About Kunhimangalam Heritage Village
Kunhimangalam Heritage Village is a renowned bronze and bell-metal craft center in Kannur district, Kerala. Located near Payyanur on the banks of Perumba River, this village preserves a 900-year-old tradition of handcrafted bronze sculptures, lamps, and panchaloha idols created by skilled Moosari artisans using ancient lost-wax casting techniques.
Visitors guide
Visitors can observe traditional bell-metal artisans at work in their workshops, witnessing the intricate process of creating bronze lamps, idols, and sculptures without modern machinery. The village offers opportunities to interact with craftsmen, learn about the 900-year-old craft heritage, and purchase authentic handcrafted items. The serene setting along the Perumba River provides a peaceful backdrop for exploring this living cultural tradition.
Key highlights
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900-year-old bell-metal crafting tradition
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Traditional lost-wax casting technique demonstration
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Handcrafted bronze lamps and panchaloha idols
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Interaction with skilled Moosari artisans
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Unique single-use mould technique ensuring one-of-a-kind pieces
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Serene riverside location on Perumba River banks
History of Kunhimangalam Heritage Village
Kunhimangalam has archaeological remains dating back to 300 BCE, including umbrella stones, rock-cut caves, and megalithic burial sites, making it one of the oldest settlement landscapes in northern Kerala. Historically part of the ancient Ezhimala Kingdom, the village later came under the Kolathiri Rajas of Kannur. In 2018, the Kerala government recognized bell-metal sculpting as a heritage art and declared Kunhimangalam a heritage village.
Culture & Context
Known as the 'Land of Theyyam', Kunhimangalam is renowned for its vibrant ritual performances and rich cultural traditions including Poorakkali, Kolkkali, and Kalaripayattu martial arts. The village represents a living cultural landscape where traditional bronze craftsmanship practiced by the Vishwakarma community continues through generations, with artifacts used in temples across South India.
Route
| By air |
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