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Kuthira Malika Palace Museum, located in Trivandrum, Kerala, is an architectural marvel that provides one with an alluring glance at the history of the Travancore kingdom. Constructed in the 1840s by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal, this two-storied palace reflects the richness of the region’s cultural heritage The architecture of this palace is a blend of traditional Travancore wooden carvings and Europe-influenced architecture. It has an interior embellished with intricate wood carvings, rare exhibits, and ancient paintings that transport tourists back in time.
Quick Details About Kuthira Maliga Palace Museum
Location: Thiruvananthapuram City, Kerala
Where To Stay: Highland Hotel, Dimora Hotel and Resort
Where To Eat: Hotel Annapoorna, Khaadu’s Food Court
About Kuthira Maliga Palace Museum
Photo: Arul Prasad / Wikimedia Commons
The museum is named “Kuthiramalika,” or mansion of horses, because of the 122 horses carved on the pillars supporting the structure’s southern roof. This marvellous design indicates Vishwabrahmins’ excellent craft abilities, which took him four years to construct the palace with the assistance of 5000 labourers.
The Kuthira Malika Palace Museum showcases a vast collection of valuables and items used by the royal family of Travancore. There are two prominent exhibits popular among tourists, the antique thrones of the king —one made of Bohemian crystal and another carved from elephant tusks. There are also four life-size Kathakali mannequins, Belgian and Italian mirrors, crystal chandeliers, and a musical tree capable of producing eight different sounds when tapped.
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How To Reach Kuthira Maliga Palace Museum
Photo: Syed Shiyaz Mirza / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Kuthira Malika Palace Museum is located in the central part of the city, making it easily accessible from any part of the Thiruvananthapuram city.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Thiruvananthapuram Central, about 2 km from the museum.
By Air: The Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is about 8 km from the museum.
By Road: The city is well-connected to the museum, with regular bus services and private tourist buses. Within Thiruvananthapuram, one can hire taxis or auto-rickshaws to reach the museum.
Places To Visit Near The Kuthira Malika Palace Museum
Trivandrum is home to enchanting landscapes and ancient temples. Here is the list of places you visit in Trivandrum apart from the Kuthira Malika Palace Museum:
1. Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Photo: Shishirdasika / Wikimedia Commons
Located near the Kuthira Malika Palace Museum, The temple is an architectural marvel in Trivandrum. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is very famous for its intricately carved gopurams and has an immense idol of Lord Vishnu covered with gold and various gemstones.
Suggested Read: Nagaraja Temples In Kerala
2. Napier Museum
Photo: Prasanth Prakash / Wikimedia Commons
The Napier Museum is a rich treasure trove of cultural heritage from Kerala, housed inside a beautiful neoclassical building. It is a popular tourist attraction near the Kuthira Malika Palace Museum. It has various collections—from bronze idols to ivory carvings and traditional musical instruments.
3. Kanakakunnu Palace
Photo: Jkurkure / Wikimedia Commons
The Kanakakunnu Palace hosts cultural events and exhibitions after being a royal residence. Ornamented decorations, intricate carvings, and highly ornate furniture adorn the interiors of the magnificent palace, reflecting the elaborate lifestyle led by the Travancore royal family. The palace has green surroundings that are serene for visitors to stroll about. Its stunning architecture and beautiful surroundings make it ideal for hosting significant events for tourists and locals.
Suggested Read: Pisharikavu Temple
4. Shankumugham Beach
Photo: Navaneeth Krishnan S / Wikimedia Commons
Located 8 kilometres from the Kuthira Malika Palace Museum, Shankumugham Beach is a place for relaxation and water sports. The golden sand and gentle waves provide the ambience to explore or relax in the Arabian Sea. There is a range of available water sports, where local operators offer parasailing and jet skiing.
5. Samudra Beach
Photo: P.K.Niyogi/ Wikimedia Commons
Tucked away from the city centre, Samudra Beach is much more isolated and peaceful than Shankumugham Beach. Its shores are surrounded by old wooden fishing vessels where visitors can walk along the beach. The chief attractions of Samudra Beach also include birdwatching, as many varieties of migratory and resident birds inhabit the wetlands.
Suggested Read: Tent Camping In Vagamon
6. Hawah Beach
Photo: P.K.Niyogi / Wikimedia Commons
Hawah Beach, located near Kovalam Beach, is best known for its rocky shoreline and brilliant sunsets. One can also visit the nearby lighthouse, which offers a panoramic coastline view. The beach is also famous as a water sports hub where the locals can conduct numerous activities ranging from surfing to deep-sea diving. Its shore is lined with restaurants and cafeterias and offers tasty seafood and local specialities. Nightlife at Hawah Beach is dynamic, with numerous bars and clubs that offer live music and entertainment all night.
Best Time to Visit
Photo: Shishirdasika / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Kuthira Malika Palace Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with a time range from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM to 4:45 PM. The museum is closed on Mondays.
The annual Swathi Sangeethotsavam music festival conducted within the precincts of the palace reflects one such event. This musical event is held annually for one week to celebrate Maharaja Swathi Thirunal. It is marked by performances from top Carnatic and Hindustani classical music exponents from around the country.
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Tips For Travellers
- Bags and other oversized items are prohibited in the Museum. Lockers are there to keep one’s belongings.
- One can take photographs outside the palace and the museum. A small fee will be levied if one wishes to take pictures in the museum part.
- Tour guides can also comprehend the best of palace history and architecture.
The Kuthira Malika Palace Museum is one place that should be included while visiting the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Kerala. Equipped with marvellous displays and unique architectural features, the Kuthira Malika Palace Museum Palace offers an immersive experience to take visitors on a rollercoaster of memories to set their feet in the glorious Travancore kingdom. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your visit to the Kuthiramalika Palace Museum today and take a fascinating journey through the history of regal Kerala.
Cover Photo: Dinakaran / Wikimedia Commons
