Last Updated on July 8, 2024 by Mrunal & Jiten
The magnificent building of this palace is decorated with 122 horses and the many pillars of the southern roof. Because of this Kuthira Malika means “Castle of Horses”. Tempting, isn’t it? Construction began in the 1840s by the great Maharaja Swathi Thirunal, with the idea of preserving and promoting the traditional art forms of southern India.
Artifacts galore: Ethnic jewelry from former queens, wooden paintings and carvings, armor, and idols made of the purest metal. You can explore all these amazing things in this museum. The mystical charm of this palace will leave you speechless. Those who appreciate history and marvel at prehistoric antiquities will be amazed as they patiently step inside.
The attraction of this palace is not only the history it has to offer, but here in its sacred grounds, the Swathi Sangeethotsavam hosts the enchanting music festival. The festival offers an unforgettable celebration of music and culture and thousands of spectators flock to these captivating performances. These performances are graced by renowned classical musicians.
Kuthira Malika Palace?
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Teakwood, rosewood, marble, and granite are the materials credited for the construction of the palace. It is said to have been built by a whopping 5000 Vishwabrahmins in 4 years. Amazing right? It has 60 rooms, of which you can visit only 20 that are open to visitors. It is characteristic that there are 16 rooms, which are the main ones, and each one has its own story. So, each one is different and there are no similarities between them.
Something you would never believe is that the floor you will be walking on is made of egg whites, limestone, and mulberry. Indeed. This is something that is quite unusual and unique. Due to these materials, the floor is smooth, and even when it is hot outside it remains cool.
What to expect when visiting?
The thrones of esteemed Travancore monarchs further adorn the palace with its uniqueness. These thrones are considered artifacts because they serve us, humans, as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage and their magnificence. In the past, artisans knew how to work miracles, so one throne is decorated with 24 individual ivory tusks. The other throne rests on a robe decorated with bohemian crystals, i.e. with the symbol of the ‘conch’ of Travancore.
As soon as you enter the palace you will be mesmerized by the 14 Kathakali figurines, each one a masterpiece, depicting the cultural heritage of Karela in life-size. Your eyes will be dazzled by the magnificent crystal chandeliers, for their brilliance is something that illuminates the palace in a soft, shimmering glow.
The stories of past eras are told through the pictures, and the giant harpoon from Belgium adds a touch of wonder to the collection. The ambiance is further elevated by tall and graceful Italian and Belgian mirrors, reflecting grandeur to a high degree.
You will certainly be inspired by the presence of ancient musical instruments, traditional furniture in the rooms, as well as the presence of Greek statues. All this gives a sense of timelessness and elegance in this historical treasure.
Tips for a better view of the palace
The best tip we would recommend is a guided tour of the palace museum. They are experienced and knowledgeable and will take you on a fascinating journey through the rich tapestry of history and culture.
As you explore with your guide, you’ll gain valuable insights into the meaning of each artifact, and of course, their stories. Every corner reveals a new wonder waiting to be discovered by you.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, art lover, or just a curious traveler the guide is sure to be an enriching and unforgettable experience of a lifetime.
Wear comfortable shoes. Exploring the palace involves quite a long walk. There is so much to see and experience, so comfortable shoes ensure you can move around easily and without discomfort.
This esteemed museum is known for its curated display of rare artifacts, precious heirlooms, and extraordinary treasures. This is a reflection of the splendor and grandeur of Kerala’s royal heritage. With this incomparable collection and the magical journey through time that you will experience, you should not miss it during your visit to the region.
Nearby places worth seeing
- Padmanabhaswamy Temple – Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu located in Thiruvananthapuram. It is considered the holy abode of Vishnu in the Sri Vaishnava tradition. One of the 108 Divya Desams.
- Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Palace – also a museum with various artifacts and a music festival is organized every year. This is a former royal residence.
- Napier Museum – a unique natural history and art museum also in Thiruvananthapuram. It is based on a zoo and is one of the oldest in India. It extends over 55 hectares of land since 1857.
- Sreevaraham Temple Pond – One of the few temples where Lakshmi is depicted with Varaha. The divine temple is the third avatar of Vishnu and is more than 5000 years old.
Kuthira Malika Palace is a must-see destination because it offers something out of this world when you get inside. You will be fascinated by the magical beauty of this place. It is open from 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM and from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM, and the entry is free. So, allow yourself to travel through time, and experience the bliss from this culture.
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