its kind in the world and showcases the evolution and development of coir industry over the centuries.
The museum is located in Kalavoor, about 10 km from Alleppey town, and was inaugurated in 2014 by the then Chief Minister of Kerala, Oommen Chandy. The museum is spread over an area of 4 acres and has a collection of various coir products, machinery, tools, photographs, documents and artefacts related to coir.
The museum has four sections: history, industry, innovation and art. The history section displays the origin and growth of coir industry in Kerala and India, as well as its global trade and significance. The industry section exhibits the traditional and modern methods of coir processing, from retting and fibre extraction to spinning and weaving. The innovation section showcases the latest advancements and applications of coir in various fields such as geotextiles, composites, handicrafts, ornaments and furniture. The art section features the creative and aesthetic aspects of coir, such as paintings, sculptures, murals and installations made from coir.
The museum also has a souvenir shop where visitors can buy coir products such as mats, rugs, bags, jewellery and toys. There is also a video hall where a short film on coir industry is screened for the visitors. The museum is open from 9 am to 5 pm on all days except Mondays and public holidays. The entry fee is Rs. 50 for adults and Rs. 25 for children.
The International Coir Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to know more about coir, its history, culture, technology and art. It is a unique attraction that showcases the versatility and beauty of coir, as well as its contribution to the economy and...
Read moreThe Alappuzha Coir Museum, located in Alappuzha, Kalavoor, Kerala, India, is a museum dedicated to showcasing the history, evolution, and significance of coir industry in the region. Coir refers to the natural fiber extracted from the husk of coconuts, which is used for a variety of products including mats, ropes, and textiles.
The museum was established to highlight the traditional craftsmanship and techniques associated with coir production in Kerala. It provides insights into the various stages of coir processing, from husk extraction to weaving, spinning, and dyeing. The museum's exhibits include tools, machinery, and displays that depict the labor-intensive processes involved in turning coconut husks into valuable coir products.
The coir industry has been a vital part of Kerala's economy and culture for centuries, and the museum helps preserve and showcase this rich heritage. The establishment of the museum aimed to educate both locals and visitors about the significance of coir in the region's history and its continued importance in contemporary times.
The museum's history likely dates back to the late 20th century or early 21st century when efforts were made to promote and preserve Kerala's traditional industries and crafts. Over time, the museum has evolved to provide a comprehensive overview of the coir industry's history, technology, and its contribution to the local economy.
Today, the Alappuzha Coir Museum serves as an informative and engaging attraction for tourists and researchers interested in the coir industry's heritage and its role in shaping the socio-economic fabric of Kerala. It stands as a tribute to the craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainable practices that have defined coir production in the region for...
Read moreThe International Coir Museum is a treasure trove of records on the surfacing of coir industry in Kerala, a first of its kind in the world.The Museum was inaugurated on 27th May 2014 at Coir Board Complex; Kalavoor in Alleppey district and it is now open to the public. The Coir Board established this Museum in its Diamond Jubilee year. It depicts historical events, traces of history beginning from the arrival of Ireland born James Darragh from America to Alappuzha in 1859 to explore the prospects of coir. The statues of James Darragh and his manager cum son-in-law Henry Small are also portrayed.The evolution of scientific advancements made in the coir sector is also a major exhibit. The museum imprints the village beauty and the greenery of Kuttanad, a well-known region in Alleppey.The museum has recreated a whole village to show case the traditional process of coir spinning and the development of coir industry, including retting and fibre extraction. One could witness the advent of mechanization in the coir sector; see various machines and looms that make different products with coir.There is a theatre to show a short video that takes the visitors through the world of coir over the ages and gives information on the origin and growth of the industry and the latest developments. At the souvenir shop in the museum, visitors can shop for a wide array of coir handicrafts, coir doormats, coir ornaments and lot more. As coir is regarded as an integral component of the state’s heritage, this Museum indeed preserves the legacy of Kerala. A must visit place for the tourists who visit Alappuzha ( The Venice...
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