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Trivandrum Museum, officially known as the Napier Museum, is one of the most pre-eminent institutions in Kerala showcasing its rich cultural heritage. Set up in the year 1855, the museum gets its name from the then Madras Governor General, Lord Napier. The Indo-Saracenic styled museum is a city landmark and houses a rare collection of objects that document the histories of Kerala and beyond. The collection within this museum complex includes the Natural History Museum and the Sri Chitra Art Gallery , thus making it a most sought-after attraction.
About Trivandrum Museum
Photo: Ajeeshcphilip / Wikimedia Commons
The Napier Museum is an old construction that dates back to the mid-19th century. Started in 1855, it was rebuilt in 1880 under the royal patronage of Lord Napier. The dealing of the present building is attributed to Robert Chisholm—a British architect representative of the topography’s cultural confluence, indoctrinated with a fusion of Indian, Mughal, and Gothic styles known as the Indo-Saracenic style. This museum was established to house the vast collection of art held by the Travancore Royal Family, along with a myriad of archaeological and historical things. It has now developed into a kaleidoscope of a museum, laying exhibits across the length and breadth of India and the world.
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How to Reach Trivandrum Museum
Photo: Balagopal.k / Wikimedia Commons
The Napier museum is integrated into the centre of Thiruvananthapuram and, hence, is easily accessible by all modes of transportation.
By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, 7 km from the museum.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Thiruvananthapuram Central, about 2 km from the museum. Quite a number of rail connections link this station to important cities in India.
By Road: The museum can be easily reached by road. Thiruvananthapuram is well linked to other parts of the state and neighbouring states by highways and roads. Local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws are easily available for easy commuting within the town.
Places to Visit Near Trivandrum Museum
The city of Thiruvananthapuram is bestowed with many cultural and natural attractions. Some of the must-visit places near this museum are:
1. Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Photo: Shishirdasika / Wikimedia Commons
This very popular and respected temple in Kerala is dedicated to the Lord Vishnu. The temple has the great essence of Dravidian architecture, with carved marble on the ceilings, which makes it a classic work of art.
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2. Kuthiramalika Palace Museum
Photo: Kiran Gopi / Wikimedia Commons
The palace museum is located near the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, which was constructed by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma. It contains the fundamentals of royal objects, including paintings, sculptures, and musical instruments, amongst many others.
3. Shanghumukham Beach
Photo: Thejas Panarkandy / Wikimedia Commons
This is one of the most popular beaches that lie around 8 km from the heart of the city. Famous for its serene surroundings and exquisite view of the sunset, Shanghumukham Beach is ideal for a stroll during the evening.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Trivandrum
4. Kovalam Beach
Photo: Pushpalatha / Wikimedia Commons
Among the most famous beaches in Kerala, Kovalam lies some 16 km away from Thiruvananthapuram. It is indeed a sight of a crescent-shaped coastline, golden sand, and transparent blue water. Here, one can be seen swimming, basking, and indulging in water sports.
5. Vizhinjam Lighthouse
Photo: Dr Ajay Balachandran / Wikimedia Commons
Vizhinjam lighthouse, also known as the Trivandrum lighthouse, is located near Kovalam Beach. One can witness the wide view of the Arabian Sea along with the coastline from this lighthouse. It is a favourite spot for photography and sightseeing.
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6. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Mirshadk / Wikimedia Commons
The Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is located approximately 32 km from Thiruvananthapuram and is an attraction for people interested in nature and wildlife. Many things, like varied flora and fauna with important species like elephants, tigers, and deer, inhabit here. Visitors perform many other interesting activities like trekking, boating, and wildlife spotting.
7. Varkala Cliff
Photo: Emmanuel DYAN / Wikimedia Commons
This is the finest coastal destination, 50 km from Thiruvananthapuram, with red cliffs, clean and beautiful beaches, and refreshing natural springs. The charm of the Arabian Sea surrounds the cliff, which is thus ideal for beach and adventure lovers.
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Tips for Travellers
Photo: Ashiq Sunrendran / Wikimedia Commons
- Spend Enough Time: It is recommended that at least two to three hours should be scheduled so as to be able to see and appreciate the museum and its exhibits quite comprehensively.
- Photography Restrictions: Abide by the photography restrictions for the museum and enjoy the exhibits.
- Visit at Off-Peak Hours: Time your visit during off-peak hours for a more relaxing experience at the museum.
- Check for Updates: Check with the museum to find out if ticket prices and opening hours have any new updates before you plan your visit.
The Napier Museum at Thiruvananthapuram is like a cultural gem taking you on a journey through the rich history and heritage of Kerala. Beginning from the finest bronze idols to delicate ivory carvings and a complete variety of colourful textiles and conventional handicrafts, the museum display has so much to unfold the artistic and cultural legacy of Kerala. Make sure that your trip is planned to the hilt with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Prasanth Prakash / Wikimedia Commons
