Maritime Museum, Kochi

The Maritime Museum in Kochi, Kerala, is a unique museum that showcases the maritime history of India, particularly the history of the Indian Navy and its role in the country's maritime trade and defense. Here's a brief history, profile, and attractions of the Maritime Museum in Kochi.

History:
The Maritime Museum was established by the Indian Navy in 2013, in collaboration with the Cochin Port Trust. The museum is housed in the INS Dronacharya building, which was originally used as a training center for naval personnel. The building was renovated and converted into a museum, with the aim of preserving and promoting India's maritime heritage.

Profile:
The Maritime Museum is spread over an area of 10,000 square feet and is divided into several galleries and sections, each highlighting a different aspect of India's maritime history. The museum features a large collection of artifacts, models, and exhibits related to the Indian Navy, including weapons, uniforms, equipment, and vehicles. There are also several interactive exhibits and displays that allow visitors to learn more about the history and technology of the Indian Navy.

Attractions:
One of the main attractions of the Maritime Museum is the INS Vikrant Gallery, which features a full-scale model of the INS Vikrant, India's first aircraft carrier. Visitors can explore the ship's deck and bridge, and learn about the various aircraft and weapons used on board. Other galleries include the Maritime History Gallery, which showcases the history of India's maritime trade and commerce, and the Navigation and Communication Gallery, which features exhibits on the technology and equipment used in maritime navigation and communication.

Another interesting exhibit at the Maritime Museum is the Virtual Reality Experience, which allows visitors to experience the thrill of flying a fighter jet or driving a submarine through a virtual reality simulation. The museum also offers guided tours and educational programs for school groups and other visitors.

Maritime Museum in Kochi is a fascinating and informative attraction for anyone interested in India's maritime history and the role of the Indian Navy in the country's defense and trade. With its extensive collection of artifacts and interactive exhibits, the museum offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors of all ages.

The Maritime Museum, located at INS Dronacharya in Kochi throws light on the genesis, history, evolution and landmarks of the Indian Navy.

Step into the Maritime Museum to have a feel of the great maritime heritage of Indian Navy, which dates back to Indus Valley civilizations; Kerala's trade links with Arabs, its famous maritime hero Kunjali Marakkar; Influence of India's maritime power in South East Asia; Colonization of Indian sub-continent by European powers.

At the museum, the visitors are enlightened on the evolution of the navy since 1612, when the Indian Marine was established in Surat. Another section of the museum presents interesting aspects of shipbuilding activities in India.

It unravels India's prowess in shipbuilding, which took its culture to the shores of Java, Sumatra and Bali between 3rd century BC and 12th century AD.

The museum also has a section, which highlights Indian Navy's share of glory, when it took on its aggressors and eventually emerged victorious in the end.

These include details of Junaghad operation, the Goa liberation, Indo-Pak conflicts of 1965 and 1971, Operation Cactus, Operation Pawan and the strategic maneuvers during Kargil.

Web : http://www.keralatourism.org/destination/museums/maritime-museum-1797006262.php