Gundert Bungalow — Local services in Kerala

Gundert Bungalow, nestled in the scenic landscape of Thalassery, Kerala, is a site of immense historical and cultural significance. Built in 1839 by Dr. Herman Gundert, a German missionary, scholar, and lexicographer, this architectural marvel served as his residence for two decades. Dr. Gundert is renowned for his contributions to the Malayalam language, including compiling the first Malayalam-English dictionary and translating the Bible into Malayalam, much of which was accomplished during his stay at this bungalow.

The bungalow, set amidst lush greenery, overlooks the Arabian Sea and presents a picturesque setting that combines natural beauty with historical gravitas. Its architectural style is a blend of traditional Kerala and colonial designs, reflecting the cultural fusion of the time.

Historically, the Gundert Bungalow played a pivotal role in the educational and cultural development of Kerala. Dr. Gundert established one of the first Malayalam schools in the region here, laying the foundation for formal education in the local language. The bungalow was not just a home but a center for linguistic and cultural exchanges, significantly influencing the Malayalam literature and education system.

Today, the Gundert Bungalow stands as a testament to Dr. Gundert's legacy, attracting scholars, historians, and tourists alike. Its preservation allows visitors to delve into the life of a man who shaped the Malayalam language and literature, offering insights into the intellectual history of Kerala. The bungalow's historical importance is further amplified by its connection to other cultural icons, including being the birthplace of modern Malayalam poetry and prose.

Visiting the Gundert Bungalow offers a unique opportunity to explore the historical and cultural narratives that have shaped Kerala, making it a cherished landmark for those interested in the region's...

‘Gundert Bungalow’, the residence of Dr. Hermann Gundert, a renowned German scholar and missionary of his times who lived here between 1839 and 1859, is undoubtedly, one of the most significant heritage sites in Kerala. Located amidst tall palms in small town of Thalassery in Kannur district of Kerala, the 200 years old bungalow with its typical colonial mansion style architecture, stands tall as a witness to many great works of literature and lexicography by the legendary scholar who spent most of his time researching the classical Indian literature and learning new languages. No less than a living piece of history, you would be amazed to know that the first daily newspaper in Malayalam, ‘Rajyasamacharam’, the first Malayalam magazine, ‘Paschimodayam’ and the first Malayalam-English dictionary took birth in this heritage building only. Gundert’s other works comprising of a Malayalam grammar compilation, a thesis on neo classical history of Kerala after the arrival of Vasco da Gama and contributions towards Bible translation in Malayalam, are counted amongst the most precious and are kept well-preserved in the bungalow for public viewing. Till date, Dr. Gundert is held in high regards by linguistic experts in Kerala and is honoured with a grand statue in his remembrance. Needless to say, if you are a literary lover or a history enthusiast, this place is a must see during your...

The sprawling 19th century bungalow located on a hillock in the suburbs of Thalassery is all set to become a language museum to commemorate the legacy of Hermann Gundert, the German missionary in whose name the structure, a tourism landmark of the area, is known.

Gundert Bungalow at Illikkunnu, with verandas and tiled roof, is being refurbished as part of the ongoing Thalassery Heritage Tourism Project of the Tourism Department. It comprises renovation and development of some of the historical tourism sites in and around Thalassery. The ₹2.10-crore first phase work of renovating the bungalow is under way as the Church of South India (CSI), which owns it, handed it over to the Tourism Department for the renovation works sometime ago.

“The bungalow will be developed as a language museum and language study and research centre with special focus on German language,” said P. Muraleedharan, Tourism Deputy...