Mannar Bell Metal Town

Mannar is a census town in Alappuzha district known as the 'Bell Metal Town' for its centuries-old tradition of brass, bronze, and bell metal craftsmanship. Located on the banks of the Pamba, Manimala, and Achankovil rivers, it features numerous workshops where artisans create traditional lamps, bells, cauldrons, and locks using ancient techniques. The town is also historically significant as the site of the 1742 Treaty of Mannar between the Travancore and Kayamkulam kingdoms.

Visitors can explore streets lined with bell metal shops displaying intricate brass and bronze artifacts. Artisans work in foundries from morning to afternoon, allowing visitors to observe the traditional metal casting process firsthand. The town offers opportunities to purchase authentic handcrafted items including traditional lamps, cooking vessels, decorative bells, and ornate locks directly from craftsmen.

Mannar was the venue for the famous Treaty of Mannar signed in 1742 between Maharaja Marthanda Varma of Travancore and the Kayamkulam King, which ended years of conflict and resulted in Kayamkulam becoming part of the Travancore Kingdom. The bell metal industry dates back to the 8th century AD when artisans migrated here during temple construction periods.

The town is renowned for its living heritage of bell metal craftsmanship, producing items integral to Kerala's cultural and religious practices including temple lamps, church bells, traditional locks (Manichitra Thaazhu), and ritual vessels. The craft represents generations of skilled artisanship and is on track for Geographical Indication certification.