Kerala Museum, in Kalamassery, is one of Kochi's better stops for getting a quick narrative of Kerala's history before heading into the old port districts. The main draw is a sound-and-light presentation using wax figures to move through the region's rulers, faiths, trade links, and social changes.
The complex also includes a doll museum and an art and sculpture gallery, so it works well for families or for a half-day when the weather is too hot for wandering Fort Kochi. It is outside the tourist core, so pair it with other mainland errands.